Hallmark Stars Preview New Countdown to Christmas Movies

It’s that magical time of year again—twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and heartwarming stories are back on our screens. Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas is a holiday tradition for so many of us, and this year’s lineup is stacked: Jonathan Bennett, Erin Cahill, Sarah Drew, and Peter Mooney all bring their own sparkle to the festivities.

Each actor shares behind-the-scenes moments and personal holiday memories. They talk about why Hallmark’s Christmas storytelling still feels so timeless.

Filming in snowy, picture-perfect towns has its own kind of magic. The emotional depth behind these feel-good films? It’s honestly what keeps people coming back, year after year.

The Magic Behind Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas

For over a decade, Hallmark Channel has really nailed the art of holiday storytelling. Somehow, these seasonal tales have become a cultural staple.

The Countdown to Christmas lineup is now part of many families’ holiday rituals. There’s just something comforting about the escape—romance, laughter, nostalgia, all wrapped up with a bow.

This year, the cast is especially excited to talk about what makes these movies special. It’s not just about the viewers; it’s about everyone who helps bring these stories to life.

Jonathan Bennett returns with his usual infectious energy and quick wit. His new film is all about togetherness and acceptance.

Erin Cahill, always a fan favorite for her warmth and authenticity, brings real emotional depth to her latest role. Sarah Drew and Peter Mooney, meanwhile, deliver performances celebrating love, family, and second chances.

You can see each actor’s passion for storytelling in every scene. Maybe that’s why Hallmark’s holiday movies just keep resonating.

Why the Countdown to Christmas Still Captivates Audiences

Even in a world full of giant streaming platforms and blockbuster movies, Hallmark’s approach is refreshingly simple. It works, too—people love it.

Maybe the secret is predictability, mixed with sincerity. You know what you’re getting: snow-dusted towns, festive gatherings, love stories that unfold like a present you can’t wait to open.

What really makes it work, though, is how those familiar elements are delivered—with real emotion and heartfelt performances.

Sarah Drew, who’s known for playing relatable, earnest characters, says these films offer hope and connection. “People crave stories that remind them of the best parts of themselves,” she shares.

That emotional honesty? It’s probably why fans return every season, cocoa in hand, ready for more.

Meet the Stars Bringing Holiday Cheer

This year’s stars each bring something different to the table. Jonathan Bennett’s humor, Erin Cahill’s grace, Sarah Drew’s sincerity, and Peter Mooney’s easy charm all combine to make this Countdown to Christmas lineup feel extra special.

• Jonathan Bennett – You probably remember him from *Mean Girls*, but he’s become a Hallmark staple. He blends charisma and comedic timing with real heart. His latest project digs into belonging and the importance of chosen family during the holidays.
• Erin Cahill – She’s a Hallmark veteran, always bringing emotional authenticity. This season, she stars in a story about community spirit and the quiet power of kindness.
• Sarah Drew – Known for heartfelt dramas, Drew adds emotional resonance to Hallmark’s holiday lineup. Her film is about rediscovering joy after loss and stumbling into love when you least expect it.
• Peter Mooney – With natural charm and grounded performances, Mooney is your quintessential Hallmark leading man. His newest role captures the warmth of small-town life and the beauty of reconnecting with old traditions.

Behind the Scenes: Snow, Laughter, and Holiday Spirit

Filming a Hallmark Christmas movie? It’s honestly a unique experience. The sets are often real small towns, decked out in garlands and twinkling lights, with locals joining the fun as extras.

Erin Cahill calls it “a winter wonderland where everyone is in on the magic.” Even if the snow’s fake, the joy feels genuine.

Jonathan Bennett says the camaraderie among cast and crew makes every project feel like a family reunion. Between takes, there’s laughter, hot chocolate, and holiday music blasting.

Actors share their own traditions on set—baking cookies, decorating tiny trees in their trailers. That genuine celebration? You can feel it on screen.

Hallmark’s Evolving Vision of Holiday Romance

Hallmark’s always been known for traditional holiday love stories, but lately, the network’s been embracing more inclusive storytelling. Jonathan Bennett, a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation on the channel, stresses how important it is to show love in all its forms.

“The holidays are about connection, and everyone deserves to see themselves in these stories,” he says. That commitment to diversity has only deepened fans’ emotional connection to Hallmark.

Erin Cahill agrees, pointing out how newer films reflect the changing landscape of modern relationships. “Love is universal, but every story has its own rhythm,” she says.

By broadening its narratives, Hallmark keeps its Christmas magic feeling both classic and current.

The Emotional Core of Every Hallmark Movie

At the heart of every Hallmark holiday film? It’s the little things that bring joy. A chance meeting at a Christmas market, a reunion under the mistletoe—these stories gently remind us that love often finds us when we’re not even looking.

Sarah Drew calls this “the heartbeat of Hallmark’s storytelling—finding light in the darkest season.”

Peter Mooney says the emotional payoff comes from how real the performances feel. “We’re not just acting out a love story; we’re channeling the spirit of the holidays.”

That sincerity is what keeps people tuning in, year after year, searching for that familiar, warm feeling.

The Countdown to Christmas Legacy

Hallmark’s holiday universe keeps expanding, but one thing never changes: its devoted fans. The Countdown to Christmas isn’t just a TV event anymore—it’s something people share together.

Families gather around the TV. Friends throw viewing parties. Social media lights up with reactions to every new premiere.

For Jonathan Bennett and the rest of the cast, being part of that tradition is an honor and a joy. “We’re telling stories that bring people comfort,” Bennett says. “And that’s something the world always needs more of.”

What to Expect This Holiday Season

This year’s lineup is looking pretty great, honestly. There’s romance, some laughs, a dash of nostalgia, and a couple of surprises tossed in for good measure.

You’ll see winter scenery that almost makes you want to bundle up and go outside. There are those classic small-town settings, and plenty of moments that just feel like the holidays.

Hallmark still nails that mix of fantasy and comfort. Somehow, no matter how much things change, a good Christmas story just hits the spot.

So, maybe grab your favorite blanket—mine’s got snowflakes on it—and pour yourself some cocoa. You might just find yourself falling in love with the season all over again.

With folks like Jonathan Bennett, Erin Cahill, Sarah Drew, and Peter Mooney in the spotlight, Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas could be even more magical this year. Warmer, brighter, maybe even a little cozier than you remember.