The ‘Gunsmoke’ Christmas Episode Featured A Nine-Year-Old Jodie Foster

The ’60s was a golden age for television, and in that period, quite a number of classics were created. These shows were usually sought during the holidays because many of them created special episodes to celebrate the holiday season. While Christmas specials became a staple for many family favorites during that era, Gunsmoke had long started the trend of holiday-themed episodes.

With a record-breaking run of 20 seasons from 1955 to 1975, Gunsmoke had a few holiday-themed episodes. One of its most memorable holiday offerings is the Season 17 episode titled “P.S. Murry Christmas.” The episode is remembered mainly because it featured a young Jodie Foster, now a famous actress. It is also appreciated for the story which is centered around young orphans who found their way to Dodge City.

What happened in the ‘Gunsmoke’ Christmas special?

In this episode, Miss Emma Grundy (played by Jeanette Nolan) oversees a group of orphans who, despite the festive season, are forbidden to celebrate Christmas. The children, eager to experience the festivities and joy of Christmas, run away with their well-meaning but bumbling caretaker, Titus Spengler (Jack Elam). Their journey leads them to Dodge City, where Titus lands in trouble after stealing food to feed the children. Grundy joins them in the city to ensure Titus is punished accordingly.

After hearing their story, the members of Dodge City step in to host a Christmas party for the orphans. However, Miss Grundy refuses to allow the children to attend the party, which eventually creates tension. Assuming Grundy is just like “Grinch,” one of the town members decides to get her drunk to prove she is unfit to take care of the children. However, in the process, they discover that Grundy truly loves the children. Over time, it’s revealed that her hatred for Christmas stemmed from her own difficult experiences as a child.

Jodie Foster in ‘Gunsmoke’

At just nine years old, Jodie Foster played one of the orphans in this episode. Although they were more of a unit than an individual, Jodie still showed signs of the talent that would later make her a star. This appearance was one of her early roles in television.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The episode ended on a heartwarming and joyful note as the children’s act of kindness melted Grundy’s heart, bringing everyone together to celebrate Christmas. For fans of Gunsmoke and Jodie Foster alike, “P.S. Murry Christmas” remains a must-watch holiday classic.