Finding Mr. Christmas Episode 1: Meet the Contestants, First Challenges, and Early Favorites

Warning: This post contains spoilers for Episode 1 of Finding Mr. Christmas on Hallmark+, including who was eliminated.

The premiere of Hallmark+’s new reality competition show, Finding Mr. Christmas, has finally arrived, and fans got their first taste of holiday magic as ten charming contestants begin their journey to win the title of Mr. Christmas. With a cast full of holiday spirit and unique talents, episode one introduced us to the men behind the photos, giving each a moment to shine – or stumble. Here’s a full breakdown of Finding Mr. Christmas episode 1 highlights, from introductions to the season’s first elimination.

The Contestants Arrive at the Mansion

The episode opens with each contestant arriving at the Finding Mr. Christmas mansion, a holiday wonderland dripping with festive charm. Every inch of the house is adorned with twinkling lights, lush garlands, and cascading ribbons in traditional reds and greens. Each contestant finds a stocking hanging by the chimney with care, embroidered with their names, in hopes that “Saint Jonathan Bennett” will soon be there.

The first contestant we meet is Parker, a seasoned model and devoted dad to his 8-year-old son. He shares that he’s here to set an example, teaching his son the importance of chasing dreams. Next up is Jonathan, a former USA athlete with a competitive spirit, a winning smile, and a small gap between his front teeth reminiscent of Michael Strahan. He arrives with firefighter Isaac, who immediately notices the roaring fire, as they exchange compliments about each other’s hair and outfits. There’s a lighthearted jab about age when Parker, the eldest of the trio, gets playfully labeled the “old man.”

Gage struts in with confidence, certain he’s got the competition in the bag, mentioning he’s been acting since fourth grade. Daxton and Elijah burst through the doors, overflowing with excitement. As the group swaps pleasantries, Daxton tells us in a private interview that he plans to sit back and observe but has a few tricks up his sleeve. Elijah, on the other hand, casually mentions his singing and acting abilities, but saves his big reveal for later.

David arrives, in awe of the mansion’s festive decor, admitting he’s a newcomer to acting and soaking in every detail of his surroundings. Blake and Hayden follow close behind; Blake, a salesman from Texas with a warm southern drawl, and Hayden, a charming Aussie who entertains children for a living, both instantly adding some cheer to the group. Last but not least, Ezra arrives dressed head to toe in black, a striking presence as a former Navy man turned model and aspiring actor. Gage can’t help but feel a twinge of intimidation as Ezra’s confidence fills the room.

Related: Get a closer look at the Finding Mr. Christmas contestants here

The Festive Face-Off

Jonathan Bennett opens the competition by sharing what he and the judges are looking for in the next Hallmark hunk. Then, it’s time for the first Festive Face Off: each contestant must design an ugly Christmas sweater that tells their story and shows off their unique personality.

Armed with tinsel, pompoms, and glitter, the room fills with friendly ribbing over who will craft the “ugliest” masterpiece. Once the sweaters are done, each contestant struts their design, sharing personal touches – and turning up the charm with judge Melissa Peterman.

This is where things get juicy! Elijah casually drops that he’s spent the last five years touring with Hamilton, and you can almost see the beads of sweat forming on the other guys’ foreheads. Then Daxton struts down the runway in a fabulously loud LGBTQ-inspired sweater only to apologize for being “a bit much.” Cue Jonathan Bennett shedding a tear and assuring him he’s perfect as-is – and I’m officially hooked on this show. But wait, the heartbreak keeps rolling: Hayden reveals he lost custody of his sweet dog Archie in a recent divorce, leaving everyone clutching their hideous Christmas sweaters.

Firefighter Isaac takes the first Festive Face Off win and snags an advantage for the Star Quality Challenge.

Related: How to watch Hallmark+ without a subscription

The Star Quality Challenge

The next day, the guys arrive at the first Star Quality Challenge and are greeted by JB, who reveals they’ll be performing a classic Hallmark meet-cute scene with none other than Hallmark actress Erin Cahill. The twist? Each guy will act out the scene alongside another contestant, competing for Erin’s attention.

Isaac, with his Festive Face Off advantage, gets to pick the pairs and chooses Texan salesman Blake as his scene partner. Right from the start, it’s clear their vibes are totally off, setting the stage for an awkward showdown.

This challenge is fun to watch, especially with Jonathan and Melissa’s priceless reactions from behind the camera. A few guys are already emerging as clear frontrunners, while others deliver meet-cutes that feel more awkward than adorable.

Elimination Ceremony

Warning: This post contains spoilers for Episode 1 of Finding Mr. Christmas on Hallmark+, including who was eliminated.

The guys line up before the judges at the elimination ceremony, where Erin shares who stood out: Jonathan and Blake. The Shining Star goes to the contestant who brought authenticity and kept true to the script – and the winner is Hayden. His playful move of tossing a bow over his shoulder during the scene paid off big.

But a few contestants are skating on “thin ice,” with David, Isaac, and Parker all at risk. David and Parker are safe, but Isaac, despite his Festive Face Off win, is sent packing.

Don’t forget your stocking, Isaac.

We’re Your New Hallmark Besties

Hey there! We’re Girls Gone Hallmark! Megan’s a longtime Hallmark movie fan, while Wendy – well, she used to be a Hallmark hater. Now, we’ve teamed up to share our (often very different!) takes on these films. Get ready for some lively, fun-filled conversations!

Check out the library of Hallmark movies we’ve reviewed!

Exclusively on the Girls Gone Hallmark podcast. Subscribe today!

’