Travel Channel execs pulls the plug on Anthony Bourdain's Krampus short

Around my house we like to incorporate Krampus into our holiday festivities. Maybe it's because it suits our slightly dark sense of whimsy. Perhaps it's because I was born in Bavaria (to Canadian parents, admittedly, but still). Or it could be because we are horrible, horrible parents. Whatever the case, it sure keeps the young 'uns in line!

But enough about me. Don't know who Krampus is? Read about him here. The short version is that, in certain European countries, specifically Austria and parts of Germany, Krampus is a demon enslaved by St. Nicholas. While jolly old St. Nick rewards children for good behaviour, his hirsute friend punishes kids for their misdeeds. (An often neglected aspect of the story is that Krampus also shares tasty fruit with the kids on the nice list. Or at least he does at my house. But enough about me!)

The following animated short was slated to debut tonight on the holiday edition of Anthony Bourdain's Travel Channel show, No Reservations. Apparently executives at the channel watched the short and demanded it be excised from the show. Presumably none of them are of Austrian or Bavarian descent. (According to Gawker, the execs brought the Penn State scandal into the discussion, which says everything you need to know about their decision-making skills, or lack thereof.)

The narration is fine, but am I the only one who would love to hear the dulcet Bavarian tones of Werner Herzog instead?

Anyhow, if you're having trouble with your kids this holiday season, just show that to the little brats, and you'll probably find that, once you can convince them to come out from under their bed covers, their behaviour is greatly improved. But if you're planning to incorporate Krampus into your seasonal celebrations, you'll have to wait until next year: Krampus Day is either December 5 or 6, depending on who you ask, so you already missed it.