Photos Courtesy of Crown Media

Hallmark Channel has announced that Grammy-nominated, singer-songwriter and actress — and American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, will be making her Countdown to Christmas debut this holiday season by starring in “A Christmas Treasure” alongside Hallmark alum Michael Xavier, who previously starred in “Christmas Comes Twice” from the network among other holiday film credits.

The official synopsis reads: 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.

The multi-platinum singer will also perform two classic Christmas songs in the movie, covering Donny Hathaway’s “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 included.

“Christmas is so special to me and I’m thrilled that I get to share this festive movie with you this year,” says Sparks in a statement through Hallmark. “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.'”

Directed by Michael Robison from a story by Jen Notas Shapiro, and teleplay by Sandra Berg and Judith Berg, “A Christmas Treasure” will air later this fall during the Countdown to Christmas programming event. A premiere date will be announced as we get closer to the holiday season.

Stay merry!