Hallmark Stars Discuss Contracts: Insights from Brooke Shields, Luke Macfarlane

Hallmark Media has been a cornerstone of wholesome entertainment for years, but recent developments have shaken up the landscape.

In 2022, Hallmark upped its game by offering exclusive contracts to secure its top talent, a move necessitated by a wave of actors leaving for competitor Great American Media.

This article delves into the reasons behind these changes, the experiences of actors like Brooke Shields, and the evolving dynamics of Hallmark contracts.

The Great Hallmark Exodus and Exclusive Contracts

In 2022, Hallmark Media faced a significant challenge as several of its key stars departed for Great American Media. This exodus included big names like Candace Cameron Bure and Danica McKellar.

To counteract this loss, Hallmark executive vice president Lisa Hamilton Daly revealed that the network increased its exclusive contracts to retain talents such as Lacey Chabert and Nikki DeLoach.

“It’s really to make sure that we have access to that talent during the year,” Daly explained.

Brooke Shields’ 16-Film Deal

Brooke Shields, a well-known actress, signed a lucrative 16-film deal with Hallmark in 2014. However, she ended the contract after just three movies in the *Flower Shop Mysteries* series.

In her January 2025 memoir, *Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman*, Shields disclosed that she had to renegotiate the contract because the humor she was promised had evaporated from the films.

Shields ultimately decided that the future she wanted for her career did not align with Hallmark’s offerings.

The Evolution of Hallmark Contracts

Hallmark’s approach to contracts has evolved over the years. Actor Luke Macfarlane, who has been a staple at Hallmark since 2014, shared insights into his changing contract terms.

“I’ve had overall deals with them and in [the terms it says,] I’m gonna commit to five Christmas movies or five movies, but I can’t work for any other network,” Macfarlane explained during an appearance on the *Tosh Show* in December 2023.

This exclusivity clause, however, allowed him to work on non-holiday projects like Netflix’s *Single All the Way*.

Residuals and Financial Considerations

Macfarlane also highlighted the financial benefits of working with Hallmark. The network pays well, and actors receive residuals based on the frequency of a film’s airing.

“If you end up doing one of the ones that kind of hits and is popular, it gets aired more and more, so you eventually get residuals,” he noted.

This financial stability is a significant draw for many actors.

The Great American Media Attraction

Candace Cameron Bure, once dubbed Hallmark’s *Queen of Christmas*, stepped away from her role in April 2022. She revealed that her decision to move to Great American Media was partially due to contract negotiations.

“The truth is I’ve been under contract with Hallmark for a very, very long time. And those have been absolutely wonderful,” she told *Variety*.

However, as her contract was expiring, she began discussions with Great American Media, led by former Hallmark CEO Bill Abbott.

Danica McKellar’s Creative Fulfillment

Danica McKellar, another former Hallmark star, joined Great American Media in October 2021. Unlike her time at Hallmark, McKellar signed multi-picture deals with Great American, which allowed her greater involvement in writing and producing.

“It is so creatively fulfilling,” she shared during an episode of the *Sex, Lies and Spray Tans* podcast in November 2024.

This creative freedom was a significant factor in her decision to switch networks.

Why Actors Love Working with Hallmark

Despite the departures, many actors continue to enjoy working with Hallmark. Jonathan Bennett and Alison Sweeney are among those who have expressed their appreciation for the network.

The consistent work and the opportunity to be part of beloved franchises are major incentives.

Additionally, Hallmark’s family-friendly content and dedicated fan base make it an attractive place for actors to build long-term careers.

Curious Caterer Stars Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker

Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker, stars of Hallmark’s *Curious Caterer* series, have spoken about their positive experiences with the network.

“They’re real stories,” they emphasized, highlighting the authenticity and emotional depth of Hallmark’s films.

This commitment to storytelling keeps both actors and audiences engaged.

The Future of Hallmark Media

As Hallmark Media continues to navigate the competitive landscape, the network’s strategy of securing exclusive contracts appears to be a double-edged sword.

While it ensures a steady stream of content from top actors, it also limits their opportunities to explore other creative avenues.

However, for many, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, making Hallmark a significant player in the entertainment industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hallmark Media’s recent changes reflect the evolving dynamics of the entertainment industry. The network’s efforts to retain talent through exclusive contracts have had mixed results. Some stars found greater creative fulfillment elsewhere. Nevertheless, Hallmark remains a beloved institution, offering consistent work and financial stability for its actors. As the industry continues to change, it will be interesting to see how Hallmark adapts and thrives in the years to come.