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Tag: Lifetime

  • Effects Of Lifetime Use Of Alcohol And Cannabis

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    A closer look at the effects of lifetime use of alcohol and cannabis as science rethinks moderation and health outcomes.

    As social norms around drinking and cannabis continue to shift, researchers are taking a closer look at how these substances affect health over a lifetime. While liquor companies are struggling as Gen Z and younger millennials move away from cannabis, what are the long term effects of lifetime use of alcohol and cannabis? While alcohol has long been treated as a cultural staple, cannabis is increasingly being studied not just for short-term effects, but for how moderate use over decades may influence brain health, cognition, and overall risk.

    RELATED: Why Anxiety Feels Worse Than Ever

    A recently published study examining lifetime cannabis use offers a perspective challenging many assumptions. Researchers found adults with a history of cannabis use performed as well as, and in some cases better than, non-users on tests measuring attention, memory, and processing speed. The study also identified larger brain volume in regions associated with learning and memory among some cannabis users, particularly in older adults. Importantly, the findings focused on lifetime exposure rather than heavy or daily use, suggesting moderate consumption may not carry the cognitive risks once broadly assumed.

    Earlier research linking cannabis to memory and attention problems often centered on heavy use, frequent intoxication, or adolescent exposure. Lifetime studies paint a more nuanced picture, indicating use patterns matter significantly. Occasional or moderate cannabis use appears to differ sharply from chronic, high-dose consumption when it comes to long-term cognitive outcomes.

    Alcohol research has moved in a different direction. For years, moderate drinking was commonly associated with potential cardiovascular benefits, particularly red wine consumption. More recent analyses, however, have cast doubt on those claims. Large population studies and updated public health guidance now suggest even moderate alcohol use increases lifetime cancer risk and may contribute to cognitive decline and dementia.

    Alcohol is a known neurotoxin, and long-term exposure has been linked to reduced brain volume and structural changes in areas related to memory and executive function. While some individuals may experience short-term cardiovascular benefits from low-level drinking, those effects are increasingly outweighed by evidence of cumulative harm over time.

    RELATED: Is CBD Next On The Fed’s Hit List

    At the population level, alcohol also carries a heavier social and medical burden. Alcohol use disorder affects more people than cannabis use disorder, and alcohol is a contributing factor in liver disease, accidents, and premature death. Cannabis dependence exists, but fatal overdose does not, and the overall risk profile differs substantially.

    None of this suggests cannabis is risk-free or appropriate for everyone. Individual health conditions, mental health history, age of initiation, and frequency of use all matter. But as research on lifetime exposure expands, the gap between long-held assumptions and current evidence is narrowing.

    For readers trying to make informed choices, the emerging consensus is clear: moderation, context, and long-term patterns matter more than outdated narratives. As science continues to evolve, so too does the understanding of how alcohol and cannabis shape health across a lifetime.

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    Amy Hansen

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  • How to Watch Lifetime Christmas Movies Online to Kick Off the Festive Season Right

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    All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

    The holidays wouldn’t be the holidays without Lifetime Christmas movies, and we found the best way to stream this year’s festive original films starting at $1.

    Lifetime‘s “It’s a Wonderful Lifetime” event started on November 29, with Christmas Everyday led by Brandy Norwood, who’s one of the network’s many A-list actors featured on its 2025 Christmas movie lineup. Other recognizable names include Vivica A. Fox, Jackee Harry, Nischelle Turner, Tyler Hinton, and Ariel Kabbel. The 2025 Lifetime Christmas movie lineup also welcomes James Lafferty, best known for playing Nathan Scott on One Tree Hill, who’s set to star in his first Lifetime movie, A Pickleball Christmas.

    If you don’t have cable, don’t worry because we have you covered. Read on for how to watch Lifetime’s 2025 Chritmas movies online for cheap to stream the festive flicks all season long.

    Sling is a StyleCaster sponsor, however, this article was independently written by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

    How to watch Lifetime Christmas movies

    Watch Lifetime Christmas movies

    Lifetime Christmas movies air on Lifetime, which is available to stream on services like Sling TV. Sling offers three monthly plans with Lifetime: Sling Orange, which starts at $45.99 per month; Sling Blue, which starts at $50.99, and Sling Orange + Blue, which starts at $65.99 per month.

    Sling has a current deal where new subscribers can also sign up for Sling Orange’s Day Pass for $1. (The usual price is $4.99). Sling also offers a Weekend Pass of Sling Orange for $9.99, and a Week Pass for $14.99. Sling also has another current deal where new subscribers can sign up for Sling Orange + Blue for 50 percent off their first month, which brings the price down fo th to $33.

    As for which of Sling’s plans is right for you, Sling Orange offers more than 30 channels, as well as the ability to stream on up to one devices at one time; and Sling Blue offers more than 40 channels, as well as the ability to stream on up to three devices at one time. Sling Orange & Blue, for its part, offers more than 50 channels, the ability to stream on up to three devices, as well as everything included in Sling Blue and Sling Orange. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Lifetime Christmas movies with Sling.

    1. Visit Sling.com
    2. Click “Try Us Today”
    3. Enter your information and payment method
    4. Select your plan between Sling Orange, Sling Blue and Sling Orange & Blue
    5. Search for “Lifetime”
    6. Start watching!

    What’s the Lifetime Christmas movie 2025 schedule?

    Saturday, Nov. 29
    Christmas Everyday
    Premieres: 8pm ET/PT
    Stars: Brandy Norwood, Sy’rai Smith, Debbi Morgan, Robert C. Riley, Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman
    Logline: Following the death of her father, Fancy (Norwood) has been more determined than ever to uphold her father’s cherished Christmas traditions as her mother Evelyn (Morgan) has also begun losing her sight. But things aren’t a smooth ride as Fancy simultaneously is planning her bridezilla baby sister, Belle’s (Smith), wedding. When a water pipe bursts and disrupts the fairytale wedding plans, Fancy finds herself unexpectedly drawn to the rugged, yet charming, contractor Jaylen (Riley) who is tasked with renovating the house. Through all the chaos, she learns valuable lessons about faith, family, and the true meaning of Christmas.

    Holiday in Happy Hollow
    Stars: Vivica A. Fox, Jackée Harry, Chelsea Rose Brooks, Austen Jaye
    Premieres: 10pm ET/PT 
    Logline: Kayleigh Brooks (Brooks) is a driven, no-nonsense digital advertising executive who thrives on competition, while her counterpart, Darren Morgan (Jaye), is a laid-back strategist with a creative flair. Their boss, Monique (Fox) puts them together to come up with a fun and festive spin on a holiday sales pitch for their top client, Santa’s Pajamas. Sparks fly — not only in the office but in their rivalry to nail the pitch. Kayleigh wants it all, and Alex is determined to win — no matter the cost. As they battle it out, their personal lives collide with their professional ambitions, and neither expects that the key to success might just be each other. From a Christmas toy drive to a family dinner full of surprises where Kayleigh introduces Darren to Denise (Harry), her mom, the two clash and connect in a series of moments that are both funny and heartfelt. But when their competition turns into something more, will their growing feelings for each other survive the pressure?

    Thursday, Dec. 4
    Do You Fear What I Fear 
    Premieres: 10pm ET/PT
    Stars:
     Ciara Hanna, Josh Henderson   
    Logline: When Claire (Hanna) lands her dream job in the city, she thinks she’s finally escaped her picture-perfect Christmas hometown. But her fresh start turns chilling when eerie holiday decorations begin appearing in her apartment… each one a message from someone who knows her too well. Who is the dangerous “Secret Santa” watching her? Is it her charming new neighbor? The ex who won’t let go? To find out, Claire will have to turn the tables and set a trap of her own.

    Friday, Dec. 5
    Jingle All the Way to Love
    Premieres: 8pm ET/PT
    Stars:
     Erin Agostino, Romaine Waite   
    Logline: Andi Kelton (Agostino) receives a lucky sleigh bell from a handsome stranger at a New Year’s party, only to pass it on. Years later, now a lawyer, Andi wins a radio contest where the host, Jake (Waite), turns the story of the sleigh bell and stranger into a segment, as listeners help track down her mystery man before Christmas.

    A Christmas Cookbook
    Premieres: 10pm ET/PT
    Stars: 
    Ashley Newbrough, Franco Lo Presti  
    Logline: Newly single at Christmas, Veronica Cearley (Newbrough) finds unexpected comfort in The X-Mas Club — a festive group of food lovers who cook, give back, and celebrate the season solo. But when sparks fly with the club’s warm-hearted founder, Cullen Murdock (Lo Presti), she realizes that the best part of Christmas might not be the food or the traditions — but the people who feel like home.

    Saturday, Dec. 6
    Deck the Hallways
    Premieres: 8pm ET/PT
    Stars
    : Loretta Devine, Naika Toussaint, Jamie M. Callica 
    Logline: Zoe (Toussaint), a Bay Area tech exec, returns to Chicago to visit her grandmother Agnes (Devine), who’s traded old traditions for bold new adventures — including canceling the cherished holiday party her late husband started. Missing the festive warmth of her childhood, Zoe teams up with her charming childhood crush, Jace (Callica), and their fifth floor neighbors to revive the celebration. As sparks fly between Zoe and Jace, a last-minute cancellation threatens the fun, but Agnes steps up. Together, the building rallies for a joyful Christmas Eve — showing that holiday spirit, new memories, and maybe even new love are made by those bold enough to keep traditions alive.

    Merry Missed Connection
    Premieres: 10pm ET/PT
    Stars: 
    Emily Alatalo, Andrew Bushell  
    Logline: Marie (Alatalo) has it all, including an in-depth account of her life from the last 24 years. So, when she goes to a speed dating event in a last-ditch effort to find a man to take home for Christmas, she takes her diary with her, complete with her list of dos and don’ts she’s compiled over the years, just for reference. But in the midst of the event, she puts her diary down and picks up the wrong one. Will the star-crossed diaries and potential soulmates find their way back to each other for Christmas?

    Friday, Dec. 12
    A Runaway Bride for Christmas (working title)
    Premieres: 8pm ET/PT
    Stars: 
    Nischelle Turner, Mark Ghanime
    Logline: When runaway bride Emma (Turner) seeks refuge in the only town she’s ever called home, she unexpectedly falls for her former high school crush, Mitch (Ghanime) — who’s hiding his own heartbreak. But when her ex arrives, determined to win her back, she must decide if she’s brave enough to risk her heart again before Christmas.

    Christmas in Alaska
    Premieres: 10pm ET/PT
    Stars:
     Emma Johnson, Marcus Rosner
    Logline: Rival journalists competing for the same lucrative promotion find themselves stuck together in snowy Alaska after their plane is forced to make an emergency landing. As Megan (Johnson) follows her young son’s festive bucket list, and Oliver (Rosner) puts his family issues aside to help save his sister’s inn, they find themselves caught up in a totally unexpected Christmas romance.

    Saturday, Dec. 13
    Thank God: Christmas at Keller Ranch
    Premieres: 8pm ET/PT
    Stars:
     Arielle Kebbel, Tyler Hilton
    Logline: Executive produced by Kane and Katelyn Brown, Thank God: Christmas at Keller Ranch follows pro-hockey player Wes Campbell (Hilton), who suffers an injury during a high-profile game just three weeks before Christmas and is referred to Keller Ranch in Nashville to recover. There he meets no-nonsense rancher Maggie Keller (Kebbel), a single mom to son Dawson (Eshan Lyall) and equestrian-assisted therapist. Despite his initial skepticism, Wes is desperate to return to the ice and decides to give equine therapy a shot. As Maggie manages to break down Wes’ walls, he also helps her heal from the grief of her husband’s death. But as an unexpected romance blossoms between the two, will it go the distance or is it just a holiday fling?

    Rodeo Christmas Romance
    Premieres: 10pm ET/PT
    Stars: 
    Rebecca Dalton, Corey Sevier
    Logline: When fiercely independent equestrian, Emma (Dalton) finds herself ranch-sitting for a friend while caring for her injured horse over Christmas, she clashes with a brooding veteran, Noal (Sevier) — only to discover that the magic of the season may be what they need to heal their hearts.

    Friday, Dec. 19
    Sweet Holiday Romance
    Premieres: 8pm ET/PT
    Stars:
     Erin Karpluk, Christopher Russell
    Logline: Amanda (Karpluk), a world-renowned pastry chef, is worried she’s losing her edge. Wanting to reclaim her title as the Queen of Christmas Cookies, she enters the Chicago Christmas Market Christmas Cookie Competition, which requires that bakers pair up with other businesses to create the best confections. Knowing she’ll find inspiration in her hometown of Paisley, Amanda decides to pair with The Little Shop of Fudge, a staple in the community. Little does she know, the owner, Jackie, has left her handsome nephew, Simon (Russell), in charge of operations and he doesn’t have a clue about making fudge. With Jackie away, Simon and Amanda must work together to recreate Jackie’s world-famous fudge in time for the competition, learning that their opposite philosophies just might make for a sweet and savory romance.

    Saturday, Dec. 20
    A Pickleball Christmas
    Premieres: 8pm ET/PT
    Stars: 
    James Lafferty, Zibby Allen
    Logline: Fresh off the biggest win of his career, tennis star Luke Hollis (Lafferty) heads home to Florida for Christmas, only to discover his family’s racquet club is on the verge of being sold. Teaming up with Caroline (Allen), the club’s pickleball coach, Luke reluctantly agrees to compete in a high-stakes holiday tournament that could save the club. As sparks fly both on and off the court, Luke realizes the greatest victory might just be love, family, and a new chapter at home.

    Lifetime Christmas movies are available to stream with Sling.

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    Jason Pham

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  • Todd Chrisley’s Net Worth Reveals How Much He Still Owes the Banks After His Fraud Charges

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    With his family reunited after two years in prison, Todd Chrisley wants to tell his side of the story. The reality TV star is revamping his image with Lifetime‘s The Chrisleys: Back to Reality.

    Todd and his wife built an empire through his real estate ventures, and his family showed off their lavish wealth in their USA Network TV show Chrisley Knows Best. In 2019, he and his wife Julie were indicted of bank and wire fraud, tax evasion, and conspiracy after being accused of evading nearly $2 million in state taxes between 2008 and 2016.

    Related: These Southern Charm Cast Net Worths Reveal Who Actually Inherited Their Family’s Old Money

    The couple was found guilty of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and tax fraud, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. His wife was also convicted of wire fraud. Todd was  sentenced to 12 years in prison and 16 months probation, while Julie received seven years in prison plus 16 months probation, according to Insider and Fox 5 Atlanta.

    On May 28, 2025, Donald Trump pardoned Todd and Julie Chrisley. “It’s a terrible thing, but it’s a great thing, because your parents are going to be free and clean, and I hope we can do it by tomorrow. Is that OK? We’ll try getting it done tomorrow,” the President told his children Savannah and Chase.

    “For the past two and a half years, I’ve done everything in my power to fight for my parents’ freedom and bring them home,” the couple’s daughter, Savannah, said in a statement. “This moment is the answer to countless prayers, and I am beyond grateful to President Trump for seeing the truth and restoring my family.”

    What is Todd Chrisley’s net worth?

    Net Worth: –$18 Million

    Todd Chrisley’s net worth is in the negatives at an estimated -$18M, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Upon his sentencing, he ordered to repay more than $17 million in restitution. Their lawyer has said they have paid some of that restitution back, but not all of it, per TMZ. His bankruptcy journey began in 2012 when he filed a petition for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection. Although he listed more than $4.2 million in assets, his debts totaled $49.4 million.

    According to a DOJ press release, Todd and his wife conspired to defraud community banks in the Atlanta area to obtain more than $36 million in personal loans. The bureau also listed that they used the money on luxury cars, designer clothes, real estate, and travel – and used new fraudulent loans to pay back old ones. The government also ordered the Chrisleys to pay $17.2 million in restitution.

    After Donald Trump pardoned him, he and Julie revamped their podcast, Chrisley Confessions 2.0.

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    Lea Veloso

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  • How to Watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality Live for Free to See the Family’s Life After Prison

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    All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

    The Chrisleys: Back to Reality is making its debut on television, and if you’ve been following the Chrisley family’s journey from reality TV stardom to federal prison and back again, you’re probably curious to see what comes next. But before you start worrying about subscription fees, you should know there’s a way to watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality live for free with the right approach.

    How to Watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality at a Glance

    Watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality

    The Chrisley family first captured audience attention with their reality series Chrisley Knows Best, which ran for 10 seasons from 2014 to 2023, showcasing patriarch Todd Chrisley’s larger-than-life personality and his family’s Southern charm, mixed with luxury lifestyle drama. What makes this new installment notable is its timing: The series comes after Todd and Julie Chrisley served over two years in federal prison for bank fraud and tax evasion before receiving a presidential pardon from Donald Trump in May 2025.

    As Todd says in the trailer, “I have nothing to hide. I look at this as me exposing the truth, and depending on how long this interview goes, you might see more than what you bargained for.” The show covers both the struggle of maintaining family bonds during the parents’ incarceration and their emotional reunion with their family following their release.

    Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Chrisley family or curious about their story for the first time, you’re in for a story rarely seen on reality TV from a family that has lived through one of the most dramatic falls from grace. And the best part? You can watch the entire thing without paying for cable.

    How to Watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality Live for Free

    The Chrisleys: Back to Reality will air live on Lifetime, and several streaming services offer free trials that let you watch the channel without any upfront costs. Philo is our top choice, as it’s both the most budget-friendly option at $28 per month and comes with a seven-day free trial, making it ideal for viewers who primarily want Lifetime and other entertainment channels without paying for sports networks. DirecTV Stream is our next pick, providing a five-day trial across all entertainment packages, with monthly plans starting at $84.99 after promotional periods end (promotional rates start at $79.99). Meanwhile, Sling TV delivers comprehensive options at reasonable prices, with Lifetime included in the Orange package ($45.99 per month) and Blue package ($50.99 per month). The combined Orange & Blue option at $65.99 per month provides the most channel selection. Hulu + Live TV takes a different approach, skipping free trials but offering extra value at $81.99 monthly by bundling Disney Plus and ESPN Plus with live television access.

    EDITOR’S Choice

    Watch ‘The Chrisleys: Back to Reality’ with Philo

    – Seven-day free trial
    – 70+ channels

    Philo offers a seven-day free trial before transitioning to $28 monthly, making it one of the most budget-friendly live TV streaming options available. The service includes over 70 channels, featuring Lifetime along with popular networks like A&E, Discovery, HGTV, and Food Network. Philo also provides unlimited cloud DVR storage, access to over 75,000 on-demand movies and shows, and allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously, making it an excellent value for anyone wanting to watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality on Lifetime without breaking the bank.

    PREMIUM PICK

    Watch ‘The Chrisleys: Back to Reality’ with DirecTV Stream

    – Five-day free trial
    – Includes local networks and 90+ channels

    DirecTV Stream offers a five-day free trial and four plans: Entertainment, which comes with 90+ channels and costs $84.99 per month; Choice, which comes with 125+ channels and costs $89.99 per month; Ultimate, which comes with 160+ channels and costs $84.99 per month; and Premier, which comes with 185+ channels and costs $124.99 per month. Viewers can stream The Chrisleys: Back to Reality on Lifetime, which is included in all four plans. All plans also include local networks where available and unlimited Cloud DVR recording. DirecTV Stream also offers a current deal where users can receive between $30 and $40 off their first month and $5 to $20 off any following months if they subscribe to a 24-month plan.

    FLEXIBLE OPTION

    Watch ‘The Chrisleys: Back to Reality’ with Sling TV

    – Daily, weekend, and weekly passes
    – 30+ channels

    Sling TV offers flexible viewing with multiple plan options that include Lifetime. The Sling Orange package costs $45.99 per month with 30+ channels and allows streaming on one device at a time, while Sling Blue costs $50.99 per month with 40+ channels and lets you watch on up to three devices simultaneously. Viewers can watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality on Lifetime with either the Orange or Blue plans. For maximum value, Sling Orange & Blue combines both packages for $65.99 per month and includes over 50 channels with streaming on up to four devices at once. Additionally, Sling now offers short-term options like a Day Pass for $4.99, Weekend Pass for $9.99, and Week Pass for $14.99 for viewers who only want temporary access.

    UPGRADE PICK

    Watch ‘The Chrisleys: Back to Reality’ with Hulu + Live TV

    – Includes free Hulu, ESPN+, and Disney+ plans

    Hulu + Live TV offers four plans. The cheapest plan, Live TV Only, costs $81.99 per month and comes with access to Hulu’s live TV content. The next cheapest plan costs $1 more at $82.99 per month and comes with Hulu’s live TV content, as well as access to Hulu’s streaming library with ads, Disney+ with ads, and ESPN+ with ads. For Disney+ with no ads, users can subscribe for $87.99 per month. And for Hulu and Disney+ with no ads, the price is $95.99 per month. Viewers can stream The Chrisleys: Back to Reality on Lifetime, which is available on all Hulu + Live TV plans.

    When does The Chrisleys: Back to Reality air?

    The Chrisleys: Back to Reality will premiere on Monday, September 1, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. EST on Lifetime with a two-hour episode, followed by another two-hour episode on Tuesday, September 2. The remaining episodes will air on September 9 and September 16, making it a five-episode limited series. Episodes will also become available for on-demand viewing through Lifetime’s website and app for cable subscribers, as well as on participating streaming platforms the day after broadcast for those who prefer to watch at their convenience.

    What is The Chrisleys: Back to Reality about?

    The Chrisleys: Back to Reality isn’t your regular reality television, as the series documents the family’s journey through federal prison sentences to presidential pardon. The series follows the Chrisley children as they navigated life with their parents behind bars, with Savannah Chrisley taking on guardianship of her younger brother Grayson and niece Chloe while simultaneously working for her parents’ freedom.

    “The family faces the challenge of carrying on the Chrisley name and legacy on their own with only phone calls and brief visits with their incarcerated parents,” according to the official synopsis. “While Savannah maintains custody of her younger siblings, Chloe and Grayson, she has been fighting tirelessly for a Presidential pardon to free her parents.”

    The series promises access to both the difficult and hopeful moments of the family’s ordeal. “The Chrisleys: Back to Reality exposes the raw truth of the Chrisley’s lives—past and present—and the reality is far different from what audiences have seen before,” Lifetime states. As Chase Chrisley reflects in the trailer: “We’re filming one thing that’s, like, this happy life, and then the cameras go down and we’re also fighting a fed case.”

    Unlike their previous glossy reality programming, this series captures the family’s more vulnerable moments, including emotional phone calls from prison. In one moment shown in the trailer, Julie tells her family: “I live every day with the hopes that I will be reunited with my husband and my kids and my parents and my mother-in-law.” The cameras were rolling throughout Savannah’s advocacy efforts and were there to capture the reunions when Todd and Julie Chrisley were released from prison in May 2025 following Trump’s pardon.

    Where was The Chrisleys: Back to Reality filmed?

    The series was filmed over several months in various locations central to the Chrisley family’s story, including their Nashville home base, federal prison facilities in Florida and Kentucky, and the locations where the family lived during their parents’ incarceration. Cameras captured both private family moments and public appearances as the family navigated this unprecedented period.

    The Chrisleys: Back to Reality is produced by Bunim/Murray Productions (known for Surviving R. Kelly) with executive producers Julie Pizzi, Farnaz Farjam, Jesse Daniels, Rit Saraswat, and Nicole Blais. Savannah and Chase Chrisley also serve as executive producers, while Brie Miranda Bryant and Nicole Vogel executive produce for Lifetime.

    Who appears in The Chrisleys: Back to Reality?

    The Chrisleys: Back to Reality features the core Chrisley family members, including Savannah Chrisley, who emerged as the family’s primary advocate and legal guardian to her younger siblings; Chase Chrisley, who tackled personal challenges and a new business venture during the ordeal; and Grayson Chrisley and Chloe Chrisley (Todd’s granddaughter whom he and Julie had custody of). The series also includes Todd’s mother “Nanny Faye” and Julie’s parents Harvey and Pam, showing the extended family support system. Todd and Julie Chrisley also appear throughout the series, both in archival footage from their prison phone calls and in new footage following their release. Todd’s estranged children from his previous relationship, Lindsie and Kyle Chrisley, do not appear in the series.

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    Jenzia Burgos

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  • ‘Mind-blowing’ moment: Whale-watching tour spots white shark feeding off Santa Barbara coast

    ‘Mind-blowing’ moment: Whale-watching tour spots white shark feeding off Santa Barbara coast

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    A whale-watching tour got the photo opportunity of a lifetime when they spotted a rare white shark feeding from an elephant seal about 30 miles west of Santa Barbara.

    The group of about 50 people were aboard the Condor Express, which conducts whale watching tours daily through the Santa Barbara Channel, according to Capt. Dave Beezer, who has been working for the company for nearly 20 years.

    On Aug. 30, the group spotted the floating carcass of a dead elephant seal about 14 miles off the coast of Gaviota and Beezer knew to stick around in the area, he said. The seal’s head was missing so he thought a predator could be involved. Soon after, a 16-foot adult white shark emerged from the water and started feeding on the carcass.

    The Condor Express whale-watching tour near Santa Barbara spotted a white shark feeding on an elephant seal on Aug. 30.

    (Robert Perry / CondorExpressPhotos.com)

    “It was digging its jaws into the side of the seal and taking out big chunks and then it would go out of sight,” he said.

    White sharks, sometimes called great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias), are the species featured in the 1975 classic film “Jaws.” The northeastern Pacific white shark population is on the rise and not at risk of becoming endangered in U.S. waters, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

    The shark circled the boat and surfaced about four or five times to take a bite out of the seal. Robert Perry, who has been photographing the ocean since the late 1960s, was also onboard, acting as the Condor Express’ staff photographer. The only time he’s ever taken photos of white sharks was when they were swimming around or under a dead whale so they weren’t fully visible.

    Perry managed to capture several images of the white shark feeding.

    “It was completely mind-blowing and a rare opportunity,” Perry added. “It was the shot of a lifetime.”

    Beezer said he’s seen a white shark feed about four or five times in his lifetime. He emphasized the importance of the white shark to the region. Because San Miguel Island serves as a breeding ground for seals, the area has some of the largest seal populations in the world. White sharks keep some of those populations in check, he said.

    “It’s not this mindless, killing machine that we should all be terrified of,” he added. “It’s a calculating predator that plays an important role in the ocean ecosystem.”

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    Summer Lin

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  • The Life and Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson Trailer Previews Lifetime Documentary

    The Life and Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson Trailer Previews Lifetime Documentary

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    Lifetime has unveiled the trailer for The Life and Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson, highlighting the most publicized trials in history, which her family believes was no longer about the victims. Releasing on June 1 and 2, the two-part documentary will arrive just in time for the 30th anniversary of the murders of Brown and her friend Ron Goldman. 

    The upcoming documentary will feature new details about Brown as well as stories from her friends and family. The 35-year-old mother of two and her 25-year-old friend Goldman were murdered by O.J. Simpson on June 12, 1994. However, the public’s attention turned to the disgraced NFL player, who had been abusing Brown even after their divorce. 

    “One woman remained forgotten”

    The late football player was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, but was acquitted after the lengthy 1995 trial, dubbed the “Trial of the Century.” It was highly publicized that those closest to Brown’s life believed that it had suddenly turned into a “business opportunity.”

    Hoping to “rekindle the flame of Nicole,” the documentary aims to present Brown as someone more than just the headline of a tragic murder. One of the documentary’s over 50 participants stated that the world knows more about the trial itself than the victims. 

    “She was my best friend. And the one thing I could not protect her from was the monster she was married to,” one of the participants said in the trailer. 

    The official synopsis for the documentary reads: “The documentary provides an opportunity for Nicole’s own narrative and voice to be heard in one of the most notorious crimes and trials in history. The project features 50 participants, including those who knew Nicole the best – her friends and family – to shed new light on her life and tragic death. With unprecedented access to exclusive home videos and interviews, the documentary will reveal shocking new details in the tragic story.”

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    Ryan Louis Mantilla

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  • How to Watch Hunting Housewives to See Denise Richards, NeNe Leakes, & More

    How to Watch Hunting Housewives to See Denise Richards, NeNe Leakes, & More

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    All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

    If you’re a fan of The Real Housewives franchise and Dancing with the Stars, you’re likely wondering how to watch Hunting Housewives online for free. After all, who doesn’t want to see the likes of Denise Richards and NeNe Leakes in a movie together?

    Hunting Housewives, releases on March 9, 2024, follows four friends—Karla Dodds (Denise Richards), Rebel Carron-Whitman (NeNe Leakes), Joli Symons (Kym Johnson Herjavec) and Sharell Bouvier (Melyssa Ford)—as they head off to a spa retreat. It’s meant to be a long overdue weekend of rest and relaxation without their husbands, kids, or any other kind of commitment. However, after their plane crashes, they find themselves having to survive in the wild. The housewives don’t know a single thing about survival, and they also don’t know they’re not completely alone. This forces the four friends to join together and outsmart the people hunting them.

    You might recognize the four housewives from the movie as Denise Richards from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, NeNe Leakes from The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Kym Johnson Herjavec from Dancing with the Stars, and Melyssa Ford from Blood, Sweat & Heels.

    Will they make it out alive? You’ll just have to see for yourself by scrolling below to discover how to watch Hunting Housewives online for free.

    NeNe Leakes and Denise Richards
    Left: NeNe Leakes; Right: Denise Richards. Photos: Prince Williams/WireImage; Gotham/GC Images.

    When does Hunting Housewives premiere?

    Hunting Housewives premieres on Saturday, March 9 at 8 p.m. ET on Lifetime.

    How to watch Hunting Housewives for free

    Hunting Housewives airs on Lifetime, which is available to stream live on services like DirecTV Stream, Sling, and Philo. DirecTV Stream starts at $79.99 per month. Philo offers a seven-day free trial and costs $25 per month after the free trial ends. Sling TV starts at $20 for your first month.

    Best Overall Pick to Watch Hunting Housewives: DirecTV Stream

    Direct TV is our best overall pick to watch Hunting Housewives for its price and channel selection. DirecTV offers four plans: Entertainment, which costs $79.99 per month; Choice, which costs $108.99 per month with the first two months at $83.99 per month; Ultimate, which costs $84.99 per month with the first two months at $94.99 per month; and Premiere, which costs $159.99 per month.

    As for other differences between the plans, Entertainment includes more than 75 channels, the ability to stream on unlimited devices in your home, unlimited cloud DVR storage, and a special offer on premium channels. Choice, which is the most popular plan, includes more than 105 channels, regional sports networks, and everything included in Entertainment. Ultimate includes more than 140 channels and everything included in Entertainment and Choice. Premiere includes more than 150 channels including premium channels like HBO and Starz and everything included in Entertainment, Choice, and Premiere. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Hunting Housewives with DirecTV Stream.

    1. Visit streamtv.directv.com‘s packages page
    2. Select the plan of your choice
    3. Enter your information and payment method
    4. Search for Lifetime and start watching Hunting Housewives

    Best Budget Pick to Watch Hunting Housewives: Philo

    Philo is our best budget pick to watch Hunting Housewives for its price and free trial length. Philo offers a seven-day free trial and costs $25 per month after the trial ends. Along with Lifetime, Philo also offers similar channels like Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Drama, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, Great American Faith & Living, and Great American Family. As for what else it includes, Philo offers more than 70 channels, as well as an unlimited DVR service. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Hunting Housewives with Philo’s free trial. 

    1. Visit Philo.com
    2. Click “Start Free Trial”
    3. Enter your information and payment method
    4. Search for Lifetime and start watching Hunting Housewives

    Best Upgrade Pick to Watch Hunting Housewives: Sling TV

    Sling TV is our best budget pick to watch Hunting Housewives for its channel selection. Sling TV offers three plans: Sling Orange for $40 per month; Sling Blue for $45 per month; and Sling Orange + Blue for $60 per month. Sling also has a current deal where subscribers can sign up for 50 percent off their first month, bringing Sling Orange’s price down to $20 for your first month; Sling Blue’s to $22.50 for your first month; and Sling Orange + Blue’s to $30 for your first month. All three plans include Lifetime.

    As for the differences between the plans, Sling Orange, which is most suited toward sports and family channels, includes 32 channels and the ability to stream on one device at a time. Sling Orange, which is most suited toward news and entertainment channels, includes 42 channels and the ability to stream on three devices at a time. Sling Orange + Blue includes all the channels offered on both Sling Orange and Sling Blue, as well as the ability to stream on three devices at a time. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Hunting Housewives with Sling TV.

    1. Visit Sling.com
    2. Click “Try Us Today”
    3. Create an account
    4. Select your plan
    5. Enter your payment information and check out
    6. Search for Lifetime and start watching Hunting Housewives
    Kym Johnson-Herjavec and Melyssa Ford
    Left: Kym Johnson-Herjavec; Right: Melyssa Ford. Photos: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images; Roy Rochlin/Getty Images.

    Who’s in the cast of Hunting Housewives?

    • Denise Richards as Karla Dodds
    • Mark Ghanimé as Mark Dodds
    • NeNe Leakes as Rebel Carron-Whitman
    • Kip Brown as Evan Whitman
    • Kym Johnson Herjavec as Joli Symons
    • Sergio Di Zio as Jared Symons
    • Melyssa Ford as Sharell Bouvier
    • Martin Roach as Andre Bouvier
    • Tom Morton as Pilot McCann
    • Klé McKoy as The Driver

    Hunting Housewives Trailer

    Click play on the YouTube video below to watch the Hunting Housewives trailer.

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    Katie Decker-Jacoby

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  • The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard: What To Expect From the Docuseries?

    The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard: What To Expect From the Docuseries?

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    Lifetime will release a docuseries titled The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard in January. This series will see Gypsy Rose Blanchard narrate her own story. She recently got parole and according to Distractify, she will now live with her husband, Ryan Anderson.

    The case against Gypsy Rose Blanchard is not just confusing but also mind-boggling. Gypsy was raised by her mother Dee Dee Blanchard. Dee Dee led everyone around their family to believe that her daughter was a disabled person. Gypsy was always in a wheelchair and on heavy medication. Their neighbors were convinced that Dee Dee was the picture-perfect mother who would do anything to protect their child.

    However, one fine day, Dee Dee Blanchard was brutally murdered, and Gypsy was missing. Upon investigation, officials learned that the one who devised the plot to take Dee Dee’s life was none other than Gypsy and her then-boyfriend Nicholas Godejohn. Godejohn stabbed Dee Dee 17 times, which resulted in her death. According to Distractify, Dee Dee suffered from a condition called Munchhausen syndrome by proxy. This made her hold her daughter as a medical prisoner.

    In a recent interview with People, Gypsy revealed why she took part in the Lifetime docuseries. She said, “I want to make sure that people in abusive relationships do not resort to murder. It may seem like every avenue is closed-off but there is always another way. Do anything, but don’t take this course of action.”

    The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard will consist of three episodes. It will air on Lifetime from January 5, 2024, to January 7, 2024, at 8 p.m. EST/PST.

    Has Gypsy Rose Blanchard been released from prison?

    The court originally sentenced Gypsy Rose Blanchard to ten years in prison. However, she acquired parole on December 28, 2023.

    In the aforementioned interview with People, Gypsy stated that if she had the chance to redo everything, she was unsure of how to handle the situation. She said, “If I had another chance to redo everything, I don’t know if I would go back to when I was a child and tell my aunts and uncles that I’m not sick and mommy makes me sick. Or, if I would travel back to just the point of that conversation with Nick and tell him, ‘You know what, I’m going to go tell the police everything.’ I kind of struggle with that.

    Furthermore, Melissa Moore the executive producer of The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard said that the upcoming project will contain Gypsy’s unseen interviews from prison.

    Moore said, “Over the course of this time, I watched her transform into a woman who holds responsibility for her past and now has the courage to face an unknown new free world for the first time.”

    Gypsy Rose Blanchard married Ryan Anderson in 2022. However, they were close to splitting a few months after their marriage. Fortunately, the couple reconciled. Ryan Anderson is a teacher from Louisiana. Born in 1991, Gypsy is currently 32 years old.

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    Debangshu Nath

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  • How to Watch Lifetime Christmas Movies For Free to Make This Season Merry & Bright

    How to Watch Lifetime Christmas Movies For Free to Make This Season Merry & Bright

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    All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

    Christmas is just around the corner, and while you might’ve already hung up decorations and bought presents, holiday prep is nothing without binge-watching festive movies. If you’re looking to turn your holiday spirit up a notch, you’re going to want to know how to watch Lifetime Christmas movies online for free. Lifetime offers a wide range of titles that feature nostalgic stars like Tia Mowry, Corbin Bleu, and Monique Coleman.

    Lifetime is an American basic cable channel that launched in February 1984 and is part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, a branch of A&E Networks. The channel is geared toward women and frequently features them in lead roles. Lifetime produces its own original films, which are brought to life by the network’s Lifetime Pictures unit. Chief among its offerings is its Christmas movies.

    This year, Lifetime premieres new holiday movies every weekend starting November 18 and ending December 23. You can watch them live or on demand or stream them in the Lifetime app. Eight new releases are currently available to watch right now, and there are still four that have yet to release this month: The Holiday Proposal Plan, A Christmas Intern, Merry Magic Christmas, and Mom’s Christmas Boyfriend. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic comedy or a classic, Lifetime has got you covered.

    Snuggle up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa and turn on the TV to any of Lifetime’s Christmas movies. If these names are getting you excited for the holidays, keep reading to find out how to watch Lifetime Christmas movies to make this season extra merry and bright.

    The Holiday Proposal Plan Lifetime Christmas Movie
    A+E Networks.

    How to watch Lifetime Christmas movies for free

    Lifetime Christmas movies are available to stream live on services like DirecTV Stream, Fubo, and Philo. DirecTV Stream offers a five-day free trial and starts at $74.99 per month after the trial ends. Philo offers a seven-day free trial and costs $25 per month after the free trial ends. Fubo offers a seven-day free trial and starts at $74.99 per month after the trial ends.

    Best Overall Pick to Watch Lifetime Christmas Movies: DirecTV Stream

    Direct TV is our best overall pick to watch Lifetime Christmas movies for free for its free trial, price, and channel selection. DirecTV Stream offers a five-day free trial. DirecTV offers four plans: Entertainment, which costs $74.99 per month with the first three months at $64.99 per month; Choice, which costs $99.99 per month with the first three months at $89.99 per month; Ultimate, which costs $109.99 per month with the first three months at $99.99 per month; and Premiere, which costs $154.99 per month with the first three months at $144.99 per month. Lifetime is included in all four plans.

    As for other differences between the plans, Entertainment includes more than 75 channels, the ability to stream on unlimited devices in your home, unlimited cloud DVR storage, and a special offer on premium channels. Choice, which is the most popular plan, includes more than 105 channels, regional sports networks, and everything included in Entertainment. Ultimate includes more than 140 channels and everything included in Entertainment and Choice. Premiere includes more than 150 channels including premium channels like HBO and Starz and everything included in Entertainment, Choice, and Premiere. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Lifetime Christmas movies with DirecTV Stream’s free trial. 

    1. Visit streamtv.directv.com
    2. Click “Shop Packages”
    3. Click “Try It Free” for the plan of your choice
    4. Enter your information and payment method
    5. Search for Lifetime and start watching

    Best Budget Pick to Watch Lifetime Christmas Movies: Philo

    Philo is our best free trial pick to watch Lifetime Christmas movies for its price and free trial length. Philo offers a seven-day free trial and costs $25 per month after the trial ends. Along with Lifetime, Philo also offers similar channels like Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Drama, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, Great American Faith & Living, and Great American Family. As for what else it includes, Philo offers more than 70 channels, as well as an unlimited DVR service. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Lifetime Christmas movies with Philo’s free trial. 

    1. Visit Philo.com
    2. Click “Start Free Trial”
    3. Enter your information and payment method
    4. Search for Lifetime and start watching

    Best Free Trial Pick to Watch Lifetime Christmas Movies: Fubo

    Fubo is our best free trial pick to watch Lifetime Christmas movies for free based on what it offers. Fubo offers a seven-day free trial (two days longer than DirecTV Stream) and offers three plans: Pro, which costs $74.99 per month; Elite, which costs $84.99 per month; and Ultimate, which costs $99.99 per month. Along with Lifetime, all three plans also include Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and Hallmark Drama.

    As for the difference between the plans, Pro includes 180 channels, 1,000 hours of Cloud DVR, and the ability to watch on up to 10 screens at once. Elite includes everything in Pro, as well as a total of 256 channels and 4K resolution. Ultimate includes everything in Pro and Elite, as well as a total of 299 channels, Showtime, and Red Zone NFL Network. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Lifetime Christmas movies with Fubo’s free trial. 

    1. Visit Fubo.TV
    2. Click “Start Free Trial”
    3. Enter your information and payment method
    4. Search for Lifetime and start watching
    Mistletoe Match Lifetime Christmas Movie
    A+E Networks.

    Lifetime Christmas Movies Schedule

    This 2023 holiday season, expect new Lifetime Christmas movies every weekend starting November 18. Here’s the full schedule so that you won’t miss out:

    • 11/18 – Christmas Plus One
    • 11/19 – Planes, Trains and Christmas Trees
    • 11/25 – Christmas at the Chalet
    • 11/26 – Laughing All The Way
    • 12/2 – Ladies of the ’80s: A Divas Christmas
    • 12/3 – Mistletoe Match
    • 12/9 – A Cowboy Christmas Romance
    • 12/10 – Yes, Chef! Christmas
    • 12/16 – The Holiday Proposal Plan
    • 12/16 – A Christmas Intern
    • 12/17 – Merry Magic Christmas
    • 12/23 – Mom’s Christmas Boyfriend

    Lifetime Family Christmas Movies

    • A New Orleans Noel
    • Merry Liddle Christmas
    • Merry Liddle Christmas Wedding
    • Merry Liddle Christmas Baby
    • A Christmas Dance Reunion
    • Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas
    • Miracle in Motor City
    • The Christmas Aunt
    • Radio Christmas
    • Welcome to the Christmas Family Reunion

    Lifetime Christmas Classics

    • Poinsettias for Christmas
    • Ladies of the ’80s: A Divas Christmas
    • Dear Christmas
    • Reba McEntire’s Christmas in Tune
    • A Very Nutty Christmas
    • Christmas A La Mode
    • The 12 Days of Christmas Eve
    • Merry Swissmas
    • Reindeer Games Homecoming
    • The Holiday Fix Up
    • You Light Up My Christmas

    Lifetime Christmas Vacation Movies

    • Merry Swissmas
    • Christmas at the Chalet
    • Planes, Trains and Christmas Trees
    • A New Orleans Noel
    • A Christmas to Treasure
    • Christmas in Louisiana
    • Mistletoe in Montana
    • A Christmas Village Romance
    • A Very Vintage Christmas
    • Grounded for Christmas
    • Christmas on the Vine
    • A Christmas Winter Song
    • Christmas Reservations

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    Katie Decker-Jacoby

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  • Apostle Leina’ala Mars-Opoku Receives Biden’s Gold Lifetime Achievement Award – World News Report – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Apostle Leina’ala Mars-Opoku Receives Biden’s Gold Lifetime Achievement Award – World News Report – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

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    After a lifetime dedicated to service, Apostle Leina’ala Mars-Opoku earns the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award

    WASHINGTON D.C, USA, June 17, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — On Friday, May 19, Apostle Leina’ala Mars-Opoku was distinguished with one of the highest honors given by the United States government, The Gold Lifetime Achievement Award.

    The Biden’s Gold Lifetime Achievement Award is a prestigious honor that recognizes the efforts of individuals who have shown exemplary dedication to volunteer service. In order to achieve this award, individuals must meet a minimum of 4,000 volunteer hours, making this award incredibly difficult to achieve.

    The President’s Volunteer Service Award acts as a symbol of American goodwill and is the embodiment of selfless leadership and community service. Through this award, the nation recognizes citizens who go above and beyond to effect change and improve lives, reinforcing the core values of altruism and public service.

    Apostle Mars-Opoku is considered a spiritual powerhouse by her peers, and she has been a beacon of hope and faith from her early beginnings. Her steadfast dedication to serving God and humankind began at the young age of 8 when she first accepted Christ. There was no doubt that after receiving a prophetic word from God at 15, she was destined to become a great leader. Since that moment, Apostle Mars-Opoku has committed her life to spiritual service, overcoming…

    Original Author Link click here to read complete story..

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    MMP News Author

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  • How the “Pivot to Christmas” Became a Career Expander for a Certain Kind of Star

    How the “Pivot to Christmas” Became a Career Expander for a Certain Kind of Star

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    When Holly Robinson Peete, star of popular shows in the ’80s and ’90s like 21 Jump Street, Hanging With Mr. Cooper, and For Your Love, turned 40, she looked around at the film and television landscape and didn’t like her future. It would be made up, she feared, largely of grandmother or aunty roles, and that was if she was lucky enough to have any roles at all. Then her fellow ’90s star and friend Lori Loughlin told her about a place where the actors are still romantic leads well into middle age, and it just happens to be Christmas most of the year: the Hallmark Channel

    “Now I’m pushing 60 and I’m still number one on the call sheet with nice chocolate brown boys that are my love interest,” Peete said in a recent phone interview. “Like, I’m not aunty status.”

    You do not need Vanity Fair to tell you that Christmas and other holiday films have expanded significantly in the last 5 to 10 years. Simply turn on any channel or streaming service after October 21. More than 120 were made this year alone, and it’s not just Hallmark and Lifetime, which are the largest producers of Christmas-themed made-for-TV films in the US. Up TV, BET, Netflix, AMC, ABC, and the newly relaunched, and quickly controversial, Great American Family have tried to get a piece of the expansive pie. Coca-Cola even made a Christmas movie anthology this year. 

    But in that expansion is the equally steady growth of well-paying, dependable opportunities for a range of actors. Musicians have long turned to the holiday album for a reliable win in record sales against the odds—that is, through the Napster era into the Spotify era. See: Mariah Carey, Barbra Streisand, Ariana Grande, Michael Bublé, Justin Bieber, Idina Menzel, and so, so many more. Since Hallmark leaned all the way into Christmas over a decade ago, those musicians and actors, too, have another opportunity to pivot to Christmas. Though there are actors who come up within the world of the holiday film, for some pros with long resumés, the world of the holidays can be a space to extend one’s career onscreen and to get involved behind the camera. There’s now room for almost anyone, as long as they want to merge their brand with the generally wholesome family-oriented content on offer. 

    Lindsay Lohan is probably the biggest star for a certain demographic to get into the 2022 market with Falling for Christmas, alongside a two-film deal with Netflix widely viewed as a comeback for the actor. At Hallmark, you’ll also find Lohan’s Mean Girls costars, Jonathan Bennett and the network’s reigning queen of Christmas, Lacey Chabert. They also have Sister Sister’s Tamera Mowry-Housley and rom-com king Dermot Mulroney. (The “all cheer all the time crowd” is not without its reactionaries. Hallmark formerly had Candace Cameron Bure and The Wonder Years’ Danica McKellar, but last year, the two actors jumped to Great American Family, which Bill Abbott, former head of Crown Media, Hallmark’s parent company, cocreated and aimed expressly at a Christian audience. That means, Bure has gone out of her way to say, don’t expect LGBTQ+ stories.) Meanwhile, at Lifetime, where they, like Hallmark, turn their programming over to holiday content before the clock even strikes Halloween, the onscreen talent is full of familiar names and faces: Kelly Rowland, Mario Lopez, Reba McEntire, Kelsey Grammer, Tia Mowry, Patti LaBelle, and Rita Moreno have all joined the cause.

    The actors who make a great “get” in the space certainly have a “nostalgia factor,” according to Amy Winter, Lifetime executive vice president and head of programming. But besides being recognizable, “there’s a likability, there’s a relatability to everybody that’s in the season. You feel like, if you showed up and they were near you, that you would be fast friends. No matter how big of a star they are, they just have that unique quality, each of them individually.” 

    And sometimes it’s all about the pairing. “We were very excited to work with Jane Seymour this year,” Winter added. “And then, we’re like, do we think we could get Joe Lando? Because it would be really amazing if there was this Dr. Quinn reunion. Our audience gets it and loves it. There’s a nostalgia factor to it.” 

    This year, those two old costars released A Christmas Spark on Lifetime.

    For the talent, one pro is perhaps obvious. They’re able to reach larger audiences in a world where rom-coms rarely get theater releases anymore and the streaming landscape is so fractured. Holiday programming’s reliable numbers are a ratings story every year, it seems. So far, 2022 is no different. Nothing has been tied up with a bow yet, but by early December, Hallmark’s films were averaging two million viewers each, according to Decider.

    There’s also a participatory element actors may be looking for at a certain point in their careers.  As Lisa Hamilton Daly, the executive vice president of programming for Hallmark Media told me over email, “In the grand scheme of things, we are a small shop and our talent is our most valuable commodity, so we take a lot of care to make them feel valued and welcome; we want them to feel seen and heard, and we invite their creative input.”

    Peete, who has executive produced The Christmas Doctor and A Family Christmas Gift, among others, added, “It was the respect for my body of work, for my career. They didn’t make me audition.”

    There’s a similar homespun bent at Lifetime. Tanya Lopez, the network’s executive vice president who heads up scripted content, says a lot of the storylines audiences see onscreen comes directly from the actors, especially when it comes to the marquee names. Tony-award winner Ali Stroker was able to make adjustments to the script that felt true to her life in a wheelchair for her role in Christmas Ever After. But, Lopez added, it didn’t have to “feel like an after-school special… It was a Christmas movie and she was the love interest.” 

    And when Lifetime was in talks with Kelly Rowland about potential films, she inspired what would become one of the most popular holiday films on the network. Lopez’s team and Rowland met one recent February, and Rowland was still traumatized from the panic of hosting her entire family, nieces, and nephews, and all, for Christmas in her newly decorated home—newly decorated in white from top to bottom. 

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    Kenzie Bryant

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  • Savvy Traveler Co. Launching New Online Courses in Spanish, Italian, French and Chinese

    Savvy Traveler Co. Launching New Online Courses in Spanish, Italian, French and Chinese

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    Savvy Traveler Co. courses intuitively teach language fundamentals with 4.5 audio media hours that can be accessed on mobile devices

    Press Release



    updated: Apr 27, 2017

     Savvy Traveler Co. is helping travelers and others to learn to cross the language bridge with-all new language courses in Spanish, Italian and French. Savvy Traveler language courses are designed to bring the language learner’s skills from zero to conversational in just 30 days. The courses are based on the 12-week language courses from The Alliance Française de Bozeman International Language School, which has more than 20 years of experience providing private tutoring, translation services, and teaching worldwide.

    The courses are overlapped with all the most-asked questions for English speakers learning Spanish, Italian, French and Chinese. The course includes 4.5 hours of audio media so learners can enjoy lifetime access to the course to refresh their skills whenever they would like. Each course also includes a private Facebook group of classmates and on-demand tutors from www.italki.com and professional teachers who are certified professionals and highly-skilled in the art of foreign language acquisition.

    “Whether a language learner’s main motivation is to converse with multilingual family, pass a high school or college class, travel more, or learn for business, these courses are tailored to help someone quickly become conversational,” says Alaina Garcia, CEO of Savvy Traveler Co. “These courses are also offered in a way that makes it easy and accessible for anyone. Language immersion through virtual world experiences drives a new level of student engagement. With the simplicity of MP4 movies from a mobile phone or device, people can learn from anywhere.” 

    Savvy Traveler language courses cater to travelers, business professionals, medical professionals, agricultural workers, service industry workers, and more. The company has already received some great feedback from language learners who have taken the Spanish language course.

    “The Travel Savvy Spanish course is a well-organized, accessible way to get your basic skills up to speed. Get it before you set out on your next adventure!” says Cynthia, a bilingual journalist.

    The Savvy Traveler Spanish course is currently available with the Italian and French language courses slated to start in Oct. 2017. The Chinese language will launch in July 2018. To learn more or sign up for language classes, visit SavvyTraveler.co.

    About Savvy Traveler Co.

    Savvy Traveler Co. is made for travelers, multi-lingual families, students, medical professionals, and all business men and women who want to cross the language bridge. Savvy Traveler Co. courses help students become conversationally proficient in Spanish, Italian or French in 30 days.

    Source: Savvy Traveler Co.

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