Joe Pantoliano and Steve Schirripa — both familiar faces from The Sopranos — are teaming up again, but this time it’s not about mob drama. Instead, they’re starring in a new Hallmark holiday movie called Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story. It’s the second football-themed romance from Hallmark after last year’s A Chiefs Love Story. And just to clear things up — they’re not falling for each other in the movie!
According to Hallmark, Joe Pantoliano is stepping in for Tony Danza, who had to drop out because of scheduling conflicts. He plays Uncle Tommy, a character connected to Holland Roden’s Morgan Quinn. There’s a mystery at the heart of the story: every Christmas, Uncle Tommy gets a big, unexpected gift from an anonymous donor, and Morgan and her love interest Gabe DeLuca (played by Matthew Daddario) try to find out who it is. Steve Schirripa is also in the movie playing a family member, but it’s not clear yet which side he’s on or what exactly his role will be.
Hallmark’s Chief Brand Officer, Darren Abbott, said last year’s football romance with the Kansas City Chiefs was a huge hit, so they’re excited to work with the Buffalo Bills this time. The movie celebrates family, love, and the passionate Bills fan community — known as Bills Mafia.
Expect lots of romance, some fun challenges for the couple, and plenty of football spirit. Plus, Hallmark is planning fan events, special merchandise, and lots of promotions as Christmas approaches.
