‘Queen of Hallmark Movies’ talks about her 30th movie for the network, debuting Saturday (2024)

Having 30 Hallmark movies to her name, Lacey Chabert – known for her roles on “Party of Five” and “Mean Girls” – has been called the “Queen of Hallmark Movies,” something the actress takes as a compliment.

“The first one I did was ‘Elevator Girl’ (2010). Now, I just completed my 30th movie. I never knew when I did ‘Elevator Girl’ that it would turn into what it has. I’m so proud to be part of the Hallmark family. It means a lot to me that people enjoy the films and relate to the characters. People say the movies are ‘comfort food for the soul.’ I’m proud to be part of something that’s uplifting and adds a little goodness into the world,” said Chabert.

Her latest Hallmark film is this weekend’s “The Wedding Veil Legacy.” It’s the final installment of a trilogy that began with last month’s “The Wedding Veil” and continued with Feb. 12’s “The Wedding Veil Unveiled.”

This trilogy features Chabert and fellow Hallmark actresses – her “Hallmark sisters” – Autumn Reeser (“Entourage”) and Alison Sweeney (“Days of Our Lives”). They play the lead in one film and supporting roles in the other two. The trilogy follows three lifelong friends who find a mysterious wedding veil believed to unite its bearer with true love. Chabert’s Avery was center stage in the first movie and Reeser’s Emma in the second. The spotlight is on Sweeney’s Tracy in the third.

“It’s not just about the veil and the love stories – that’s the centerpiece – but it really is about the relationship between these three women and how they care for one another, support one another, and have each other’s backs, which is a beautiful thing to see,” said Chabert.

Based on Lori Wilde’s novels, sisters/long-time Hallmark movie writers Sandra and Judith Berg approached Chabert and executive producers Beth Grossbard and Lisa Demberg about this trilogy.

“We’re just thankful Hallmark allowed us to tell this kind of story,” said Chabert. “With every movie, I’m trying to raise the bar… find a different way of telling these stories. I loved that it was a trilogy and loved the opportunity to act along some of my friends from the network. A lot of fans asked over the years if we’d be in movies together or if there’d be some sort of crossover – this was the perfect time for that… It’s been really exciting these past few months to see it come to life and see it be so well-received. I just appreciate the fan support.”

This trilogy, something new to Hallmark, allowed Chabert to work with Reeser and Sweeney.

“I knew both Autumn and Ali before this, but we’ve gotten to know each other so much more on a deeper level now that we’ve had the experience of making these three movies together and traveling the world to make it happen. We have so many good memories, so many laughs, relating to each other as mothers, balancing work and personal life,” explained Chabert. “It was also interesting to be in a film with someone else who understands what it is to be the lead in these movies and understands the responsibility we have to the Hallmark fans. We put so much passion into it and enjoyed the work. I just feel really blessed we had the chance to collaborate. I just love them. I hope we can do another movie together. If not, I told them we’re friends for life.”

In 2014, Chabert played Gina Kell Spehn, of Rochester Hills, in Hallmark’s “The Color of Rain,” based on the book of the same name written by Gina and her husband Michael Spehn. Both Gina and Michael lost their spouses to cancer and eventually got married, finding love again in the wake of such overwhelming loss. They founded the New Day Foundation for Families in Rochester Hills 15 years ago. Its mission is to provide financial assistance and emotional support to families battling cancer.

“I love Gina so much,” said Chabert. “What a special woman. What a special family. To have overcome such tragedy and they now use their lives to help so many people, I’m constantly inspired by them. They’re a beautiful family. She’s a lovely woman and I’m proud to call her a friend… It was a real honor that I got to be a part of telling their story in (‘Rain’).”

Chabert assists with New Day fundraisers when able. She donates 100% of her Cameo proceeds to New Day. In late 2021, Chabert raised approximately $60,000 for New Day on “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune.”

“I’ll never get over the fact I didn’t solve the last puzzle, which was ‘a very lucky guy.’ It haunts me to this day,” she recalled, laughing. “That experience was an absolute dream come true because I am a super-fan of the show. When I had a chance to be a part of it, I was so excited and so nervous. I knew I wanted to play on New Day’s behalf because they do so much to help so many people through the emotional and financial crisis that comes with a cancer diagnosis. I believe in the work they do, so I was thrilled to represent them.”

In turn, Spehn praised Chabert.

“The first time I met Lacey was on our movie set. Her light-hearted spirit and genuine kindness were immediately evident. I’ve been a fan since her (‘Party’) days, so I was elated and honored when I found out she would play me in (‘Rain’),” she said. “Lacey has become a friend and champion for the mission of New Day. She’s a woman after God’s heart, who – despite suffering her own deep losses – lives her faith and uses her gifts and talents to serve others. I simply adore her and am blessed to have her in my life. I only wished she lived closer!”

IF YOU WATCH: “The Wedding Veil Legacy” debuts Saturday, Feb. 19, at 8 p.m. on the Hallmark Channel. There will be encore showtimes of this movie and the other two movies in “The Wedding Veil” trilogy. For encore showtimes, visit HallmarkChannel.com or download the Hallmark Movie Checklist app.

‘Queen of Hallmark Movies’ talks about her 30th movie for the network, debuting Saturday (2024)

FAQs

Who is the new queen of Hallmark? ›

You may know American actress Lacey Chabert for starring as Gretchen Wieners in Mean Girls and now as the star of many Hallmark (Christmas) movies.

Who is the queen of Hallmark movies? ›

Now, Lacey Chabert, is back with a new movie trilogy on.

What are hallmarks new movies for 2023? ›

  • The Dog Lover's Guide to Dating. Premieres SUN JAN 1 8/7c. Starring Rebecca Dalton and Corey Sevier. ...
  • The Wedding Veil Expectations. Premieres SAT JAN 7 8/7c. ...
  • The Wedding Veil Inspiration. Premieres SAT JAN 14 8/7c. ...
  • Love in Glacier National: A National Park Romance. Premieres SAT JAN 28 8/7c.

Why are actors leaving Hallmark for GAC? ›

Following her departure from Hallmark for the Great American Family channel, Bure told the Wall Street Journal that the decision was driven by the network wanting “to promote faith programming and good family entertainment.” In response, Burton spotlighted the thinly-veiled bigotry at play, writing on Twitter: “Bigot.

Is Tyler Hynes staying with Hallmark? ›

Now Hynes is returning to Hallmark with a new take on the romantic comedy, a genre with which Hynes is well versed. In a recent conversation with Southern Living, Hynes described it as “a warm kind of romantic modern ride.”

Who is the most popular Hallmark female actor? ›

These are the top 25 most renowned Hallmark channel actresses who have helped make the channel the fan-favourite it is.
  1. Lacey Chabert. ...
  2. Danica McKellar. ...
  3. Jodie Sweetin. ...
  4. Rachel Boston. ...
  5. Autumn Reeser. ...
  6. Erin Krakow. ...
  7. Rachael Leigh Cook. ...
  8. Tamera Mowry.
Feb 9, 2023

What actress has made the most Hallmark movies? ›

Having 30 Hallmark movies to her name, Lacey Chabert – known for her roles on “Party of Five” and “Mean Girls” – has been called the “Queen of Hallmark Movies,” something the actress takes as a compliment. “The first one I did was 'Elevator Girl' (2010). Now, I just completed my 30th movie.

Which Hallmark actress left Hallmark? ›

However, stars like Candace Cameron Bure have fled Hallmark to Great American Family. The former Full House star revealed in an interview with Wall Street Journal that she made the move from Hallmark following “the change of leadership” and it became “a completely different network than when I started.”

Who is the Hallmark queen of Christmas? ›

Known as the Queen of Hallmark Christmas movies, Lacey Chabert was born in the small town of Purvis, Mississippi, and started acting at a very young age, playing Claudia Salinger on the long-running hit show, Party of Five.

What is Hallmark new name? ›

(August 10, 2022) – Crown Media Family Networks is transitioning its corporate name to Hallmark Media, the company announced today. The change reflects an effort to more closely align with the legacy brand of parent company Hallmark Cards. It was announced at the bi-annual meeting of the Television Critics Association.

Is tyler hynes making any new Hallmark movies for 2023? ›

Hallmark Channel Announces 6 New 2023 March Movies Starring Tyler Hynes, Kimberley Sustad, Paul Campbell and More.

Will there be another Hannah Swensen movie 2023? ›

Alison Sweeney and Cameron Mathison are set to return for Carrot Cake: A Hannah Swensen Mystery. It will air later in 2023 on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

Has Hallmark ratings dropped? ›

Overall in 2022, Hallmark Channel averaged 980,000 viewers, down 20% from 2018. Still, Hallmark commands some of the highest ratings on entertainment cable TV.

Why did Candace Cameron leave Hallmark? ›

"It just so happened that my contract was expiring when Great American Family started up. So we did not start having those discussions until we were well into negotiations with Hallmark Channel for renewing. "And as every business person knows, you've got to do what's right for contracts," Bure added.

Is Tyler Hynes married in a relationship? ›

Tyler Hynes is not married to anyone at present per our research and he isn't a big fan of revealing too much information, even though he said in an interview that he used to have a girlfriend but didn't disclose her identity.

Are any Hallmark actors dating each other? ›

Victor Webster and Shantel VanSanten

Ah, Hallmark. After dating for four years, Victor Webster and Shantel VanSanten got engaged in 2021 and were married in three -- yes, three -- separate ceremonies later that year.

Are Andrew Walker and Tyler Hynes friends? ›

They're two peas in a Hallmark pod. Tyler Hynes and Andrew Walker have an off-screen friendship that's as heartwarming as their on-screen performances. Fans of the duo's work are likely well-acquainted with the actors, but not everyone knows these two are not just colleagues but best friends and family.

What is the average Hallmark actor salary? ›

According to the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) pay scale, for a leading role, a Hallmark actor could make between $1,251.00 to $3,575.00 per week. Of course, for bigger stars, that amount could be more. Keep scrolling to find out the net worths of some of the network's most popular actors.

Does Hallmark have a stable of actors? ›

Meet the Hallmarkies: How these Vancouver actors ended up in the Hallmark 'stable' The community of actors that star in Hallmark movies are known as Hallmarkies.

What actress has been in the most Christmas movies? ›

1. Lacey Chabert (Tie) If you've ever tuned into Hallmark during their Countdown to Christmas, then there's a very good chance you watched a festive romance starring the Party of Five vet. With eight flicks under her belt, she shares the top spot for most Christmas movies with another Hallmark staple…

Does Hallmark reuse actors? ›

One thing you probably have noticed, though, is that Hallmark often reuses the same actors in several movies. If you've ever wondered who has the honor of starring in the most original movies, wonder no more! We've rounded up the 10 most prolific Hallmark actors and actresses - have you seen all their films?

Where are most of Hallmark movies filmed? ›

The majority of Hallmark movies are filmed in Canada (didn't see that one coming) and typically set in larger cities near Vancouver. Some filming locations have even gone so far to cross the pond. For example, Christmas in Vienna really was filmed in Austria.

What actor has played in the most Christmas movies? ›

That would be Lacey Chabert who has starred in 10 Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel, edging out Candace Cameron Bure's 8 Christmas movies.

Is Lori Loughlin coming back to Hallmark? ›

What's more, Hallmark Channel stopped airing Lori's shows and movies, including Garage Sale Mysteries. But three years after the headline-making trial, it appears that Hallmark is bringing back her projects.

Where did Candace Cameron leave Hallmark? ›

Candace Cameron Bure said she left Hallmark to create "wholesome" content at Great American Family.

Did Jen Lilley leave Hallmark? ›

In 2022, Lilley ended her association with Hallmark Channel, and signed a four-film deal with GAC Media, the owners of Great American Family channel.

Who is the king of Hallmark? ›

From #hynies, to #walkies and the new to us #paulmarkies, the men of Hallmark have their ride or die fans! Tyler Hynes was crowned King by fans in March 2023.

Which Hallmark Christmas movie was the leading lady called Lauren? ›

Candace Cameron Bure as Lauren on Christmas Town.

Does Lacey Chabert have any new Hallmark movies? ›

Chabert and Kemp will co-star in The Dancing Detective: A Deadly Tango, Et reports. The movie, which is set in the world of ballroom dance, will premiere later in 2023. Chabert will play a lone-wolf detective named Constance Bailey.

What replaced Hallmark? ›

Newly rebranded network, Great American Family, has been making waves among fans of the family rom-com and specifically those associated with Hallmark Channel.

Is Hallmark changing their name to mahogany? ›

July 28, 2021

Hallmark Movies & Mysteries will be the home to Mahogany, the first of several new content initiatives and brand extensions tapping into the rich 100+ year legacy of the Hallmark brand.

What family owns Hallmark? ›

During its more than 100-year history, Hallmark Cards, Inc. has been a private company since its inception in 1910. Founded by the Hall family, which continues to have members serve on Hallmark's board of directors, Hallmark is currently led by 30-year company veteran Mike Perry as president and CEO.

Who actually watches Hallmark movies? ›

Women dominate the Hallmark target audience demographic, but millennials and Gen Xers are the majority of viewers. The movies have ethnically diverse casts, a wide range of family structures and characters in same-sex relationships.

Which male actor has done the most Hallmark movies? ›

If you look at only the telefilms that have aired between the two TV channels, it might surprise long-time devotees to learn that actor Steve Bacic has appeared in the most Hallmark movies.

What actor has been in 27 Hallmark movies so far often appearing as a character named Kenny? ›

Vancouver actor Nelson Wong can relate to that number — his claim to fame is his 27 roles in Hallmark movies. Wong's Hallmark ties started when he played Kenny Kwon, a sidekick to a detective, in the 2005 mystery movie Third Man Out for director Ron Oliver.

Where is Lacey Chabert going? ›

Lacey Chabert is with Hallmark, and she's not going anywhere. The famous actress and South Mississippi native signed a contract with the channel in February 2022 and has starred and served as executive producer for many made-for-TV movies.

What channel is GAC? ›

What Channel Is GAC On Comcast? Usually, GAC is on Channel 484 or 147 on Comcast. Unfortunately, that's not always the case and the easiest way to find the right channel for GAC on your Xfinity TV is just to take a look at our list below.

Does Lacey Chabert have a new Hallmark movie? ›

Chabert and Kemp will co-star in The Dancing Detective: A Deadly Tango, Et reports. The movie, which is set in the world of ballroom dance, will premiere later in 2023. Chabert will play a lone-wolf detective named Constance Bailey.

Why did Lacey Chabert quit? ›

Chabert was still in school when she worked on Family Guy season 1, so between studying and shooting the TV series Party Of Five, she decided to drop Family Guy and focus her attention elsewhere. Seth MacFarlane has also confirmed there was no tension and her exit was completely amicable.

Is GAC owned by Hallmark? ›

Newly rebranded network, Great American Family, has been making waves among fans of the family rom-com and specifically those associated with Hallmark Channel. Previously known as Great American Country, the network was bought by a group of investors that includes former Hallmark Media CEO Bill Abbott.

Is GAC family on regular cable? ›

Great American Family programs can be found on streaming services like Frndly TV, Hulu (as part of an add-on package), Fubo TV, Sling TV and Philo. The channel is also available on cable TV providers including Cox, DirecTV, Dish, Spectrum, Optimum and more.

How do I get GAC on my TV? ›

Our top pick for streaming GAC FAMILY without cable is Hulu. But there are also 3 other options for watching GAC FAMILY without cable, including Philo, Sling, or Fubo TV.

Did Cindy Busby leave Hallmark? ›

One of her best-known roles before Hallmark was as a series regular on the beloved Canadian series Heartland. She played the role of Ashley Stanton in the series based on the books by Lauren Brooke. The series is still going strong despite Busby's departure in 2011, recently renewed for its sixteenth season.

What Hallmark movies are Lacey Chabert in 2023? ›

Credit: Hallmark Entertainment.
  • A Full List of the Best Lacey Chabert Hallmark Movies. ...
  • The Dancing Detective: A Deadly Tango (2023) ...
  • The Wedding Veil: Journey (2023) ...
  • The Wedding Veil: Inspiration (2023) ...
  • The Wedding Veil: Expectations (2023) ...
  • Haul Out the Holly (2022) ...
  • Groundswell (2022) ...
  • The Wedding Veil: Legacy (2022)
Jun 3, 2023

Is Tyler Hynes making any new Hallmark movies? ›

It looks like March 2023 will be filled with a ton of fan favorites - and an extra movie was just added! Among the six upcoming movies, Tyler Hynes, who won the most popular Hallmark star poll, and Kristoffer Polaha, who came in second, will be taking the lead roles.

What did Wendy Chabert pass away from? ›

Is Mila Kunis going to leave Family Guy? ›

Family Guy's Season 21 finale just married off Meg Griffin, however, fans shouldn't worry that this will result in star Mila Kunis' departure. According to reputable outlet TVLine, Kunis will continue to voice Meg when Family Guy returns for Season 22 in 2024.

How much does Lacey Chabert get paid by Hallmark? ›

Both of which Chabert will be participating in with the network. On top of the salary that The Wedding Veil star makes for starring in the television movies, she will also be bringing in tens of thousands for her producing role; a salary that is estimated to be over $60,000.

Did Meg really leave Family Guy? ›

But no, the Mila Kunis fandom can breathe a sigh of relief, as Meg will indeed be back on Spooner Street when Family Guy returns for Season 22.

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