For more than three decades, “The Simpsons” has brought holiday cheer—and mischief—to viewers around the world. This year is no exception. In 2024, the beloved animated family is back with a special two-episode Christmas event that promises big musical performances, a star-studded guest list, and a storyline that finds Homer Simpson behaving even more bizarrely than usual. Ready to add a dash of Springfield-style festivities to your holiday lineup? Here’s everything you need to know about when, where, and how to watch “O C’mon All Ye Faithful.”
‘The Simpsons’ Christmas Special 2024: Streaming and Airing Details
“O C’mon All Ye Faithful” is the latest holiday special from “The Simpsons”—and not just any holiday special, but a celebration timed to a significant anniversary. The first Simpsons Christmas special aired 35 years ago and was the series’ inaugural episode. This 2024 special, therefore, feels like a homecoming, returning to the Christmas theme on the same calendar date as that original landmark episode.
The storyline centers around Homer Simpson’s being hypnotized by British mentalist and illusionist Derren Brown. After Brown arrives in Springfield hoping to boost the town’s holiday spirit, his psychological tricks lead Homer to believe he is Santa Claus. Predictably, a combination of holiday pandemonium, heartfelt moments, and classic Simpsons humor follows.
When Does ‘The Simpsons’ Christmas Special Air?
Mark your calendar: “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” premieres on December 17, 2024. The date is significant since it matches the 35th anniversary of “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire,” the 1989 Christmas special that first introduced TV audiences to the Simpson family. That means this year’s special not only celebrates Christmas—it’s also a nod to the show’s long, influential history.
Where to Watch ‘The Simpsons’ Christmas Special: ‘O C’mon All Ye Faithful’?
Traditionally, “The Simpsons” airs on FOX. However, this year’s two-episode Christmas celebration takes a different route. Instead of premiering on network TV, “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” will debut exclusively on Disney+. This is a departure from the norm, but not entirely surprising given that Disney now owns “The Simpsons” library and has been home to the entire Simpsons catalog since launching the platform.
How to Watch the New Simpsons Christmas Special on Disney+
If you’re already a Disney+ subscriber, you’re all set. On December 17, simply log into your account and search for “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” or navigate to “The Simpsons” category. The special should be prominently featured on the platform’s home page, especially since it’s a high-profile holiday release.
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Not a Disney+ subscriber? You can sign up for the service and choose from different subscription tiers. Disney+ houses 35 full seasons of “The Simpsons,” ” The Simpsons Movie, over 10 shorts, and special holiday episodes. Plus, it offers a massive library with Marvel Cinematic Universe titles, Disney Princess films, National Geographic shows, Star Wars, Pixar content, and even select live shows. As of late 2024, Disney+ also integrated Hulu content into one app experience for US subscribers with the Hulu add-on, making it an even more attractive option.
Simpsons Holiday History
The Simpsons have a rich history of Christmas episodes. The tradition began with “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1), in which Homer struggles to buy holiday presents after a seasonal mishap. Since then, numerous festive-themed episodes have aired, from heartwarming family moments to biting social commentary.
If “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” puts you in the mood to revisit Christmases past, you’re in luck. Disney+ has all 35 seasons of “The Simpsons,” allowing you to stream classic holiday episodes whenever you want. Whether it’s Bart’s hijinks or Marge’s attempts to keep peace in the family, there’s no shortage of merry misadventures.
This 2024 event stands out because it’s not just another Christmas episode—it’s a commemorative nod to how far the show has come. Over the past 35 years, “The Simpsons” went from a scrappy animated short to a cultural juggernaut. The creators acknowledge the show’s legacy and longevity by airing a fresh holiday special on the same date as the original episode.
This year’s Christmas special aims to wow the audience with top-tier guest appearances and musical interludes. British mentalist Derren Brown stars as himself, performing mind-bending feats to raise Springfield’s holiday spirit—and inadvertently giving Homer a serious identity crisis. Patti LaBelle, the legendary soul singer, and acclaimed a cappella group Pentatonix both lend their voices to the episode, promising festive tunes that complement the show’s comedic storyline.
This blending of music, magic, and mayhem makes “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” a unique Simpsons experience that should satisfy longtime fans and newcomers alike.
- Premiere Date: December 17, 2024
- Where to Watch: Exclusively on Disney+
- What to Expect: Homer believes he’s Santa after being hypnotized by Derren Brown; musical performances by Patti LaBelle and Pentatonix
- Why It’s Special: Celebrates the 35th anniversary of the first Simpsons Christmas episode
Whether you’ve followed the Simpson family’s antics since 1989 or tuning in for the first time, “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” promises a blend of nostalgia, humor, and holiday cheer. Cozy up on December 17 and let Homer and company guide you into the festive season—just don’t blame him if your Christmas dinner involves donuts and Duff beer.
