Nearly 40 years later, in a rendition of the yuletide classic, Ralphie returns as he visits his childhood home on Cleveland street, now joined by his wife and children after his father’s passing (played by Darren McGavin before his death in 2006).

   In the year 1983, the beloved character of Ralphie Parker was introduced into the Christmas film fandom. Since its release, “A Christmas Story” quickly molded its way into a holiday favorite, with iconic scenes and quotes such as the fragile box, the leg lamp, Ralphie’s Red Ryder BB Gun, “you’ll shoot your eye out,” and of course, “oh, fudge!” 

   Even today, the movie’s fame still shines brightly from inspiration for a modern-day Halloween costume to its own merchandise. Each year, the movie attracts around 40 million viewers according to the Indiana Foundation Service, and is annually featured on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for a 24-hour marathon on several networks.  Peter Billingsley, the beloved actor of Ralphie, talks about the sequel.

   According to People Magazine, “It very much is, in many ways, a love letter to the Old Man character and to Darren himself,” Billingsley said. 

   The sequel, “A Christmas Story Christmas” is named after its predecessor and features several returning cast members such as Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley), Flick (Scott Schwartz), Schwartz (R.D. Robb), Randy (Ian Petrella), and Scut Farkus (Zack Ward). Ralphie’s mother will return in the sequel, however, played by Julie Hagerty instead of Melinda Dillon, who starred in the original movie. 

   The film embodies the scene of a Parker Christmas as Ralphie attempts to carry on the annual holiday traditions his father used to manage.

   According to People Magazine, “He’s kind of now back on a quest,” Billingsley said. “Nothing’s going to stop him. He might not want to do it, but once he’s in, he’s in.”

   The film will be released on Nov. 17 and will be available on HBO Max.