Fox, CBS gear up for the holidays

Networks plan specials for Christmas, New Year's

By James Hibberd

Nov 5, 2009, 05:45 PM ET

Fox and CBS on Thursday announced holiday-themed specials, with one Christmas classic getting animated treatment and a New Year's celebration that brings Billboard to TV.

First up, CBS will unveil "Yes, Virginia," an animated telling of the story of an 8-year-old girl in late 19th century New York seeking the truth about whether Santa Claus exists. The story includes the vocal talent of Neil Patrick Harris, Jennifer Love Hewitt and Alfred Molina and debuts Friday, Dec. 11.

The story is based on an 1897 newspaper editorial titled "Is There a Santa Claus?" published in the New York Sun.

Meanwhile, Fox announced a New Year's Eve countdown special with Billboard titled "Billboard's New Year's Eve Live." The special features performances by music acts on the Las Vegas Strip and live coverage of the Times Square ball drop. Hosts and musical guests will be announced at a later date.

The Billboard special is executive produced by Bob Bain; "Yes, Virginia" is created and produced by Macy's and JWT in conjunction with the Ebeling Group and MEC Entertainment.

Fox, CBS gear up for the holidays

Networks plan specials for Christmas, New Year's

By James Hibberd

Nov 5, 2009, 05:45 PM ET