Photo: Kim Tunnicliffe (WBZ NewsRadio)
WEST ROXBURY, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Most people would be offended if they get called a Grinch, but for Ian Grigorio, it isn't personal; it's just business.
Grigorio, a father of three from Milton, has been dressing up as the classic Dr. Seuss character and renting himself out for parties and events for the past three years. He also does charity and school events for free.
WBZ NewsRadio caught up with Grigorio as he donned his Grinch costume and entertained guests at the annual ETHOS AgeWell holiday party in West Roxbury.
"Seeing people’s faces, it’s a different reaction than Santa," Grigorio said. "You can be a little bit more goofier, a little bit edgier."
Grigorio doesn't say much because of the thick green mask, but he has gotten positive responses from both adults and children for his friendlier take on the grouchy character.
"I do a lot of clapping and low high fives for kids, because they’re a little bit nervous, but I’ve had a great response," Grigorio told WBZ.
The seniors at the AgeWell party had nothing but nice things to say about their new, Grinchy friend.
"I think he’s adorable," one woman said. "He makes Christmas Christmas."
"I loved him. I thought he brought a lot of festivity. I got a hug from him too," another person said.
WBZ's Kim Tunnicliffe (@KimWBZ) reports.
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