Get ready for a blend of Christmas charm and espionage as Hallmark Channel’s latest holiday feature, The Christmas Charade, premieres. The film stars Rachel Skarsten (Reign) and Corey Sevier (Cedar Cove), who dive into an unexpected holiday adventure with a touch of action, humor, and romance. This thrilling entry in Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas is the perfect addition for viewers looking to mix seasonal cheer with a dash of intrigue.
What is Hallmark’s ‘The Christmas Charade’ about?
Whitney, played by Rachel Skarsten, is a cautious librarian with a background in home security, courtesy of her family. Her quiet life takes a dramatic turn when a blind date mix-up lands her in the middle of a covert FBI operation. Soon, she finds herself pretending to be the girlfriend of Special Agent Josh, played by Corey Sevier, as they try to catch an elusive art thief targeting the Saint Nicholas Ruby at a prestigious Christmas Eve charity ball.
The stakes rise as Whitney, forced to think on her feet, must embrace her inner action hero to help Agent Josh and the FBI. The story plays with the “opposites attract” trope, balancing Whitney’s cautious nature with Josh’s risk-taking character, as they work together to save the priceless ruby—and maybe their blossoming romance.
‘The Christmas Charade’ Cast:
Rachel Skarsten (Whitney)
Known for her regal role as Queen Elizabeth I in Reign, Skarsten brings an approachable strength to her character, Whitney. Hallmark fans will remember her from previous films, including The Royal Nanny, Timeless Love, and Christmas Island. Skarsten’s chemistry with Sevier and her character’s unanticipated courage in the face of danger make her performance both compelling and heartwarming.
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Corey Sevier (Josh)
A Hallmark veteran, Sevier’s career began as a child actor on Lassie and continued through roles in Cedar Cove and Mistresses. His character, Special Agent Josh, is a holiday twist on the action hero archetype—a tough but charming agent with a knack for getting the job done. Sevier’s portrayal balances the intensity of the undercover operation with moments of lighthearted romance, making him an ideal leading man in this festive caper.
Verdict:
The Christmas Charade is more than just a holiday romance—it’s a playful adventure that blends the sweetness of holiday traditions with the excitement of a spy thriller. Fans of Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas will find Whitney and Josh’s dynamic refreshing as they juggle the stresses of the season with the pressures of a high-stakes FBI operation. Between cracking cases and saving cherished artifacts, the two protagonists find that there’s more than one way to experience the magic of Christmas.
Viewing Schedule:
Premiere
- Saturday, Oct. 26 at 8 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel
Encore Airings
- Sunday, Oct. 27 at 6 p.m. ET
- Friday, Nov. 1 at 10 p.m. ET
- Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 8 p.m. ET
- Saturday, Nov. 16 at 8 a.m. ET
- Friday, Nov. 22 at 12 a.m. ET
- Friday, Nov. 29 at 8 a.m. ET
