Jonathan Bennett: Hallmark’s King of Christmas, Redefining Movies and LGBTQ+ Representation
Jonathan Bennett has had a wild ride on his path to Hallmark Channel stardom. He first made waves as Aaron Samuels in Mean Girls, a role that locked him into pop culture legend status. Every October 3rd, the internet erupts in Mean Girls quotes, TikToks, and a fresh appreciation for Aaron’s perfectly pushed-back hair.
Since then, Bennett has showcased his versatility across movie and television roles, stepping into everything from romantic comedies to suspense dramas, and even bringing his charm to reality TV as a participant on Dancing with the Stars and Celebrity Big Brother. Whether he’s dancing the cha-cha-cha or taking on complex characters, Bennett proves he can capture our attention in any setting.
Beyond acting, he’s also become a fan favorite on Food Network, hosting shows like Halloween Wars and Cake Wars, where his humor and energy are as essential as the frosting.
With a career spanning TV, film, and reality, Jonathan Bennett is the full package, keeping audiences entertained, laughing, and always coming back for more.
Jonathan Bennett’s Hallmark Era
Since joining Hallmark in 2017, Jonathan Bennett has become a beloved figure on the network, lighting up screens in both holiday favorites and heartfelt romances that radiate warmth, charm, and a touch of magic. His steady presence across Hallmark movies has brought him to the forefront as a consistent and cherished lead.
In 2020, Bennett took on a groundbreaking role as Brandon in The Christmas House, a GLAAD Media Award nominee for Outstanding TV Movie. This movie marked a pivotal shift in Hallmark’s post-Bill Abbott era, paving the way for more inclusivity and LGBTQ+ representation in the network’s holiday lineup. Playing Brandon, a partnered man navigating family traditions and future hopes, Bennett was able to bring his authentic self to the screen in a portrayal that resonated with audiences, breaking new ground for the network.
Bennett’s work didn’t stop there; he continues to redefine the landscape of Hallmark’s holiday and romance films. From leading roles in movies that feature same-sex couples, to hallmarking the network’s first same-sex wedding, and even bringing the heat with some of Hallmark’s most memorable “fire” kiss scenes between same-sex partners, Bennett is helping to expand the boundaries of what Hallmark rom-coms can be.
Jonathan Bennett’s Hallmark era is more than just a career milestone – it’s a movement, making holiday films and romantic comedies more inclusive, authentic, and reflective of love in all its forms.
Jonathan Bennett’s Hallmark Movies in Order
Here’s a look at Jonathan Bennett’s full Hallmark catalog.
- Love at First Glance (2017) – Bennett plays the supportive and witty roommate to Amy Smart’s character, Mary. While Smart and co-star Adrian Grenier take the lead in this romance about unexpected connections, Bennett adds his own flair to the story, bringing humor and warmth to the cast dynamic.
- Christmas Made to Order (2018) – Starring alongside Alexa PenaVega, Bennett plays Steven, a man who hires a Christmas enthusiast to bring the holiday spirit to his family, only to fall for her in the process.
- The Christmas House (2020) – This movie, co-starring Brad Harder, Robert Buckley, and Ana Ayora, marked Hallmark’s first holiday film to feature a gay couple as central characters. Bennett plays Brandon, a man navigating family expectations and the possibility of adoption with his husband, making the story both heartwarming and deeply relatable.
- The Christmas House 2: Deck Those Halls (2021) – In this much-anticipated sequel, Bennett returns as Brandon, bringing more laughs, love, and holiday cheer in an epic brother versus brother Christmas decorating showdown.
- Wedding of a Lifetime (2022) – Bennett stars as Jake, who, along with his ex-fiancée Darby (played by Brooke D’Orsay), unexpectedly finds himself competing in a nationally televised contest for an all-expenses-paid wedding. This quirky and heartwarming setup gives the recently separated couple a second chance at love and hi-jinx as they navigate the ups and downs of the competition.
- The Holiday Sitter (2022) – Bennett stars as Sam, a confirmed bachelor who unexpectedly finds himself babysitting his niece and nephew. Enter Jason (played by George Krissa), the helpful and charming neighbor who steps in to lend a hand. As the two work together, Sam begins to question what he really wants out of life, opening up to new possibilities in this heartwarming holiday story.
- Christmas on Cherry Lane (2023) – This touching holiday story weaves together Christmas Eves from past and present, highlighting the heartfelt connections between three families as they navigate pivotal life moments. Bennett stars as Mike Harrelson, alongside Vincent Rodriguez III as Zian Harrelson, bringing warmth and depth to a story of love, family, and holiday traditions that span generations.
- The Groomsmen: First Look (2024) – In the first of a three-part series, Bennett takes on a supporting role as Danny, a loyal friend caught up in the excitement of a wedding in Philadelphia. The story centers on a cautious pediatrician and an overseas doctor who spark a connection, but their budding romance faces challenges from long distance, family dynamics, and a lively group of friends who just might get in the way.
- The Groomsmen: Second Chances (2024) – Bennett steps into the lead role as Danny, who faces a bittersweet dilemma when he’s asked to be the best man at his best friend’s wedding in Greece. With the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean, Danny finally finds the courage to confront his long-hidden romantic feelings, bringing heart and tension to this story of love, friendship, and second chances.
- The Groomsmen: Last Dance (2024) – Bennett reprises his role as the supportive friend Danny, this time as Jackson embarks on a new chapter by moving to Italy to be closer to his daughter. Amid the charm of Italian cafes and picturesque scenery, Jackson encounters Gabriella, a charismatic café owner, sparking the possibility of a second chance at love. With Danny and a few well-intentioned friends adding a little push, this final installment beautifully rounds off the trilogy with romance, friendship, and new beginnings.
- Season’s Greetings From Cherry Lane (2024) – Bennett and Vincent Rodriguez III reunite as a couple determined to make this Christmas unforgettable by planning secret holiday surprises for each other. However, as the surprises grow more elaborate, keeping them under wraps proves challenging, leading to festive mix-ups and heartwarming moments that beautifully capture the magic of the season.
A Relentless Hustle
Jonathan Bennett doesn’t just act – he builds worlds. Beyond starring in Hallmark’s holiday lineup, he’s deeply involved in the creative process, developing story ideas, creating shows, and executive producing projects that keep pushing the network toward more inclusive, authentic, and fun storytelling.
This year, Bennett is taking on even more ambitious projects. He created and will host Finding Mr. Christmas, an exciting new reality competition series debuting on Hallmark+ on Thursday, October 31st.
Additionally, Bennett will host both Hallmark Christmas Cruises, giving fans the chance to meet him and other Hallmark stars while celebrating the holidays with Bennett as the Master of Ceremonies. He’s also set to be part of Hallmark’s inaugural Christmas Experience, appearing during the first weekend (November 29 – December 1, 2024).
And after all that holiday cheer, Bennett will hopefully settle in for a well-deserved long winter’s nap – because even Hallmark’s Christmas King needs some downtime!
Jonathan Bennett: Hallmark’s Beloved Leading Man
With each new project, Jonathan Bennett proves he’s more than an actor – he’s a creator, storyteller, and advocate. His work with Hallmark has redefined what holiday movies can be, bringing LGBTQ+ representation to the forefront and making room for audiences of all backgrounds to see themselves in the network’s beloved stories.
Related: LGBTQ+ Hallmark movies to add to your watch list
Bennett’s influence in holiday entertainment is a testament to his commitment to making Christmas movies magical and inclusive for everyone.
Whether he’s on screen, behind the scenes, or connecting with fans, Jonathan Bennett’s hustle, passion, and heart make him a true Hallmark legend. And with each new holiday season, he continues to light up screens with stories that resonate, inspire, and spread joy – one festive project at a time.
We’re Your New Hallmark Besties
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