When The Brady Bunch premiered in 1969, it struggled to win over viewers. Critics dismissed it, and early ratings were too weak to guarantee a full season. Behind the scenes, there were real conversations about canceling the show before it even found its footing, according to reports from Parade.
That changed when the Brady Bunch Christmas episode aired in December of the first season. Titled “The Voice of Christmas,” the episode delivered heart, hope, and a little holiday magic. It drew a surge of audience attention and gave the show the momentum it desperately needed.
The Turning Point That Kept The Show Alive
“The Voice of Christmas” told a simple but touching story. Carol Brady lost her voice just before she was set to sing at a church service. Cindy made a heartfelt wish to Santa that her mother would recover. By the end of the episode, Carol’s voice returned, and she sang “O Come All Ye Faithful” for the congregation. Viewers loved the warmth. They loved the message. And they tuned in.
Barry Williams later shared that the Brady Bunch Christmas episode was the moment everything shifted. The ratings spike convinced the network to keep the show on the air. Renewal talks followed soon after, and the series went on to run for five seasons and then for decades in syndication. Without this early success, the show may never have survived past its first thirteen episodes.
A Single Christmas Story With Lasting Impact
Interestingly, there was only one Brady Bunch Christmas episode, because the show often aired opposite holiday specials. Still, cast member Christopher Knight noted that the show carried a Christmas-like spirit all year. Warmth, kindness, and acceptance were baked into its tone.
“The Voice of Christmas” also led to another milestone. The Brady kids recorded a full Christmas album in 1970, sparked by the episode’s popularity. Their album included classics such as “Silent Night” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” It marked their debut as singers and helped turn them into stars off-screen as well.