Hallmark Cards said it has reached an agreement with Crown Media Holdings for the Hallmark Channel to become the producer and new home for the Hallmark Hall of Fame television series. Crown Media Holdings operates and distributes Hallmark Channel to more than 90 million subscribers in the United States.
As part of this agreement, Crown Media Productions, the in-house production unit of Crown Media, will develop and produce future Hallmark Hall of Fame movies. Hallmark Cards will continue to sponsor the series and will remain involved in the creative process, including approving scripts.
“The Hallmark Hall of Fame has been one of our brand’s most valuable assets and will celebrate its 65th anniversary this year,” said Hallmark CEO Donald J. Hall, Jr. in a statement. “Hallmark Channel has become a leading destination for quality, family-friendly programming and is where Hallmark Hall of Fame viewers expect to find our programs. Hallmark Channel’s experience creating engaging, original content and their outstanding production capabilities make Hallmark Channel the perfect new home.”
The Hallmark Hall of Fame debuted on Christmas Eve 1951 and has had more than 255 broadcasts to date. The series has earned 81 Emmys and nine Golden Globes and 64 Academy Award-winning actors have appeared in Hallmark Hall of Fame presentations.
“We are thrilled to continue the successful legacy of the Hallmark Hall of Fame,” said Crown Media Family Networks CEO Bill Abbott in a statement. “For the past year, Hallmark Channel has premiered Hallmark Hall of Fame movies and now, with Crown Media Productions, we will have the opportunity to play a greater role in continuing the Hallmark Hall of Fame tradition.”
