Hallmark Reveals Cast for Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story

Hallmark’s rolling out another festive football romance, and this time they’re heading to the Windy City. The network just dropped the cast for its latest Holiday Touchdown movie, and fans of both cozy holiday films and NFL drama are already buzzing.

With the Chicago Bears stepping into the spotlight for Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story, Hallmark’s mixing America’s favorite sport with a little mistletoe magic. The casting news? It’s giving us plenty to chew on.

The Holiday Touchdown Franchise Heads to Chicago

The first two Holiday Touchdown films were a hit, so Hallmark Media knew they’d found something special. Partnering with the NFL and Skydance Sports, they’ve managed to turn what could’ve been a one-off into a legit holiday tradition.

This time around, they’re drafting one of the league’s most storied teams: the Chicago Bears. The third movie, Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story, is set to premiere during Hallmark Channel’s 17th annual Countdown to Christmas in 2026.

That yearly lineup has become must-watch TV for millions. Throwing an iconic NFL franchise into the mix? Yeah, it’s going to shake things up.

Why the Chicago Bears Are the Perfect Fit

The Bears aren’t just a football team—they’re practically a Chicago institution. Their history runs deep, their fans are loyal to a fault, and the team’s legacy stretches well beyond Soldier Field.

Hallmark Media President Darren Abbott talked up the importance of picking a franchise with heart and tradition. The Bears’ passionate fans, deep community roots, and that multi-generational love make Chicago a natural backdrop for a story about loyalty, love, and holiday spirit.

Honestly, it’s hard to beat the image of snow falling over Soldier Field. There’s just something about it.

Meet the Romantic Leads Bringing the Magic

No Hallmark romance works without leads you want to root for, and this year’s casting nails it. Lyndsy Fonseca and Robert Buckley have officially signed on, and fans are already predicting sparks.

The casting was announced in a football-themed video shot at Soldier Field, with Bears team reporter Jasmine Baker delivering the news. That stadium backdrop really sets the tone—this movie’s going all-in on its NFL connection.

Lyndsy Fonseca as Avery

Lyndsy Fonseca takes on Avery, and if you’ve seen her before, you know she brings warmth and a certain spark. She’s got that knack for mixing vulnerability with strength—sounds like a perfect fit for a Hallmark holiday lead.

We don’t have all the details on Avery yet, but odds are she’ll find her heart tangled up in football. Whether she’s a die-hard fan or just getting swept up in the madness, Fonseca’s got the range to make it feel real.

Robert Buckley as Matt

Robert Buckley steps in as Matt, the guy sure to bring some charm and chemistry to the screen. He’s played plenty of charismatic, layered roles before, and he fits right into Hallmark’s lineup of leading men.

Matt’s got some kind of connection to the Bears—maybe he’s with the team, maybe he’s a former player, or maybe he’s just a superfan with family drama. Hallmark’s keeping those details under wraps, but Buckley’s involvement hints at a story worth watching.

A Strong Supporting Cast Adds Depth

Holiday romances aren’t just about the main couple. Hallmark knows family, quirky friends, and wise mentors are what really make these movies sing. This year, the supporting cast is stacked.

• Marsha Mason as Darlene
• Barbara Alyn Woods as Jody
• Khary Payton as Ron

These actors bring a lot to the table. Marsha Mason’s got that heartfelt, scene-stealing vibe. Barbara Alyn Woods brings warmth, and Khary Payton’s energy should add both humor and heart.

It all points to a story rooted in community—something that just feels right for both Chicago and Hallmark.

Expect Bears Cameos and Local Flavor

One of the coolest things about the Holiday Touchdown series is how it really brings in the NFL teams. Chicago’s getting the same treatment.

This year’s movie will feature cameos from Chicago Bears players and some local Chicago faces, though we don’t know exactly who yet. These little appearances have become a fan favorite in the series, and they add a nice dose of realism.

The announcement video at Soldier Field made it clear: the production wants to lean hard into the Bears’ identity. Expect those iconic landmarks and plenty of navy and orange everywhere you look.

Countdown to Christmas Just Got a Lot More Competitive

Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas is already a major TV event, with tons of original movies fighting for attention. Bringing in another NFL team gives Hallmark a real edge.

The crossover appeal is kind of obvious, right?

• Football fans curious to see their team on screen
• Hallmark diehards looking for a new holiday romance
• People who just want to see what happens when sports and sentimentality collide

Grounding a love story in the energy of a real NFL team taps into built-in fan bases while still delivering those classic Hallmark feels. And honestly, isn’t that what keeps us coming back?

Can This Be the Franchise’s Biggest Hit Yet?

There’s every reason to think A Bears Love Story could be the biggest one yet.
The Chicago Bears have a national following and a legacy that’s hard to ignore.

That fan culture? It just works on screen.
Throw in Lyndsy Fonseca and Robert Buckley’s chemistry, a solid supporting cast, and real stadium shots, and you’re not just looking at another holiday movie.

Surprise player cameos? Yeah, those help too.
It’s starting to feel more like an event than a formula.

Football. Romance. Snow falling over Chicago.
Maybe Hallmark’s about to score their next holiday classic.