Modern Santa Makeover: Research Shows Young, Thin and Female Claus Now Favoured Over Classic Look

Santa Claus is getting a makeover, and it is reshaping one of the most recognisable holiday traditions.

A new study suggests families increasingly prefer a young, thin and even female version of Santa, signalling a strong cultural shift away from the classic heavyset, white-bearded man popularised for generations. This trend is emerging just as real-life performers bring the reimagined Santa into communities.

Female Performers Lead the Cultural Shift

One of the most visible examples of this transformation is Santa Mel, known nationally as one of only three professional female Santas in the United States. Melissa Rickard has been portraying Santa for more than 30 years, captivating families across Mid-Michigan with a performance built on warmth and emotional connection.

Rickard has spent decades studying the traditional Santa persona and refining her own version of it. She said her motivation comes from wanting every child to feel seen and valued. She explained that many children go to bed without hearing loving words at home, so she uses her time in the Santa chair to make sure at least one child hears encouragement that stays with them.

Her work extends far beyond appearances at orchards and events. She donates her earnings to charity and supports causes including the Humane Society and the Trevor Project. Her path began at age 18 when she stepped in for a hospital Santa during a medical emergency. A child's emotional reaction that day convinced her that this role had a purpose much deeper than entertainment.

Study Points to a Rising Preference for a Younger, Slimmer Santa

The reimagining of Santa is not limited to individual performers. A recent study reported by Gazeta Express found that many families now lean toward a modern Santa shaped by changing cultural values. The findings highlight a shift toward inclusivity, representation and contemporary aesthetics.

Younger audiences appear more open to Santa figures who reflect the world around them. The study shows that a broader range of identities resonates with families today, especially as more children grow up in households that emphasise diversity and positive emotional support. A younger, slimmer or female Santa aligns more closely with those expectations.

Why Families Are Embracing the New Santa

The appeal of the modern Santa rests on a combination of relatability and emotional presence. Rickard's popularity demonstrates how a nurturing and expressive portrayal can create lasting memories. Families are connecting more strongly with Santas who feel approachable and real rather than mythical and distant.

Her message emphasises kindness, compassion and inclusivity. She believes Christmas magic is not found in decorations but in the feeling of doing good for others throughout the year. Her performances reflect this philosophy and draw families who want a Santa experience rooted in warmth rather than tradition alone.

The Future of the Santa Tradition

As the holiday season continues, the rise of younger and female Santas suggests the tradition is broadening rather than disappearing. The classic figure still holds nostalgic value, yet the growing popularity of diverse portrayals signals that communities want versions of Santa that feel meaningful to modern families.

Rickard will return to Spicer Orchards later in December, and interest in her appearances continues to grow. Her success, paired with the findings of recent research, signals the start of a new chapter for one of Christmas's most enduring symbols. The modern Santa reflects a world that prioritises emotion, inclusion and personal connection, giving children a version of the holiday icon that feels closer and more inspiring than ever.