Hallmark and Churchill Downs Unite for Kentucky Roses Movie

Few things stir the heart like a story steeped in tradition, romance, and American history. Hallmark Media and Churchill Downs are betting big on that magic with their new original movie, Kentucky Roses.

The film blends the elegance of the Kentucky Derby with a sweeping, time-spanning love story. It’s a rare crossover between the entertainment world and one of horse racing’s most iconic institutions.

Set to premiere on the Hallmark Channel before streaming on Hallmark+, this movie promises nostalgia, glamour, and a hefty dose of Southern charm. Roses, romance, and a bit of wistfulness—what more could you want?

The Unlikely but Perfect Partnership

Hallmark Media and Churchill Downs might seem like they’re from totally different worlds. But, honestly, their collaboration feels almost destined.

Both brands thrive on legacy, tradition, and stories that echo across generations. By teaming up, they’re leaning into shared values—heritage, romance, and that distinctly American sense of nostalgia.

This partnership means new territory for both sides. Hallmark deepens its connection to real American landmarks and historical storytelling.

For Churchill Downs, it’s a bold step into narrative entertainment that celebrates the Derby’s cultural mystique beyond just the racetrack.

Why Churchill Downs Makes the Perfect Backdrop

Churchill Downs isn’t just a racetrack. It’s a symbol that’s stood tall since 1875 as the home of the Kentucky Derby, or as some call it, The Run for the Roses.

Filming on location at Churchill Downs gives the movie a level of authenticity you simply can’t fake. Every grandstand, stable, and stretch of turf is steeped in history and emotion.

• Founded: 1875
• Signature Event: Kentucky Derby
• Cultural Nickname: Run for the Roses
• Location: Louisville, Kentucky

A Story Told Across Two Timelines

One of the coolest things about Kentucky Roses is its dual-timeline setup. The story moves between the present day and 1932—a year bursting with historical tension, resilience, and romance.

This structure lets the film dig into how love, ambition, and legacy ripple through time. It’s a clever way to tie together the past and present in a single thread.

By setting part of the story in the early 20th century, the film taps into the golden age of horse racing and the fabric of Depression-era America. There’s something haunting and beautiful about that era, don’t you think?

The Power of 1932 as a Setting

1932 wasn’t picked out of a hat. It sits right in the heart of the Great Depression, when hope was in short supply and every dream felt heavier somehow.

Against that tough backdrop, the glamour of Churchill Downs must have felt almost unreal. The contrast gives the movie a chance to show how love and ambition survive even when times are tough.

Visually, it’s a goldmine—period costumes, vintage racing culture, and a whole lot of atmosphere.

A Cast Designed to Win Hearts

Hallmark knows what its fans want, and casting is where they shine. Kentucky Roses stars Andrew Walker and Odette Annable, both with plenty of emotional range and on-screen chemistry.

The supporting cast brings extra layers to both timelines, making the world feel bigger and more lived-in.

Meet the Stars

Andrew Walker, a familiar Hallmark face from movies like Three Wisest Men, brings his trademark warmth and sincerity. Odette Annable, who you might know from Supergirl, adds a grounded, emotional edge.

• Andrew Walker: Leading man with deep Hallmark roots
• Odette Annable: Versatile actress with genre-spanning experience
• Ally Ledford: Rising talent adding emotional layers
• Peyton Meyer: Youthful energy and romantic tension
• Brynn Thayer: Veteran presence grounding the story
• Gregg Henry: Character depth and authority

From Racetrack to Retail

This collaboration isn’t just about the movie. Hallmark Gold Crown stores are rolling out a jewelry collection inspired by Kentucky Roses, turning the film into a lifestyle experience.

By tying the film’s romantic themes to real, tangible products, Hallmark keeps its tradition of making stories you can actually wear or gift. That’s a pretty smart move, honestly.

Why the Jewelry Tie-In Matters

Merchandising is nothing new for Hallmark, but this collection stands out. The jewelry isn’t just pretty—it’s got a real connection to the Kentucky Derby. Roses mean victory, passion, and tradition here.

Fans get to carry a bit of the movie’s romance with them, keeping the story alive long after the credits roll.

A Strategic Win for Hallmark+

Kentucky Roses will debut on the Hallmark Channel and then stream on Hallmark+ the next day. It’s part of Hallmark’s ongoing push to boost its streaming platform and draw in both loyal fans and newcomers.

The partnership with Churchill Downs adds some serious prestige, helping Hallmark+ stand out in a crowded streaming world.

Why This Movie Could Be a Breakout Hit

Kentucky Roses just feels like it’s got all the right ingredients—romance, history, star power, and a beloved American tradition. Not many movies manage to appeal to fans of love stories, period dramas, and sports history all at once.

The Legacy of the Roses

At its core, Kentucky Roses is about more than romance or horse racing. It’s about the stories we inherit and the passions we pass down.

The places that shape who we become matter, too. Churchill Downs, with its storied past and cultural weight, almost becomes a character itself.

For viewers, the film offers a chance to escape into a world where love transcends time. History leaves its mark on every heartbeat.