The Little Christmas Burro (1978)

Also known as The Little Brown Burro, this 1978 animated television special is a touching Christmas story directed by Vic Atkinson and narrated by Lorne Greene, best known for his role in Bonanza. The film tells the story of a small, sad burro who feels unwanted and out of place—until he’s chosen for a very special journey that changes everything.

Plot Summary
The burro, lonely and overlooked, wanders through life believing he has no purpose. But when a mysterious stranger named Joseph buys him to help transport Mary to Bethlehem, the burro discovers his true worth. Along the way, he faces challenges and meets colorful characters—including a comedic sidekick who hates water—but ultimately plays a key role in the Nativity story, carrying Mary to the stable where Jesus is born.

Voice Cast Highlights

• Lorne Greene as the Storyteller
• Bonnie Brooks as the Little Brown Burro
• Paul Soles as Omar
• Henry Ramer and Carl Banas in supporting roles

Production Notes & Trivia

• The film runs approximately 23 minutes, making it ideal for holiday TV programming
• Sometimes retitled as The Little Christmas Burro on DVD releases, though its original title is The Little Brown Burro
• The animation style and storytelling evoke a Disneyesque tone, with gentle humor and musical interludes
• The film shares thematic similarities with other donkey-centered Christmas specials like Nestor the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey and The Small One, but stands out for its message of self-worth and divine purpose