Zack Ward Explains Why A Christmas Story Sequel Took Decades

A Christmas Story spoilers, news, and updates tease that there’s a reason why the sequel for the film took decades to come out. Zack Ward, who plays the bully Scut Farkus in the original film, explains why.

For those who didn’t know, the original movie, A Christmas Story, was released in 1983. The comedy was based on the book In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd, which was released in 1966. Aside from Ward, other cast members include Peter Billingsley, Darren McGavin, and Melinda Dillon.

Independent film gained much attention during the 90s. Many people started to know about the movie after Turner Broadcasting aired the movie across TCM, TNT, and TBS six times from Christmas Eve to December 26th back in 1995. Then, it was aired eight times the following year, and a 24-hour marathon a year after that. Since then, millions of people have tuned in every year, either on TNT or TBS to watch the film.

It’s safe to say that the movie has become a staple during the holiday season. Three decades after its first release, HBO Max is finally debuting a direct sequel to the movie.

Why Did The Sequel Take Nearly 40 Years?

Ward explained why it took nearly four decades for a sequel to be released. The actor explained that the movie’s cast and crew wanted to preserve the legacy of the original movie and create a sequel that would elevate it, as well.

In an interview with Showbiz Cheat Sheet, the actor said that writer Nick Schenk faced a lot of pressure.

“There were so many concepts pitched prior to this film getting made. There were probably five or seven other scripts and ideas that were pushed,” Ward shared.

He added that he wasn’t interested in doing some of the scripts because he thought they weren’t right, and he didn’t want the sequel to end in a disaster. It seems like Billingsley, who played the central character, Ralphie Parker, felt the same way since he also passed on several of the previously presented scripts.

Ward also explained that the entire cast of the original movie had to be fully committed before they could move forward. Fortunately, with the sequel, the characters in the original movie grew up, which means they don’t have to try to be those kids anymore.

Ward is very happy with the sequel and proud that he’s part of it. He hopes that viewers will continue watching the original and also the sequel.

Be sure to catch up on everything happening with A Christmas Story right now. Come back here often for A Christmas Story spoilers, news, and updates.