A Christmas Story has become a holiday classic over the years, mostly because of its perfect casting. Who else could play the Old Man other than Darren McGavin?
Well at one point, a different actor was considered- Jack Nicholson and he was definitely interested in making the film. The studio, however, was only making it due to contractural obligations. Therefore they provided a minimal budget for the film. Since it wasn't enough to pay Jack Nicholson's going rate, Darren McGavin won the role and a place in cinematic history.
