If you’re a fan of Hallmark and its Countdown to Christmas celebrations, you already know Andrew Walker. He is a mainstay, always bringing warmth and authenticity to every role he plays.
But what you might not realize is how much he values the people he works with and the fans who support his work.
Chatting with Andrew was like a window into a world where kindness, humility, and gratitude were more than just words; This is his way of life.
“Silent disco and all these things that we don’t normally do with fans — it’s going to be quite an experience.”
With a waiting list of 70,000 people, this cruise is a testament to fans’ love for Hallmark. But for Andrew, the adoration still feels surreal.
“I’m always surprised. I always feel like I’m going to show up at one of these things and that becomes a lead.
“I thought, OK, well, people finally get what I mean. They’re not interested in me anymore. And there’s no line. No one wants to see me,” he admits with a laugh, sharing his humility.
Andrew’s gratitude for his career is evident. “There are a lot of actors out of work,” he said, reflecting on the industry’s challenges.
“As a working actor, having people want to see my work and want to say hi and thank me is really a special situation.”
Being part of a close group of actors who are also true friends definitely makes it all the more fulfilling. They were more than just actors working together; they were real friends — and some family.
“That’s why it doesn’t go unnoticed every day,” he said. “I’ll tell my wife. I thought, I can’t believe it.
He smiled as he recalled recent family moments. “I just ordered a candy cane costume for a fan event and I walked out wearing it…and my kids were like, ‘Dad, what is that?'”
Andrew laughed: “This is what your dad does for a living.”
Iconic events such as the Christmas Convention and upcoming cruises have become special to Andrew and he values meeting fans and hearing their stories.
After the Hallmark Cruise’s maiden voyage, a fan shared how Andrew’s “Jingle Bells” costar Ashley Williams made her feel seen and supported during a difficult time. Andrew was not surprised by this story.
“Ashley is an empathetic person,” he said, visibly moved by her compassion.
He described how their families had become close, even joking that they lived close to each other. “As the crow flies, it’s a five-minute walk, but we have to go through one canyon to get up to the other.”
The friendship he developed with Ashley over the years added energy and depth to their chemistry on “Jingle Bells.” In the movie, Andrew plays Wes, a former professional hockey player hoping for his next big break.
While Ashley longs to be in the spotlight again by participating in a reality show, Ashley plays Ivory, an elementary school teacher who prefers to keep a low profile and consider others.
Together they discover new things about themselves and bring out the best in each other. This story resonated deeply with Andrew.
“When you’re surrounded by people who are constantly serving you, you start to think…am I living a compassionate life?” Andrew explains.
“That’s what ‘Jingle Bells’ feels like. Wes constantly thinking about his past and spending time with Ashley’s character brings out the best in him.
One thing that keeps Andrew humble is the normality of his family life. He was a father who changed diapers, mowed the lawn, and cherished time with his wife and children.
Looking back on his Hallmark trip, he laughed about his first fan event. “You have imposter syndrome, right? I’m like, why are people here? Why are people waiting to see me?
It wasn’t until he heard personal stories from fans — people who found comfort or joy in Hallmark movies during difficult times — that he understood the impact of his work.
“It’s not about me. It’s about the brand…the magic…all the things this network does,” he said, emphasizing that he was just part of a bigger picture.
During our conversation, we joked about the possibility of launching a Hallmark-themed competition show, similar to the one in the movie Holiday Rush. Andrew liked the idea.
“It would be awesome if people saw Andrew Walker trying to run a half marathon or trying to get somewhere, and I’m having a breakdown. I’m struggling, I’m trying to get myself through it.
He continued to think about his friend and fellow Hallmark star Tyler Hynes. “Tyler is always like Mr. Cool Guy, but I would love to see a little tear on Tyler’s face because he doesn’t want to eat that bowl of roaches!”
His humor is grounded in reality and embodies the playful, down-to-earth side of Andrew that endears him to fans.
When I asked him how he spent his vacation, his answer was unusual. This year, Andrew and his family traveled to Southeast Asia. “We’re going to spend Christmas at the beach and then spend New Year’s in Singapore,” he excitedly shared.
What makes it even more special is that he will be hosting the vow renewals of his two best friends. “I’m the master of ceremonies,” he said proudly, adding that it would make the trip even more memorable.
Andrew gives of himself freely, which makes dialogue like this and his work on screen worth truly appreciating.
As I thanked Andrew for his time, kindness and dedication to the fans, he shared how much he was looking forward to spending time with everyone on the cruise. “I’m here for the fans,” he assured me.
“I want to be with everyone and spend a minute or two with people.” Yes, his wife will be there, too. “She’s almost a bigger celebrity than me,” he joked, giving fans yet another reason to look forward to meeting him.
For Andrew Walker, being a member of the Hallmark family is an honor he cherishes.
He loved his job, cherished his friendships, and valued the connection with his fans. That’s the real magic that keeps us all paying attention.
“Jingle Bell Run” will premiere on Hallmark Channel on Saturday, November 16 at 8/7c.
