Since the holiday season is here, let’s talk about Christmas movies and the most renowned Christmas characters. While people might consider Santa as the true king of Christmas movies, we’re here to break the myth by sharing that Grinch is indeed the ultimate show stopper.
Over the years, the character has been portrayed by several renowned celebrities, but Jim Carrey perpetually appears to be the face of the Grinch. So we’re here to discuss the names of a few other actors who played the iconic role. Our list consists of five other A-listers who took on the role.
1. Jim Carrey
Sitting on the top of our list is our fan-favorite comedy actor Jim Carrey, who is known for his role in The Mask. Often taking up comedic roles, the actor tried his hands on the Grinch when the first live-action portrayal of the character appeared in 2000. Donning the green character in Ron Howard’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Carrey embraced the spirit of Christmas, by aiming for a Tim Burton-esque whimsy.
2. Benedict Cumberbatch
Next in line is our renowned MCU star Benedict Cumberbatch, who gave his voice to portray the film version of Who-Ville’s grumpiest resident in 2018’s Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch. Presenting a younger version of Grinch, still willing to take Christmas from the good folks of Who-Ville, Cumberbatch did a phenomenal job in the movie.
3. Boris Karloff
When discussing the Grinch, we can never overlook the iconic original animated Grinch in Rankin-Bass’ 1966 classic played by Boris Karloff. The unmistakable voice of the great artist alongside the incredible art of Chuck Jones turned the animation into a fan-favorite holiday binge-watch.
Also read: Jim Carrey Not Returning for Grinch Sequel & 1 The Office Star is His Perfect Replacement
4. Matthew Morrison
Further, putting on the green fella’s fur for Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Musical Live!, Matthew Morrison took the lead in NBC’s television adaptation. Appearing in the stage adaptation although Morrison delivered an incredible performance, the NBC special was received with a sense of disappointment. But the actor is still remembered for his iconic role as the Grinch.
5. David Howard Thornton
Although The Mean One, featuring the titular Christmas villain, isn’t technically a Grinch film, David Howard Thornton took on the role of the green antagonist. His role was an attempt at not being the Grinch, but still subtly being the character, since the green villain was never openly appreciated by audiences, especially during the holiday season. And a fun fact is that Thornton’s Grinch was considered almost similar to Jim Carrey’s version, although a little scary.
6. James Austin Johnson
Last but not least is James Austin Johnson’s appearance as the Grinch in the Wondery podcast, ‘Tis The Grinch Holiday. Allowing SNL’s Austin Johnson to put a new spin on the terror of Who-Ville, the podcast made Grinch and his loveable pup Max host the talk show. Ranting against the fun Christmas holiday and roasting celebrity guests, Austin Johnson received massive appreciation for his role.
