Andrew Walker’s latest movie for Hallmark, “The Reluctant Royal,” debuted on March 8. Walker not only starred in the film, but he also developed it over the course of a couple of years.
The movie was filmed in Ireland, and Walker loved the experience. On March 9, Digital Journal shared tidbits from Walker about “The Reluctant Royal” ahead of its Hallmark debut.
Walker gushed that the experience “became a highlight reel of everything that I’ve ever wanted to do in a Hallmark movie.”
Andrew Walker Loved Being With the Project From Day 1
As viewers saw in “The Reluctant Royal,” the story features Walker as Johnny Payne, a mechanic from Philadelphia.
Payne discovers that his long-lost father is a duke. Connecting with his father leads to unexpected developments in both that relationship, and the one he begins to develop with his father’s advisor, Prudence (Emilie de Ravin).
Walker told Digital Journal he spent two years developing the film. He noted this was one of only a handful of opportunities he’s had to be with a project from the first day. The experience provided him with nearly everything he’s “ever wanted to do in a Hallmark movie.”
Filming took place in Ireland, and Walker shared, “The talent pool there is just unbelievable.” The availability of “classically trained theatre actors” deeply impressed him.
“The Reluctant Royal” is a “bit of a comedy” that reminded Walker of another big Hallmark hit of his, “Three Wiser Men and a Boy.” He felt it was “fun and relatable” to play his character of Payne.
“It was an out of body experience, where life is imitating art,” playing his role.
Hallmark Fans Loved the Film
Walker gushed over de Ravin, indicating he felt it was “a big win for Hallmark to get her.” He explained, “Emilie is professional and very easy to get along with… I had a great time working with her.”
De Ravin’s role in “The Reluctant Royal” was her first Hallmark experience. Walker said he was “honored” to have the opportunity to work with her on it.
The actor told Digital Journal he hoped viewers would “laugh, cry, and to have every other emotion in between.”
He added, “I want people to sit down and have a very full range experience watching this movie. It’s a really nice Hallmark movie, and a different take to a royal movie.”
Hallmark fans enjoyed the film. In the Hallmark Movies subreddit, viewers shared their thoughts.
“This was a great movie so hopefully he produces more,” wrote one Reddit user.
“Man alive, this movie was awesome. First off, it’s very very funny… Second, Andrew Walker is awesome. He’s been doing great movies for years and he always delivers. Third, de Ravin was a great addition to the Hallmark stable,” commented another Hallmark fan.
“Excellent movie, one of Andrew’s best and excellent writing,” a third Reddit user shared.
“Very charming good movie! 🍿 Really liked Andrew getting the main character spot! More like this! Love the focus on the guy rather than the girl, :)” someone else added.
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Andrew Walker Shares Why ‘The Reluctant Royal’ Became a ‘Highlight Reel’ for Him