HOME > What Was Rudolph's Original Name?
Introduction
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a beloved Christmas character, known for his bright red nose and his role in guiding Santa Claus's sleigh. But what many people don't know is that Rudolph wasn't always called Rudolph. In fact, his original name was quite different. In this article, we'll explore the history of Rudolph and his name, from his creation to his rise to fame.
The Creation of Rudolph
Rudolph was created in 1939 by Robert L. May, a copywriter for the Montgomery Ward department store. May was tasked with creating a Christmas story that could be given away to customers as a promotional item. May drew inspiration from his own childhood experiences of being bullied and feeling like an outsider. He created a character who was also an outsider, but who ultimately found acceptance and love.
Rudolph's Original Name
When May first created Rudolph, he didn't have a name for him. He considered several options, including Rollo and Reginald, but ultimately settled on Rudolph. However, in the original story, Rudolph was actually called "Rollo". It wasn't until later that May changed the name to Rudolph.
The Rise of Rudolph
When Montgomery Ward first released Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in 1939, it was an instant success. Customers loved the story and the character of Rudolph. In 1949, May's brother-in-law, Johnny Marks, wrote a song based on the story. The song was recorded by Gene Autry and became a hit, cementing Rudolph's place in Christmas lore.
Rudolph's Legacy
Today, Rudolph is one of the most beloved Christmas characters of all time. He has appeared in countless movies, TV shows, and books, and his image is instantly recognizable. Despite his humble origins as a promotional item for a department store, Rudolph has become a symbol of hope, acceptance, and the magic of Christmas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a beloved Christmas character with a fascinating history. While his original name was Rollo, he quickly became known as Rudolph and has since become an icon of the holiday season. Whether you're watching the classic TV special or singing along to the famous song, Rudolph is sure to bring a smile to your face and a warm feeling to your heart.
