I Heard The Bells on Great American Family – Plot & Cast

I Heard The Bells will have its linear television premiere on November 28 on Great American Family. Originally a 2022 theatrical release, the film stars Stephen Atherhold, Jonathan Blair and Rachel Day Hughes. It’s the true story of the beloved Christmas carol and its creator, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Learn more about the plot, cast and see a preview below.

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I Heard The Bells Plot

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow leads an idyllic life…until the day his world is shattered by tragedy. With a nation divided by Civil War and his family torn apart, Henry puts down his pen, silenced by grief. But it’s the sound of Christmas morning that reignites the poet’s lost voice as he discovers the resounding hope of rekindled faith.

Trailer

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I Heard The Bells Cast

Stephen Atherhold as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Stephen Atherhold worked in TV and film for over 12 years at Sight and Sound before turn ing to coaching actors and teaching at Lancaster Bible College as the Director of Musical Theatre. 

Jonathan Blair as Charley Longfellow

Jonathan Blair is an actor who appeared in Voyage of the Gamelan, Found on South Street and A Great Awakening. 

Rachel Day Hughes as Fanny Longfellow

Rachel Day Hughes is an actress who starred in The American Miracle and How Do You Sleep at Night, in addition to her role in I Heard The Bells. 

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Full Cast

Stephen Atherholt (Henry Wadsworth Longfellow)

Jonathan Blair (Charley Longfellow)

Rachel Day Hughes (Fanny Longfellow)

Zach Meeker (Ernest Longfellow)

Carl Anderson (Josiah Wilson)

Jacob L.T Bates (Civilian on Porch – as Jacob L.T Bates)

Jared Frederick (Massachusetts Infantryman)

Jeremiah Hornbaker (Man at train station)

Daniel Stargel (Senator Charles Sumner)

Wes Wise (Richard)

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I Heard The Bells Premiere Date

I Heard The Bells premieres Thursday, November 28 at 8/7c, on Great American Family. 

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