“UnReal”: The Soapy Drama Starring Familiar Hallmark Faces
If you’re a fan of Hallmark movies, you might be delighted to find some of your favorite stars in a completely different setting. “UnReal,” a critically acclaimed drama series that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a fictional dating reality show, is packed with familiar Hallmark faces. However, be prepared: “UnReal” is nothing like the wholesome, heartwarming content you’re used to from Hallmark. Instead, it delivers a spicy, soapy, and fun drama that’s worth watching if you’re in the mood for something different with your favorite actors.
Brennan Elliott recently took to his Instagram to announce that “UnReal” will begin streaming on Netflix in August 2024. For those who don’t know, Elliott appeared in all 38 episodes of the drama as Graham.
Hallmark Stars in “UnReal”
“UnReal” boasts an impressive lineup of actors and actresses who have graced the screens of Hallmark Channel. Here’s an extensive list of Hallmark stars who have appeared on this series:
- Brennan Elliott (Open by Christmas, Ms. Christmas Comes to Town)
- B.J. Britt (“The Groomsmen” trilogy, “The Holiday Stocking”)
- Tyler Hynes (“Three Wise Men and a Baby,” “Sweet Carolina“)
- Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman (“Campfire Christmas”)
- Kim Matula (“Checkin’ It Twice” and “Ghosts of Christmas Always”)
- Michael Rady (“Where Are You, Christmas?” “Unexpected Grace)
- Natalie Hall (“Noel Next Door,” “You’re Bacon Me Crazy”)
- Chelsea Hobbs (“Dream Moms,” “Navigating Christmas,” “The Holiday Sitter”)
- Graeme McComb (“Curious Caterer: Foiled Plans,” “CrimeTime: Freefall“)
- Meghan Heffern (“The Cases of Mystery Lane: Death is Listening,” “Betty’s Bad Luck in Love,” “Retreat to You”)
- Christopher Russell (“The Secret Gift of Christmas,” “Where Your Heart Belongs”)
- Martin Cummins (“When Calls the Heart”)
- Mimi Kuzyk (“A Very Merry Mixup“)
- Marcus Rosner (“Falling Like Snowflakes,” “Love on the Right Course,” “Ride“)
- Stephanie Bennett (“Wedding Season,” “Christmas Class Reunion”)
- Barclay Hope (“Chesapeake Shores”)
- Andrea Brooks (“When Calls the Heart,” “Romance to the Rescue”)
- Natasha Burnett (“When Calls the Heart,” “Legend of the Lost Locket”)
- Sunita Prasad (“Family Practice Mysteries: Coming Home,” “A Tale of Two Christmases”)
- Melissa Marie Elias (“A New Year’s Resolution,” “On the 12th Date of Christmas”)
- Jessica Sipos (“Betty’s Bad Luck in Love,” “A Season for Family“)
- Ryan Beil (“Tipline Mysteries: Dial 1 for Murder“)
- Arielle Kebbel (“A Bride for Christmas”)
- Cameron Bancroft (“A Season for Family,” “Coyote Creek Christmas”)
- Jaime M. Callica (“Christmas with a Kiss”)
- Samantha Cole (“Legend of the Lost Locket,” “Friends & Family Christmas”)
- Antonio Cayonne (“Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate,” “A Taste of Summer”)
- Stacey Farber (“A Season for Family,” “Butlers in Love”)
- Arjun Malik (Sealed with a List)
- Todd Thompson (Hearts in the Game, When Calls the Heart)
- Darren Dolynski (A Christmas Waltz, Chesapeake Shores, When Calls the Heart)
- Jill Teed (Tipline Mysteries: Dial 1 for Murder, Three Wise Men and a Baby)
- Antonio Cupo (A Winning Team, Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade)
About “UnReal”
“UnReal” takes viewers into the chaotic world of a fictional reality dating show called “Everlasting.” The show’s main character, Rachel Goldberg (Shiri Appleby), is a young producer whose job is to manipulate relationships and drama among the contestants to create engaging television. Alongside her is Quinn King (Constance Zimmer), the show’s executive producer, who will stop at nothing to boost ratings. The series delves into the dark, manipulative tactics used behind the scenes of reality TV, offering a sharp, satirical take on the genre.
“UnReal” originally aired on Lifetime from 2015-2018 and moved to Hulu for it’s final season in 2018.
A Departure from Hallmark
While Hallmark movies focus on heartwarming stories with happy endings, “UnReal” is a stark departure with its edgy, provocative storytelling. The series is filled with deceit, manipulation, and complex characters, providing a gritty contrast to the idyllic worlds often portrayed in Hallmark films. This makes “UnReal” a refreshing change of pace for those looking to see their favorite Hallmark stars in diverse roles.
Why “UnReal” is a Must-Watch
If you’re a Hallmark fan looking for something a little spicier and more dramatic, “UnReal” is the perfect series to binge-watch. The show’s unique premise, coupled with outstanding performances from a talented cast, makes it a standout drama. Plus, it’s fascinating to see familiar faces like Brennan Elliott and Tyler Hynes in roles that push the boundaries of their usual characters.
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