James Austin Johnson Returns as The Grinch | ’Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast Season 3 Launches November 2025
Holiday podcast lovers, rejoice! As the festive season approaches once again, one of the most beloved — and delightfully grumpy — voices of Christmas is returning to our headphones. Actor and comedian James Austin Johnson, widely known for his rapid-fire character impressions and celebrated role on Saturday Night Live, is back to lend his hilariously cranky charm to the newest season of the ’Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast.
Just when we thought his heart had grown enough last year, The Grinch makes his grand (and grumpy) comeback — ready to spread questionable cheer, roast beloved traditions, and cause the type of festive uproar only he can deliver.
If your holiday season isn’t complete without a little sarcasm and some much-needed comic relief, consider this your official countdown.
’Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast: What Makes It a Holiday Favourite?
The podcast blends:
Family-friendly comedy
Witty commentary
Celebrity interviews
Holiday chaos and mischief
A surprisingly wholesome emotional arc
Think: the cozy magic of a Christmas special meets a late-night talk show hosted by the world’s most iconic holiday curmudgeon.
Each episode operates with a playful formula:
✨ Famous celebrity guests attempt to melt The Grinch’s cold, fuzzy heart — one chaotic segment at a time. ✨
From random holiday challenges to festive pranks and heartfelt chaos, the series captures the joy of Christmas while poking fun at the forced cheer the season sometimes brings.
Season Three Guest Line-Up: A Festive Star-Studded Celebration
This year’s guest roster brings star power, nostalgia, and pop-culture delight. The confirmed guests include:
The Jonas Brothers
Mark Hamill
Rob Gronkowski
Jameela Jamil
Ben Schwartz
David Henrie
Ego Nwodim
Devery Jacobs
But — in true Grinch style — the producers promise more surprise guests to be announced as the season unfolds.
This mix of musicians, actors, sports personalities, and comedy talents ensures every episode will appeal to a wide audience — from grown-up millennial Christmas fans to Gen-Z comedy lovers to kids discovering The Grinch for the first time.
The Plot Twist: Welcome to “Grinch-a-palooza”
In Season Three, the podcast introduces an all-new storyline certain to stir holiday drama:
“Grinch-a-palooza” vs. Who-ville’s Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Grinch, never one to let tradition go unchallenged, sets out to throw the ultimate holiday spectacle — his own festival — in a hilariously misguided attempt to overshadow Who-ville’s beloved tree lighting celebration.
But things take a turn when:
Cindy-Lou Who — now a confident producer, sidekick, and voice of reason — disagrees.
She supports Who-ville’s tradition, sparking a festive rivalry that mixes comedy, heart, and a bit of Grinch-grade drama.
Expect:
Mischief and mayhem
Spirited banter
Heartwarming clashes
Moments of reluctant Grinch humility
The emotional warmth that sneaks in when you least expect it
James Austin Johnson on Returning as The Grinch
Johnson — whose past impressions of Trump, Biden, and countless pop-culture figures on SNL skyrocketed him to mainstream comedy fame — shared his excitement about returning to this role.
“My heart has grown just enough to come back for a third season,” he joked, keeping true to his Grinch persona.
“This show has become such a fun space to spread some holiday mischief, and I’m looking forward to sharing even more Grinchy chaos for the whole family to enjoy.”
Fans can expect his signature delivery: sharp, silly, perfectly cantankerous — but ultimately full of heart.
Why the Grinch Works So Well in Podcast Form
Even in a world filled with streaming specials, blockbuster holiday releases, and endless seasonal playlists, The Grinch remains a timeless holiday icon. But what makes the podcast version so irresistible?
The Grinch Is Perfect for Audio Comedy
His tone? Instantly recognizable.
His rants? Funniest when delivered directly to your ear.
His character? A perfect mix of cynicism and charm.
It’s Timeless — and Multi-Generational
Parents who grew up loving the animated classic now get to share the magic (and mayhem) with their kids — podcast-style.
The Celebrity Format Works
Famous guests try to win over a notoriously grumpy Christmas legend? It’s a formula that always hits.
Holiday Nostalgia Meets Modern Podcast Culture
This return comes at the perfect moment. The holiday season is no longer just about movies and TV specials — it’s a multimedia experience:
Streaming Christmas movies
Holiday playlists on Spotify/Apple Music
Festive TikToks & Reels
Podcast marathons for cozy nights
The Grinch podcast taps right into this evolving tradition. It’s screen-free, playful, and perfect for:
Family listening nights
Holiday road trips
Background cheer during decorating or baking
Kids who love story-driven audio content
Adults craving comedy & nostalgia
When and Where to Listen
🎧 ’Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast – Season Three
Premiere Date: 10 November 2025 Platforms: Available on all major podcast apps, including:
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Amazon Music
Google Podcasts
BBC Sounds
iHeartRadio & more
Bookmark, subscribe, set your holiday reminders — The Grinch is ready.
Why This Podcast Will Trend Again in 2025
SEO & Cultural Reasons Behind Its Viral Appeal:
James Austin Johnson’s rising fame
Holiday nostalgia trend
Family-friendly comedy surge
Celebrity guest appeal
Demand for festive streaming content
Growing podcast market
TikTok + meme potential
Green character = evergreen branding (pun absolutely intended)
Final Thoughts: A Holiday Tradition Reimagined
The Grinch has been stealing — and sometimes saving — Christmas for generations. This time, he’s doing it one joke, one rant, one reluctant heart-growth moment at a time.
Whether you’re here for:
✅ Silly festive chaos ✅ Celebrity banter ✅ Wholesome family fun ✅ Classic holiday nostalgia ✅ Or simply because you’re as Grinch-like as the Grinch himself
This season promises laughter, warmth, and just the right amount of holiday shenanigans.
