The series will follow Saville Row textile pattern designer Kate, who lives in the quaint village of Blexford, England next door to her father Mac, who is long-divorced from Kate's mother Delilah, a globe-trotting American always on an adventure. When not at work, Kate looks after Mac, who's recovering from a motorbike accident and is inclined to spend his days sitting in his recliner.
Unbeknownst to Kate, her best friend Laura signs her up for "The 12 Dates of Christmas" - a holiday-themed matchmaking program in the days leading up to the holiday featuring carefully curated, yuletide dating experiences, in an attempt to get Kate out of her rut. Lovingly coerced by Laura and longtime best friend Callum, a reluctant Kate ultimately gets into the spirit of the program and is caught off guard when she meets someone who reinvigorates her zest for life. But when Delilah unexpectedly shows up on her doorstep, Kate and Mac's life and holiday season get upended. Meanwhile, Mac embarks on his own romance with local Evelyn, a widow who slowly helps him step outside the confines of his house and open his heart. As Kate wends her way through the 12 dates, she takes a circuitous route to romance while also making some important discoveries about herself.
The limited series will star Mae Whitman, Mary McDonnell, Jane Seymour, Lucy Eaton, Julian Morris, Toby Sandeman and Nathaniel Parker.
Erin Rodman and Davah Avena developed the series. They executive produce with Carrie Stein, Dan March and David McLoughlin. Dynamic Television and Metropolitan Pictures will produce.
"Erin and Davah's brilliant adaptation of Jenni Bayliss' beloved book not only transports viewers to the romantic English countryside but immerses them in the unique magic of the holiday seasons in London," said Samantha DiPippo, Senior Vice President of Programming, Hallmark Media. "The amazing cast we've assembled to bring to life these richly textured, relatable characters who experience a life-changing Christmas is the shining star on top of this tree."
