Female Romantic Leads of Hallmark (2016-2018)
A list of current female romantic leading ladies who do multiple movies for Hallmark. To make the list, the actress received at least one romantic lead for a Hallmark movie each year from 2016 to 2018.
There are some honorable mentions at the end of the list. Honorable mentions go to those who have been leading ladies for a lot of Hallmark movies (9-23 movies), but just not enough recent romantic leads to make the official list.
All the actresses on this list are very talented, with many successful roles and recognitions in their field. They are beautiful, warm, genuine, good people with big eyes that suck you in and smiles that light up the room. They can make you cry. But most of all, they remind you of what it feels like to fall in love.
About the order
I placed Candace first on the list in recognition for her contribution to Hallmark and Lori first among the honorable mentions for the same reason. Following those two, I ordered the list according to who has the most female romantic lead roles 2016-2018 with Hallmark. When there was a tie, their position was based on total lifetime romantic roles with Hallmark; and beyond that, personal preference.
Leave a comment if you think I left someone or their movie out. Or, just leave a comment about ... uh ... whatever.
There are some honorable mentions at the end of the list. Honorable mentions go to those who have been leading ladies for a lot of Hallmark movies (9-23 movies), but just not enough recent romantic leads to make the official list.
All the actresses on this list are very talented, with many successful roles and recognitions in their field. They are beautiful, warm, genuine, good people with big eyes that suck you in and smiles that light up the room. They can make you cry. But most of all, they remind you of what it feels like to fall in love.
About the order
I placed Candace first on the list in recognition for her contribution to Hallmark and Lori first among the honorable mentions for the same reason. Following those two, I ordered the list according to who has the most female romantic lead roles 2016-2018 with Hallmark. When there was a tie, their position was based on total lifetime romantic roles with Hallmark; and beyond that, personal preference.
Leave a comment if you think I left someone or their movie out. Or, just leave a comment about ... uh ... whatever.
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Candace Helaine Cameron Bure was the youngest of four children, born in Panorama City, Los Angeles, California to Robert and Barbara Cameron. Following in the footsteps of her older brother Kirk Cameron, (who played Mike Seaver for 7 seasons on the hit show Growing Pains (1985)), Candace decided to pursue acting herself. She appeared in several commercials, and guest-starred on shows such as Punky Brewster (1984), St. Elsewhere (1982) and Who's the Boss? (1984).
In 1986, at age 10, she was cast as Donna Jo "D.J." Margaret Tanner-Fuller, the eldest daughter, on Full House (1987) and Fuller House (2016). The show's eight-year run ranks it among the most successful series of all time. Candace also appeared in the films Punchline (1988) (playing Sally Field's daughter), as well as numerous television movies.
After Full House (1987) ended its run, Candace married hockey player Valeri Bure at the age of 20. They have three children. Candace continues to make appearances on I Love the '80s (2002), and hosted 50 Cutest Child Stars: All Grown Up (2005) on the E! network.Where would Hallmark be without Candace in 2018? She does several primetime specials a year. She is helping with Hallmark's Christmas radio station. All the while providing lead roles for Hallmark movies. I love to watch her because her smile is infectious, besides the fact that she is very good in her roles.
Candace's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2008. Over her time with Hallmark her roles have been evenly divided between romantic leads and amateur detective. But from 2016-2018 she has only done one romantic movie a year. This is about half the Aurora Teagarden Mysteries she has done for the same time period.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 10 total)
* A Shoe Addict's Christmas (2018) - premieres 11-25-2018
* Switched for Christmas (2017) - my favorite because she has two romantic roles (twins)
* Journey Back to Christmas (2016) - Candace plays a time traveling nurse/wife who longs to return to her beloved soldier/husband. This is her at her best!
* A Christmas Detour (2015)
* Just the Way You Are (2015)
* Christmas Under Wraps (2014) - Candace plays a doctor who takes a job in a town with a secret; you catch on quickly what the secret is but it's great to see our actress play a character who is a genuinely good person (that's her "type")
* Let It Snow (2013)
* Puppy Love (2012)
* The Heart of Christmas (2011)
* Moonlight & Mistletoe (2008) - Candace's first movie for Hallmark; she plays against the "type" we've enjoyed over the past five years. Her character is hard (doesn't smile much, stern expressions), angry, a broken relationships with her dad, and dislikes Christmas; a must watch to understand Candice's full range of talent
Amateur Detective Roles
* Aurora Teagarden Mysteries (2015-2018, 9 movies)- Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Lacey Nicole Chabert was born in Purvis, Mississippi, to Julie (Johnson) and Tony Chabert, a representative for an oil company. She is of Cajun (French), Italian, English, and Scottish ancestry. Chabert started in drama and music performances in and around her hometown in Mississippi from an early age, and was a finalist on Star Search (1983) in 1991. She gained her break in a cough syrup commercial, before successfully auditioning for the Broadway production of Les Miserables, where she played young Cosette for two years. Since then, she has been on a few television series, notably Party of Five (1994), a number of telemovies like Gypsy (1993), and her big-screen debut, Lost in Space (1998). Known for her natural acting skills and charming personality, her cotton candy voice has seen her record many advertising jingles, plus play parts in animated films and TV shows like Nickelodeon's The Wild Thornberrys (1998). A more than capable violinist, she enjoys various activities, especially shoe shopping, and she is particularly fond of Cajun cooking. As a result of her promising career, her family, including two sisters and a brother, have moved from Mississippi to California.Lacey's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2014. Over the previous three years, Lacey is Hallmark's leading lady of romance, with more romantic leads (8) than any other actress, twice that of most of the actresses on this list. When Lacey looks up into the camera with her big hazel eyes and dazzling smile, everyone in the audience responds with the words, "I do." When she confesses her love it seems so genuine, seeming to come from deep within her. She has the ability to make you want her to love and be loved. I really don't understand how she does it. She's physically attractive by most standards, but she makes you ignore that and love her for other reasons. She amazes me. Lacey has done some primetime specials for Hallmark events in 2018 and is beginning a new mystery movies series in 2019.
Romantic Leads (8 @ 2016-18; 12 total)
* Pride and Prejudice and Mistletoe (2018)
* All of My Heart: The Wedding (2018) - her strongest performance for Hallmark
* Love on Safari (2018) - Lacey helps her character be both strong and soft
* My Secret Valentine (2018)
* The Sweetest Christmas (2017) - she performs admirably against her entire cast: her romantic lead, supporting cast, kids, and antagonist; each evoke a memorable scene
* All of My Heart: Inn Love (2017)
* Moonlight in Vermont (2017) - my favorite, there really is no question that the male lead loves her, but will she love him
* A Wish For Christmas (2016)
* A Christmas Melody (2015)
* Family for Christmas (2015) - Nominated for a Joey Award (Young Actress)
* All of My Heart (2015) - Lacey demonstrates her ability to banter and stand up for herself, their "oppositeness" makes their love sweeter, the movie that blossomed into three
* A Royal Christmas (2014) - common girl becomes princess; Lacey's portrayal accurately brings charm and humility
Amateur Detective Role
* The Crossword Mysteries - new mystery movie series beginning in 2019- Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Together with her younger sister, Crystal McKellar, she began acting at a young age in her mother's dance studio. In 1982 the family moved to Los Angeles and a few years later she appeared in her first commercial. A few guest appearances in The Twilight Zone (1985) was followed by her breakthrough in The Wonder Years (1988). She has had good grades in math and French. In her spare time she likes to go skiing, swimming and surfing.Danica's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2015. She is third among leading romantic roles (7) in the past six years. What's impressed as unique to Danica is her ability to subtly change her expressions. With the slightest of facial and eye movements she shows doubts, asks questions, or say I am lost in love. I've seen her do it over and over again in her roles. She can do all the other things; carry a scene, deliver dialog, and catch the heart of a leading man. It also appears that Hallmark has her lined up to be a mystery movies series, beginning in 2019.
Romantic Leads (7 @ 2016-18; 8 total)
* Christmas in Grand Valley (2018) - premiere 11-22-2018
* Love in Design (2018)
* Very, Very Valentine (2018) - my favorite; a take on Cyrano de Bergerac that includes a mysterious masquerade ball and a best friend who would like to be more than a best friend
* Coming Home for Christmas (2017)
* Campfire Kiss (2017) - two single parents fall in love at camp; warm, inspiring kid scenes
* My Christmas Dream (2016) - her best role as a romantic lead
* Wedding Bells (2016)
* Crown for Christmas (2015) - I love everything about Danica in this movie
Amateur Detective Role
* The Matchmaker Mysteries - a new mystery movie series coming to Hallmark in 2019- Actress
- Producer
- Soundtrack
Taylor Cole is best known for her recurring roles in THE ORIGINALS on the CW in addition to TV Land's IMPASTOR, the CW's SUPERNATURAL, and A&E's THE GLADES. She was a series regular on the NBC hit series, THE EVENT. She has since appeared in numerous shows, including SECOND CHANCE, BALLERS, CASTLE, TWO AND A HALF MEN, and NCIS, to name a few.
Taylor recently starred in LONG LOST CHRISTMAS and PUMPKIN EVERYTHING for Hallmark, and prior to that starred in ALL IS BRIGHT and SOUTH BEACH LOVE for them as well. She will next star in ALOHA HEART for Hallmark. Other feature credits include ONE WINTER WEDDING and UNLOCKING CHRISTMAS for Hallmark, and BAD for Lifetime. Taylor can also be seen in the films THE VIOLENT KIND, which premiered at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival, THE SURROGATES, TWELVE ROUNDS, as well as MTV's ALL YOU'VE GOT. Taylor first debuted in the WB TV series SUMMERLAND as a series regular.Full disclosure -- Taylor was my first Hallmark crush. Now, I fall in love during every Hallmark movie. But as a Hallmark movie says, "A first love is a forever kind of love" (Francis Figgins, "Love Struck Cafe," 2017).
Taylor's first leading role occurred in 2016 when she burst onto the Hallmark channel with three movies. She is the consummate romantic lead with a hundred different little ways to communicate "I like/love/want/committed to you" and "Do you like/love me." I love her ability to display a wide range of human emotions convincingly and effortlessly. She reminds me of Olivia De Havilland in her romantic roles. (I'll deny it, if you say I am crushing.) Hallmark must agree with my assessment because they have given her romantic leads (7) over the past three years tying her for second among other actress.
She most often plays the professional who needs to loosen up, not work so much, and make room for what's important in life. Her roles often give her some really nice clothes to wear. (She used to be a model, which makes her fun for costume department to dress up.) She has played against type once for Hallmark.
Romantic Leads (7 @ 2016-18; 7 total)
* Falling For You (2018) - I wrote a review about this movie as Hallmark and Taylor play against type, which doesn't really work
* One Winter Weekend (2018) - be amazed at her beautiful dress for the party; she expertly takes us on the romance rollercoaster journey of opposites attack, attract, stumble, and reunite.
* Christmas Festival of Ice (2017) - her only Hallmark movie I haven't seen yet
* The Art of Us (2017) - it's hard for me to pick a favorite, but this would be it; a beautiful story of a art professor who finds her way back to being an artist
* Christmas in Homestead (2016) - Taylor plays an actress who is willing to sacrifice her love because she doesn't want to be a source trouble for the male romantic lead
* My Summer Prince (2016) - Taylor gets a "wow" dress at the end! all courtesy of the best line: "meet your fairy godmother"
* Appetite for Love (2016) - early in the movie Taylor has a scene that makes me laugh out loud; it is so funny, because she creates slapstick-like contrast between her situation and her appearance, poise, and grace; listen to her voice inflections and delivery and watch her timing and mannerism as she shoos the cows and lures them with candy; okay, Taylor can do comedy- Actress
- Producer
With a passionate work ethic and an insatiable sense of humor & charm, Jill Wagner is the "American Girl" who's established herself as a widely-recognizable actress and television personality. Her diverse body of work combined with a rapidly growing fan base has demonstrated her appeal to a broad range of audiences who can easily relate to her approachable wit and down-to-earth personality. With a career that successfully stretches between acting and hosting endeavors, there are few artists who have been able to effectively transition back-and-forth between the two. With global recognition and achievement, Jill has broken down barriers in her inherent ability to do both. Always enthusiastic and whole-hearted about the subject matter she pursues, Jill partnered-up with renowned producer / writer / director Taylor Sheridan as executive producer and actress in the new female-led series, Special Ops: Lioness. Jill teams up with co-star and executive producer Zoe Saldana and Oscar winning actress and executive producer Nicole Kidman in this global spy thriller. As an actress with diverse talent who has been consistently featured in various genres in film & television for nearly two decades, Jill's illustrious range of work has not only solidified her as a dominant name and presence in the entertainment industry, but has earned her unwavering respect and acclaim. Starring opposite Jason Momoa, Jill appeared in the breakout independent film, Braven. Earlier in her acting career, Jill made an impactful and celebrated debut in the award-winning horror film, Splinter, starring opposite Shea Whigman. The film is a disturbing yet masterfully crafted horror feature in which Jill showcased her ability to carry top billing in a feature film and earned her a cult following. As a dominant presence in front of the camera, Jill also starred in MTV's hit series, Teen Wolf. Jill played the role of Kate Argent, who was one of the primary antagonists featured throughout the show's first four seasons. With her popularity having soared on the series, coupled with her natural instincts as a television host, Jill was presented with the opportunity to host Teen Wolf's after-show, Wolf Watch. Jill's natural skill and ability to improv is what paved the path for her to make her mark in Hollywood, when she was cast as the first female regular sketch performer on MTV's hit television series, Punk'd, opposite Ashton Kutcher. As is relevant to both her cinematic story and personal life - family and faith are Jill's most valued priorities. There was a very special and unique relationship Jill had with her paternal grandmother, who helped raise Jill as a child. As Jill's career continued to blossom, opportunities from The Hallmark Channel soon began to present themselves. Jill would seek her grandmother's advice on which projects would be the most appropriate to pursue. Jill stated, "My grandma loves to watch these kinds of films, so the two of us made an agreement. Whenever any of these scripts come my way I'll send them to her, and if she likes them, I'll do them. I do these films for her." And, it was this value that launched and continues to drive Jill's ongoing roles in The Hallmark Channel's catalog of movies, including fan favorites Autumn Dreams; Christmas Cookies; A Harvest Wedding; Karen Kingsbury's Maggie's Christmas Miracle; Pearl in Paradise; and, Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa. As Jill became a widely-recognized talent within the Hallmark platforms, her movies became some of the highest rated films and series on the network. This has led to her continued success with featured roles in additional Hallmark Channel television movies and mysteries, including, Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses; Mystery 101, which was the highest rated mystery series on The Hallmark Channel; Hearts of Winter; The Angel Tree; and, A Christmas Miracle for Daisy, which was the second highest rated movie for the recently launched GAC Family network. Hosting was a natural fit for Jill as she embraced this role for some of the most widely popular network television shows, including the INSP TV series, Handcrafted America. In this inspirational series, Jill traveled the country in search of talented artisans who continue to make sought-after products the traditional way: with their own two hands. Jill's energetic, infectious and unique style of getting to the heart of the story was undoubtedly a significant reason why the series had sustained success for three seasons. Paving the way for Jill's hosting spotlight was solidified when she spent a remarkable seven seasons on ABC's hit reality game show, Wipeout. Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Jill and her brother were raised by their father, a former U.S. Marine and local tire shop owner. During her younger years, her father and grandmother instilled an ever-present value system which was designed to build a strong and solid foundation around family and support. Through this upbringing, Jill continues to carry the Wagner approach of providing great respect, care and love in how she cherishes and defines her faith and 'family values'. Jill and her husband are living the life they dream - raising their three young daughters on their historical working farm in Tennessee. It is there that Jill and her family raise cattle, grow crops, remain connected to nature and find their balance experiencing life through a farming community. Jill attended North Carolina State University, from which she graduated cum laude with a degree in business. As an active woman passionately dedicated to a regularly intense & challenging fitness regime, Jill has often stated, "There's nothing better than cranking some classic rock in my headphones and hiking up a mountain." And, whether she is climbing a mountain or taking on new experiences and roles as one of Hollywood's most dynamic and multi-talented artists, this All-American Girl's message remains the same: "It's the view from the top that makes it all worthwhile." Jill has also dedicated her life to being enthusiastically involved in 'giving back'. As a daughter to a military veteran, Jill has often paid homage to her father and countless veterans by traveling to different parts of the world, including Afghanistan, in support of the troops. Jill is also very passionate and dedicated to her causes with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Her untiring campaign within her own charity, "Jill's Closet for a Cure", continues to raise money and awareness to help find a cure for these diseases that have touched the lives of so many people, including her own family.Jill's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2015. She has become my second favorite romantic lead at Hallmark. Her number of leading romantic roles (5) in the past three years places her among the top six romantic lead actresses at Hallmark. Even when cast as a serious, professional type, Jill manages to bring a bit of playfulness and sass to her characters. She is the only one on this list that I say you should watch all of her romantic roles.
Romantic Leads (5 @ 2016-18; 6 total)
* Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa (2018) - premieres 11-18-2018
* Pearl in Paradise (2018) - I love the way the ending happens; against type Jill plays as an Indiana Jones type role and does a wonderful job; I would like to see her character go on another adventure in a future movie
* Karen Kingsbury's Maggie's Christmas Miracle (2017) - her only role so far as a mom
* A Harvest Wedding (2017) - my favorite
* Christmas Cookies (2016)
* Autumn Dreams (2015) - her best as a romantic lead- Actress
- Music Department
- Producer
Alexa Ellesse PenaVega was born Alexa Ellesse Vega on August 27, 1988 in Ocala, Florida and raised in Los Angeles, California to Gina Denise Rue, a former model & Baruch Jairo Vega, a photographer. She is known for her role as Carmen Cortez in the Spy Kids series and Shilo Wallace in the film Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008). In 2009, she starred as the title character Ruby Gallagher in the ABC Family series Ruby & The Rockits.Alexa's first leading role for Hallmark was in 2016, since then she's had the lead role in 2 movies a year. She's made a few with her husband as the male romantic lead. Alexa is one of two non-caucasian ladies on the list (her father is Columbian). She doesn't seem to be mentioned often as a top romantic lead for Hallmark. Her number of romantic leading roles (5) in the past three years places her among the top six actresses at Hallmark. I feel she is underrated and deserves a lot more recognition for her talents. I'd also like to mention that she missed being the youngest member of the list by three months.
Romantic Leads (5 @ 2016-18; 5 total)
* Christmas Made to Order (2018)
* Love at Sea (2018) - I wanted to like this movie; the script and plot details just didn't work; Alexa and Carlos had some good scenes (individual and together), but when you made it into a whole, it fell flat; 90% of the reviews agree; Alexa played opposite her husband, Carlos; their real-life son, Ocean, makes his acting debut as well (Tyler)
* Enchanted Christmas (2017) - a must watch for the dancing; she plays a single mom and professional; the supporting cast (the daughter and grandfather) contribute good scenes; according to "White Christmas" the best things happen when your dancing and this is true for our romantic leads; the dancing shines (Alexa and Carlos competed against each other on "Dancing with the Stars," one of the instructors from the competition had a part in the movie); I don't think any other Hallmark romantic leads can do the Salsa; Alexa played opposite her husband
* Destination Wedding (2017) - Alexa steals the show; her best performance as a romantic lead
* Ms. Matched (2016) - my favorite of her movies; more conflict than usual in a Hallmark movie due to their differences; but they begin to understand each others' perspective, which makes way for love; eventually they both understand the wedding they are planning together is their own- Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Nikki Deloach was born on 9 September 1979 in Waycross, Georgia, USA. She is an actress and producer, known for Love & Other Drugs (2010), Longshot (2001) and The House Bunny (2008). She has been married to Ryan Goodell since 5 September 2009. They have two children.Nikki's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2015. Nikki is very talented, knows her craft, and wants to perform at her best for every role. When she talks about her roles in interviews she says more than just "she meets an ex-boyfriend." (I've included a few quotes concerning her roles below.) Instead, she immerses herself fully into her characters and brings all their complexities to life. She doesn't make mistakes or let her performance fall flat for a single scene. She maintains her infectious smile and adoring eyes through scene after scene. She is never just reading a script or going through the motions.
Romantic Leads (4 @ 2016-18; 5 total)
* Reunited at Christmas (2018) - premiere 11-21-2018
* Truly, Madly, Sweetly (2018) - Nikki's words: "But not only did she get her heart broken, but she kind of had everything she had worked for taken away from her. She lost everything. ... I totally related to this character and her sense of, “All right, I’m gonna brush myself off and I’m gonna go at it again.” ... there’s gonna be times when you’re gonna fall down and things aren’t going to go the way you wanted it to go or the way you imagined it. But ... you learn along the way, and ... you collect yourself and move forward."
* The Perfect Catch (2017) - my favorite and possibly her best performance as a romantic lead
* A Dream of Christmas (2016) - Nikki's words: " I very much understood her journey and the questions she was asking herself. ... This life thing is really hard sometimes ... especially when you feel like you’ve made all the right decisions, worked the hardest, been a good human and life is just not swinging in your favor."
* Christmas Land (2015)- Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Minneapolis native Rachael Leigh Cook began her career as a model at the tender age of 10, gracing Milk-Bone boxes and Target ads nationwide in the USA. She also appeared in a now-famous (in the USA) anti-drug TV spot in which, armed with a frying pan, she bashed her way through a kitchen to show the disastrous effects of heroin. At 14, her modeling agency sent her to read for a short film (26 Summer Street (1996)) and changed the course of her young life--from that moment on, Cook was hooked on acting. When she reached L.A. later that year, Cook bypassed the wannabe stage and nailed her first audition (for the part of a budding entrepreneur in The Baby-Sitters Club (1995)). She returned to theaters three months later in the Jonathan Taylor Thomas vehicle Tom and Huck (1995), then filled her calendar with appearances in independent and made-for-TV movies. She divided her time between Minneapolis and Tinseltown, shuttling from school events to movie shoots with her mother in tow. Cook's starlet status crystallized in 1999, when she starred opposite Freddie Prinze Jr. in the Pygmalion retelling She's All That (1999). Her on-screen transformation from ugly duckling to ravishing beauty scored several teen-oriented awards and made Cook a hot commodity in Hollywood. She signed for a handful of plum follow-up roles, including a troubled adolescent in Sylvester Stallone's Get Carter (2000), a frontier gal in Texas Rangers (2001), and the caterwauling lead in the live-action version of Josie and the Pussycats (2001). Cook now lives primarily in Los Angeles, but she returns home frequently to visit with friends and family. Her father, Tom (a former stand-up comic), is a social worker in the public school system, and her younger brother, Ben, is an aspiring filmmaker.Discovered that I left Rachel off the list. I will add and update comments to reflect this fact.
Romantic Leads (4 @ 2016-18; 4 total)
* Frozen in Love (2018)
* Summer in Love (2017)
* Autumn in the Vineyard (2017)
* Summer Love (2016)- Actress
- Producer
- Director
Autumn Reeser saw her breakout role as the individualist Taylor Townsend on the popular Fox drama series "The O.C." Since then she's become known for her intelligent and heartfelt performances in roles such as firecracker junior agent Lizzie Grant on HBO's "Entourage" and become an in-demand and beloved star in Hallmark movies.
Acting came into Autumn's life as a clear calling when she was six years old and her parents took her to see her first play at the community theater in the small surf town of Carlsbad, California. She begged to audition for the next one, the jumping off point for a lifelong love-affair with art, musical expression and the exploration of the human character and psyche. Strongly connected to Spirit, she followed her guidance to apply for only one college, a new musical theatre program being launched at UCLA, and was accepted. After many late nights waitressing to support herself and rigorous training at various acting programs throughout Los Angeles, she began working steadily in film and TV and has not stopped since.
Her first role was as an alien girl on 'Star Trek: Voyager' at the age of 20, followed by honing her comedic chops on sitcoms such as 'The George Lopez Show' and 'Grounded For Life', and pouring her heart out in dramas such as 'Cold Case' and 'CSI'. Her breakout role came in 2005, as the quirky-cute and socially awkward Taylor Townsend on the final two seasons of The O.C. (2003), for which she received high critical acclaim. She's also known for her role as firecracker junior agent Lizzie Grant on HBO's 'Entourage' as scientist Katie Andrew in ABC's No Ordinary Family (2010), along with actors Michael Chiklis, Julie Benz. In 2012, she starred as sexy weapons expert Kylie Sinclair in Shawn Ryan's short-lived political thriller Last Resort (2012), on ABC. She also appeared as Dr. Gabrielle Asano on Hawaii 5-0, sports agent Abby Bruce opposite John Stamos on Necessary Roughness, and lead the cast in numerous romances for Hallmark.
In 2021 she directed her first short film and earned her first executive-producer credit for developing Hallmark's "The 27-Hour Day," followed by 'The Wedding Veil' trilogy with Lacey Chabert and Ali Sweeney, which was Hallmark's most-watched series of 2022.
In addition to her film and television career, she has appeared onstage in "For the Record: Tarantino" at Rockwell, "The OC Musical" at the Montelban, "Too Much Sun" at the Odyssey, and numerous cabarets. She is a member of The WorkJuice Players alongside Paul F. Tompkins and Busy Phillips, best known for their ongoing radio play series and podcast, "The Thrilling Adventure Hour." In the last few years, she has directed two new musicals: 'City of Light' at Feinsteins 54 Below in New York and 'Modern' in USC's LiveRead Workshop program and is the co-creator of the musical 'Particle.'
Autumn lives in Los Angeles with her sons Finn & Dash and has served on the board of the SAG-AFTRA union. She is an advocate for women, performers and working parents, as well as a counselor and intuitive guide. She offers mentorship to artists through her website.Autumn's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2012 and has had a lead role in one movie a year since 2014. She is a versatile actress who doesn't seem to have a "type." As a romantic lead she has played the professional, the ranch hand, the single parent, the clueless yuppie, the caregiver, and the heiress.
Romantic Leads (3 @2016-18; 7 total)
* Season for Love (2018) - Autumn plays a single mom who re-evaluates her life and priorities after losing her job; her performance high quality; but, what's nice about this movie is that all the relationships are positive and appropriately prioritized, no competing exes or antagonistic bosses; the conflict comes from her inner struggle to understand what's best for everyone she loves and their financial needs; also, she has nice boots (hey, somebody put effort into that)
* A Bramble House Christmas (2017) - nominated for a Leo Award (supporting actress)
* Valentine Ever After (2016)
* A Country Wedding (2015) - my favorite; nominated for a Director's Guild Award (directorial achievement)
* I Do, I Do, I Do (2015)
* Midnight Masquerade (2014)
* Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade (2012)- Actress
- Music Department
- Producer
Actor and singer-songwriter Alicia Witt has been acting since the age of 7, when she made her film debut in David Lynch's sci-fi classic Dune. She will next be seen starring opposite Nicholas Cage in the thriller Longlegs, set for a 2024 worldwide theatrical release. She also just appeared on Fox's The Masked Singer as Dandelion, winning her first episode with her rendition of Over The Rainbow. Recent sightings include psychological drama Fuzzy Head (2023); I Care A Lot (2021) on Netflix, starring Rosamund Pike and Dianne Wiest; as a killer in Lifetime Network's true crime drama The Disappearance of Cari Farver (2022) and as Zelda on the final season of Orange Is The New Black.
Alicia is also a familiar face to Christmas audiences for her 10 holiday movies, many of which have featured her original music and continue to air every year.
Witt spent 5 weeks in the Billboard Top 30 AC Radio chart with her single Chasing Shadows, off her 2021 album The Conduit, which she co-produced alongside Jordan Lehning and Bill Reynolds. Her newest release is 2023's Witness, led by the title track, which debuted in April. A classically trained former competitive pianist, Alicia's music has been described as 'sharply personal, boldly melodic pop originals in the Carole King/Billy Joel vein' and 'touching lost-and-found love ballads' (Philadelphia Inquirer).
Witt's many films include Two Weeks' Notice, Last Holiday, The Upside of Anger, Mr. Holland's Opus, Urban Legend, Four Rooms, 88 Minutes, Vanilla Sky, and Fun, for which she was awarded the Special Jury Recognition Award from the Sundance Film Festival, and an Independent Spirit Award nomination.
Alicia received rave reviews for her role as Paula in Season 6 of AMC's critically acclaimed series The Walking Dead. Witt also appeared during Season 4 of ABC's 'Nashville' as country star Autumn Chase and in Season 3 of David Lynch's Twin Peaks on Showtime, reprising her role from the original as Gerstein Hayward. Other TV includes FOX's The Exorcist; Law & Order: Criminal Intent; The Mentalist; Friday Night Lights; The Sopranos; Cybill; Ally McBeal; and Twin Peaks.
Alicia has performed her original piano-driven pop music all over the world, including at the renowned Grand Ole Opry. She has also opened for Ben Folds Five, Rachel Platten, and Jimmy Webb, to name a few. Her 2018 release, 15000 Days, was produced by Grammy-winning producer Jacquire King (James Bay, Norah Jones, Kings of Leon, Dawes). Witt's previous album, Revisionary History, was produced by Ben Folds and was hailed as 'Grey Seal era Elton John, an alt-universe Fiona Apple, and a film noir chanteuse notching her nights in cigarette burns on the fallboard' (Nashville Scene).
Witt's first book, Small Changes, came out in Fall 2021 from Harper Horizon. The book is an inspiring, welcoming and simple yet effective guide to health, happiness and sustainable living. Instead of promoting a rigid diet, Small Changes offers readers a stress-and-judgment-free approach for enacting easy, incremental changes across all areas of life.
On stage, Witt starred in Neil LaBute's Tony nominated play Reasons to Be Pretty at the Geffen Playhouse. She also appeared at London's Royal Court theatre in Terry Johnson's Piano/Forte and made her West End debut with The Shape of Things. She has performed at Williamstown Theatre Festival and has made many appearances in the 24-Hour Plays on Broadway and the 24-Hour Musicals off-Broadway.Discovered that I left Alicia off the list. I will add and update comments to reflect this fact.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 7 total)
* Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane (2018)
* The Mistletoe Inn (2017) - movie nominated for a Leo Award (Best Supporting Actress),
* Christmas List (2016) - movie won a Young Artists Award (Best Supporting Young Actor),
* I'm Not Ready For Christmas (2015)
* Christmas At Cartwright's (2014)
* A Very Merry Mix-Up (2013)
* Backyard Wedding (2010)- Actress
- Producer
- Soundtrack
Erin Krakow was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. She is an actress and producer, known for When Calls the Heart (2014), Army Wives (2007) and It Was Always You (2021).Erin probably spends more time each year on set with her Hallmark TV episodes than on the set of Hallmark movies. I'd like to see her in more movies, but every actor has a limited amount of time. The last three years her romantic lead roles have been for the same character. I am curious to see where Erin and Hallmark go next.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 5 total)
* Marrying Father Christmas (2018)
* Engaging Father Christmas (2017)
* Finding Father Christmas (2016)
* A Cookie Cutter Christmas (2014) - this movie showcases her strengths
* Chance at Romance (2013) - the movie is about a photographer who has lost his way. It doesn't reach its potential, but Erin went through several photo shoots for this movie and her resulting photographs are reason enough to watch
TV Series
* When Calls The Heart (2014-2019, 54 episodes)- Actress
- Director
- Soundtrack
Lindy Booth was born on April 2, 1979, in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. She played "Riley Grant" on the Disney Channel series, The Famous Jett Jackson (1998) (and "Agent Hawk" in the show-within-a-show, "Silverstone"). Other credits include guest-starring as different characters in two different episodes of the A&E Network series, A Nero Wolfe Mystery (2001), and a recurring role in season two of the USA Network series, The 4400 (2004).Lindy's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2011. Recently she has returned to Hallmark as a romantic lead in time to make the list. One of the things that I have noticed about Lindy is that she brings "spunk" to her characters. She shoots straight, doesn't back down, and doesn't just accept what comes. I know that's part of the role/script she was given. She just knows how to make it convincing, like she is naturally that way in real life. Her last two roles have been as cowgirls which fits her "shooting straight" style.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 5 total)
* Under the Autumn Moon (2018) - her performance displays all her strengths; I kept finding myself saying, "Lindy is sooo cute," while watching this movie
* Rocky Mountain Christmas (2017)
* Sound of Christmas (2016) - my favorite
* The Twelve Trees of Christmas (2015)
* Christmas Magic (2011)- Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Jessica Lowndes is a multifaceted Canadian actress, singer, and songwriter. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Jessica began her acting career at a young age, appearing in various television shows and films before landing her breakout role as drug addicted teen Adrianna Tate-Duncan on the CW TV series "90210." Originally written as a 3-episode arc, the character quickly became a series regular and a central character on 90210 for five seasons.
Beyond acting, Lowndes has expanded her career into production, having executive produced eight projects, two of which she has written the scripts and music for, as well as starred in.
In addition to her acting talents, Lowndes is also a gifted musician. She has released several singles and albums, showcasing her soulful voice and songwriting skills. She has self-released over 30 original songs and her single, Silicone in Stereo reached #11 on the Billboard charts in both the U.S. and Canada.
Lowndes starred alongside Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig in Lifetime's "A Deadly Adoption" and was the female lead in Bruce Willis and John Cusack's action flick "The Prince". In the past few years she has starred in over 15 projects with Lifetime, Hallmark, GAF and Tubi, many of which included original songs she wrote and performed for the projects. She wrote the original screenplay for Hallmark's "Over the Moon in Love" and co-wrote/performed the hit song "Paradise" for the film which hit #1 on iTunes Singer/Songwriter charts. She also starred in the 2021 film Mix Up in the Mediterranean for Hallmark Channel. Her duet "Alive," which she performed with her co-star Jeremy Jordan for the film, cracked the top 15 on iTunes last year.
Lowndes both wrote and starred in "Harmony From The Heart," for GAF and Hulu, alongside Jesse Metcalfe. Additionally, she wrote and produced the film's popular original song "11:11," which soared to #3 on the iTunes singer/songwriter chart.Jessica is the youngest of Hallmark's romantic leading ladies on my list. Her performances have given me hope regarding a new generation of Hallmark leading ladies. Jessica's first leading role for Hallmark was in 2015 and she has had a leading role in one movie a year for Hallmark since. I hope she and Hallmark will do more movies together. Her talents provide an opportunity to explore new dimensions in character development and storytelling for romantic leading ladies at Hallmark. Jessica also has a beautiful singing voice which she gets to demonstrate from time to time.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 4 total)
* Christmas at Pemberley Manor (2018) - I really like her strong character portrayal and her banter with comedic timing; be amazed at her complexity while putting table clothes on the tables while talking to the mayor -- going through the scripted conversation, spreading/gathering/tossing the cloth, little hand, head, and eye gestures (some about what she is doing, some about what she is hearing, some about what she is saying) -- she makes it look easy and all in one take
* Magical Christmas Ornament (2017) - her best performance so far as a romantic lead who starts broken on the inside but finds healing; that's one of her strengths, convincingly drawing us into her character's brokenness and pain as well as her healing, hope, and love; which is one of the reasons I look forward to her future Hallmark portrayals
* A December Bride (2016) - Everything works in this movie. But most of all, Jessica makes the most of her glances, face expressions, voice inflections (she says "I love you" three times in a row, each with different inflections) and body mannerisms (when to lean forward and when to look up at her male lead).
* Merry Matrimony (2015)- Actress
- Director
- Writer
Ashley Williams is an American actress. She is known for playing Victoria on the CBS series How I Met Your Mother opposite Josh Radnor. She's also had a long relationship with The Hallmark Channel where she stars in movies, produces, directs, writes, and also founded their women's directing initiative called "Make Her Mark". She also wrote and directed the short film "Meats" which played at Sundance and sold to Showtime. She has starred in more than a dozen different television pilots over the years and done over 200 episodes of television and television movies, in studio and independent films, regional theater, Off-Broadway, and on Broadway. She starred in the television series The Jim Gaffigan Show on Comedy Central and in the NBC series Good Morning Miami, as well as Warner Brothers' movie Something Borrowed.Ashley's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2015 and she has had a leading role each year since. Ashley brings a lot of energy to her roles, whether her role calls for rallying a town for causes or being endearing with children.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 4 total)
* Northern Lights of Christmas (2018) - Premiere 12-15-2018
* Christmas In Evergreen (2017) - on my must watch Christmas list, her performance makes it worthwhile; fan reaction was such that they made a follow-up movie for 2018 where she has a supporting role
* Love on a Limb (2016) - it is so nice to watch Ashley's character get excited about a cause
* October Kiss (2015) - my favorite role for her; shows all her strengths, you cheer for her love, you get swept up by her enthusiasm, and say "Aww" at her endearing "cute kid" scenes- Actress
- Producer
Emilie Ullerup-Petersen was born in Denmark, where her father Ove Ullerup-Petersen, a Jurist and Diplomat and a decorated Ambassador of Denmark in Vietnam, held the title of Lord Chamberlain for the Danish Royal Family.
It was always been her ambition to become an actress. When she graduated from high school in Copenhagen in 2003, she moved to Vancouver to pursue acting as a career. She studied at the Vancouver Film School and graduated in 2005.
Her first role was that of Julia Prynne in the hit sci-fi TV show Battlestar Galactica (2004). She also played the part of Sandra in the first episode of Blood Ties (2006). She was one of the main characters in the ground breaking series Sanctuary (2008) where she starred alongside Amanda Tapping.Discovered that I left Emilie off the list. I will add and update comments to reflect this fact.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 3 total)
* Christmas Bells Are Ringing (2018)
* With Love Christmas (2017)
* Hearts of Christmas (2016)
Supporting Movie Roles
* Signed, Sealed, Delivered (2016-2017, 4 Movies)
TV Series
* Chesapeake Shores (2016-2018, 29 Episodes)- A native of Southern California, Fiona Gubelmann was raised in San Diego and then moved to Los Angeles to attend UCLA, where she studied Theater. While at UCLA, she met her husband, actor Alex Weed.
Fiona is best known as the female lead on FX's critically acclaimed Wilfred (2011) and has appeared in many of television's top series, including Mad Men (2007), Modern Family (2009), and New Girl (2011) to name a few. In 2016 she was the lead in the successful Hallmark film Tulips in Spring (2016), the independent film 911 Nightmare (2016), and the Lifetime film Mommy's Little Girl (2016).
As of early 2017, she can be seen on two new series. She plays Lori on the hit Netflix/ Norman Lear series One Day at a Time (2017) and in the spring will be starring on the Star Jones produced series Daytime Divas (2017) opposite Vanessa Williams. Her current hit is The Good Doctor (2017), where she stars as Dr. Morgan Reznick.Fiona is one of the newest members of this list, having her first leading role in 2016. She's currently has a series role on FOX that is immensely popular, but I hope Hallmark and her can continue doing movies together. Fiona can play a lot of diverse roles very well. But the main reason I hope she does more movies is because she brings a quirkiness or goofiness to all her Hallmark characters that is also genuine and transparent (meaning doesn't care that she is different). It's tough to convey that to an audience and Hallmark should keep someone with her skillset around.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2016-18; 3 total)
* Royally Ever After (2018) - Her portrayal of someone who doesn't fit and different from others makes this princess movie work
* Christmas Next Door (2017) - she demonstrates why she is a good romantic female lead; watch her roll her eyes! Best line: "And you don't even write romance novels." "I'd rather live one."
* Tulips in Spring (2016) - Fiona convinces you to love everything she does (especially tulips); also the movie won an award for directing - Actress
- Producer
- Soundtrack
Julie Gonzalo was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and moved to Miami, Florida when she was 8 years old.
She won her first acting role when she was 20 and she made a few TV appearances during the early 2000s. She also appeared in some high-profile movies during that time, including Freaky Friday (2003)) but her breakthrough role came in 2006 when she won the role of Parker Lee in Veronica Mars (2004).
More TV and movie work followed (including several as producer) until she was cast as Rebecca Sutter in the revival of the hit 1980s soap Dallas (2012).Discovered that I left Julie off the list. I will add and update comments to reflect this fact.
Romantic Lead Roles (3 @ 2018-18; 3 total)
* The Sweetest Heart (2018)
* Falling For Vermont (2017) - this movie made me fall in love with her; she needs more roles with kids
* Pumpkin Pie Wars (2016) - Her best at demonstrating she can be a romantic lead.
Hallmark Movies Now, but not produced by Hallmark
* How to Train Your Husband or (How to Pick Your Second Husband First) (2018)- Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Lori Loughlin was born on 28 July 1964 in New York City, New York, USA. She is an actress and producer, known for Summerland (2004), When Calls the Heart (2014) and Full House (1987). She has been married to Mossimo Giannulli since 27 November 1997. They have two children. She was previously married to Michael Burns.Lori is the oldest of Hallmark's romantic leading ladies on our list, proving that age doesn't matter when it comes to romance. After watching 2018's four Garage Sale Mysteries movies, who isn't envious of her on-screen husband, Jason.
Lori's first lead role for Hallmark was in 2010. She currently is the busiest she's ever been at Hallmark with 11 TV episodes and 5 lead movie roles each year in 2017 and 2018! Lori's regular movie lead role is an amateur detective in the Garage Sale Mysteries. Lori was the romantic lead for a movie in 2018 and 2016; therefore an honorable mention.
Romantic Leads (2 @ 2016-18; 4 total)
* Homegrown Christmas (2018) - premieres 12-8-2018
* Every Christmas Has a Story (2016) - Lori's daughter has her acting debut in this movie as Mia
* Northpole: Open for Christmas (2015) - The story is more about her character's inner struggle than her romance with the male lead; regardless, Lori portrays both convincingly
* A Soldier's Love Story (2010)
Amateur Detective Roles
* Garage Sale Mysteries (2013-2018, 15 movies)
TV Series
* When Calls The Heart (2014-2019, 52 episodes)- Actress
- Producer
- Script and Continuity Department
Catherine was born in London, but she moved to California with her Iranian mother at the age of two. Her mother still acts as her personal assistant. As a girl, she acted in various TV advertisements. She went to UCLA to study biology/ pre-medicine, but she dropped out to become a model in Japan. She moved back into acting with a Mexican commercial for American Express, and then she followed that up by being Isabella Rossellini's nude body double in Death Becomes Her (1992), when she also met her future husband, Adam Beason, who was the director's Robert Zemeckis's assistant. As of 2018, the two reside near Los Angeles with their daughter Gemma Beason and son Ronan Beason.Catherines first lead role for Hallmark was in 2008 as the "good witch," a role she continues to this day. She has received romantic lead roles the past two years. She had no romantic lead roles in 2016, therefore an honorable mention.
Romantic Leads (3 @ 2017-18; 3 total)
* A Summer to Remember (2018) - an outstanding performance
* Christmas in the Air (2017)
* Home for Christmas Day (2017)
The Good Witch TV Series (2015-2018, 46 episodes)
The Good Witch Mysteries (2008-2014, 7 movies)- Actress
- Producer
- Director
Alison Sweeney was born on 19 September 1976 in Los Angeles, California, USA. She is an actress and producer, known for Days of Our Lives (1965), Murder, She Baked: A Chocolate Chip Cookie Mystery (2015) and Sweet Revenge: A Hannah Swensen Mystery (2021). She has been married to David Alan Sanov since 8 July 2000. They have two children.Alison's first lead role was in 2013. Recently she has split her movie roles between a romantic lead and an amateur detective. I hope she is able to take movie roles in the future, but since she didn't work with Hallmark in 2018 and has a new series with Hallmark in 2019, we'll have to wait and see. Allison had romantic leads in 2017 and 2016, but not 2018; therefore an honorable mention.
Romantic Leads (2 @ 2016-18; 4 total)
* Christmas at Holly Lodge (2017) - my favorite with her as a romantic lead
* The Irresistible Blueberry Farm (2016)
* Love on the Air (2015)
* Second Chances (2013)
Amateur Detective Roles
* Murder, She Baked (2015-2017, 5 movies)
TV Series
* The Chronicle Mysteries (coming 2019)- Actress
- Producer
- Director
Kellie Martin is an American actress from California. She has often worked as a voice actress in animation. Her most notable roles include the amateur detective Daphne Blake in the animated series "A Pup Named Scooby-Doo" (1988-1991), the nerdy daughter Rebecca "Becca" Thatcher in the drama series "Life Goes On" (1989-1993), schoolteacher Christy Huddleston in the period series "Christy" (1994-1995), leading lady Roxanne in the musical comedy "A Goofy Movie" (1995), medical student Lucy Knight for two seasons of the medical drama "ER" (1998-2000), amateur detective and bookshop owner Samantha Kinsey in the film series "Mystery Woman" (2003-2007), and therapist and retired prosecutor Hailey Dean in the film series "Hailey Dean Mysteries" (2016-2019).
In 1975, Martin was born in Riverside, California. Riverside is the most populous city in the Inland Empire region, located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of downtown Los Angeles. The city was established in the early 1870s, and served as a center for California's citrus industry. Martin's parents were the retail executive Doug Martin and the kindergarten teacher Debbie Jett.
Martin made her acting debut in 1982, at the age of 7. One of her aunts was an employee of actor Michael Landon (1936-1991), who served as an executive producer of the Western series "Father Murphy" (1981-1983). The aunt helped Martin land a guest spot in this Western series.
Martin went to have guest appearances in several then-popular television series, such as the soap opera "Dallas", the short-lived sitcom "Life with Lucy" (1986), and the sitcom "My Two Dads". She made her debut as a voice actor in the short-lived animated series "Potato Head Kids" (1986-1987), cast as the regular character Lolly. The series only lasted for 23 episodes.
Martin landed her first major role in animation when cast as co-protagonist Daphne Blake in "A Pup Named Scooby-Doo" (1988-1991). In previous depictions of Daphne, the character was depicted as either an adolescent or a young adult. In this series, Daphne was an elementary student who still lived with her wealthy parents. The series emphasized Daphne's haughty behavior and sarcastic personality. She was also the resident skeptic of the mystery-solving group, outright rejecting any explanation involving the existence of ghosts or the supernatural. The series lasted for 4 seasons and 27 episodes. It was the last animated series in the "Scooby-Doo" franchise to be produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, as the next series in the franchise was produced in 2002 by a different company.
Martin receive her first regular live-action role in the drama series "Life Goes On" (1989-1993), cast as Rebecca "Becca" Thatcher. The series was set in the suburbs of Chicago, and initially focused on the challenges the Thatcher family faced in raising a son diagnoses with Down Syndrome. The series later focused on the challenges faced by Becca in her everyday life. She was depicted as an intelligent and nerdy girl, but socially awkward and unlucky in her love life. Her first boyfriend Tyler Benchfield (played by Tommy Puett) was killed in a car accident, while drunk driving. Her second boyfriend Jesse McKenna (played by Chad Lowe) was HIV positive, and was uncertain about how long he would be able to survive with his medical condition. The series lasted for 4 seasons and 83 episodes. The final season also depicted a middle-aged version of Becca (played by Pamela Bellwood) , reminiscing abut her own past.
Martin's next regular role in animation was voicing Molly Tazmanian Devil in the animated sitcom "Taz-Mania" (1991-1995). Her character was depicted as the adolescent sister of protagonist Taz (voiced by Jim Cummings). Molly was an image-conscious valley girl. She was far more sophisticated than her older brother, but had a fiery temper of her own. The series lasted for 4 seasons and 65 episodes.
Martin next joined the cast of the fantasy series "Aladdin" (1994-1995), voicing recurring antagonist Sadira. In the series, Sadira was a female street rat who had an unrequited love for Aladdin, and was upset that her love interest was already engaged to another woman. After acquiring magical powers of her own, Sadira set out to win Aladdin's heart and to replace Princess Jasmine. Martin's character lacked actual malice, but had obsessive tendencies. She only appeared in 4 episodes, but was one of the most popular antagonists in the series.
Martin was cast as protagonist Christy Huddleston in the period series "Christy" (1994-1995), which was loosely based on the novel "Christy " (1967) by Catherine Marshall. In the series, Christy was the new schoolteacher of a rural settlement in Tennessee during the early 1910s. She was depicted as an outsider in the rural community, whose values clashed with the traditions of the permanent residents. The series acquired a cult following, but its production cost exceeded the advertising revenues. It was canceled after only 2 seasons. The series inspired three sequel television films, but Martin did not reprise her role.
Martin was cast as the leading lady Roxanne in the musical comedy "A Goofy Movie" (1995). In the film, Roxanne is a kind-hearted high school student who wants to date Maximilian "Max" Goof (voiced by Jason Marsden), the troubled adolescent son of Goofy. Their first date is canceled when Goofy insists on taking Max with him in a cross-country fishing trip, under the impression that he is rescuing his son from bad influences. Roxanne continues to pine for Max, while Max tries to impress her through a publicity stunt. The film under-performed at the box office, only earning a worldwide total of 37.6 million dollars in its initial release. It was nominated for the "Annie Award for Best Animated Feature", but lost to "Pocahontas". However the film sold well in the video market, acquired a cult following, and inspired a sequel film. Roxanne did not appear in the sequel film, and Martin never returned to this role.
From 1995 to 1998, Martin's roles were mainly limited to television films. In 1998, she joined the cast of the long-running medical drama "ER" (1994-2009), portraying the new regular character Lucy Knight. The character was portrayed as a hard-working medical student, but better suited to the psych department rather than emergency medicine. Martin remained a regular in the series for seasons 5 and 6, but wanted to leave the show. She agreed with the producers that her character was going to leave the series with a definite finale to her story. In her final episodes, Lucy is the only member of the medical staff who takes an interest in helping a schizophrenic patient. She is alone with the patient when he stabs her, and she dies shortly after. Lucy's final episode was broadcast in early 2000, but her death continued to haunt her colleagues.
Martin graduated from Yale University in 2001, with a degree in art history. For a few years, she willingly limited herself to minor acting appearances, in order to properly deal with changes in her personal life. In 2003, she was cast as protagonist Samantha Kinsey in the mystery film series "Mystery Woman". A total of 11 television films in this series were produced between 2003 and 2011.
In 2012, Martin joined the cast of the drama series "Army Wives" (2007-2013), portraying the recurring character of Captain Nicole Galassini. Her character was an Army intelligence officer who was injured in an ambush. Nicole was a lesbian, but the the "don't ask, don't tell" policy left her reluctant to make public appearances with her long-term partner Charlotte "Charlie" Mayfield (played by Ryan Michelle Bathe). Martin remained a recurring cast member for the 6th season of the series, but did not return for the 7th and last season.
In 2016, Martin was cast as protagonist Hailey Dean in the mystery film series "Hailey Dean Mysteries". A total of 9 films were released between 2016 and 2019. Hailey was depicted as a retired prosecutor for the District Attorney's office, who had started a new career as a therapist. But she unofficially investigated crime cases, and used old law enforcement contacts to assist her. Martin took a hiatus from acting in 2019, though her name is attached to at least one upcoming project.
By 2022, Martin was 46-years-old. She has never fully retired from acting, but she devotes time to operating her own store. She has two young daughters, and has admitted in interviews that she tries to be there for her family. Which at times affects her career choices. Martin remains popular with film and television audiences due to an ever-increasing number of memorable roles.Kellie's first lead role was in 2003 and she's been playing sleuth and detective for Hallmark ever since. She has played the lead in 23 Hallmark movies. The most of anyone on this list. Some of them were romantic leads, but not recently; therefore, an honorable mention.
Romantic Leads (0 @ 2016-2018, 5 total)
* Hello, It's Me (2015) - a favorite of mine and received multiple award nominations (directing, editing, cinematography, and young actor)
* So You Said Yes (2015)
* The Christmas Ornament (2013) - her best work as a romantic lead for Hallmark
* I Married Who? (2012)
* Smooch (2011)
Sleuth or Detective Roles for Hallmark:
* Hailey Dean Mysteries (2016-2018, 6 movies)
* Mystery Woman (2003-2007, 12 movies)