Hallmark Unveils New Originals Slate

NEW YORK: Crown Media Networks, the new umbrella brand for Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel, unveiled its 2011-12 slate to advertisers this week, with a roster of new TV movies plus several series, including one hosted by Maya Angelou.

Hallmark Channel is gearing up for 28 original movies, the 13-episode lifestyle series The Spirit Table with Maya Angelou, and the animated specials Jingle All the Way and Jingle the Husky Pup. The movies include Oliver’s Ghost with Rhea Perlman, Christmas Returns to Canaan with Billy Ray Cyrus, A Princess for Christmas with Roger Moore, plus Christmas Pageant, Fixing Pete, A Taste of Romance and Be My Valentine.

"Original programs that celebrate holidays, occasions, family, and all of life’s special moments, are the centerpiece of Hallmark Channel’s programming schedule," said Michelle Vicary, executive VP of programming at Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel. "Hallmark Channel created a one-of-a-kind television destination and unique programming events through its ‘Countdown to’ franchise, anchored by original programs scheduled around major holidays including Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and others."