HALLMARK CHANNEL ANNOUNCES POWERHOUSE SINGER JORDIN SPARKS TO STAR IN ALL-NEW ORIGINAL MOVIE, "A CHRISTMAS TREASURE"

Michael Xavier is set to co-star alongside Sparks

STUDIO CITY, CA - July 13, 2021 - Hallmark Channel has announced that Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer-songwriter and actress, who won season six of "American Idol," Jordin Sparks, will be starring in the all-new original Hallmark Channel movie, "A Christmas Treasure," alongside Hallmark alum Michael Xavier. The film will premiere as part of the network's "Countdown to Christmas" programming event.

After opening a 100-year-old time capsule and finding her grandfather's journal, Lou (Sparks) questions whether she should move to New York after Christmas to further her writing career or stay in Pine Grove to carry on her family's local newspaper. Charming chef, Kyle (Xavier), is also at a crossroads, visiting Pine Grove for the holidays. When Lou and Kyle meet, they both have doubts about their future, but the magic of the holiday season and the connection they have, helps each of their journeys.

"Christmas is so special to me and I'm thrilled that I get to share this festive movie with you this year," says Sparks. "I loved being able to perform some of my favorite Christmas melodies, one for the first time, as part of the movie. Joining the Hallmark family is a dream come true! I know people are going to fall in love with Lou and our story that truly represents the phrase, 'Home is where the Heart is.'"

Sparks sings two classic Christmas songs in the movie, covering "This Christmas" and on the piano, "Oh Holy Night." Her original song from her 2020 Christmas album Cider & Hennessy "Oh, It's Christmas" will also be part of the movie.

With much success in series television and film including SYFY's "Bitten" and Netflix/CBC's "Northern Rescue" and also a Hallmark Alum, Michael Xavier is the perfect fit for this heartwarming film.

The all-new original movie is a part of Hallmark Channel's "Countdown to Christmas" programming event, the destination for holiday entertainment. The premiere date of the movie will be announced at a later date.

"A Christmas Treasure" is from Christmas Treasure Road Productions Ltd. Stephanie Germain, Jordin Sparks, Harvey Kahn and Allen Lewis serve as executive producers. Charles Cooper serves as producer. Michael Robison directed from a story by Jen Notas Shapiro and teleplay by Sandra Berg & Judith Berg. Music is by Sean William.

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