Hallmark To Launch Its First-Ever Reality Competition Series

Get ready for an enchanting ride with Hallmark's newest reality show!

The network recently announced that 40 new movies, a new streaming service, and now, a new reality television show will be available this holiday season.

Hallmark will bring festive cheer to viewers at home as they search for its next leading man and take home the title of Mr. Christmas.

During the TCA Summer Press Tour on July 11, Hallmark delighted fans with the announcement that Jonathan Bennett will host their exciting new reality competition series, "Finding Mr. Christmas."

Ten aspiring actors will embark on a festive journey complete with Hallmark's signature charm. They'll tackle challenges to claim the cherished title of Mr. Christmas and secure a starring role in one of this year's Countdown to Christmas movies on Hallmark Channel.

According to People Magazine, Jonathan Bennett will host the network’s first reality competition series and Melissa Peterman will serve as the lead judge.

The 43-year-old "Mean Girls" actor spoke out at the TCA event, revealing what fans can look forward to with its upcoming reality show.

"There are two types of people in the world. There are people that watch Hallmark movies and then there are liars," Bennett said. "The idea for Finding Mr. Christmas ... was sparked out of something that's really happening in real life where people want to join the network, they want to be part of the family because they see how successful the brand is and how much people love the brand and they want to be in on the party."

"And so we thought, why not make a journey that people can watch on TV?" he continued.

Bennett also mentioned that the competition will feature LGBTQ+ contestants because "I'm a Hallmark holiday hunk and I'm pretty freaking gay."

"I call it the Kelly Clarkson effect," Bennett added, per People. "Why would we fall in love with Kelly Clarkson? Well, we watched her journey on 'American Idol' for the first time to fall in love with her."

"So here we're actually building our next star because you're going to be able to fall in love with our different contestants and watch their journey along the way," he concluded.

Per the official announcement, "This Christmas cruise is sailing all the way to Nassau, Bahamas on Norwegian Gem! Discover stunning beaches, immerse yourself in vibrant culture, and indulge in mouthwatering cuisine during our day in Nassau! Unwrap the perfect holiday escape where Christmas cheer meets tropical paradise - only on the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise!"

Voyagers will also have the chance to partake in tastings with Hallmark Channel Wines, a Light the Night Sail Away Ceremony & Tree Lighting, and Photo Ops with Favorite Hallmark Channel Stars.

According to the network, it will capture “the magic of the cruise through the eyes of the most passionate fans as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime” to give viewers “an exclusive look at the immersive Christmas-themed experience that only Hallmark can provide, sharing in the joy and unparalleled excitement of the fan community.”

In addition to the new reality television series, Hallmark is also set to bring 40 new original films to viewers this holiday season as well as a new streaming service, Hallmark. The network describes it as having "the best of Hallmark all in one place, including new exclusive movies & series, special offers, benefits, and surprises!"

“Hallmark+ marks a seminal moment for Hallmark,” Mike Perry, president and CEO of Hallmark, per Variety. “By intertwining new, rich content experiences with tangible rewards and premium Hallmark gifts, we are delivering a unique, new program that reflects our commitment to spreading joy through our deeply beloved brand touchpoints.”

Hallmark's debut into the holiday limited series world comes with "Holidazed," which centers on six families from diverse backgrounds converging during the holidays, featuring Dennis Haysbert, Erin Cahill, Holland Roden, John C. McGinley, Ian Harding, and others.

Hallmark+ plans will start at $7.99 per month or $79.99 per year.