They Wore the Red Suit, Sharing Christmas Magic for Generations

They Wore the Red Suit is a documentary featuring the rare individuals who have devoted their lives to keeping that magic alive in the world by actually being Santa Claus 365 days a year. Rhode Island PBS presents this charming look at the history, the industry, and the vocation of career Santas on Learn on Tuesday, December 15 at 8:00 p.m. and on Rhode Island PBS on Wednesday, December 23 at 8 p.m. 

As if the subject isn't fascinating enough, we are delighted to say Rhode Island's own Michael Rielly is one of the Santas profiled in the film. Michael is a third generation Santa. His grandfather, James (Jim) D. Rielly, was Santa Claus for 62 years and was well-known throughout the Northeastern United States. Jim was inducted into the Santa Claus Hall of Fame in 2011. 

Michael serves on the Santa Claus Oath Foundation and is an adviser Santa-America. In 2007, he founded the Santa Claus community, ClausNet - the largest community and resource for men and women dedicated to the faithful portrayal of Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and all others who devote their time to bringing the magic of Christmas to children and adults throughout the world.

Forget the North Pole - Santa lives in Rhode Island!

WSBE Rhode Island PBS transmits over the air on 36.1; Rhode Island cable: Cox cable 08/1008HD, Verizon FiOS 08/508HD, Full Channel 08; Massachusetts cable: Comcast 819HD (Comcast SD subscribers check local listings for channel), Verizon FiOS 18/518HD; satellite: Dish 36/7776, DirecTV 36.

WSBE Learn transmits over the air on 36.2; Rhode Island cable: Cox 808, Verizon 478, and Full Channel 109; Massachusetts cable: Comcast 294 or 312.