The Grinch is a fictional character created by Dr. Seuss. He first appeared as the main antagonist/protagonist in the 1957 children's book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, which was adapted in 1966 into a popular television special, produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's MGM Animation/Visual Arts studio and directed by Chuck Jones. This was followed by multiple television specials, a musical, and films. The devious, anti-holiday spirit of the character has led to the name "Grinch" becoming a term used to describe a person opposed to Christmas time celebrations or to someone with a coarse, greedy attitude.
As seen in a flashback in "A Hero Sits Next Door", police officer Joe Swanson confronts him on the roof of Lucky's Orphanage, intending to arrest The Grinch for attempted robbery. When Swanson falls off the roof, he becomes paralyzed from the waist down. In "A Very Special Family Guy Freakin' Christmas", his wife, Bonnie, explained that this led to Joe hating Christmas. This story turns out to be a lie in "Joe's Revenge".
"How the Griffin Stole Christmas" indirectly parodies him in the title.
In "The First No L", there are numerous homages to the 1966 animated version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, including Lois' outfit, a smile that she makes, and scenes of her stealing the family decorations. In addition, Stewie appears dressed as Mary Lou Who.
The Grinch is voiced by Wally Wingert.