Hallmark confirms the premiere date for their latest holiday film, adding to their Christmas lineup in collaboration with the NFL.
Hallmark has confirmed that ‘Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story’ will premiere on October 17, 2026. This film marks the network’s third collaboration with the NFL, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
The film, shot in Chicago in July 2026, will serve as the centerpiece for Hallmark's opening weekend of its annual Countdown to Christmas movie slate. The narrative features a star-crossed romance, with Lyndsy Fonseca and Robert Buckley, both known for their roles in Hallmark productions. The cast also includes Marsha Mason, Barbara Alyn Woods, Khary Payton, Tamera Mowry-Housley, Marilu Henner, Jake Connelly, and Dyon “Mojo” Brooks.
In a unique twist, the film includes appearances by current Bears coach Ben Johnson, players Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland, along with former stars Mike Singletary, Charles “Peanut” Tillman, and Dan Hampton, which adds authenticity to the storyline rooted in Chicago Bears culture.
In ‘A Bears Love Story’, Buckley portrays Matt, a firefighter eager to have the media cover his grandmother, played by Mason, as she prepares to attend her 500th Bears game. Fonseca's character, Avery, is the reporter who takes on this story, featuring themes of love and football. Filming took place at notable locations such as Soldier Field and Halas Hall, the Bears’ headquarters.
Directed by Dustin Rikert, the film is produced by Andrew Gernhard and Molly M. Mayeux, with Jessica Matthews and David O’Donnell serving as executive producers. This project continues Hallmark’s tradition of blending romance with seasonal cheer, aiming to captivate their audience this holiday season.
This new installment follows Hallmark's previous partnerships with the NFL, which featured films centered around the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. The strategic collaboration reflects Hallmark's effort to attract both football fans and holiday movie enthusiasts, expanding their viewer base during this critical time of the year.
The complete lineup of holiday films for this season is expected to be revealed shortly, creating anticipation among viewers for Hallmark's beloved Christmas content.
With ‘Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story’, Hallmark aims to provide a festive viewing experience anchored by a local sports narrative that resonates with its audience. By leveraging well-known NFL personalities and a beloved sports culture, Hallmark is positioning itself to capture the interest of diverse demographic groups this holiday season. As the countdown to Christmas begins, this film may solidify Hallmark's reputation as a go-to channel for family-friendly entertainment during the holidays.
For fans looking forward to a blend of holiday spirit and football lore, mark your calendars for October 17!
For more Hallmark news, check out our coverage on Bruno Dumont’s Cannes movie ‘Red Rocks’ acquired for North America and ‘Call My Agent! The Movie’ premieres in Paris with Sarandos.
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