The Kansas City Chiefs not only have the best record in the NFL and a chance to become the first team in league history to win three straight Super Bowls, the franchise is also incredibly popular these days. That’s what happens when one of your best players starts dating Taylor Swift in the midst of a dynastic run.
Now, there’s even a Chiefs-themed Hallmark movie titled “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” Here’s everything you need to know about the film, including how to watch, the plot, the cast, NFL cameos, and more.
How To Watch ‘Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story’
“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” premiered on the Hallmark Channel on Nov. 30, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET.
Due to the movie’s popularity, Hallmark released an extended cut of the film, which premiered on Dec. 20, 2024.
Both versions are available to stream on Hallmark+ and Peacock.
The Chiefs announced that this was a “partnership of two renowned Kansas City institutions — the Kansas City Chiefs and Hallmark — as they team up with Skydance Sports and NFL Films for a holiday movie that will have audiences everywhere cheering.”
The film was part of Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas programming.
What Is ‘Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story’ About?
The movie follows Alana Higman, whose family has a longstanding history as Chiefs superfans. Eager to win the “Fan of the Year” contest, Alana collaborates with Derrick, the Chiefs’ Director of Fan Engagement.
As the two work together, a romantic relationship blossoms. However, the disappearance of her grandfather’s cherished lucky hat challenges Alana’s beliefs in fate and destiny, prompting a journey of self-discovery and the magic of the holiday season.
“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” was filmed entirely in Kansas City, Missouri, including scenes at Arrowhead Stadium, marking a first for a Hallmark movie.
This collaboration between Hallmark Media and the Chiefs aims to merge the excitement of football with the warmth of holiday storytelling, appealing to both sports enthusiasts and Hallmark’s traditional audience.
This film represents a significant partnership between Hallmark and the NFL, celebrating community, tradition, and the festive spirit, making it a must-watch for the holiday season.
Meet the ‘Holiday Touchdown’ Cast
Hunter King as Alana Higman: Alana is a dedicated Kansas City Chiefs superfan aiming to secure her family’s legacy by winning the team’s “Fan of the Year” contest. King, known for her roles in “The Young and the Restless” and “Life in Pieces,” brings warmth and enthusiasm to the character.
Tyler Hynes as Derrick: Portraying the Chiefs’ Director of Fan Engagement, Derrick is responsible for evaluating contest finalists. Hynes, a Hallmark regular with credits like “Three Wise Men and a Baby,” adds charm to the role, especially as his character develops a romantic connection with Alana.
Special Appearances
Donna Kelce: The mother of Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, Donna makes her acting debut as the manager of Norma & Nic’s, a local barbecue restaurant. Her presence adds authenticity and a familial touch to the film.
EXCLUSIVE: Jenna Bush Hager and Donna Kelce share on TODAY the first trailer for @Hallmark @HallmarkChannel’s ‘Holiday Touchdown: A @Chiefs Love Story’ 🏈🎄 #ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/VQlOmbj3xn
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) November 14, 2024
Coach Andy Reid: The esteemed head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs appears as himself, contributing to the film’s genuine football atmosphere.
Chiefs Players: Team members Trey Smith, Mecole Hardman, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and George Karlaftis make cameo appearances, enhancing the film’s connection to the Chiefs’ community.
Ed Begley Jr. as Alana’s Grandfather: A seasoned actor, Begley Jr. portrays Alana’s grandfather, whose vintage Chiefs good-luck hat becomes a pivotal element in the storyline.
Jenna Bush Hager: The “Today” show co-host makes a special appearance, adding a unique touch to the film.
Holiday Touchdown Trailer
Check out the trailer for “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.”
What Is ‘A Kingdom Christmas Story: Hail Merry’
Believe it or not, “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” isn’t the only Christmas content that the Chiefs organization was involved with this year. They are also releasing their own “original, engaging, and heartwarming silent scripted Claymation short.”
What is this 90-second short about?
According to the team’s website, “In ‘A Kingdom Christmas Story: Hail Merry,’ Claymation versions of Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, QB Patrick Mahomes, TE Travis Kelce, DT Chris Jones, RB Isiah Pacheco, DE George Karlaftis and CB Trent McDuffie – along with the delightfully unexpected bounce of a football – save Christmas by bringing a busy family together around a Chiefs game, empowering all to believe in their dreams and the magic of the season.”
To promote this original short, the Chiefs had a 13-foot-tall version of the Mahomes Claymation character at Saturday’s game against the Houston Texans.
“Christmas is such a magical time, and our team was looking for a way to deliver something special for all of Chiefs Kingdom before our Christmas Day game streaming worldwide on Netflix,” said Lara Krug, the team’s chief media and marketing officer.
“The Claymation style elicits a nostalgic feeling, and we think many people will be able to relate to some of the family scenes that are featured in the short. We are all very proud of this original program and look forward to our fans being able to enjoy a memorable Chiefs story on Christmas Eve.”
The Claymation short will debut on the Chiefs’ YouTube Channel and Chiefs’ official social-media channels at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Dec. 24, ahead of the team’s NFL Christmas Day game.
On Christmas Day, the Chiefs will face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers on the road at Acrisure Stadium in the first NFL game exclusively broadcast on Netflix.