Hallmark fans, football lovers, and anyone enchanted by the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce buzz—brace yourselves! Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story has landed, and it’s the festive rom-com we didn’t know we needed.
If you’re in Australia, here’s everything you need to know about catching the movie, plus the scoop on its connection to Taylor Swift and the Chiefs Kingdom.
What is Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story about?
The Hallmark holiday film Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story pays tribute to the romance and community spirit that the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL inspire. The story follows Derrick (played by Hallmark favourite Tyler Hynes), the head of fan engagement for the Chiefs, as he evaluates which family deserves the coveted “Chiefs Fan of the Year” award—a real-life honour for die-hard fans.
Enter Alana (Hunter King), a local superfan with a heart as big as her Chiefs spirit. Sparks fly when Derrick and Alana meet at Norma and Nic’s, a fictional barbecue spot managed by Donna, played by none other than Mama Kelce herself, Donna Kelce. While Donna dons a No. 87 Chiefs jersey in honour of her son, Travis Kelce, the film’s universe intriguingly leaves his existence up for debate.
Fans can, however, enjoy cameos from current Chiefs players Mecole Hardman and Trey Smith, as well as head coach Andy Reid, making this heartwarming romance a touchdown for football lovers and holiday movie fans alike.
Filming took place in Kansas City, Independence, and the iconic Arrowhead Stadium, bringing authenticity and vibrant community spirit to the screen. Even the crew embraced local culture, indulging in Kansas City’s famous barbecue and sweating it out with extras during heatwaves while filming festive winter scenes.
Who is the Santa in Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story?
In a delightful twist, Donna Kelce – the real-life “Mama Kelce” and mum of NFL star Travis Kelce – plays a pivotal role as a Chiefs-loving restaurant manager named Donna. While not Santa in the traditional sense, Donna Kelce brings the Christmas magic to life with her charming performance.
How to Watch Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story in Australia?
At this stage Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story is unavailable to stream in Australia, but fingers crossed! We’ll let you know when we find out any new information.
What’s the Hallmark movie about Taylor Swift?
Though Holiday Touchdown is inspired by the buzz surrounding Taylor Swift’s connection to the Kansas City Chiefs and Travis Kelce, Hallmark has taken a more subtle approach. The movie centres on Derrick (Tyler Hynes), a Chiefs superfan and head of fan engagement, and Alana (Hunter King), a local family-oriented fan vying for the coveted “Chiefs Fan of the Year” title. Swift isn’t directly referenced, but the film celebrates the romance and excitement her connection has brought to the NFL and the Chiefs Kingdom….it’s also packed with Taylor Swift-inspired Easter eggs that will delight Swifties and football fans alike. W
hile the movie is not directly tied to Swift’s romance with Travis Kelce, it taps into the whimsical energy that their relationship has brought to the NFL. Among the film’s many nods to the pop star are casting connections, like Hunter King, who plays Alana and is the sister of Joey King, featured in Swift’s ‘I Can See You’ music video. There’s also a cheeky “XMAS 1989” Polaroid—a clear homage to Swift’s iconic album. Additionally, Alana’s love interest, Derrick Taylor, shares a surname with Swift and the restaurant where they meet is managed by none other than Donna Kelce, in a fun tribute to Chiefs founder Norma Hunt. Throughout the film, fans will spot Swift-themed numerology, references to “Paris,” and a plethora of Swiftie-style bracelets, all serving as little nods to Taylor’s world. From snowflakes to cozy scarves, the movie also echoes lyrics from ‘All Too Well,’ making it a playful Easter egg hunt for those who know where to look.
On the other hand, Lifetime’s Christmas in the Spotlight offers a more direct, fictionalized take on the Swift-Kelce love story.
From its heartwarming story about family traditions (including a lucky Chiefs beanie!) to the all-in community effort during production, Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story isn’t just a romance—it’s a love letter to Kansas City. Christmas fans will adore the festive charm, and Chiefs devotees will revel in the little nods to their favourite team.
