Hallmark Upfronts 2019: New Christmas Competition Series, Podcast Hosts And Transformation Show

Crown Media Family Networks, which owns Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries and Hallmark Drama, announced some new programs and new podcasts hosts during its annual 2019 Upfronts presentation in New York City on Thursday.

Keep reading to get the lowdown on the new additions to the Hallmark family.

New Hallmark Podcast Hosts

Jacks and Shawl of The Bubbly Sesh podcast are taking their unofficial Hallmark program and making it official. The two will join the network’s new weekly podcast, “Hallmark Channels’ Bubbly Sesh,” which will have interviews and program previews. It debuts in April.

“Jacks and Shawl’s tremendous enthusiasm for our programming, combined with their podcasting experience, make them an ideal fit as the hosts of ‘Hallmark Channels’ Bubbly Sesh,’” Bill Abbott, President & CEO of Crown Media Family Networks, said in a press release. “They represent who our fans are, so we know that our viewers will respond and relate to them immediately.”

“Christmas Cookie Countdown”

A five-episode cookie competition series, featuring amateur bakers from around the country, is heading to Hallmark Drama this holiday season. There will be three pastry chefs as judges, as well as Hallmark stars rotating as host.

“The ‘Christmas Cookie Countdown’ gives Hallmark Drama signature content that can’t be seen anywhere else,” Abbott said. “This good-natured competition is a great addition to Crown Media’s tradition of celebrating the holidays on-air and we have every confidence it will resonate strongly with our viewers.”

“Project Christmas Joy: Alabama” (working title)

The new Hallmark Drama program “will give a town in need an extreme Hallmark holiday transformation,” according to a press release. “From an extravagant Christmas tree lighting to a Main Street makeover, this series will spread holiday cheer for a town that needs it the most.”

Abbott added of the program: “This show aligns perfectly with Hallmark Drama’s exclusive offering of original content. We look forward to bringing Hallmark holiday joy to a special town in Alabama for the 2019 Christmas season.”