The Definitive Love You Like Christmas Cast and Character Guide
If you are settling in for a cozy rewatch of the 2016 Hallmark classic, knowing exactly who is who helps you sink deeper into the story. Here is the primary cast lineup for Love You Like Christmas:
- Bonnie Somerville as Maddie Duncan
- Brennan Elliott as Kevin Tyler
- Madison Brydges as Jo Tyler
- Richard Waugh as Sean
- Sadie LeBlanc as Pam
- Jeff Clarke as Stan
The snow is falling softly outside the window of a stalled car, the scent of pine needles mixing with the sharp, cold air of Christmas Valley. You can almost feel Maddie Duncan’s heart sink as her high-powered marketing life in the city grinds to a halt in a town that looks like a literal greeting card. This is the magic of the Love You Like Christmas cast; they don't just play characters, they inhabit a world of emotional safety. When Bonnie Somerville and Brennan Elliott share the screen, there is a tangible sense of grounded warmth that makes the 'stuck in a small town' trope feel like a personal invitation to slow down and breathe.
Psychologically, we return to films like this because they offer 'emotional predictability.' In a world that feels increasingly chaotic, seeing a familiar face like Brennan Elliott—a staple of the Hallmark universe—signals to our nervous system that everything is going to be okay. This cast was specifically chosen to balance Maddie’s frantic city energy with the steady, quiet dignity of a small-town father, creating a narrative arc that feels less like a movie and more like a gentle reminder of what matters most during the holidays.
Love You Like Christmas Full Cast and Role Breakdown
To help you navigate the 'I know that face!' moment, this table breaks down the essential players in this holiday favorite.
| Actor | Character Name | Key Hallmarks of Their Role | Where You've Seen Them Before |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonnie Somerville | Maddie Duncan | High-achieving marketing exec who finds love in a detour. | Friends, NYPD Blue, Code Black |
| Brennan Elliott | Kevin Tyler | The kind-hearted widower and owner of the local garage. | The Crossword Mysteries, Cedar Cove |
| Madison Brydges | Jo Tyler | Kevin’s daughter who dreams of a 'real' Christmas. | Big Top Academy, Single All the Way |
| Richard Waugh | Sean | The supportive voice of wisdom in the small-town setting. | RoboCop (TV Series), Designated Survivor |
| Sadie LeBlanc | Pam | Maddie's connection to her past and future. | The 4400, Various Hallmark Titles |
There is a specific mechanism at play when we see actors like Bonnie Somerville transition from high-stakes dramas like NYPD Blue into the soft-focus world of Christmas romance. It creates a 'bridge of trust' for the viewer. We see her vulnerability as Maddie Duncan and associate it with our own desire to occasionally escape the pressures of 'doing it all.' This table serves as more than just data; it is a map of the familiar archetypes that allow us to process themes of grief, renewal, and the courage to change paths in a safe, fictional environment.
The Leads: Deep Dive into Bonnie Somerville and Brennan Elliott
The chemistry between the leads is what keeps this 2016 film at the top of many holiday watchlists. Let’s look at the career trajectories that brought these two powerhouses together for this project:
- Bonnie Somerville (Maddie Duncan): Known for her versatility, Bonnie brings a sharp intelligence to Maddie that makes her transformation feel earned rather than forced. She has appeared in over 50 projects, ranging from hit sitcoms to intense medical dramas.
- Brennan Elliott (Kevin Tyler): Often called one of the 'Kings of Hallmark,' Brennan has a unique ability to play the 'everyman' who is also a romantic hero. His filmography is a masterclass in the 'slow-burn' romance that Hallmark fans crave.
When we watch these two interact, our brains are performing a 'pattern match.' For many in the 45+ demographic, seeing Brennan Elliott feels like catching up with an old friend. This is not accidental; casting directors for the Hallmark Channel prioritize actors who project stability and kindness. This allows the audience to bypass the 'getting to know you' phase and dive straight into the emotional core of the story. The subtle ways Kevin looks at Maddie—not with flashy passion, but with steady admiration—mirrors the type of mature love that resonates with long-term viewers who value partnership over drama.
Supporting Stars: The Heart of Christmas Valley
While the leads carry the romance, the supporting love you like christmas cast provides the emotional texture that makes Christmas Valley feel like a real community.
- Madison Brydges (Jo): As the young daughter, Madison provides the 'emotional stakes.' Her performance avoids the typical 'precocious child' tropes and instead offers a grounded portrayal of a child seeking connection after loss.
- Richard Waugh (Sean): Every small town needs a lighthouse, and Waugh’s character serves as the anchor for the town’s values.
From a psychological perspective, these supporting roles represent the 'Social Support Network' that is vital for mental well-being. Maddie Duncan’s transformation isn't just about falling for a man; it’s about being absorbed into a healthy community. The inclusion of Jo’s character allows for a 'family system' dynamic to emerge, which can be deeply healing for viewers who may be experiencing their own family transitions or the 'empty nest' syndrome. Watching this ensemble navigate the complexities of a town-wide celebration reinforces the idea that we are all part of something larger than ourselves.
Filming Secrets and Production Trivia
One of the most common questions fans ask is where this magical town actually exists. While Christmas Valley is a fictional creation for the movie, the production took place in various parts of Ontario, Canada, which is a staple for many holiday films.
- Primary Filming Hub: Hamilton and Dundas, Ontario.
- The Inn Vibes: Several historic locations were used to create the cozy, lived-in feel of the local town hall and various shops.
- Atmosphere: The production team used a mix of real Canadian winter weather and classic movie magic to ensure every frame felt 'Christmas-perfect.'
There is a sensory delight in knowing the 'where' behind the 'who.' When you see the love you like christmas cast bundled in thick knits against a backdrop of historic stone buildings, it triggers a 'hygge' response—that Danish concept of cozy contentment. This film, directed by Graeme Campbell, expertly uses its locations to enhance the performances. The physical closeness of a small-town setting forces characters into 'forced proximity,' a classic narrative device that accelerates emotional intimacy. For those of us watching from the comfort of our couches, it’s a vicarious journey into a world where everything is just a little bit more beautiful and focused on the spirit of the season.
The Psychology of Holiday Comfort: Why We Return
As we reflect on why the love you like christmas cast remains so beloved years after its release, we have to look at the concept of 'parasocial relationships.' These are the one-sided bonds we form with media figures. For many, Bonnie Somerville and Brennan Elliott aren't just actors; they are symbols of holiday tradition.
- Consistency: Seeing the same actors in various holiday roles creates a sense of reliability.
- Identity: We often identify with the characters' struggles—like Maddie’s work-life balance—making the resolution feel personally satisfying.
- Aspiration: The cast portrays a version of conflict resolution that is respectful and growth-oriented, providing a healthy template for our own lives.
If you find yourself searching for the cast of this movie every December, you aren't just looking for names; you are looking for a return to a specific emotional state. It’s a form of self-care. By identifying with the characters played by this talented ensemble, you are giving yourself permission to value rest, connection, and the possibility of a new beginning. Whether you are a long-time fan of Brennan Elliott's work or a newcomer to the charms of Christmas Valley, these actors offer a masterclass in the power of gentle storytelling.
FAQ
1. Who is in the love you like christmas cast?
The main cast of the 2016 Hallmark movie Love You Like Christmas features Bonnie Somerville as Maddie Duncan and Brennan Elliott as Kevin Tyler. They are supported by Madison Brydges, who plays Kevin’s daughter Jo, and Richard Waugh as Sean.
2. Who plays Maddie Duncan in Love You Like Christmas?
Maddie Duncan is played by actress Bonnie Somerville. She is well-known for her roles in Friends as Ross's girlfriend Mona and her work on various television dramas like NYPD Blue and Code Black.
3. Who is the lead actor in Love You Like Christmas?
The male lead, Kevin Tyler, is portrayed by Brennan Elliott. He is a prolific Hallmark actor known for his leading roles in Cedar Cove and The Crossword Mysteries series.
4. Who played the little girl Jo in Love You Like Christmas?
The role of the little girl, Jo Tyler, is played by Madison Brydges. She is a talented Canadian actress who has appeared in several family-oriented series and films, including Big Top Academy.
5. Is Bonnie Somerville still acting in Hallmark movies?
Yes, Bonnie Somerville continues to work in film and television. While she isn't in every Hallmark season, her career remains active with various guest roles and film projects across multiple networks.
6. Where was Love You Like Christmas filmed?
The film was primarily shot in and around Hamilton and Dundas, Ontario, Canada. These locations are popular for holiday movies due to their historic architecture and wintry atmosphere.
7. Is Love You Like Christmas a Hallmark movie?
Yes, Love You Like Christmas is a 2016 Hallmark Channel original movie. It has become a seasonal staple that often airs during the Countdown to Christmas programming event.
8. Where can I watch Love You Like Christmas in 2024?
Love You Like Christmas is typically available to stream on the Hallmark Movies Now service. It may also be available for purchase or rent on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV during the holiday season.
9. How many movies have Bonnie Somerville and Brennan Elliott done together?
While Bonnie Somerville and Brennan Elliott have both starred in numerous Hallmark films, they are best known as a duo in this specific 2016 favorite. You can find more of their work on the official Hallmark website.
10. What is the plot of Love You Like Christmas?
The movie follows a high-powered marketing executive whose car breaks down in a small town called Christmas Valley. While there, she discovers the true meaning of the season through the kindness of the local residents and a charming widower.
References
hallmarkchannel.com — Love You Like Christmas - Hallmark Channel
imdb.com — Love You Like Christmas (TV Movie 2016) - Full Cast & Crew - IMDb
tvguide.com — Bonnie Somerville and Brennan Elliott Filmography