Hallmark and NFL team up for Kansas City Chiefs-themed Christmas 'Love Story'

Kansas City Chiefs-themed Christmas movie titled "Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story." The film will star Tyler Hynes, Hunter King, and Ed Begley Jr., and is set to begin filming next month in Kansas City, Missouri, home to both the Super Bowl champion Chiefs and Hallmark.

Darren Abbott, Hallmark's chief branding officer, expressed excitement about the project, stating, "By blending the warmth of Hallmark storytelling with the excitement of professional football, we are thrilled to give audiences a front-row seat to this community’s spirit, rich traditions and passionate fans that define Kansas City, all wrapped up in the comforting and uplifting Hallmark way."

Mark Donovan, Chiefs president, also commented on the partnership: "We are honored to partner with Hallmark on a project as unique as this. As a club, we pride ourselves on exploring new ways to grow our brand, as well as connect with new audiences. This partnership unites two passionate fan bases and gives us an opportunity to show Chiefs Kingdom’s energy and tradition on one of the most watched channels during the holiday season."

The production will notably use Arrowhead Stadium, marking the first time an NFL venue has featured in a Hallmark movie. The film's plot centers on Alana Higman (played by King), whose family's history as Kansas City Chiefs superfans makes them frontrunners for the team's Fan of the Year contest. Derrick (played by Hynes), the director of fan engagement, evaluates Alana's family against other finalists, and as they spend time together, a romantic spark develops. Complications arise when Alana’s grandfather’s vintage Chiefs good luck winter hat goes missing, leading her to question fate and her future with Derrick, until some Christmas magic steps in.

"Holiday Touchdown" will be part of Hallmark’s annual "Countdown to Christmas" programming and is executive produced by Skydance Sports, a joint venture between Skydance Media and the NFL.