“Since her first movie with Hallmark in 2015, Holly’s intelligence, vulnerability and tireless advocacy work have made her one of our networks’ most beloved talents, on screen and off,” remarked Lisa Hamilton Daly, Executive Vice President, Programming, Crown Media Family Networks. “We are so happy to continue making movies with Holly and to be her official home for original television movies at Christmas.” Peete’s career took off with her role as Judy Hoffs on the 1980s TV series 21 Jump Street. The show, about a group of youthful-looking police officers investigating crimes in local high schools, also starred Johnny Depp and frequent When Calls the Heart director and producer Peter DeLuise. She followed that up with a successful run on the popular, Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper. ”Hallmark is one of the most unique and warm destinations on television, especially at Christmas, and I am so proud of the projects that we have done together these past years,” Robinson Peete said. “I am thrilled to continue my work with them to collaborate on creating joyful and heartfelt movies, while highlighting special stories in which viewers can truly see themselves.” In 1999, Robinson Peete and her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, formed the HollyRod Foundation, inspired by her father Matt Robinson—the original Gordon on “Sesame Street”—and his courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease, with the mission to help improve the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s. Shortly thereafter, inspired by their eldest son’s autism diagnosis, HollyRod Foundation’s mission expanded to provide support and resources to those affected by autism. Through the HollyRod Foundation and her family’s personal experiences, Robinson Peete has become one of the most trusted advocates for consistent and reliable education, outreach and support for both Parkinson’s and autism. In recent months, Hallmark Channel has made a concerted effort to lock down their most popular stars from skipping over to rival upstart network, GAC Family, which has signed several actors to multi-pic deals of their own including Trevor Donovan, Jen Lilley and Danica McKellar. The upstart rival network helmed by former Crown Media CEO Bill Abbott. Next, The 100+ Best Christmas Movies of All Time
