After starring in 40 Hallmark movies, Lacey Chabert has clearly earned her title as Queen of Hallmark.
Now for the channel’s streaming service Hallmark+ Chabert, 41, plunges into her first reality series, “Celebrations with Lacey Chabert.”
It sounds like a feel-good show with a lot of tears — because it is.
“There were a lot of tears in real life as we were filming,” Chabert confirmed, “because it was so touching.
“The experience of learning about our heroes and hearing from the people in their lives that had been impacted by their acts of service was really inspiring.
“Then with our event planners we get to plan a fun surprise party for them. To see the looks on our heroes’ faces when they walk in and realize the party’s for them! That their loved ones are there to celebrate them — it was just wonderful.”
How are the people they’re celebrating chosen?
“That’s a big decision made by a lot of people. We all weigh in on who we think would be best. And honestly, it’s a hard decision to make. Because there were so many amazing people who are out there, who are so deserving to be showcased in this way.
“I hope we have the chance to tell more stories in the future. But for the 10 heroes this season who we did have the chance to celebrate, I think the audience is going to walk away just so inspired by their goodness.”
There is also, she revealed, “The other side of the show which is about planning a really fun party. There are some grand aspects to the party and fun things that our planners do.
“And then also some things you can try at home that are beautiful and fun and whimsical. So there’s a little bit of a DIY to it as well for the audience to take away.”
Not to be a Grinch, but what if somebody would feel like this party thing is great but they would really rather have the rent paid? Or a washing machine?
“You have to watch the episode to see it all play out,” she answered. “I don’t want to give all the surprises away, but there is something that Hallmark does every episode to support the nonprofits that we’re celebrating.
“And that is obviously above and beyond the party. We also have a very special ‘hero moment’ every episode to give a gift to our hero for something very meaningful for them.
“Beyond that, we’re planning to hopefully highlight all of these nonprofits on social and raise the awareness and get more community support as well.”
“Celebrations with Lacey Chabert” debuts on Sept. 10, with new episodes premiering every Thursday starting Sept. 12.