The Dark Side of Hey Arnold! - Arnold's Christmas

[@sean.furlong1989]

Helga learning the true meaning of Christmas when she sacrifices her most cherished Christmas present to help Arnold help Mr. Hyunh, Helga standing outside the boarding house wishing Arnold a Merry Christmas is one of the show's most iconic moments.

[@DuskTillShawn]

It really is. It’s interesting because I feel like I’ve talked too much about it, but at the same time I feel like there’s so much more that could be said about that moment. Thanks for watching 😁 I really appreciate it.

[@qwirkt]

That ending was way more beautiful than I expected

[@oooh19]

Wouldn’t her mom notice she was no longer wearing the boots? And what if they were the wrong size?

[@galacticalove]

​@@oooh19Considering the levels of neglect her parents commit (drunken mother as well), I doubt it. You give them too much credit for a level of care we have yet to see stick.

[@NekoFye]

What makes this scene hit even harder that she's standing outside the boarding house in just her socks. It really hits you over the head with the fact of her sacrifice in a perfect "show, don't tell" way

[@artistfloor9]

What makes Helga’s sacrifice even more important in hindsight is the fact that those boots came from her mother. They were initially presented as an example of materialism, but they ended up being a surprisingly thoughtful gift. We know that Miriam is an alcoholic who is often neglectful, but she had a moment of clarity where she remembered what Helga wanted and thought it was important enough to stand in line for hours to buy it for her. Helga didn’t just give away some expensive boots. She gave up a rare token of her mother’s love, which is very sad for her but makes what she did for Arnold even more beautiful.

[@ninagee4511]

Holy crap. How did I miss this?!

[@toothgoblin3132]

It makes the fact that they end up together even more touching honestly :)

[@xLexC7x]

I hope Miriam just didn’t notice the boots were gone and that Helga was sure to remind her how thankful she was.

[@MutaliMusic]

Man Helga was standing outside the boarding house in the snow with NO SHOES ON! She literally gave Arnold the shoes off her feet so he can be happy. Man that’s deep af, especially for a children’s cartoon. Best show ever.

[@DomesticAnimo]

I didnt even notice that!! Omg 😭. I went back to look lol, that means she literally went to mr baily right away not even thinking of herself but about arnold and getting mr hyun and his daughter together....man thats attention to detail for the creater and shows the care and love she has for Arnold 🥰☺️

[@akumie6996]

There is no way they are the same shoe sizes. Just something I had to put out there.

[@littleangelinhell]

​@akumie6996 who, Helga and the daughter? It's very possible they are as it's never specified what age the daughter is. Also, even if she was older, I'm pretty sure Helga is seen to have large feet so it's possible they were big enough for that reason to.

[@mudlark4099]

Oh Lord I forgot she has no shoes

[@viren_jalkun]

Why would she not have shoes on? I would assume she's wearing an old pair of boots

[@Recessbiru]

That scene with Mr. Hyunh where he tells the story about his life and giving up Mai is so strong. It's even more emotional gutpunching when you know that his VA Baoan Coleman is Vietnamese immigrant and actually experienced the horrors of the Vietnam War.

[@Jinxanator66]

During the recording the creators told Baoan if he felt like he needed to stop at any point to just say the word and they would stop

[@mugiwater2029]

I'm a 33 year old man I teared up

[@puffykitty7240]

That was my first introduction to the Vietnamese war and it left an impression on me

[@DylanRomanov]

I’m surprised he didn’t mention that in the video! that makes this episode even more emotional

[@sodasaintcommentaries4054]

No wonder his performance felt so real - it was.

[@angelicafigueroa0221]

For those who know the lore of Hey Arnold, I truly believe Arnold took this idea of reuniting Mr Hyunn very seriously because here was his neighbor who left his child to the hands of strangers in hopes that she'd live a safe life. And then there's Arnold who was left to his grandparents for reasons he didn't know at the time. Maybe he felt if he could reunite that family it would help him cope that he couldn't bring his family together

[@JamesLittle-i8o]

I noticed that Ernie, well known for being pretty brusk. Is the ONLY character to cry for the reunion of father and daughter. I feel that such a reunion would have left Mr. Hyuen bawling his eyes out from the sheer joy.

[@spadinnerxylaphone2622]

Ernie's a sweet guy, he's just brash and sometimes his temper gets the better of him. But he's always nice to Arnold and was a gentleman to that model he dated.

[@ivanbluecool]

I remember seeing this as a child and just being 100 percent invested in wanting to see him reunite with his child. Boy that ending was magic and wish we saw more as the cast deserve their wins and happiness when they get it.

[@RiveroftheWither]

No cartoon but Hey Arnold has ever been so ballsy as to reference the Vietnam war, let alone using that for their Christmas special.

[@Cowboycomando54]

Let alone feature the fall of Saigon

[@RT-qd8yl]

This episode was actually what got me interested in SEA history and culture. I'm really glad I went down that path.

[@DarkcIoud1111.]

One of my friends had never seen this special as she was just enough younger that she missed Hey Arnold as a kid. So I put on this special and she was already in tears by the end of Mr. Hyunh's story. She then looked me right in the eyes and ask "When's it going to get happy?" I could only say that it will eventually, but she did not believe me. This episode also gives some insight into Mr. Hyunh's song "The Simple Things." Seeing his humble origins in a very low-tech village must make the city seem overwhelming to him.

[@AliciaNyblade]

Even as a kid, I realized how heavy this episode was. The part that always stuck with me was Mr. Hyunh watching the soldiers march by his house and then turning to see their shadows falling across his daughter as she sleeps completely innocent to what's happening. Soldiers' shadows marching across a sleeping child is such a creative, haunting, and powerful way to show the intended audience of kids the horrors of war without being too graphic about it. And it makes Mr. Hyunh reuniting with his daughter all the more emotionally satisfying to see.

[@Kepora1]

I'm a 35 year old man. I was around when this episode came out. To this day it *still* beings tears to my eyes.

[@DuskTillShawn]

It hits so hard. Such an emotionally gripping tale. 😭

[@LunetteFox]

Helga actually got something she wanted from her parents and her mom looked happy to see her reaction at receiving it, but Helga straight up turned around and gave it up so someone else could have a better Christmas. After learning her home life and why she is who she is this episode makes you really appreciate Helga

[@shadowguy321]

A part I missed as a kid. Helga laments that she won't be happy giving up the boots. However, when she does, the joy and happiness she experiences at knowing she has truly given love to another. That happiness is the purest form from one person to another and it can bring such healing to a person

[@55loks]

Man, this hits a lot harder now as a father that you know you would do the same for your daughter and would search for her non stop

[@theonlyk38]

I always thought about the fact that Ernie was the one who cried when hyuhn encounter his daughter at 40:02. It may implies that he really cares for him as a friend or somenthing near or he was aware about his tragic story or even empathized with that situation, besides he doesn't have kids

[@Zacman1123]

Even after almost 30 years, this episode still gets me in the feels. I've always wondered how Helga's parents felt when they found out she gave away the snow boots.

[@acidnine3692]

dont think about it lol

[@dougxvale]

They didn't actually care tbh

[@JaxnDan212]

0:27

[@yukijadenfilms3425]

Probably forgot who she was ☠️

[@akumie6996]

Helga's mom is always drunk and her dad is a jerk, they only notice her sister, I don't think they even noticed.

[@Cthulus_left_tentacle]

This was such an important episode. Most people are introduced to war through stories of glory or just existing in the pages of history. This was a real, heavy way of what war really is: it’s pain, it’s sacrifice, it’s families being torn apart and reuniting after years apart. This was important to have in a cartoon

[@rastaba1479]

This will forever be the Hey Arnold episode that just hits the feels harder than you ever expect for a Christmas episode. From Mr. Hyuhn’s story early on, how hard Arnold and Gerald worked, to Helga’s sacrifice, all the way to the final moment.

[@kriscynical]

One of my personal signs that I had truly grown up was when I realized I was far more excited to watch my family open their gifts from me than I was to open my own. Not that I didn't appreciate them or look forward to it, ofc, because I do. I just get a lot of joy out of watching them. As an adult I've gotten the reputation of being an amazing gift giver to my family members, which I take pride in. I pay close attention to each of them throughout the year to figure out what I can give them for Christmas that will make them the happiest. My sister put it as "you always end up getting me something I didn't know I desperately wanted until I open it". Several years ago I started filming my family opening their gifts. I suffer from depression and severe anxiety after losing several family members in various ways including two of my sisters to breast cancer and liver failure, and I've found that watching those videos often gives me the dose of serotonin I need to get through the day or make me feel better when my anxiety is really bad but my medication hasn't kicked in yet. I know that probably sounds weird to a lot of people, but just seeing the pure joy I gave my family members through those gifts makes me happier than just about anything else could.

[@SmashAtoms]

“Merry Christmas, Arnold” makes me fucking bawl every time.

[@boardcertifiable]

Omg, Mr Huynh's story always hits me in the feels. My family were refugees too, but were lucky not to be separated. (I was the first American born in my family) love that stories like these are shared.

[@maysun3752]

I related Mr Huynh story too, My Father was a Taiwanese refugee during WWII when he was little. I seen what the war has done to him I understand Mr Huynh sadness.

[@DuskTillShawn]

It’s so important that stories like this are shared. It makes me happy that Hey Arnold was willing to touch on this subject because this is a reality for hundreds of thousands of people in history, even to this day. Thanks so much for sharing your families stories. 💚 I appreciate you.

[@ashkitt7719]

My grandma was a refugee from Nazi Germany and my grandpa's parents were refugees from the Russian Empire. Glad they were able to get out not just so I could exist but so they could be saved from persecution.

[@rustyshackelford312]

I love arnold's christmas and watch it multiple times every December. I like how it shows miracles do happen, but they don't happen on their own. There is no divine intervention or magic. They could have went with cop out and brought santa in as a deus ex machina at the ending and have Helga get her boots and Mr. Hyunh his daughter, and when Gerald says "a miracle is a miracle" show Santa flying over the city, kinda like how rugrats Santa experience ended, but they didn't do that. They showed people sacrificing their time, energy and for Helga, her own gift, literally the shoes off her feet, to do what they knew was the right thing to do for someone they cared about or even for a stranger in the case of Mr.Bailey, and no one cared about getting recognition for it. They just did it. Because like Gerald said. "That's what Christmas is all about."

[@DuskTillShawn]

Hits the nail right on the head! Thanks again for tuning in live, Rusty 😁

[@eerieeric834]

Hey Arnold is a show that never pulled its punches when it taught you a lesson or just wanted to make you feel sad, but in the best way possible

[@Ontiming2023]

Word the best episodes of hey Arnold are the emotional ones man they go All out to make you feel it

[@pleaseshutup7053]

They showed poor neighborhoods in a humbling way I can’t think of another kids show that did

[@Gustav750]

My mom and dad sought refuge in the US after its involvement with starting the decades-long civil war in Guatemala so this story touches me very closely. Arnold continues to remind me how amazing of a show this really is

[@whisperwhipper2240]

such a powerful episode for a kids show

[@patcahill3724]

yes that's why kids shows were awesome back then

[@AmyDamable]

as a daughter of vietnamese refugees, this episode was always my sister and i’d favourite christmas watch. it always broke my heart, but i was so happy to hear this story. growing up, there was so little representation for vietnam, especially in children’s media! this episode will always hold such a special place in my heart.

[@BoxOKittens]

It's incredible that they actually made this story about something that a lot of folks struggle with during the holidays: missing/mourning a loved one. They also went that extra mile by including actual historical events. Hey Arnold really nailed their christmas special in a way that no other kid show ever has, and probably ever will. The holiday is more of a backdrop to the story, but the themes and the actions of everyone is deeply entrenched in the holiday spirit of giving and sacrificing. That final shot always grabs me by the heart. Helga, alone in the snow, boots gone, not even expecting a thanks from anyone, just content to have done a truly good thing. That's definitely what christmas should be about, and this episode nails it better than adult media.

[@Fartsanchez]

I watch this episode every Christmas and it makes me tear up every time. War is hell, and Mr Hyunhs story is so real and so heartbreaking. How selfless Arnold, Gerald, and even Helga are this episode in trying to help Mr Hyunh, it’s so touching.

[@tysondennis1016]

And father and daughter are reunited years later, thanks to those kids.

[@jacobk9322]

Arnold was the best, and this is my #1 Christmas episode. Tears still spring up when I hear the flute accompanied with the story and the happy ending. I feel for you on your father’s condition, I lost my mother a few years ago to epilepsy. I wish you luck and many more years and many happy holidays with him and your family. Thank you for covering this episode, and have a Merry Christmas.

[@DuskTillShawn]

Same! That ambient flute with him in front of the fire just gets me every time… I appreciate your support, and I’m sorry for your loss. The thought of losing my dad is really hard and I try my best to be thankful for every moment I get with him and my mom. I hope you have a merry Christmas as well, my friend. Thank you so much for watching.

[@dougxvale]

Honestly we need more people like Arnold in real life...

[@herrzeiens3503]

Merry Christmas

[@DuskTillShawn]

Awww thank you so much!!! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate this. 💚 Merry Christmas to you as well! I’d love to give you a shout out in a future video if that’s okay? 😁

[@herrzeiens3503]

@@DuskTillShawn If you want you can do that , I mean I think Everyone can See that I gave you a Super Thanks, so there is not really a Reason why I should ask you to Keep that a secret. But You don't have to. I don't use my channel for Videos etc, so I won't gain anything from that. I am Just a dude with 2 Kids who thought it would make you happy. I love your Videos , even tho I do not have always the Time to watch them right after you Upload them. Have a nice Christmas. Times are globally a bit rough an will be even harder in about 7 to 13 months from now. Greetings from Germany btw :)

[@FallouFitness_NattyEdition]

The only problem I have is that we never saw his daughter again. I really wish the show would have had follow-up episodes that focused on Mr. Hyunh and his daughter building their relationship.

[@rebajoe]

I remember in the deli manager episode Mr Hyunh does mention his daughter so at least we know she's still around.

[@FallouFitness_NattyEdition]

@@rebajoe I'll have to watch that then. I'm actually thinking about watching the whole series. I think Hey Arnold is one of those cartoons that has aged tremendously.

[@Roxxolotl]

She’s in the Jungle Movie with her father when they are talking about what a great guy Arnold is.

[@BytheCaye]

Or even if she was just in the background with him occasionally. I remember thinking the exact same thing.

[@FallouFitness_NattyEdition]

@Roxxolotl I know she's in The Jungle Movie. But, it still would have been great to see a few episodes that focused on them. It's just a nitpick, though. I'm happy with what we got from the series.

[@haileybalmer9722]

I didn't watch Hey Arnold as a kid, and I spent a lot of time on Vietnam and Cambodia in high school. By the time I saw this, it just freaking broke me. I'll randomly think of this cartoon man hugging his child and passing her over to a stranger so she could fly away on a helicopter and hopefully have a better life, and I'll just start crying. This show as heavy, man.

[@ConkerTheCat]

I cried as a kid during the scene where he gave up his daughter, the impact of that decision didnt hit me til much later but it really hit me in the feels.

[@matveyxivan7159]

honestly it's telling when a child cries over the scene despite not understanding the weight of that decision- it's just natural human thing to understand being separated from your family and how sad that is

[@squarebear619]

Mr. Hyunh's story was real for me because my dad is a Vietnam vet. He has deep shame, anxiety, anger, etc, over his being drafted there. It is a dream of mine to write his narrative and to take him back to see how far Vietnam has come and find the family of a POW he has pictured.

[@andrefromelpasotexas3236]

I hope that your dream is realized

[@Songal18]

Yeah this is a real Christmas Story everybody should watch this time of year. I love that you said how humanizing it was with Helga and Mr. Bailey doing actual work instead of depending on Santa Claus or Christmas Magic. That's why Hey Arnold is such a great show because everyone has character to them, it feels like real life and this special with Mr. Hyunh really was amazing for him because up until this special he was just another face in the boarding house. I hope everyone has a very Happy Holiday and you all keep people in your thoughts and prayers who need it the most this year.

[@Tig_Supreme]

This episode hits a lot hard now. Then when I originally saw it. Literally brought me to tears. Definitely a gutbuster. This is why I love Hey Arnold. ❤

[@studdedleatherlace]

This will ALWAYS be my favorite kids show and probably my favorite animated show, also. I'm ashamed at how much I've watched it 🏉

[@loveemma09]

Don't be! It's perfect 🥰

[@studdedleatherlace]

@@loveemma09 It truly is an animated masterpiece. 😙🤌

[@omniunown]

I've probably watched this episode 20 times (it's my favorite Xmas episode of any show ever), and glancing over as you were wrapping up, it's the first time I've noticed that Helga is standing there in the snow, having walked over to Arnolds house with Mai, in her socks. I just lost it again.

[@TiffanySL1989]

This was my favorite Christmas episode of any series as a kid and still is. I love how you explained everything with Helga I never thought of it like that before and now I love this episode even more. When you were talking about your dad with his brain cancer and how you had to move away, it broke my heart as I too miss my dad who has passed away everyday and Christmas makes it that much harder to be without him.

[@narchupikana7008]

I never truly liked Hey Arnold as a kid. I remember this one episode as cute ending when my sister watched it. But listening to it today when I was at work, and hearing Mai say "father", while hearing just the joy when it all wraps up brought me to tears. This episode is so sad, yet gorgeous

[@jailcatjones3250]

My favorite Christmas special. Sadly I can relate with it,being my ex left and took our daughter (the only human I truly ever loved) with her a few days before Christmas over a decade ago. I was getting groceries excited for the holidays but when I returned I found a note that said "I found someone new, goodbye forever!" The ending gives me hope that one day I will get mine and my daughter will find me when she is older.

[@Ashleightryingtolive]

This episode was always one of my favorites. It hits a lot different as an adult and parent now

[@soumyayadav1725]

This was heavy, I feel a lump. I don't follow christianity, but this feels like I should be the secret Santa to my loved ones now. And to the people of the underprivileged ones of my town. It's a goal of my life now. Thank you so much for this Shawn.❤

[@soumyayadav1725]

I learnt a lot with this❤

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thank you SO MUCH for watching. I appreciate it. I feel this so hard. I love that idea and I want to do the same for my loved ones. So many people are struggling right now. Thanks for the inspiring message 💚

[@soumyayadav1725]

@@DuskTillShawn keep going, you made me fall in love again with the lovely stories my childhood was filled with.❤

[@elsakristina2689]

I first saw this episode back when I was twelve (when The 90s Is All That block was still a thing) and it just blew me away. It still does every time I watch it. IMO this is one of the best “Hey Arnold” episodes PERIOD.

[@treavorswiggum]

Right on cant wait. Have you considered stoop kid aha had the though the other day, a whole character of trauma in himself.

[@Crash-s5i]

This is gonna be a top tier vid fr

[@noelara9097]

My favorite Christmas special as kid that taught me put others before yourself and the ending makes me tear up inside 🥹🥹🥹🥹

[@rougejaw]

This is the best Christmas special of any show I have ever seen. Cartoon or not. I've been watching this since I was a kid and it still makes me cry.

[@ccbam32]

Fr

[@Crazycoyote-we7ey]

I yes I remember watching on December 11th 1996 when it aired I was like daaang that's a good episode Helga was a MVP at the end sure she's a Tsundere but she has a heart

[@DuskTillShawn]

Helga's role in all this was genuinely so heart warming! It's such a good episode :D

[@Crazycoyote-we7ey]

@@DuskTillShawn you should have seen the comics in Nickelodeon magazine in the 90s

[@mathieuleader8601]

if this episode can be summed up in one word it would be heartfelt

[@DuskTillShawn]

I think you're 100% correct. It's a very heartfelt episode through and through. Thanks for watching my video :)

[@ademon4908]

I’ve been listening to these videos while working lately. Haven’t watched since the show aired. Now years later, the father of twins almost 1 year old….I hear this while thank god alone at work as I break down crying. Mr Hyen giving up his baby just hurt me. I never felt this when I watched as kid. Thank you. I can’t wait to watch this with my kids when their older.

[@brycefourn2001]

Saw this special last night on Pluto TV via my phone! Still holds up :) One of the best Christmas specials & Hey Arnold! episodes out there.

[@DuskTillShawn]

I’m glad to hear they’re playing it on Pluto! 😁 Hey Arnold is such a great show and this episode is a gem for sure. It’s definitely my all time favorite Christmas special.

[@madladsdabs]

Dusktillshawn is still the most underrated youtuber ever

[@DuskTillShawn]

Aww, I appreciate that so much. Thank you :D

[@DuskTillShawn]

Hahahaha I've been quoting Mitch nonstop since I started making this video lmao. It's just too funny.

[@josephwatt2542]

Excited to catch this one, been watching your channel since shortly after my son was born. I get a huge rush of nastalgia that keeps me smiling with every video, cheers.

[@JNT737]

This ep made me cry. My father was in that war that was ref. It's hard and it shows a father's love will always be strong.

[@rabbidguarddog]

Thank you Dusk, merry christmas. Follow up comment, what are your thoughts on the Hey Arnold Jungle Movie?

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thank you so so much for your support and for watching. I really appreciate it 😁 As far as your question goes, I’m gonna be COMPLETELY honest. I haven’t seen it yet lol. It came out 3 years before I started this channel. I didn’t really have the time to watch many shows or movies back then because I was working so much 😕. I’ve thought about watching it a few times, but I’m kinda glad I didn’t tbh. It’ll make for a raw and fresh reaction when I finally make a video about it. I’ve heard a few spoilers about it, but not enough to ruin it for me. I’m super excited to watch it 😁 I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

[@sarahtelles1931]

Also the actions Henry Kissinger had committed in this war to not just Vietnam but to countries we weren't even at war with at the time all so Henry could advance his own effing career, is especially messed up when you consider that he is responsible for the US' foreign policy of today.

[@ashkitt7719]

_Once you’ve been to Cambodia, you’ll never stop wanting to beat Henry Kissinger to death with your bare hands. You will never again be able to open a newspaper and read about that treacherous, prevaricating, murderous scumbag sitting down for a nice chat with Charlie Rose or attending some black-tie affair for a new glossy magazine without choking. Witness what Henry did in Cambodia - the fruits of his genius for statesmanship - and you will never understand why he’s not sitting in the dock at The Hague next to Milošević._ - Anthony Bourdain

[@Ckeymanx]

Good Lord this made me genuinely cry for the first time in ages, holy hell

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

Not me crying over this episode :( it was such a tearjerker. This show was so good and I'm glad it was part of my childhood ♥

[@patcahill3724]

Such a great and beautiful episode, I can't wait for the video to start.

[@djpon7969]

This hey Arnold Christmas special is the best Christmas special. Is a sad story that have a good ending.

[@djpon7969]

I’m happy that dad finally find his lost daughter that he try to find her for so long and also he moved the country to have a better life.

[@joep5917]

Just watched this episode with my 5 year old and had real tears for the first time in a long time. Thinking of giving up my son to have a better life is an unfathomable sacrifice. The lengths arnold goes through to help bring them together warms my soul. What a wonderful story and episode

[@timmckee6340]

This is undoubtedly my absolutely favorite Christmas special ever. There maybe be funnier ones out there, ones that have more action, ones that tell a more interesting story, or ones that have funny and catchy songs in them, but no other special was able to match this one’s heart, that what makes this not only one of the best Hey Arnold episodes, not only one of the best Christmas episodes, but one of the best things that I’ve ever seen. I’m going to say what most people say about this, the endings is very moving, I love that fact that Arnold didn’t know it was Helga who helped him, what makes this all the more heartwarming is that face that Helga all throughout the special is trying to get a gift for Arnold but make sure he knows that is FROM her so he would like her better. But at the end she is just satisfied in knowing that she helped Arnold and made him happy. I also like that the reason the guy helped wasn’t necessarily because she gave him the boots remember he was getting a cab when she offered them to him and he told her he was going home, it was only AFTER Helga appealed to his heart that he agreed to help her. I like to think that because of that Helga was able to keep the boots, though that could take away her sacrifice a bit. There’s just no other word that describes this better then fantastic

[@cbishere311]

Such a great and beautiful episode. Cant wait for this!

[@Untrustedlife]

Love your videos :)

[@DuskTillShawn]

Aww, thank you so much! I really really appreciate that! I'll give you a shoutout in an upcoming video :D

[@dexterwillmon]

Before I clicked on this video I said “Oh I love that movie! …Wait it’s not a movie though” It’s such a wonderful episode, it brings me to tears almost every time I watch it.

[@serpent6827]

Man I really miss the 90s cartoons and I feel that a lot of them had a lot more heart to them than most cartoons today such as Doug, Rugrats, and this show to name a few. I definitely remember watching this episode as a kid and I also remember seeing it a few times recently when teennick used to play the old 90s shows at night and yeah it definitely hits harder as an adult especially at the end when Helga wishes Arnold a Merry Christmas.

[@Bowser14456]

This episode still makes me cry everytime.

[@stephaniesawyer9021]

This episode always makes me cry. A true must watch every Christmas for our family. This was the first representation of the Vietnam war that I had seen as a child and I am so appreciative for this show for being willing to tackle such difficult issues. Also, when Mai is reunited with her dad, she first whispers "Ba" which is Vietnamese for "father." This episode is just pure gold and the whole show of Hey Arnold is one that hugely impacted my life.

[@yoheee]

Thanks!

[@DuskTillShawn]

Of course! Thank you SO MUCH for watching this video and for your support. I really appreciate it 😁

[@TimberWolf1000]

This is one of the most heartwarming episodes in cartoon history, and I love it. Merry Christmas DuskShawn

[@supersmilyface1]

My favorite type of Christmas special are the ones that have moments of cold loneliness as well as some kind of gut-punch of emotion, both positive and negative. There's always just something so _real_ with those specials that the usual "Power of Christmas spirit" specials don't usually capture.

[@EBThisThat]

This has to be one of my favorite Christmas episodes of all time. Even now, as an adult, I will admit shedding some tears of joy at te ending. It still as that effect today ! I can relate deeply to this particular episode since my parents are both in heaven now, but I'm fortunate enough to have extended family, friends and others that love me dearly.

[@GundemaroSagrajas]

I don’t see how this is dark though. Aside from the obvious reference to vietnam, this is really wholesome. Happy Christmas everyone

[@perks6292]

I still cry at this episode 😭😭😭

[@archieblue2801]

Make sure you talk to your dad every day & visit him when you get the chance, I lost my dad to something similar only a few months ago & I'd do anything just to hang out with him again when he was healthier, not in pain & his more energetic self. I miss him more & more every day.

[@victoriashevlin8587]

So happy to see this. I love your Dark Side videos, and in-depth analysis of cartoons and characters. This episode has always made me cry, both happy and sad tears.

[@survivalanimations]

I think this was my first exposure towards war as a kid. And I tear up every time I see this episode.

[@QicenoQ]

It saddens me that we don't really have shows like this anymore. This is easily one of the best episodes to come out of television

[@CharmCityGamer]

I wanted to tell ya Shawn that your gentle messages of family and how you appreciate us, that hit me right in the heart buddy. Your gentle voice and loving compassion, you're a good one brother. If you ever need someone to talk to outside your videos, we'll be here, just reach out to us! We're like your online family. And to your dad, don't give up, keep fighting the good fight. I lost my dad to liver cancer when I was just 8 years old, he being 27 so I know the pain and suffering that cancer brings on. Never stop smiling. Never stop being that light for others, just like Arnold is for Helga. Merry Christmas Shawn 💜💜💜

[@steakinbacon8593]

I rarely cry over kids shows like this but seeing this show portraying the horrors of war in such a realistic manner really made it hard to hold back tears. Especially now when there are people going through this right now. I think people really need to understand war is not something to glorify or to be excited about in the movies. I like a good war movie here and there but I think it’s sometimes we need a good reminder of how war is really like.

[@ccbam32]

Fr

[@dr3dg352]

I love this episode so much!!! Really wanted to watch it for this year's holiday season.

[@WhoIsRaphaelLeraux]

This was the episode that truly made me love this show. Like, I had always enjoyed and related to it a lot. But the storytelling in this episode easily pushed it up to my favorite Nickelodeon show of all time. "Hey Arnold", "As Told By Ginger", and "Daria" really came together to help me form my identity in those formative years.

[@DuskTillShawn]

I love that so much and I couldn’t agree more. Hey Arnold and As Told By Ginger had a huge effect on my formative years as well. I’ve watched Daria a few times over the years, but I haven’t gotten too far into it. Any specific episodes you highly recommend? 😁

[@WhoIsRaphaelLeraux]

@@DuskTillShawn The episode "Boxing Daria" from season 5 is one of my favorites. It really dives into how seemingly small things to adults can really stick with kids and affect them without them even knowing. Then there's the season 1 episode "Misery Chick" where Daria has to grapple with everybody’s interpretation of her. When there's a death that affects the school, everybody turns to Daria because she is all about misery... Except, that isn't how she views herself. She's sarcastic and goth, but she isn't actually miserable. So being seen by everyone as the "misery chick" starts to bother her. I also love the way that the first and final episodes mirror eachother. With the first episode showing her doing a rorschach test, saying she sees a pack of Buffalo on an open plane. The final episode shows her younger basically being told to only say she sees pretty things like a pack of Buffalo on an open plane. So she internalized that rejection of her true self and used it with future counselors.

[@Nightstriker995]

this episode really hits hard in the feels I cried when I saw that he was reunited with his daughter at long last.

[@Mariojinn2]

I've been waiting for you to cover this episode, it's the one special I watch every Christmas. The subject matter is pretty heavy, they covered it well. A very sad, but ultimately happy ending.

[@timtimmonsmusic]

As much as I love hey Arnold’s Christmas special I will be avoiding this one this year because I lost my father in October suddenly and I fear it will be triggering.. but I still love the message in the special! Hope everyone has a great holiday!

[@DuskTillShawn]

I’m so sorry for your loss, Tim. I can’t imagine how hard that hurts. I’ve known my dad is sick for a long time so when he does pass, as much as it hurts, I’ve had time to try to prepare myself emotionally. I can’t imagine losing him suddenly… I appreciate you leaving a comment and sharing your story 💚

[@timtimmonsmusic]

@@DuskTillShawn thank you! Yes it does hurt, im sorry to hear that your father is sick. Not sure how close you are with him but my message is to spend as much time as you can with him! Hope you have a great holiday!

[@pleaseshutup7053]

I don’t want to sound rude but why did you click on the video if you don’t want to watch the episode

[@timtimmonsmusic]

because i support the people i like watching? didnt watch the whole thing for said reason.@@pleaseshutup7053

[@francisreuter6294]

It still brings me to tears even you talking about it a real heartwarming episode thank to Craig and his team

[@azaznogalesaz]

Yes another episode of dark side hey Arnold. I love these!

[@MmeCShadow]

26:36 - "Because she's thinking like herself" Not quite. She's thinking OF herself. She's searching for a big, flashy gift because she specifically wants to impress Arnold. She mentions her name being attached to the tag and how he'll be so grateful and moved by her gift that maybe he'll realize his love for her and finally reciprocate. She isn't necessarily thinking 'this is something I would want', she's thinking 'this is something that will make him notice me'. That's why the final shot of her standing outside the boarding house is so powerful. She could have walked in with Mai and told Arnold what she did, or had Mai explain on her behalf, or just found any number of ways to tell Arnold that she was responsible for the miracle. Instead she's content to have made him happy and chooses to remain anonymous, not just giving up what she wanted in a material way (the boots) but giving up what she REALLY wanted (his attention). She doesn't know if she'll ever have another chance like this to prove her love, but it doesn't matter; she reunited a family, she rekindled Arnold's faith, and she walks away without another word.

[@patcahill3724]

Great and heartwarming episode, and merry Christmas!

[@suplects]

I love your videos!

[@josepht5331]

Great video (as always). I lost my mother to breast cancer 12 years ago. See was also in and out of remission and we celebrated those victories in the past and I enjoyed the time I had with her prior to her passing. Of course it still hurts to think of her but I think of the good times more than the bad because I intentionally seared the good memories in my mind at the moment, understanding it wouldn’t last forever. I can only suggest u do the same with your dad. Hang on to those times and have the conversations u always wanted to. Even if it may seem awkward, u will undoubtedly get some laughs out of it later lol. Thank you for continuing to do these amazing breakdowns of my favorite shows and making me reflect on my life and make sure I make good decisions in the future. ❤️

[@CharmCityGamer]

Hey Shawn, Merry Christmas and we love you buddy! Love this episode as well. Mr. Hyunh deserved his happy moment and they nailed it perfectly!

[@Emolution-ml5xi]

Gerald is a true friend we all wish too have.

[@angelatrent8268]

This episode hits so close to home when I learned my family history. My grandparents escaped Vietnam with my mom when she was a toddler on one of those helicopters. I can't imagine the trauma they went through. I'm grateful that they got to stay together and didn't have to give up my mom like Mr Hyunh had to with his daughter. I very much despise the Vietnam War, but I wouldn't exist if it didn't happen which I have very complicated feelings about.

[@kle706]

I remember watching this episode and feeling so hyped because it was my 2nd Vietnamese character i've ever seen in tv. 1st one being OG yellow ranger. It was just nice seeing not as a butt of a joke or just being a "war" character aka soldier (which was often a bad, savage-like character bc it was in view of US soldiers). But back to Hey Arnold. It was so great because we didn't see Mr. Huynh as just his "background"/asian/vietnamses, he's doing everyday things and joining with the characters on the situation. tbh idk how I didn't put 2 & 2 together that he was vietnamese too. This episode was beautifully done. my mom happened to watch this 1 episode with me. My mom often told me her experience and being a child that escaped the wars ofc, she understood and teared up. it wasn't translated but after Mr. Huynh hugged his daughter, he said "my god! I missed you so much". i remember going nuts because understanding that and seeing my mom so into what I was. But mostly hyped seeing somewhat of what my moms' generation went through the vietnamese war. My mom was amazed because I know for her it was the first time and refreshing to see that she didn't need to revisit the war but could see someone/a character like her years after; living. this was super super sweet and wholesome episode to me. one of the most impactful. core memory lol

[@Ozubura]

My dad passed away from liver cancer three weeks ago and Christmas was very tough for my family. It’s still weird to think of it now that he was just talking to me not even two months ago to being gone. One step at a time but I tell myself he was happy that me and my siblings as well as most of his siblings came and stayed with him at the hospital for his final days. He told me Thanksgiving when I left to go back to college that he’d see me Christmas and I rushed back home because I knew he wouldn’t last till Christmas. I really don’t know how to word this but the time you have is special and I hope your family the best. ❤

[@marybethbizzle]

This episode has always been soooo emotional and powerful for me but hearing you give the breakdown of it has once again tugged on the heartstrings - thank you so much for the excellent content !

[@mikeydubbs8565]

This episode and the Mother’s Day episode of Rugrats were two episodes that made me and my mum cry together when they came out

[@MechbossBoogie]

I had to go back and watch this one again.