Donna Kelce Set for Hallmark Movie Debut with “Touchdown!”

Are you ready for some football with your Christmas movies? Hallmark is set to merge the spirited world of the Kansas City Chiefs with their iconic Christmas storytelling in a new 2024 holiday movie. Slated to premiere during Hallmark Channel’s Countdown to Christmas, “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” is bound to enthrall both football and holiday movie fans alike.

First announced in late June, more details emerged during the Television Critics Association panel this weekend. Here’s what we know about this festive film.

“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” follows the journey of Alana, played by Hunter King. Alana is confident her family’s avid dedication as Kansas City Chiefs superfans makes them a favorite to win the team’s “Fan of the Year” contest. Derrick, portrayed by Tyler Hynes, is the director of fan engagement and is responsible for evaluating Alana’s family against two other finalists. As Alana and Derrick spend time together, sparks fly between them. However, when Alana’s grandfather’s vintage Chiefs good luck winter hat goes missing, Alana starts to question her beliefs about fate and destiny, including her budding romance with Derrick. But, as always in Hallmark films, a bit of Christmas magic might just bring everything together.

The choice of Kansas City Chiefs for this film isn’t coincidental. Both the Chiefs and Hallmark are headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, merely a short drive apart. The recent public attention from Taylor Swift’s connection with the team’s tight end undoubtedly played a role in this partnership.

Chiefs President Mark Donovan expressed excitement over the collaboration, stating, “We are honored to partner with Hallmark on a project as unique as this. As a club, we pride ourselves on exploring new ways to grow our brand and connect with new audiences. This partnership unites two passionate fanbases and gives us an opportunity to showcase Chiefs Kingdom’s energy and tradition on one of the most-watched channels during the holiday season.”

Leading up to the premiere, the Chiefs and Hallmark plan to engage in various cross-promotions. This includes co-branded merchandise, game-day activations, and special events. To mark this unique collaboration, Kansas City’s downtown skyline will be lit in purple and red tonight starting at sunset.

Darren Abbott, Chief Brand Officer for Hallmark, reflected on the partnership, stating, “With Hallmark and the Kansas City Chiefs both homegrown, rooted in values, tradition, and community, there is a special alchemy between these two iconic organizations. By blending the warmth of Hallmark storytelling with the excitement of professional football, we are thrilled to give audiences a front-row seat to this community’s spirit, rich traditions, and passionate fans that define Kansas City, all wrapped up in the comforting and uplifting Hallmark way.”

The cast for “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” is nothing short of impressive. Alongside Hunter King and Tyler Hynes, Today co-host Jenna Bush Hager and Donna Kelce, the mother of Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, will also feature in the movie.

Hunter King is well-recognized for her roles in CBS’ “Life in Pieces” and “The Young and the Restless,” where she won two Daytime Emmys. Her presence in Hallmark movies includes titles like “The Santa Summit,” “The Professional Bridesmaid” and “A Royal Corgi Christmas.”

Tyler Hynes, a fan favorite known as “Hynies,” made his mark with his Hallmark debut in “Falling for You” and has continued to charm audiences with films like “Flip That Romance” and “It’s Christmas, Eve.” Recently, he starred in “Three Wise Men and a Baby.”

Ed Begley Jr. will portray Alana’s grandfather. Begley Jr. is famous for his role in “St. Elsewhere” and more recently in “Bless This Mess” and “Young Sheldon.” He is also known for his environmental activism, often commuting in electric vehicles or using public transportation.

The movie will also feature the talents of Diedrich Bader, known for his role in “The Drew Carey Show” and his voice work in “Ice Age” and “The Simpsons,” among other roles. Jenna Bush Hager’s role remains a mystery, but her involvement alone has generated significant buzz.

Additional cast members include Megyn Price, Richard Riehle, and Christine Ebersole. Notably, Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid, along with players like Trey Smith, Mecole Hardman Jr., Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and George Karlaftis, are set to make appearances in the film.

While there’s no confirmation whether Travis Kelce or Taylor Swift will make cameo appearances, Mama Kelce will definitely be part of the cast.

“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” is currently in production and will be filmed entirely in Kansas City, Missouri, including Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Chiefs. Although the official release date is yet to be announced, it will be a part of Hallmark Channel’s 2024 Countdown to Christmas programming event.

As production progresses, check back for updates and sneak peeks of this unique holiday film.

Source: Various