The real hero in the Rankin Bass Rudolph special is Yukon Cornelius

A lot of people point out what a jerk Santa Claus is in Rudolph. Rightfully so. Santa Claus is a big time jerk throughout the animated classic until he finally sees a need for Rudolph. Let’s talk about another character who is lost in between the Burl Ives Snowman, Santa the Jerkface, and lovable Rudolph. Have you ever noticed the real hero of the tale is Yukon Cornelius?

1. This prospector has no connection to any of the other characters. He’s busy making a living but stops to take in and protect two rejected misfits wandering around in the cold. In fact in their first encounter he literally pulls their butts out of the snow so they don’t get frostbite. Rudolph and Hermey are so out of their element their response to a perceived fear is to dive head first into a snowbank like ostriches in the sand. Fortunate for them the threat is this good natured prospector.

2. While on the run from the Bumble it’s Yukon dragging everyone else. Literally. His dogs, Hermey, and Rudolph are too scared to even run so they pile on the sled while Yukon straps on the harness to pull these helpless beings to safety. His sled is also loaded down with gun powder, ham hocks, and guitar strings. (According to him https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NV7nEkt2ySI )

3. When they get to a dead end facing the sea or the Bumble it’s only Yukon who is able to save the group by carving out a floating safety vessel with his pick ax. Keep in mind floating off and protecting this bunch…