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Ranking Futurama’s Xmas Episodes: From Classic to Contemporary

Throughout its 11-season run, Futurama has gifted its audience with a series of holiday-themed episodes, and the Xmas specials hold a special place in the hearts of fans. These episodes have explored the humorous and often twisted dynamics of the holiday season within the futuristic context of the show’s universe. With recurring characters like Robot Santa Claus, Kwanzaabot, and the Chanukah Zombie, Futurama’s Xmas episodes have woven a unique tapestry of festive storytelling. Let’s take a journey through these 4 episodes and rank them, celebrating their wit, creativity, and distinctiveness.

Table of Contents

4. “The Futurama Holiday Spectacular” – Season 7, Episode 13

This non-canonical anthology episode stands as the last Xmas special before the show’s temporary hiatus. It features three distinct sections: an Earth engulfed in a Christmas tree rainforest, Bender describing a robot winter holiday called Robanukah, and the gang’s quest for beeswax for traditional Kwanzaa candles. While each segment has its merits, the special falls short compared to the other Xmas storylines. The Robanukah segment’s departure from familiar holiday themes feels less festive, and the lack of focus dilutes the impact of the narratives.

3. “A Tale Of Two Santas” – Season 3, Episode 3

The second Xmas special of the series, “A Tale of Two Santas,” brilliantly intertwines the show’s worldbuilding with established holiday traditions. The Planet Express crew’s attempt to thwart Robot Santa leads to Bender taking up the Santa mantle—with uproarious consequences. By relocating the narrative to Neptune, this episode breathes fresh life into the Xmas theme. The clever gags, such as Robot Santa’s elves being underfed Neptunians, add a layer of humor that sets it apart. This episode successfully builds upon the Robot Santa storyline without feeling repetitive.

2. “I Know What You Did Next Xmas” – Season 11, Episode 6

As the newest addition to Futurama’s Xmas collection, “I Know What You Did Next Xmas” captures the essence of the show’s quirky sci-fi world. In this episode, Professor Farnsworth’s time-travel attempts to halt Robot Santa’s rampage trigger a complex series of events. Bender and Zoidberg embark on their own time-travel journey, resulting in a unique and captivating storyline. The fusion of time travel, holiday cheer, and a sequel element make this episode stand out in season 11 and elevate it to a remarkable level.

1. “Xmas Story” – Season 2, Episode 4

The inaugural Xmas special, “Xmas Story,” remains an unparalleled classic. This episode introduces the audience to the futuristic concept of Xmas celebrations, complete with palm trees as festive substitutes for extinct pine trees. The legendary Robot Santa Claus, voiced by John Goodman in this episode, poses a formidable threat to the crew. The simplicity and creativity of the concept shine through, establishing the foundation for subsequent Xmas specials. The fusion of holiday spirit with Futurama’s signature wit makes “Xmas Story” the unrivaled pinnacle of the show’s Xmas episodes.

In conclusion, Futurama’s Xmas episodes weave an intricate tapestry of futuristic festivities, humor, and unique storytelling. From the pioneering “Xmas Story” to the contemporary charm of “I Know What You Did Next Xmas,” each episode contributes its own flavor to the series’ legacy. As fans continue to celebrate the quirky holiday escapades within the Futurama universe, these episodes remind us of the show’s enduring charm and ability to craft memorable tales within unconventional settings.