Freddie the Freeloader's Christmas Dinner (also known as Red Skelton's Christmas Dinner) is a television Christmas special that premiered on Home Box Office (HBO) on December 13, 1981. The program stars comedian Red Skelton and was part of HBO's Standing Room Only series of specials. It was one of Skelton's final television performances.
Production
The special was created and written by Red Skelton, directed by John Trent, and produced by Riff Markowitz. It has a running time of 50 minutes and was produced by Home Box Office. The music was composed by Red Skelton and Ian Bernard.
Plot
Freddie the Freeloader, a lovable but impoverished character portrayed by Red Skelton, prepares to scrape together money to enjoy a Christmas dinner with his equally poverty-stricken friend Professor Humperdo at one of New York's fancy restaurants. When a lost dog appears in his apartment, Freddie is accused of thievery by the dog's wealthy owner. After a meeting with a bag lady named Molly, he visits a hospital to entertain some children for Christmas. Freddie later helps the professor escape from the drunk tank, and the two eventually reach the restaurant, where they treat themselves to a feast.
The special incorporates drama, miming, and music, for which Skelton was well known. Songs performed by Skelton in the special include "Christmas Comes But Once a Year" and "I Believe."
Main Cast
- Red Skelton as Freddie the Freeloader
- Vincent Price as Professor Humperdo
- Imogene Coca as Molly, a bag lady
- Jack Duffy as Santa
- Tudi Wiggins as Mrs. Witherspoon
Release
The special premiered on HBO on December 13, 1981, and was re-aired in December 1982. It was produced in Canada and was part of HBO's Standing Room Only series of specials.
