Photo credit: Universal Pictures

Jim Carrey’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) has been a holiday staple for over two decades.

Directed by Ron Howard, this live-action adaptation of the beloved story of Dr. Seuss brought the Grinch to life in a way no one had ever seen before. Carrey’s portrayal of the mean but strangely lovable green misanthrope earned praise for his energy and comedic timing, making the film a modern Christmas classic.

Despite its enduring popularity, the film had some critics, including Dr. Seuss’ widow Audrey Geisel, who reportedly disapproved of the film’s direction and tone.

Unfortunately, this holiday season brings with it a disappointment for fans: the year 2000 Grinch The film, starring Jim Carrey, is not available to stream on any platform.

While the animated one The Grinch (2018) starring Benedict Cumberbatch and the 1966 classic can be easily streamed, Carrey’s version can only be rented or purchased on platforms such as Amazon Prime, YouTube and Vudu. Last year the film had a short streaming window on Peacock from December 20th to 31st, but no such announcement has been made for this year so far.

For many families, this film is a holiday tradition, with its whimsical set designs and memorable lines like “Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store.” The lack of a streaming option makes access difficult for those who rely on subscription services for their holiday movie marathons. If you decide to include the film in your seasonal viewing, buying or renting may be the only solution unless a last-minute deal brings it back onto a streaming platform.

This absence highlights the challenge of navigating streaming rights in the digital age. While newer holiday films often find a stable base on services like Netflix or Disney+, older titles often move between platforms, leaving fans struggling to find them.

As we find ourselves in the middle of the holiday season, it’s worth keeping an eye on streaming platforms and paying attention to any changes. Until then, fans of Carrey’s Grinch may want to dust off their DVDs or take advantage of digital rental services to ensure their annual viewing isn’t interrupted.

Whether you love it for the laughs, the heartwarming message, or the over-the-top Whoville, this Grinch’s absence from streaming is a reminder to plan your holiday favorites in advance.