Viral Thanksgiving Grandma and Guest Mark 10 Years of Unlikely Friendship
Wanda Dench and Jamal Hinton, the internet-famous “Thanksgiving Grandma” and her accidental guest, have celebrated their 10th consecutive holiday together. The heartwarming tradition, which began with a misdirected text message in 2016, continues to capture the public’s imagination.
Key Takeaways:
- Wanda Dench and Jamal Hinton have celebrated their 10th Thanksgiving together.
- Their tradition started in 2016 due to a wrong number text message.
- The pair’s story has inspired a Netflix film and continues to be a symbol of heartwarming connection.
- This year, they partnered with Green Giant for their holiday meal.
The Accidental Beginning
The unique bond between Dench, then 68, and Hinton, then 17, started when Dench mistakenly texted her grandson for Thanksgiving dinner. The message, intended for her grandson who had changed his number, landed in Hinton’s inbox. Hinton’s playful response, asking if he could still join, led to an unexpected invitation from Dench, who famously replied, “Of course you can. That’s what grandma’s do… feed everyone.”
A Decade of Friendship and Viral Fame
Hinton shared the exchange on X (formerly Twitter), and the story quickly went viral, launching a decade-long Thanksgiving tradition. Their annual celebrations have become a beloved internet event, bringing joy and a sense of connection to many. The enduring nature of their friendship was further highlighted when Netflix announced a film based on their story in 2021.
This Year’s Celebration and Partnerships
Despite a past hacking incident on Dench’s X account, Hinton has continued to update followers on their yearly gatherings. This year’s celebration included a nostalgic look back at their first Thanksgiving together, accompanied by a photo from 2016. Adding a new dimension to their tradition, Dench and Hinton have partnered with Green Giant for their 2025 Thanksgiving feast, a collaboration that underscores the widespread appeal of their story.
Editor’s Take: The Enduring Power of Human Connection
In an era often dominated by digital detachment, the story of Wanda Dench and Jamal Hinton serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty of spontaneous human connection. What began as a simple text message mistake has blossomed into a decade-long friendship and a symbol of inclusivity and kindness. Their tradition transcends the holiday itself, offering a consistent beacon of positive human interaction that resonates deeply in our often-fragmented world. It’s a testament to how simple acts of openness and acceptance can create lasting bonds and inspire millions.
This article was based on reporting from Mashable. A huge shoutout to their team for the original coverage.
Read the full story at Mashable
