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How the Grinch Stole the Hearts of Every U.S. State

Ever since Dr. Seuss introduced us to the Grinch — a green, Christmas-loathing character “whose heart grew three sizes” — we’ve been captivated. The tale has become so iconic that it’s spawned not one, not two, but three major film adaptations! Each version has its own unique charm, but have you ever wondered which Grinch is the nation’s favorite? In the name of nostalgia and celebrating life’s special moments, we tapped into Google Trends to finally settle the score.

We’ve crunched the numbers to reveal which version of the Grinch is the star of the show in every U.S. state. Is it the classic 1966 cartoon that takes you back to your childhood? Or perhaps the zany Jim Carrey version from 2000 that’s got you laughing out loud? Maybe it’s the modern 2018 animated Grinch voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch that’s caught your eye?

Get ready to find out as we reveal a state-by-state breakdown of America’s favorite Grinch. So, buckle up and prepare to be amazed — or should we say, “Grinch-ified?” Keep reading to uncover the most beloved Grinch across the United States!

The Most Popular Grinch in Every U.S. State

The 1966 Grinch is the Most Popular in 18 States

The 1966 version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a holiday staple that continues to win hearts across America. Our data reveals that this oldie-but-goodie is the favorite Grinch flick in 18 states, including the likes of Michigan, Washington, and even in the bustling Northeast region. 

So what keeps this classic at the top? It could be a combination of nostalgia and the timeless appeal of the original story. The hand-drawn animation and memorable narration by Boris Karloff have a unique way of transporting viewers back to simpler times, making it a holiday favorite for both young and old. So, while newer adaptations may catch the eye, when it comes to a story as enduring as the Grinch, sometimes the original just can’t be beat.

The Jim Carrey Grinch is the Most Popular in 18 States

But not everyone is a sucker for a classic; some states have a soft spot for a more contemporary take on the Grinch. Jim Carrey’s turn as the Grinch in the 2000 live-action film How the Grinch Stole Christmas has a sizable fan base, equaling the classic 1966 version in popularity across 18 states. 

Places like New York, Mississippi, Florida, and the Carolinas can’t get enough of Carrey’s unique take on the iconic character. It’s a notable favorite in California, which also happens to be home to this version’s Whoville in Universal Studios

The live-action element, combined with Carrey’s comedic genius and the film’s modern twist on the classic tale, makes this version a go-to for those looking to revisit the story of the Grinch with a new lens. Whether it’s the updated storytelling or Carrey’s unforgettable performance, this version of the Grinch clearly has a special place in America’s heart.

The 2018 Grinch is the Most Popular in 15 States

While the classics and modern takes have their dedicated fans, let’s not forget the freshest face in the Grinch lineup—the animated 2018 version titled simply The Grinch. This rendition has captured the top spot in 15 states, including Colorado, Texas, and Pennsylvania

What makes this version stand out? Perhaps it’s the updated animation technology, or maybe it’s the appeal of a new storyline that still honors the original tale. This version is quickly becoming a holiday favorite, proving that the Grinch’s story has the power to charm audiences, no matter the format.

Closing Thoughts

Whether you’re a fan of the classic 1966 Grinch, the 2000 Jim Carrey version, or the newest 2018 adaptation, the enduring story of the Grinch offers comfort and nostalgia during the holiday season. These heartwarming tales are always there to bring us joy and a sense of tradition. 

At OvidLife, we understand the value of security and peace of mind. Just as the Grinch found a new perspective, we offer a fresh financial avenue for those looking to optimize their assets. If you find that your existing life insurance policy no longer fits your needs, we’re here to offer a solution that can contribute to a more comfortable retirement. Enjoy the holidays and the years to come with the security you deserve.

Methodology

To find out which Grinch stole the hearts in each state, we analyzed Google Trends search data from 2018 to 2023 for the three films: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), and The Grinch (2018). From there, we mapped out geographical and regional trends. We used high search volume as an indicator of high popularity.