A Country Hallmark Christmas Movie Is Coming—And Brad Paisley’s Involved

Hallmark is making holiday magic with one of country music’s most iconic stages. The network has partnered with the Grand Ole Opry for “A Grand Ole Opry Christmas,” a new holiday movie starring Nikki DeLoach and Kristoffer Polaha. The film will premiere later this year as part of Hallmark Channel’s 16th annual “Countdown to Christmas” event, coinciding with the Opry’s 100th anniversary. In an added dose of festive star power, country legend Brad Paisley will not only perform in the film but also write original music — including the official anthem for Hallmark’s seasonal on-air campaign.

Hallmark, Grand Ole Opry, and Brad Paisley Join Forces for Holiday Movie

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Retaility

The collaboration between Hallmark and the Grand Ole Opry is a first for the network, and Hallmark chief brand officer Darren Abbott says the timing couldn’t be better.

“As the Grand Ole Opry celebrates its 100th birthday this year, this is the perfect time for us to partner with this beloved, iconic American institution and create Christmas magic together,” Abbott said in a statement to Variety. “Nikki and Kris are fan favorites and we know they will beautifully bring to life this emotional and heartfelt story that is sure to become an instant classic… Having the incredibly talented Brad Paisley write and perform original music for the movie is what Christmas dreams are made of. And we’re equally excited to have him write and record an original song that will be the soundtrack of our on-air campaign throughout the season.”

Paisley, a longtime Opry member, shares the same enthusiasm. “The Hallmark Channel to me is a major part of finding the joy and the spirit of the holidays. We turn it on and leave it on in our house like Christmas tree lights or decorations; it’s a major part of the atmosphere for us,” he said. “I loved the challenge of creating that same magic with this music by letting it take you to the same place that these movies and this world Hallmark has built. Can’t wait for you to hear what all we’ve done. Also, knowing the Opry is the setting for one of these movies is very inspiring.”

“A Grand Ole Opry Christmas” Brings a Time-Travel Twist to the Newest Hallmark Christmas Movie

The movie follows Gentry Woods (DeLoach), daughter of late country icon Jett Woods — half of the legendary duo Winter and Woods — who gave up her songwriting dreams after her father’s death in a car accident 30 years ago. When the Opry invites her to represent Jett at its centennial Christmas celebration, she reluctantly returns to a place filled with bittersweet memories.

While sitting in one of the Opry’s historic oak church pews, Gentry is magically transported back to 1995, where she gets a rare chance to spend time with her father and finish the song she began decades earlier. Her lifelong friend Mac (Polaha), a country music talent manager, also finds himself in the past. Together, they rediscover the meaning of music, family, and holiday spirit.

Colin Reed, executive chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties, says the collaboration showcases the Opry’s history to an even wider audience. “Our goal in this milestone year is to put the Opry, its artists and the rich songwriting traditions that have made country music a global sensation in front of more people than ever before. Our partnership with Hallmark brings these elements to life this holiday season through a creative and uplifting take on a uniquely Nashville story,” Reed explained.

As part of the rollout, Hallmark will also debut an exclusive Grand Ole Opry holiday product line — including greeting cards, apparel, jewelry, and gifts — available later this year.

“A Grand Ole Opry Christmas” joins an already packed holiday slate. This year’s lineup also includes “Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story,” following in the footsteps of 2024’s NFL-themed “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” Other new titles include “Christmas at the Chateau,” “A Very Vintage Christmas,” “Love and Lights,” and “The Christmas Innkeeper,” with more announcements expected as the season approaches.