Lord of the Rings’ “John Rhys-Davies Brings Dickens to Life in ‘Scrooge: A Christmas Carol’

Scrooge: A Christmas Carol’ podcast returns with John Rhys-Davies narrating.

The holidays are brighter this year as Scrooge: A Christmas Carol, the acclaimed four-part podcast presented by Hope Media Group and Compassion International, returns for its second season. Now available here, the audio drama reimagines Charles Dickens‘ timeless story with a fresh perspective and a star-studded cast.

Narrated by the legendary John Rhys-Davies—known for his iconic roles in Indiana Jones and The Lord of the Rings—the podcast is a standout among holiday offerings. Rhys-Davies’ rich voice anchors a cast that includes Sean Astin (The Lord of the Rings, Stranger Things), Juliet Mills, and Ben Barnes. Their performances breathe new life into Dickens’ classic tale of redemption, joy, and hope.

Last year’s debut season earned widespread recognition, including the Christian Music Broadcasters’ ‘Podcast of the Year award, an Ambien nomination for ‘Best Performance in Audio Fiction,’ and the distinction of being the top-rated audio drama on Apple Podcasts.

Rhys-Davies spoke about the timeless appeal of A Christmas Carol during our interview, marveling at its enduring resonance. “It’s a story that brings joy and hope during midwinter—a reminder that even the hardest hearts can change. That message of redemption is as powerful today as it was nearly 180 years ago,” he reflected.

The narrator was particularly drawn to the high-caliber script by screenwriter P.G. Cuschieri and producer Mark Ramsey. “It was a brilliant script,” he said. “From the moment I began, I knew it would be a success. The themes are universal, and Dickens’ genius as a storyteller shines through every word.”

For Rhys-Davies, narrating was a deeply rewarding challenge.

Comparing voice acting to on-camera work, he explained, “On stage or film, you use gestures and expressions. With narration, you strip all that away and rely solely on voice to convey emotion and tell the story.”

The actor also reminisced about his past voice-acting roles, including fan favorites from Gargoyles, Aladdin, and the King of Thieves. He fondly remembered his work with the late Robin Williams, calling him “a genius and a deeply kind soul” who left an indelible mark on the world.

While Dickens’ tale of Ebenezer Scrooge has been retold countless times, Rhys-Davies believes its adaptability is part of its charm. “Like Shakespeare, the story stands up to reinterpretation because the themes are timeless,” he said.

This production balances tradition with innovation, featuring beloved elements alongside modern touches. Sean Astin voices the miserly Scrooge, while Juliet Mills and Ben Barnes portray the Ghosts of Christmas Future and Present, respectively. The podcast also highlights themes of generosity, redemption, and joy, making it a perfect listen for families during the festive season.

As Rhys-Davies eloquently put it, “Dickens reminds us that we can always change and become better people. That’s a message the world needs, especially during the holidays.”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, Scrooge: A Christmas Carol promises an unforgettable journey. Rediscover the magic of Dickens’ classic tale in this heartfelt, beautifully crafted audio drama.

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