LITTLE ROCK, Ark (KTHV) - When Mall of America in Minneapolis hired its first black Santa Claus earlier this month, it made national headlines. Santa Larry was a hit with the kids, but the mall received online backlash over Santa's skin color.
It turns out Santa Larry has a special connection to the Natural State.
Santa Jefferson may have brought a little bit of color to Christmas in Minnesota this year, but the state of Arkansas, and its people, are close to his heart.
“I love Arkansas. It's the natural state and everybody is nice,” said Santa Larry.
While he may call the North Pole home, Santa Larry was born and raised in the Natural State.
“I loved growing up in Arkansas. I grew up there in Nashville, Arkansas. I played football and a little track,” said Santa Larry.
After graduating from Henderson State University, he served 30 years in the army. He said his role of Santa, which he took on at the age of 12, is one of his favorite jobs of all.
“Yes, I’ve got to start exercising," said Santa Larry. "I’m eating too many milk and cookies. Too many cookies! So I have to get a little healthy this year, so leave me out some veggie sticks or something!”
While his stint at the Mall of America may be over for this year, Santa Larry says he didn't let a single naughty word ruin his Christmas spirit.
“For those Grinches out there that want to say bad things or try and stir the pot, I just overlook them and shake it off. I really picked up on the Taylor Swift song, ‘Shake it Off.’ You know, shake it off, shake it off!” said Santa Larry.
Santa Larry said his goal is simply spread Christmas cheer.
In addition to the North Pole, Santa Larry calls Dallas home. He has ties to his home state, though.
He said he makes trips to visit family and to serve on Henderson State University's alumni board and on his fraternity's board.