LOS ANGELES — Disney is ringing in the holidays with “A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever,” an all-new animated short directed by Academy Award winner Taika Waititi and featuring the voice of Disney Legend John Goodman. The short is available now on Disney+ and online, kicking off the company’s global “Make Someone’s Holiday Magic” campaign.
The heartwarming story follows a young girl whose doodle comes to life on Christmas morning after Santa mistakes her drawing for a wish. The two quickly form an unbreakable bond, discovering the power of imagination and friendship during the most magical time of the year.
“What makes this story uniquely Disney is the fact that it’s set in the world of a kid,” said Waititi. “It’s a kid and her new best friend navigating the complex world together, doing it just with the power of friendship and imagination.”
Goodman voices the lovable doodle, bringing his signature warmth and humor to the character. The Disney Legend is known for voicing James P. “Sulley” Sullivan in Disney and Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.” and Pacha in “The Emperor’s New Groove.”
The short was created in collaboration with Untold Studios, producer hungryman, and creative agency adam&eveDDB, with veteran Disney animator Eric Goldberg, known for bringing the Genie from “Aladdin” to life, serving as animation advisor.
This marks the second year Waititi has partnered with Disney on an original holiday short. His 2024 film “The Boy & The Octopus” earned an Emmy nomination for its touching story of family and giving.
Alongside the release of the new short, Disney’s Holiday Magic Tour will spread cheer to more than 20 cities around the world with community events, donations, and special surprises for kids and families. Disney fans can also celebrate the season through special park experiences, holiday classics on Disney+ and festive gifts inspired by beloved characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars.
From heartfelt storytelling to real-world giving, Disney’s “Make Someone’s Holiday Magic” campaign captures the spirit of connection and joy that has made the company part of family celebrations for generations.
Fans can stream “A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever” now on Disney+ and learn more about Disney’s holiday initiatives at Disney.com/HolidayMagic.
