Dateline NBC: “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”

Read by Keith Morrison
Release Date: December 23, 2025

Episode Overview

In this special holiday episode, the iconic Keith Morrison brings to life the original 1939 poem “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Robert L. May. Departing from Dateline NBC’s usual true-crime fare, this episode leans into seasonal nostalgia and gentle moral lessons, sharing the beloved story of Rudolph, the misfit reindeer whose unique gift becomes Santa’s salvation on a foggy Christmas Eve.

Key Discussion Points and Story Highlights

The Reindeer Games (00:58–02:15)

• The scene opens on a lively winter day, with reindeer playing games and enjoying winter fun in the hills.
• Rudolph’s difference: The other reindeer repeatedly ostracize Rudolph for his unusually bright, red nose—“Ha ha. Look at Rudolph. His nose is a sight. It's red as a beet, twice as big, twice as bright.” (01:24)
• As a result, Rudolph is left feeling lonely and sad but continues to behave well and hopes Santa will treat him kindly.

Santa’s Predicament (02:35–05:30)

• Christmas Eve arrives with unusually thick fog—“This fog, he complained, will be hard to get through.” (03:02)
• Santa’s struggle: He’s forced to fly slowly and steer the sleigh by household lights, growing increasingly worried about finishing his deliveries before morning.

The Turning Point (05:30–08:30)

• Santa’s Frustration: The fog thickens and, with all the lights out, he stumbles in darkness while delivering presents in the reindeer’s house.
• A solution appears: “A dim but quite definite light met his eyes … the glow came instead from something that lay at the head of the bed … You’ve guessed it—Rudolph’s red nose.” (07:44)
• Santa gently awakens the surprised Rudolph and enlists his help as the "commander in chief" for the rest of the night.

“And you, he told Rudolph, may yet save the day. Your wonderful forehead may yet pave the way for a wonderful triumph. It actually might.” (08:25, Santa)

Rudolph Leads the Sleigh (08:34–10:43)

• Rudolph’s transformation: Rudolph beams with pride and leaves a note for his family: “I've gone to help Santa, he wrote. Do not worry …” (08:52)
• Triumphant teamwork: Rudolph’s radiant nose guides Santa through the fog. The sleigh team completes their deliveries just as the sun rises.

“Old Santa's idea was a brilliant success. And brilliant was almost no word for the way that Rudolph directed the deer and the sleigh.” (09:28)

The Return and Redemption (10:45–11:15)

• Homecoming: The reindeer, who had once mocked Rudolph, now envy his honor and bravery.
• Santa’s praise: “Rudolph, I never have had a deer quite so brave or brilliant as you at fighting black fog and at guiding me through. Without you I’m certain we’d all have been lost.” (11:07, Santa)
• Rudolph’s bashfulness: Despite acclaim, Rudolph remains modest and simply wishes everyone a “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.” (11:26)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Rudolph’s difference:
  “Where most reindeer's noses were brownish and tiny, poor Rudolph's was red, very large and quite shiny … at night-time it glowed like the eyes of a cat.” (01:35)
• Santa’s quandary:
  “Just think how the boys' and girls' faith would be shaken if we didn't reach them before they awaken.” (03:30)
• Santa, expressing gratitude:
  “I hope you'll continue to keep us from grief on future dark trips as commander in chief.” (11:21)
• Final message:
  “And that's Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” (11:55)

Key Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:58 — Story begins: “The Original Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”
• 01:15 — Rudolph teased for his nose
• 03:02 — Santa worries about the fog
• 07:44 — Santa discovers Rudolph’s glowing nose
• 08:25 — Santa enlists Rudolph’s help
• 08:52 — Rudolph leaves a note for his parents
• 09:28 — Rudolph leads the sleigh
• 11:07 — Santa commends Rudolph
• 11:26 — Rudolph’s humble speech

Tone and Language

The reading is whimsical, endearing, and true to the gentle rhyme and moral of the original poem. Morrison’s narration amplifies the warmth and emotion behind Rudolph’s journey—shame, hope, pride, and ultimate redemption—making the story accessible to listeners young and old.

Takeaway for Listeners

This heartwarming reading of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” serves as both a classic holiday tale and a reminder: what makes us different can become our greatest strength. The episode offers reflective joy and nostalgia with a gentle, uplifting tone—perfect for the holiday season, or any time listeners need a little light in the fog.