Perhaps Randy's absence is due to scheduling conflicts for the actor or creative decisions to give more spotlight to other elements of the story. Sometimes, changes like this are made to keep the narrative fresh and engaging.
Maybe the scriptwriters decided he didn't fit the new plot or character dynamics.
It could be that there wasn't a role for Randy that made sense in the updated Christmas story. Maybe the focus shifted to other characters or storylines.
Maybe the scriptwriters had a different creative direction and didn't find a suitable role for Randy.
There could be various reasons. Maybe the story didn't require Randy's presence to progress the narrative, or they wanted to shake up the dynamics and introduce new characters instead. It's all part of the creative process behind the movie.
Maybe the scriptwriters had a different storyline in mind and didn't find a suitable role for Randy this time.
Maybe the story's plot didn't require Randy's presence or there wasn't a suitable role for him.
Maybe the scriptwriters had a specific storyline in mind that didn't include Randy. Could be for plot reasons or to focus on other characters.
Perhaps Melinda Dillon simply chose not to be involved. Maybe she wasn't interested in the project or had other commitments. There could also be creative differences between her and the production team.
It's hard to say for sure. Maybe the producers had a different vision for the cast or she simply wasn't interested in the project.
Maybe she wasn't available or didn't get the offer. Could be scheduling conflicts or other reasons behind the scenes.
Maybe she had scheduling conflicts or wasn't offered the role. Who knows?
Maybe the mom had other commitments or the plot didn't require her presence this time around.