Dateline NBC — “The Night Before Christmas” (Read by Keith Morrison)
Air Date: December 24, 2025
Host: NBC News
Featured Reader: Keith Morrison
Episode Overview
This special holiday episode of Dateline NBC departs from the show’s signature true crime investigations for a festive treat: legendary correspondent Keith Morrison lends his iconic voice to a classic reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” The episode aims to invoke nostalgia, warmth, and a sense of holiday wonder, making it a family-friendly interlude during Dateline’s usual programming.
Key Discussion Points and Segments
1. Introduction to the Reading
- [01:10] The narration opens directly with the first lines of Clement Clarke Moore’s beloved poem, signaling a swift and immersive entry into the holiday classic.
- There is no Dateline branding, investigative reporting, or analysis—just an uninterrupted, atmospheric reading.
2. The Poem, Delivered with Characteristic Warmth
- Familiar Imagery: Morrison recites the iconic verses that describe the Christmas Eve anticipation in a household, the appearance of St. Nicholas, and the magical, whimsical journey of Santa Claus delivering gifts.
- Atmospheric Details: Listeners are transported with vivid descriptions—the quiet house, the excitement of children, the gleam of new-fallen snow, and the magical sleigh on the rooftop.
- Morrison’s Signature Delivery: His rich, slightly suspenseful tone gives new resonance to the imagery, making even well-known lines feel alive and engaging.
3. Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments
-
The Classic Opening:
“Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”
(Keith Morrison at 01:10) -
Atmospheric Wonder:
“The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow gave the lustre of midday to objects below—and what to my wondering eyes should appear but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer...”
(Keith Morrison at 01:52) -
Santa’s Magical Entrance:
“And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof the prancing and pawing of each little hoof; as I drew in my head and was turning around, down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.”
(Keith Morrison at 02:35) -
A Touch of Humor:
“He had a broad face and a round little belly that shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.”
(Keith Morrison at 03:03) -
The Famous Conclusion:
“But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight—Happy Christmas to all, and to all, good night!”
(Keith Morrison at 04:07)
4. Morrison’s Tone and Delivery
- Warm, Slightly Mysterious: Morrison’s characteristic cadence and pauses inject a subtle undercurrent of intrigue and warmth—a Dateline twist on the Christmas spirit.
- Inviting and Nostalgic: Deliberate pacing and gentle emphasis on key phrases make the poem feel both familiar and new.
Timestamps for Key Segments
- 01:10 – Opening lines: “Twas the night before Christmas...”
- 01:52 – The arrival of St. Nicholas and his reindeer
- 02:35 – Santa’s descent down the chimney
- 03:03 – Description of Santa’s jolly appearance
- 04:07 – The poem’s uplifting conclusion: “Happy Christmas to all...”
Overall Impression
This Dateline NBC holiday special stands out as a warm, family-friendly offering, distinguished by Keith Morrison’s iconic narration. The familiar poem, imbued with his storytelling gravitas, becomes both a comforting holiday tradition and a subtly suspenseful experience—Dateline style. This episode is a brief but inviting break from Dateline’s usual fare, delivering nostalgia, cheer, and classic holiday magic.
