Hallmark’s A Christmas Angel Match Brings Meghan Ory and Benjamin Ayres Onscreen with Puppies in Tow

Picture this: two beloved Hallmark stars playing Christmas angels, a dash of matchmaking mischief, and a litter of fluffy Husky puppies stealing every scene. It's the stuff of holiday dreams, and it's coming to your screen soon. Hallmark Channel favorites Meghan Ory and Benjamin Ayres are joining forces for A Christmas Angel Match, a feel-good film that's equal parts heartwarming romance and festive fun. With Ory pulling double duty as both star and writer, this movie promises to deliver the cozy vibes we've come to crave during the holiday season, complete with unexpected twists and plenty of puppy cuddles. As the network gears up for its 16th annual Countdown to Christmas, this exclusive peek reveals why this project is set to be a standout.

Stars Align for a Festive Collaboration

Meghan Ory, known for her roles in Once Upon a Time and Chesapeake Shores, teams up with Benjamin Ayres, the charming lead from Saving Hope, in what marks a fresh pairing for Hallmark fans. The duo brings their on-screen chemistry to life as celestial matchmakers, but it's the behind-the-scenes energy that's just as captivating. Ory, at 43, not only stars but also penned the script, drawing from personal inspirations that make the story feel intimate and authentic.

Ayres, 48, is no stranger to the holiday hustle, having juggled three Hallmark Christmas movies in 2024 alone. He appeared in The Santa Class alongside Kimberley Sustad, Santa Tell Me with Erin Krakow, and Happy Holidays from Cherry Lane featuring Erica Durance. His experience adds a layer of seasoned warmth to the production, making him the perfect foil to Ory's thoughtful approach.

The film also reunites Ory with director Christie Will Wolf, who previously guided her and husband John Reardon in the 2024 Hallmark hit Believe in Christmas. This marks their third collaboration, blending Ory's acting prowess with her emerging role as a producing partner. The result? A movie that feels like a labor of love, infused with the kind of shorthand understanding that only comes from trusted creative bonds.

Puppies Bring Extra Joy to the Set

 

 

 

 

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What elevates A Christmas Angel Match beyond the typical holiday fare? Adorable Husky puppies, of course. These furry co-stars, just 12 weeks old during filming, brought an irresistible cuteness factor that had the entire crew smitten. Ory recalls them fondly, sharing how they were really little and so cute. In a heartwarming twist, one of the pups even found a forever home with a member of the catering team, turning the set into a real-life adoption story.

The inclusion of these playful pooches isn't just for show; it ties into the film's theme of unexpected connections. As Ory puts it, they were like 12 weeks old, and they were really little. They were so cute! And one of the people on the crew in catering bought one of them, so we even matched a puppy with a home. It's moments like these that remind us why Hallmark movies resonate so deeply, blending scripted magic with genuine off-screen warmth. For animal lovers, this element alone makes the film a must-watch, promising scenes filled with tail-wags and holiday cheer.

A Heavenly Tale of Love and Clashes

At its core, A Christmas Angel Match is a story about unlikely partnerships and the sparks they ignite. Ory and Ayres portray Monica and Michael, two Christmas angels usually operating solo in the heavenly realm. But when the Christmas Connection Department faces the threat of downsizing, they're forced to team up on a critical mission: ensuring that soulmates Daisy and Patrick fall in love before Christmas arrives.

The official synopsis paints a vivid picture of their dynamic. Monica is a by-the-book traditionalist who follows every heavenly rule, while Michael embraces spontaneity and delights in earthly joys like hot chocolate, snowball fights, and holiday dancing. Their clashing styles, and the undeniable spark growing between them, complicate their mission. As Christmas Eve draws near, Monica and Michael worry their differences will keep them from completing their mission in time. But just when it seems all hope is lost, a surprising turn of events changes everything, leading to a Christmas connection no one saw coming.

This setup allows for plenty of humorous and heartfelt moments, exploring themes of balance between structure and fun. It's a fresh take on the guardian angel trope, infused with holiday traditions that feel both timeless and innovative.

Ory's Personal Touch in the Script

 

 

 

 

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What makes this film particularly special is Ory's role as the writer. Drawing from her passion for matchmaking and her family's theories on guardian angels, she crafted a narrative that's deeply personal. Funny enough, it was my husband, John Reardon, who thought combining those two things plus a dash of Christmas would make a great movie, Ory explains. This blend of real-life inspiration adds authenticity, turning the script into more than just a holiday rom-com.

Initially, Ory kept her writing credit under wraps, using her mother's name as a nom de plume. It feels very personal, she admits. I have been writing for a long time, and I feel shy about it for some reason. But when people found out over the course of filming that I had written it, they all encouraged me to talk about it. Her vulnerability shines through, making the project a milestone in her career. It's a testament to her multifaceted talents, proving she's as skilled behind the scenes as she is in front of the camera.

The script's evolution highlights Ory's growth as a storyteller, weaving in elements of faith, family, and festivity that resonate with audiences seeking uplifting content.

Director's Heartfelt Praise for the Team

Director Christie Will Wolf brings her signature touch to the film, praising the collaborative spirit that defined the production. This is the third time I’ve had the gift of collaborating with @officialmeghanory, as lead actress, and as my producing partner, Wolf wrote on Instagram. We speak in shorthand, consistently have the same thought, and spin ideas like records, nonstop and always in rhythm. Making movies is hard. We’re both moms. Being away from our kids isn’t easy. But the kind of storytelling we’re stepping into now… the tier we’re pushing toward… that makes the sacrifice mean something. And being with her while doing it makes all the difference.

Wolf's words underscore the challenges and rewards of filmmaking, especially for working mothers. Her direction ensures the movie captures the emotional depth of the script while amplifying its joyful elements. This partnership elevates A Christmas Angel Match, making it a polished addition to Hallmark's lineup.

Countdown to a Merry Premiere

As excitement builds, A Christmas Angel Match is poised to become a holiday favorite. Set to debut later this year on Hallmark Channel during the 16th annual Countdown to Christmas, it joins a slate of films designed to spread seasonal spirit. With its mix of romance, humor, and those unforgettable puppies, the movie offers something for everyone, from die-hard Hallmark enthusiasts to casual viewers seeking feel-good entertainment.

In a year packed with festive releases, this collaboration stands out for its personal touches and star power. Whether it's the angelic antics or the real-life inspirations, A Christmas Angel Match reminds us that the holidays are about connections, both heavenly and earthly. Mark your calendars, this one's sure to warm hearts and light up screens across the country.