Watch Bob Hope Christmas Special

In 1968, American comedian and legendary entertainer Bob Hope starred in the Bob Hope Christmas Special, which was eagerly watched and enjoyed by millions across the United States. The musical program featured a host of talented artists and performers, including Raquel Welch and Barbara McNair, alongside Bob Hope himself, who was known for his quick witted humor and personable charm.

The Bob Hope Christmas Special was a traditional holiday event that aired each year on network television, and 1968 was no exception. Thanks to Bob Hope's enduring popularity and reputation as a comedic genius, the show was consistently rated as one of the most-watched TV specials of the year, drawing in audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Over the course of the special, viewers were treated to a mix of classic and contemporary Christmas songs, performed by a range of talented musicians and vocalists. Bob Hope kicked things off himself, delivering a heartwarming rendition of "Silver Bells" that set the tone for the rest of the show. From there, the holiday melodies continued, as guests and performers took to the stage to share their own takes on timeless favorites such as "Jingle Bells," "Silent Night," and "Joy to the World."

Amidst the Christmas carols and festive cheer, the Bob Hope Christmas Special featured some hilarious comedic sketches and routines, courtesy of Bob Hope and his all-star cast of co-hosts and guests. Raquel Welch, one of the most iconic actresses of the era, brought her own unique style to the show, dancing and singing alongside Bob Hope as they romped through a variety of laugh-out-loud skits.

One of the standout moments of the Bob Hope Christmas Special was Barbara McNair's rendition of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," which captured the perfect balance of melancholy and uplift that is so often associated with the holiday season. McNair's powerful vocals and heartfelt performance resonated deeply with viewers, earning her a place in the hearts of countless fans.

Of course, no Bob Hope special would be complete without a few surprises and special guests, and the 1968 Christmas Special did not disappoint in that regard. Singing sensation Diana Ross made an appearance, performing a number of classic holiday favorites alongside Bob Hope and the rest of the cast. Other guest stars included Joey Heatherton, who dazzled audiences with her stunning dance moves, and comedy duo Tim Conway and Jerry Colonna, who brought their own brand of zaniness to the show.

Throughout the Bob Hope Christmas Special, there was a sense of warmth and camaraderie among the performers and audience alike, as everyone came together to celebrate the joy and magic of the holiday season. Bob Hope's infectious energy and enthusiasm served as a unifying force, ensuring that viewers at home felt just as much a part of the festivities as those in the studio audience.

In the end, the Bob Hope Christmas Special of 1968 was a stirring tribute to the power of music, comedy, and community, as people from all walks of life came together to enjoy the simple pleasures of the holiday season. The show's legacy lives on to this day, as new generations discover the timeless treasures of Bob Hope's legendary Christmas specials.

Bob Hope Christmas Special is a 1968 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.