(L-R) Peete, Sanchez and Bent – Photos: Crown Media

Hallmark announced today that production has officially begun on an upcoming holiday movie starring Holly Robinson Peete called The Christmas Bond (working title), which is set up air during the Miracles of Christmas lineup during the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries holiday programming event.

Not only will Robinson Peete star, but she will also serve as executive producer for this all-new original movie. The Christmas Bond will also star Lyriq Bent (Acrimony) and Nik Sanchez (The Rookie) who, like the character he portrays, is on the autism spectrum.

In the story, as a single mom (Peete) and her teenaged son with autism (Sanchez) come to a crossroad during Christmas, she must learn to let go so he can flourish and finds her own heart healing in unexpected ways.

As a parent of a young man with autism and a vocal advocate for over two decades through her organization, HollyRod Foundation, Robinson Peete shared the importance of bringing the story to screen. “I am making this movie for my son RJ, others with autism and their families,” said Robinson Peete. “I am grateful to Hallmark for bringing this story to screen with authenticity, respect and hope.”

“Holly Robinson Peete is a tremendously talented actor and creative collaborator,“ said Randy Pope, Senior Vice President, Programming & Development. “We are excited and honored to help her bring this personal and beautiful story to life.”

“The Christmas Bond” is a Box Road Production. Orly Adelson, Holly Robinson Peete, Allen Lewis and Denielle Jackson are executive producers. Charles Cooper is producer. Kevin Fair directs from a script by Marcy Holland from a story by Camille Thomasson.

Lolly’s Note: This is a story that’s very close to my heart and my family, so this will be a one-to-watch for me. I’m very happy to see the network taking more steps towards diversity and inclusion to show how all types of families celebrate this time of year. It’s very important.

(Update: 10/21/21) – This movie is now called “Our Christmas Journey” and will air on December 4th at 10pm/9c on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries for Miracles of Christmas!

Stay Merry,