7. Kris Kringle (Miracle on 34th Street)
He is Santa Claus after all, but when it comes to cheerful holiday characters we must make a distinction or two (which is why more than one Santa makes our list). And in this case, Kris Kringle of Miracle on 34th Street deserves his due.
Even in the face of doubters and people who would try to shun him and hide him away, Kris Kringle continues to maintain much of his goodwill and cheerfulness. We love that he refuses to lie to Susan, even though her mother wants to convince Susan that Santa Claus does not exist. And when he has to face a court over his identity, he remains steadfast through adversity.
Considering we believe that he is in fact “the” Santa Claus, it makes sense that no matter what comes his way, Kris Kringle continues to hold on to his cheery disposition, particularly around children. In fact, it is truly the way he is with the children that makes us love this version of Santa the most. Even as he speaks Dutch to communicate with a young girl or works hard to give Susan her belief in magic back, Kris continually proves that no matter what any adults may believe, he truly is Santa Claus.