Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer

"Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer" is a humorous Christmas song. It was originally performed by husband and wife Elmo and Patsy Trigg Shropshire in 1979. It was released again in later years. It sold over 11 million copies.[1]

On the Edison Media Research and Pinnacle Media Worldwide lists, the song was both liked and disliked. The results were reported in 2007.[2]

There have been several parodies and cover versions of this song.

Story

In the lyrics, a grandmother is celebrating at a Christmas Eve party with her family. Against what everyone tells her, she goes outside into a blizzard while drunk on eggnog after she forgets her medication. She is found the next day, trampled over by Santa Claus and his reindeer.

The family wonder if all the gifts they bought for Grandma should be sent back. The answer is a strong yes.

Grandpa is unaffected by his wife's "death". He drinks beer, watches football and plays cards with Cousin Mel.

Video

In the music video, Elmo plays both Grandpa and Grandma. Patsy plays Cousin Mel. Grandma survives the attack and comes back through the chimney.

Also in the music video, Grandma says that a driver's license should never be given to a man who drives a sleigh and plays with elves.

References

  1. "How 'Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer' Became a Holiday Staple". Mental Floss. Retrieved November 16, 2018.
  2. All I Want for Christmas is Not to Hear that Song. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/13/AR2007121302192_pf.html?noredirect=on. Retrieved November 16, 2018.