The Case For Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas [VIDEO]

If you or your kids have never heard of Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas, look it up and go rent it or stream it immediately!

I have nothing against all the other standard Christmas specials, but Jim Henson's 1977 television adaptation of Russel Hoban's children's book is near and dear to my heart. When I was young, my family and I had HBO as part of our 13-channel basic cable. HBO then wasn't offered in big cities then, so when the channel launched, it popped up in odd places, like Beaver Dam KY, and since I already loved The Muppet Show, I was instantly mesmerized by this new cast of characters and songs penned by Paul Williams.

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The story goes Emmet Otter and his Ma are working hard to make Christmas special. When the family hears about a talent contest with a $50 cash prize, Emmet joins his friends to form a jug band, and Ma decides to sing for the prize as well. One sacrifice Emmet makes, he puts a hole in Ma's washtub so he can make a proper washtub bass. Kermit the Frog makes a memorable introduction. It's just a great story about family and helping each other out no matter what. I've got to dig out my sister's DVD copy when I get home. Happy Holidays to all of you!

***Where can you watch it? At this time, you can find Emmet Otter streaming (get it?) on both Amazon Prime and Peacock. Also, you can find the original soundtrack on Spotify.