Take a look below at some of the exciting behind the scenes photos and videos from filming, what it was like for Mario and Courtney to work together, and the special moments that made the experience worthwhile for all.

9 Fun Facts About Once Upon a Christmas Wish

1) Once Upon a Christmas Wish is a real-life dream come true for Mario and Courtney

Mario Lopez and Courtney Lopez don’t just play a couple in Once Upon a Christmas Wish – they are married in real life too! The couple tied the knot in 2012, and have three children together. They apparently met on Broadway in 2008. Mario was performing in A Chorus Line, and Courtney came in during the last run of the show. From their first meeting, sparks flew. It’s no wonder they’ve now been happily married for 12 years.

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2) It’s a Family Affair

Mario and Courtney Lopez aren’t the only ones in their family to be working on this new Christmas film. Their son, Dominic, also has a part in Once Upon a Christmas Wish. Dominic portrays Joey DeLuca. His character is a young kid who connects with the mayor during the holidays.

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3) Dancing All the Way – Mario’s Got Moves!

Mario got to show off his dancing skills in this movie. (You can see a sneak peek at the musical number below). But, that’s not the only time fans can see his moves. The Lopez family often does TikTok videos together, including dance numbers. Mario, Courtney, Dominic, as well as Dominic’s siblings Gia and Santino are often featured in the videos.

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4) This Isn’t Mario and Courtney’s first time working together

While this may be the couple’s first Great American Family film together, it’s not the first time they’ve worked side by side. Mario and Courtney co-host ON With Mario Lopez and they also do Access Hollywood segments together.

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5) It was truly an out of this world experience

Mario and Courtney experienced something truly magical during the filming of Once Upon a Christmas Wish – the solar eclipse! On April 8, the couple posted a video to their Instagrams watching the total eclipse take place (complete with safety glasses, of course!). It was a blink and you’ll miss it moment. But it was cool for them to see something that won’t happen again until 2044!

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6) Location, Location, Location

Location plays a big part in this movie. Mario Lopez’s character, Brian, is the Mayor of Long Grove. Not to mention, Courtney’s character, Nina, returns to town and reunites with Brian, her childhood friend. But, did you know they filmed in the real-life Long Grove village in Illinois? And not only that, but Mario got to meet the real mayor of Long Grove, a dog named Lincoln. Lincoln was elected as the first-ever dog mayor for Long Grove in 2021. He seems to be doing a doggone good job – he’s got Mario’s stamp of approval!

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7) Sock Monkeys over Sock Puppets any day of the week

Yes, you read that right: Sock Monkeys. Not only are they seen in the background of the sneak peek clip below, but they are a fixture in real life too. Long Grove, Illinois is where the world’s largest collection of handmade sock monkeys are. Established in 2019, the museum allows people to explore the history of the toy and make their very own. Mario’s son, Dominic enjoyed his time there too.

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8) The holiday spirit is in full swing for this film

Snow doesn’t usually happen in the spring. While on location, however, Mother Nature truly did, “let it snow.” Mario posted a video back in April 2024, when they were filming, of the real snow falling on the ground in Chicago. “I’m not used to this [being from Southern California],” he quipped. Sometimes for movies, they aren’t always able to shoot on location. But, in this case, they got lucky and were able to not only film in Long Grove, but in one of Illinois’ major cities (Chicago).

Filming took place in spring 2024, during the months of March and April. Mario, Courtney, and the rest of the cast and crew were in the city from approximately March 25 to April 16.

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9) Family first, both on set and off

While Once Upon a Christmas Wish definitely has a romance, it’s not the only important theme. The ways in which we define family is truly the takeaway here. It’s all about making those genuine connections with people you care about, and not taking those in your life for granted.

Mario was honored to have his wife Courtney and son Dominic be in the film with him. He told Great American PureFlix that “This is a very special project, and it’s come together great. And I’m very proud of them.”

Once Upon a Christmas Wish premieres December 7 at 8/7c during Great American Christmas 2024, on Great American Family.

Related

Once Upon a Christmas Wish Starring Mario Lopez on GAC – Plot & Preview

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The post 9 Fun Facts from Once Upon a Christmas Wish That Are Sure to Make You Smile This Holiday Season appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

Home Sweet Christmas is a heartwarming holiday film airing on Great American Family, starring beloved actors Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison. The film takes viewers on a nostalgic journey to the charming town of Waynesbridge, Washington.

When successful attorney Sophie Marlow inherits a significant portion of her great-uncle’s maple farm, she returns to her childhood home. There, she reunites with her long-lost friend, Sam. As they navigate the complexities of co-owning the property, Sophie and Sam rediscover the magic of Christmas and the importance of family and community.

Filled with holiday cheer, heartwarming moments, and a touch of romance, Home Sweet Christmas is the perfect film to get you into the holiday spirit.

First Look Photos

Tune in to Home Sweet Christmas on Great American Family starring Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison on December 1, 2024.

The post Home Sweet Christmas: First Look Photos from Great American Family appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

Cameron Mathison Shares Excitement About the Stunning Set of “Home Sweet Christmas”

“In the movie, there’s this beautiful farmhouse,” Mathison revealed. “It has 10 Christmas trees in it. It reminds me a little bit of how nuts I go decorating. I wrap this tree that’s in front of my house 40 feet. I climb it, I do it all myself. People think I hired someone to do it. That’s probably my favorite.”

The stunning farmhouse set is sure to be a highlight of the film, adding to the holiday cheer and festive atmosphere. With Mathison and Cameron reuniting for this heartwarming project, fans are eagerly anticipating the premiere of Home Sweet Christmas. Tune in to Great American Family on December 1st for the premiere.

The post Cameron Mathison Talks About the Farmhouse in ‘Home Sweet Christmas’ appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

Candace Cameron Turns into Sophie

Candace Cameron Bure recently shared a behind-the-scenes video on social media, giving fans a glimpse into her transformation into the character Sophie Marlow. The video showcases the talented actress getting her hair and makeup done by Jen Hall, as she effortlessly embodies the spirit of the holiday season.

Final Makeup Look!

A few of the products Candace’s makeup artist used are:

L’Oreal Telescope Mascara

Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Blurring Under-Eye Powder

Lawless Talc Free Skin Smoothing Powder

With such talented actors and a festive storyline, “Home Sweet Christmas” is sure to be a heartwarming addition to Great American Family’s holiday programming. Tune in on December 1, 2024 for the premiere.

The post Candace Cameron Bure Transforms into Sophie Marlow for Great American Family’s “Home Sweet Christmas” appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and Great American Family is ready to spread holiday cheer with a lineup of heartwarming Christmas movies. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the network, you’re in for a treat.

From classic tales to original stories, Great American Family has something for everyone. This year, the network is excited to present a collection of films that will capture the true spirit of Christmas.

Mark your calendars, because these festive original 2024 films will be airing throughout the holiday season. Be sure to check your local listings for exact times and dates.

Re-Airing Dates of the 2024 Great American Family Christmas Movies

Home Sweet Christmas

• Sunday, December 1, 2024 at 8pm
• Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 8pm
• Friday, December 6, 2024 at 4am
• Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 6pm

A Cinderella Christmas Ball

• Sunday, December 1, 2024 at 6pm
• Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 8pm
• Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 2am
• Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 12pm
• Friday, December 6, 2024 at 6pm

Christmas by Candelight

• Sunday, December 1, 2024 at 12pm
• Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 12am
• Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 4pm
• Saturday, December 8, 2024 at 8am

A Little Women’s Christmas

• Sunday, December 1, 2024 at 4pm
• Monday, December 2, 2024 at 10pm
• Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 8am
• Saturday, December 8, 2024 at 10am

Christmas Under the Northern Lights

• Sunday, December 1, 2024 at 2pm
• Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 2pm
• Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 10pm

A Vintage Christmas

• Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 6am

A Christmas Castle Proposal

• Monday, December 2, 2024 at 4am
• Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 4pm

A Christmas Less Traveled

• Monday, December 2, 2024 at 12am
• Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 6am
• Friday, December 6, 2024 at 4pm
• Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 4pm

Tails of Christmas

• Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 10pm

Christmas Wreaths and Ribbons

• Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 4pm

Once Upon a Christmas Wish

• Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 8pm

Bookmark this page to refer back to. So grab your favorite blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas with Great American Family.

The post All the Times Great American Family Christmas Movies Re-Air appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

A Dream Come True for McKellar

“This is a wonderful experience for me,” McKellar shared in a Fox News interview. “It’s been amazing because I got to write the script with someone else, but it’s the first time my name is on the script for one of these movies, and it’s really gratifying.”

Known for her deep connection to her characters, McKellar brought her unique charm and creativity to crafting the story. Fans of her social media will also be delighted to know that the script features a waltz—a nod to McKellar’s well-known love for ballroom dancing. “Plus, I get to waltz in it!” she exclaimed.

The Story Behind A Cinderella Christmas Ball

The movie follows Chelsea Jones (McKellar), a dance teacher from Chicago, as she stumbles upon a photograph of Prince Phillip of Havonshire (Oliver Rice). Her search for information about her birth parents leads her to a royal ball and a magical journey filled with mystery, dance, and heartwarming connections.

McKellar’s touch on the script adds an extra layer of authenticity and heartfelt storytelling, making the film a standout in Great American Family’s holiday lineup.

Behind the Scenes: Creativity Meets Collaboration

Writing the script was a collaborative process for McKellar, who worked with another writer to bring the story to life. Known for her intelligence and creative versatility, McKellar’s transition into scriptwriting feels like a natural evolution of her career.

Her passion for storytelling shines through in A Cinderella Christmas Ball, combining her love for holiday films with her enthusiasm for dance and family-focused narratives.

A Great American Christmas Highlight

Premiering as part of Great American Family’s Great American Christmas event, A Cinderella Christmas Ball delivers all the magic and warmth audiences have come to expect from McKellar’s projects. With its engaging storyline, dazzling ballroom scenes, and themes of family and self-discovery, the movie promises to be a holiday favorite.

Catch A Cinderella Christmas Ball on Great American Family Channel and witness Danica McKellar’s debut as a scriptwriter alongside her stellar performance. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves holiday films, royal romances, and heartfelt storytelling.

The post Danica McKellar Takes on a New Role: Scriptwriter for A Cinderella Christmas Ball appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

Here’s a look at the co-stars, their journey on set, and fun tidbits you won’t want to miss!

1. A Tale of Dance and Discovery
In A Cinderella Christmas Ball, Danica McKellar plays Chelsea Jones, a Chicago dance teacher who stumbles upon a photograph of Prince Phillip of Havonshire, played by Oliver Rice. Her quest for answers intertwines with royal traditions, heartfelt dances, and a touch of mystery. The prince, facing an arranged engagement, must learn a special dance for the ball, and it’s through these steps that much of the story unfolds.

2. Behind the Dance: Gleb Savchenko’s Choreography
The ballroom scenes in the movie are pure magic, and the credit goes to renowned choreographer Gleb Savchenko. Both Danica and Oliver worked tirelessly to perfect their moves, with Gloria, a skilled dance teacher, guiding their rehearsals.
Oliver, who had never ballroom danced before, called the experience both challenging and rewarding. He admitted that every day of rehearsals was “filled with hard work but also laughter.”

3. Chemistry You Can Feel
Fans will be swept away by the on-screen chemistry between Danica McKellar and Oliver Rice. Their natural camaraderie shines through the intricate dance sequences, and their shared dedication to making the story feel authentic adds an extra layer of charm.

4. Oliver Rice’s On-Camera Double
Fun fact: Not all of the dazzling dance moves you see on screen are performed by Oliver! While he put in countless hours of practice, his on-set dance coach, Sam, stepped in as a double for one on-camera moment. Can you guess which scene it is?

5. Danica McKellar: Holiday Movie Veteran
Danica McKellar is no stranger to holiday films. The Wonder Years alum has starred in numerous Christmas movies and brought her signature warmth and relatability to A Cinderella Christmas Ball. She shared that this movie’s themes of family, longing, and connection hold a special place in her heart.

6. Oliver Rice’s Real-Life Adventures
Off-screen, Oliver Rice embraces adventure and family life. He’s married to Cher Lee, and the couple has a young son with another baby on the way!
Recently, Oliver explored Manhattan with his son Theo, visiting iconic holiday spots like Rockefeller Center, Times Square, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This love for exploration and joy carries over to his work, making him a delight on set.

7. A Royal Role with a Twist
As Prince Phillip, Oliver delivers a heartfelt performance that balances tradition and personal growth. Working with the royal butler in the movie (who helps him prepare for the ball) created moments of both humor and depth, as audiences see the prince navigate expectations while discovering his own path.

8. A Movie About Family
At its heart, A Cinderella Christmas Ball is about the longing for connection. Chelsea’s search for her birth parents and Prince Phillip’s journey of self-discovery come together in a story that celebrates family, love, and tradition.

When to Watch

If you missed the premiere, be sure to catch an encore showing during Great American Family’s holiday lineup. With its heartwarming themes, stunning dance sequences, and magical chemistry between Danica McKellar and Oliver Rice, A Cinderella Christmas Ball is a must-watch this season!
Prepare to be swept off your feet!

The post 8 Enchanting Secrets from A Cinderella Christmas Ball That Will Sweep You Off Your Feet appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

Candace’s Favorite Memory

Candace revealed that one of her standout moments on set involved Paula Elle, the film’s talented director. The two have collaborated on three movies, and their bond adds an extra spark to the creative process. Candace shared:
“She’s a fun person. This is the third movie we’ve done together. She keeps the set really fun. She blasts some 80s music, some 90s music, and we just have dance parties.”
With Paula’s infectious energy and throwback tunes, it’s no wonder Candace loved coming to set every day!

About Home Sweet Christmas

In Home Sweet Christmas, Sophie Marlow (Candace Cameron Bure), a successful mergers and acquisitions attorney, is called home to Waynesbridge, Washington, following her great-uncle’s passing. Uncle Henry left Sophie 60% ownership in Marlow Maple Meadows, a sprawling sugar maple forest.
Though Sophie hasn’t been on the property in decades, she begins retracing the happy steps of her youth and encounters Sam (Cameron Mathison), her long-lost childhood friend. Sam has also returned to the farm after learning Henry left him the other 40% of the property.
While they initially plan a quick sale, Sophie and Sam soon realize neither of them is ready to let go of the property — or the budding feelings between them.

Meet Paula Elle: The Director Behind the Joy

Here are four fun facts about Paula Elle, the woman responsible for creating the holiday magic in Home Sweet Christmas:

• She’s a Versatile Director

Paula Elle’s impressive portfolio spans Hallmark Christmas movies, Lifetime thrillers, award-winning web series, and captivating short films. Her ability to shift between genres showcases her storytelling brilliance.

• Her Acting Roots

Before stepping behind the camera, Paula started her career as an actor. Her experience in front of the camera gives her a unique perspective and deep understanding of the craft, helping her connect with her cast.

• Hailing from Canada

Paula grew up in beautiful British Columbia, and her creative sensibilities often reflect the charm and warmth of her roots.

• A Personal Touch

Paula is married to Tim, and the couple shares their life with an adorable dog. Their anniversary falls on July 20th, adding another sweet detail to her story.

A Magical Pairing: Candace and Cameron Mathison

While director of Home Sweet Christmas, Paula Elle brought the energy behind the camera, Candace also highlighted the incredible chemistry she shared with her co-star, Cameron Mathison:

“I hope after the audience sees us in this movie, they will want to see Cameron and I in many, many more movies together… He’s one of my favorite people to work with,” Candace exclaimed!

Cameron also expressed his excitement for this pairing. “We’ve been waiting 15 years to do a Christmas movie together and it’s finally happening!!! We can’t wait for you to enjoy this movie alongside your family,” Mathison said.

Candace’s Full House co-star, Andrea Barber commented, “You two are SO cute!! ”

Their enthusiasm and genuine camaraderie make Home Sweet Christmas a must-watch for the holiday season.

Tune In!
Don’t miss Home Sweet Christmas on GAC! Here’s when you can catch it:

• December 1 at 8 PM
• December 3 at 8 AM
• December 4 at 8 PM
• December 6 at 4 AM
• December 7 at 6 PM

Prepare to laugh, dance, and immerse yourself in the joy of the holiday season!

The post Dancing into Holiday Spirit: Candace Cameron Bure’s Favorite Memory from Filming Home Sweet Christmas appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

What is A Shelter and Season’s Greetings about? 

Caleb is injured in the Army and recovers through help from shelter therapy dogs. As a sign of thanks, Caleb returns home to help Amber run the local shelter and, in the process, discovers his feelings for Amber go beyond gratitude.

Trailer

Who’s in the cast of A Shelter and Season’s Greetings?

Ash Tsai as Amber

Ash Tsai is an actress who should be familiar to GAC fans. Last year, she starred in Journey to Christmas, an original GAC holiday film. Additional credits include Cold Creek and Western Avenue. Ash graduated with a Masters in Entertainment Industry Management from Carnegie Mellon in 2022. In addition to acting, she’s done some modeling. 

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Eric Guillmette as Caleb

Eric Guillmette is an actor with many credits to his name. Those include miniseries such as Forget Me Not: Omega’s Return, You Belong with Me and The Return of the Unwanted Wife. A Shelter and Season’s Greetings marks his GAC debut. Like his co-star Ash Tsai, Eric’s also done some modeling. 

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Full Cast List

Eric Guilmette (Caleb)

Ash Tsai (Amber)

How to Watch A Shelter and Season’s Greetings on GAC

You can watch the movie at these different streaming options:

Fubo TV – Subscribe to Fubo TV for $69.99/month. Sign up for a 7-day free trial.

Frndly TV – This newcomer is one of the most affordable options on the market. Sign up for a 7-day free trial. Afterwards, the packages begin at $6.99/month. It is easy to download and access via Roku or the Amazon Firestick.

Philo – Subscribe to Philo and start streaming Great American Family. In addition to GAC, you can also access 70+ live channels. Start your 7-day free trial here. Packages start at $25/month.

When does the movie premiere?

A Shelter and Season’s Greetings premieres Sunday, December 15 at 8/7c, only on Great American Family.

Related

A Vintage Christmas on Great American Family (2024) Cast & Trailer

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Christmas by Candlelight on Great American Family (2024) Cast & Trailer

The post A Shelter and Season’s Greetings on GAC – Trailer & Premiere Date appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.

A Christmas Castle Proposal Plot

Olivia (Rhiannon Fish) and Prince Alexander (Mitchell Bourke) travel together to his family’s majestic palace in Torovia to spend Christmas with their two families. Despite busy schedules that push the couple in different directions, the couple seems poised to come together for a magical and unforgettable Christmas, until clashing cultures within the families lead to comedic mishaps.

Trailer

A Christmas Castle Proposal Cast

Rhiannon Fish as Olivia 

Rhiannon Fish is a Canadian actress known worldwide for her role as Ontari in The CW’s The 100. After making her debut on the Australian series Neighbours, she was cast in another Australian series called Home and Away. This led to her becoming a household name in Australia. Aside from that, Fish has appeared in numerous Hallmark films, including A Picture of Her, The 27-Hour Day and You’re Bacon Me Crazy. For GAC, she appeared in A Prince in Paradise, for which A Christmas Castle Proposal is the sequel. Rhiannon was previously linked to her The 100 co-star Richard Harmon, but no other romantic developments have been reported since.

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Mitchell Bourke as Prince Alexander

Mitchell Bourke was born in Australia and is known for his role in The Heights. He made his GAC debut in A Prince in Paradise, and reprises his role in A Christmas Castle Proposal. Bourke also appeared in One Perfect Match for Great American Family, and more recently, the film Audrey. Mitchell was in a relationship with Australian actress Alli Simpson, but it’s unclear if the pair are still an item. 

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Full Cast

Rhiannon Fish (Olivia)

Mitchell Bourke (Prince Alexander)

Kym Jackson (Erica)

Dirk Hunter (Ridley)

Andrea Moor (Queen Patricia)

Cara McCarthy (Katie)

Claire Weller Price (Madeline Perkins)

Andrew Buchanan (Henry Perkins)

David Hooley (Winston)

Craig Walker (Older Male Dinner Attendee – voice)

Andrew Brown (King Alexander II)

Steven Cragg (Proposing Man)

Demi Rose Allaway (Royal Dinner Party Guest)

Constance Amelia (Restaurant Patron)

Robert Clavero (Royal Butler)

How to Watch A Christmas Castle Proposal on GAC

You can watch the movie at these different streaming options:

Fubo TV – Subscribe to Fubo TV for $69.99/month. Sign up for a 7-day free trial.

Frndly TV – This newcomer is one of the most affordable options on the market. Sign up for a 7-day free trial. Afterwards, the packages begin at $6.99/month. It is easy to download and access via Roku or the Amazon Firestick.

Philo – Subscribe to Philo and start streaming Great American Family. In addition to GAC, you can also access 70+ live channels. Start your 7-day free trial here. Packages start at $25/month.

A Christmas Castle Proposal Premiere Date

A Christmas Castle Proposal premieres Saturday, October 26 at 8/7c on Great American Family.

Related

Christmas Wreaths and Ribbons on GAC (2024) Plot & Trailer

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The post A Christmas Castle Proposal on GAC (2024) Photos & Preview appeared first on TV Movie Vaults.