Key Takeaways:
– Hallmark executives dismiss concerns over competition from Great American Family (GAF).
– They maintain no interest to make their movies racier, countering GAF’s movements.
– New streaming service, Hallmark+, is set to replace Hallmark Movies Now in mid-September.
– A reality series and other new shows are on the roster for the Hallmark+ service.
Hallmark Stands Firm on Competition Stance
Brought into the spotlight during Hallmark Media’s panel at the 2024 TCA Summer Press Tour, fierce competition between Hallmark and rival network GAF took center stage. However, Mike Perry, President and CEO of Hallmark Cards, Inc., firmly held his ground saying, “We don’t obsess over the competition. We obsess over our fans.” This sentiment was echoed by other attendees of the panel, stating that Hallmark remains focused on its audience rather than worrying about its competitors.
Not Shying from Question on Talent ‘Poaching’
Journalists present at the event probed into matters of talent “poaching” by GAF from Hallmark. Yet, Hallmark executives maintained composure and stuck to their agenda of prioritizing viewers over competitive rivalries. While the industry moves in different directions, Hallmark’s clear dedication to its fans stands unwavering.
No ‘Racier’ Movies for Hallmark
When quizzed about a potential shift in movie content, Hallmark executives were clear. They ruled out the idea of making their holiday movies racier, a speculation aroused owing to GAF’s political leanings. Lisa Hamilton Daly, EVP of Programming for Hallmark Media, categorically denied moving towards more risqué content. She reasserted Hallmark’s stand to continue as a channel focused on family content, a reputation they have worked hard to maintain.
Remembering Wonya Lucas and His Mission
Reminiscing about Wonya Lucas, former President & CEO of Hallmark, it was noted that she felt she had fulfilled her mission at Hallmark, after which she stepped down. Lucas was succeeded by Mike Perry in August 2023, who has since been heading Hallmark’s operations diligently, and is now maintaining the network’s focus on its fans and traditional family movies.
Hallmark+ Enters the Streaming Arena
Hallmark made a significant announcement during the TCA panel. They are launching a new streaming service, known as Hallmark+. Set to replace Hallmark Movies Now around mid-September, it promises to bring with it engaging entertainment.
Hallmark+ is gearing up to be more than just a streaming platform. With a game-ified element incorporated into the service, it ensures a unique user experience for its subscribers. Variety further reported that Hallmark+ will also feature multiple unscripted reality series. Prominent actors Lacey Chabert, Jonathan Bennett, Wes Brown, Ashley Williams, and Luke Macfarlane are all set to host the new shows.
A Noteworthy Competition on Hallmark+
In the pipeline for Hallmark+ is a reality competition, “Finding Mr. Christmas”, which aims to discover the new Hallmark hunk holiday star. To be judged by Jonathan Bennett and Melissa Peterman, the show will feature ten contestants battling it out on a picturesque Utah ranch. The triumphant winner gets to star in a leading role in the 2024 Countdown to Christmas movie.
In essence, despite facing strong competition in the entertainment industry, Hallmark is holding on to its distinctive branding and family focus. With the impending launch of Hallmark+, the channel is preparing to offer its fans a host of new shows and experiences, pushing its fan-centric approach to all-new heights.