(November 13, 2025 10:52 AM ET) A brand-new holiday movie, Christmas Romance at the Roanoke Ranch, is now streaming on Tubi, Plex, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and Fandango at Home — and Jackson viewers may notice something familiar. Portions of the film were shot right here in Jackson, Michigan, at the JTV studios, and two of JTV’s own — Bart and Andy Hawley — appear on-screen in key roles.
The production marks a unique moment for JTV, blending local broadcasting with national filmmaking in a way that showcases the talent and charm of Jackson.
A Holiday Film… with a JTV Cameo
The movie’s producer, Joel Reisig of JPR Studios, has produced nearly forty feature films and is known for his popular Christmas romance and family-friendly titles. He said JTV was the perfect fit for several pivotal scenes.
“I reached out to several news stations in larger markets, but they just weren’t the right fit — lots of corporate steps and long approval chains,” Reisig shared. “Through Facebook, a friend mentioned JTV. That connection led to Bart and Andy — no committee, no corporate process, just a local station willing to help tell a local story.”
That connection quickly expanded. Several JTV team members — Austyn Curtis, Ben Tripp, Jenifer Scanlon (Andy’s Monday co-host), Dana Vance, Lukas Olsen — along with local dentist Dr. Laura Norris, all appeared as extras in the film.
Casting Bart and Andy Hawley
Reisig said casting Bart and Andy came together naturally.
“Funny enough, I was originally planning to play Andy’s role myself,” he said. “But I’ve acted in so many movies that it wasn’t a big deal to step aside and give him the opportunity — and he did a great job.
As for Bart — why bring in someone to play ‘Bart’ when I have the real Bart right there? Who knows more about being a small-town newsman than Bart Hawley?”
The film, which takes place in Lowell, Michigan, keeps the authenticity of The Bart Hawley Show as it exists at JTV. Reisig and his team leaned into JTV’s real-world setup to give the movie a grounded, local feel.
Andy Hawley on His First Movie Role
“It’s amazing how hard acting really is,” Andy said. “It was a fun challenge and I’m glad I was able to have that experience. Credit to everyone who works in acting — whether it’s theatre, TV, or film… I have a new appreciation for the industry.”
“It was weird playing a role that is the opposite of how I really am in the office.”
Bart Hawley: A Different Kind of Spotlight
“I’ve been on TV most of my life, but acting in a scripted movie is a totally different world. I was surprised by how many times I had to retake lines — remembering the exact wording was harder than I expected!” said Bart.
“But it was a blast. The whole experience was just fun — new energy, different pace, and a chance to be part of something unique for Jackson.”
A Warm Partnership Between Film and Local TV
“Working with a big company can feel cold and corporate. Working with a family-owned business like JTV felt personal — like being welcomed into someone’s home. Everyone was kind, helpful, and genuinely excited to be part of the project, “ said Reisig.
“We just filmed a scene from my new sitcom, Rewind — about two friends trying to open a DVD rental store in 2025 — right there at JTV. So I’m sure we’ll be back for something else soon.”
Is a Sequel Coming?
Reisig said, “I’ve said ‘no’ before, and now I have multi-film series I never expected. So you never know.”
A Proud Moment for Jackson
“It was great for us at JTV to have that experience. We’re proud to be part of it, and we love that Jackson is getting this kind of spotlight.” said Andy.
Christmas Romance at the Roanoke Ranch also stars Kristen Ryda, James Dickey and Kathy Garver.
Christmas Romance at the Roanoke Ranch is available now across multiple streaming platforms: Available on Apple TV , Prime Video, Google Play, Plex, (free), Tubi, YouTube, and Fandango.
Watch online or search title on above apps or on Smart TV.
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