For Jen Lilley, the star of many holiday favorites on Hallmark and GAC Family, Christmas isn’t just a season—it’s a way of life. With her warm-hearted charm, Jen has enchanted viewers across the country, bringing both laughter and depth to the roles she plays. Here’s how she started her acting journey, what she loves most about the holiday season, and why Nashville feels like the perfect place for Christmas magic.
Jen didn’t exactly set out to become a holiday movie queen. In fact, she was on a very different path when her journey began. “During my second year of university, I spotted a poster for open-call auditions for an indie film called The Loss of Life,” Jen recalls with a smile. “I decided to go for it, and I ended up landing the female lead.” That role set her career in motion, and she quickly knew she wanted to pursue acting professionally. Jen took a no-nonsense approach to her dreams, doubling her academic course load so she could graduate early and setting up an eight-year plan to help her stay on track. “I realized that the difference between successful actors and those who give up often came down to resilience and understanding the business,” she explains. “I was determined to push through even when things got tough.”
Fast forward to today, and Jen has become a beloved face in holiday entertainment. Her roles have captured the hearts of viewers because she brings her own personality to every character. “I’m completely Christmas-obsessed,” she says. “Every year, I have a checklist of holiday traditions, from decorating cookies to gingerbread house building. I even have more than five Christmas trees because one just isn’t enough!” Her holiday spirit isn’t just for show, either; it’s something she’s passionate about sharing with others. Through her organization, Christmas is Not Cancelled, Jen and her fans have brought Christmas joy to over 80,000 children in need. “I think people can feel how much Christmas means to me. I bring that excitement into my roles, and hopefully, it resonates.”
When asked if she has a favorite movie, Jen is quick to share a classic pick: “Home Alone! It’s such a timeless, funny movie.” And among her own films, one that stands out is A Paris Christmas Waltz, now streaming on Netflix. “It was such a special project,” she says.
Growing up, Christmas was a magical time in Jen’s family, filled with traditions that she’s now passing down to her own kids. “Every year, we go all out,” she laughs. “We have ugly sweater competitions, Christmas movie marathons with themed snacks, and decorate a whole gingerbread village!” The holidays in Jen’s home include charitable giving too—each of her kids fills a box for Operation Christmas Child, helping spread Christmas cheer to children around the world. “We even plan a Christmas edition of Minute to Win It with all kinds of ‘reindeer games.’ If it’s in a Christmas movie, chances are we’re doing it!”
Though Jen has filmed in beautiful locations around the world, including Romania and Vancouver, Nashville holds a special place in her heart. “The people here are so kind and warm; there’s this Southern charm that makes you feel right at home,” she says. “Nashville truly knows how to do Christmas. From the lights to the community spirit, it’s the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.”
For Jen, the magic of holiday films lies in their ability to bring joy to others, and she says that her own character, Grace, in Operation Mistletoe might be the most similar to her real-life personality. “Grace is genuinely bubbly and enthusiastic about Christmas, just like me!” Jen admits. She sees a bit of herself in every character she plays, especially when it comes to sharing holiday warmth. “I love bringing that sense of joy and cheerfulness to the screen—it’s a gift to be able to share that with viewers.”
Jen also has a favorite holiday indulgence: mashed potatoes. “They’re just so comforting, and since a lot of people associate them with the holidays too, I’m sticking with them!” she says, laughing.
With years of experience in the industry, Jen has learned some valuable lessons along the way. “I wish someone had told me early on that you are unique, and no one else can bring exactly what you do to each role or audition,” she shares. “When you don’t book a role, it’s not because you weren’t good enough—it’s just that it was meant for someone else. Embrace your uniqueness and celebrate others’ victories too.”
This year, Jen is thrilled to bring a new project to her fans with a modern twist on Little Women. “It’s truly a heartwarming story, and I’m so grateful to share it with everyone this holiday season,” she says, smiling.
For those dreaming of being in a Christmas movie with Jen, there’s good news! “You can now actually be in a Christmas movie with me, and even win a dream Christmas package,” she says. “Just head to MyChristmasMovieMoment.com—it’s such a fun opportunity!”
Jen Lilley’s heart for Christmas, her family traditions, and her passion for giving back make her the perfect ambassador for holiday cheer. Whether she’s lighting up the screen or spreading Christmas magic off-camera, Jen brings a little extra sparkle to the season.
“I realized that the difference between successful actors and those who give up often came down to resilience and understanding the business.”