5 Things You Never Knew About ‘Miracle on 34th Street’
When it comes to holiday classics, Miracle on 34th Street has remained a staple since its released in 1947. Set in the bustling streets of New York City during the holiday season, the film’s story of a department store Santa who might be the real thing has captivated audiences for decades with its charm and warmth, and set the stage for the popular 1994 remake.
However, even the most devoted fans may not know some fascinating behind-the-scenes facts about this cherished movie. Here are five surprising details about Miracle on 34th Street:
1 Crazed Holiday Shopping Inspired the Film’s Concept
20th Century Fox Film Corp./Everett Collection
The idea for Miracle on 34th Street came to screenwriter Valentine Davies during a frantic Christmas Eve shopping trip in 1944. Overwhelmed by the variety and advertisements in a Los Angeles department store, Davies pondered what Santa Claus might think about such consumerism.
This thought sparked a story that blended holiday cheer with social commentary, which he shared with director George Seaton. By 1946, the idea had been developed into a screenplay and picked up by 20th Century Fox.
2 The Macy’s Parade Scenes Were Filmed Live
20th Century Fox Film Corp./Everett Collection
While most films re-create major real-life events on sound stages, Miracle on 34th Street captured actual footage during the 1946 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. With only one chance to get it right, nine cameras were set up to film critical scenes amidst the chaos of the parade. Maureen O’Hara recalled in her autobiography that the experience was “a mad scramble” due to the bitter cold and the need to film quickly.
3 Maureen O’Hara Almost Didn’t Star in the Film
20th Century Fox Film Corp./Everett Collection
By the time Miracle on 34th Street was in development, O’Hara had moved back to her native Ireland to be closer to family. She was initially furious when 20th Century Fox called her back to the U.S. to read the script, but after one look, she knew she had to play Doris Walker. She later admitted the movie was so endearing that it was worth it to return to the United States.
4 The Studio Didn’t See the Magic at First
20th Century Fox Film Corp./Everett Collection
Surprisingly, 20th Century Fox didn’t have high hopes for Miracle on 34th Street. They considered it a modest “B” movie, with no expectation of its lasting success. In fact, the studio released it during the summer and omitted any mention of Christmas in its promotional campaign. For just one example, look at the ad above … nothing about it screams the holidays. Time proved the studio wrong, as the film quickly became a beloved Christmas tradition.
5 Edmund Gwenn Gained 30 Pounds to Play Santa
20th Century Fox Film Corp./Everett Collection
To truly become Santa, Edmund Gwenn, who was 70 years old at the time, underwent a significant physical transformation. The 5’5″ actor gained 30 pounds and added five inches to his waistline, which he later admitted was difficult to reverse. In addition, Gwenn’s long, gray beard was reportedly real, completing his iconic portrayal of Santa Claus.
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PUZZLER: Holiday Movies
December 2022
Enjoy hours of fun as you puzzle along to all these holiday classics. The issue is packed with trivia, crosswords, word finds, Sudoku, scrambles, criss crosses and more!
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