by Hal Erickson
synopsis
Not surprisingly, "A Christmas Story" originally aired on December 25, 1966. Wayne Newton returns to Bonanza in the role of singer Andy Walker, who herein agrees to perform at the annual Oprhan's Christmas Benefit. The fly (or grinch) in the ointment is Andy's crooked uncle/manager Thaddeus Cade (Jack Oakie), who demands ten percent of the proceeds. The Cartwrights attempt to change Thaddeus' mercenary ways with a "virtual reality" restaging of "A Christmas Carol". Also appearing are Mary Wickes as Hattie and Dabbs Greer as Sam. "A Christmas Story" was written by Thomas Thompson.
