Jen Lilley Opens Up about Faith, Christmas Films, and Letting Fans Play a Part in Rom-Coms

Michael Foust

Crosswalk Headlines Contributor
Updated Nov 25, 2024

The popular Hollywood actress, who is best known for her roles in family-friendly rom-coms on Hallmark and Great American Family, says her Christian faith is the foundation of her life. Jen Lilley has appeared in some 18 Christmas movies, including two new ones this year: Great American Family's A Little Women's Christmas (Nov. 23) and Hulu's Operation Mistletoe, which is currently streaming. She's also heading a new innovative crowdfunding company, Raise the Reel, which offers fans the opportunity to be extras in a new rom-com movie, Holiday Hearts, shooting next year.

Lilley isn't shy about her faith. 

"I could talk about Jesus all day long," Lilley told Crosswalk Headlines.

Lilley's new company, Raise the Reel, is a new fundraising model for movies that gives fans the chance to visit the set and even be an extra. The company's first movie, Holiday Hearts, will begin shooting next year. The main roles, she said, involve well-known talent.

"It gives people the chance not only to help fund movies but to actually be part of the filmmaking process," she said. "People can be in a Christmas movie with me."

Read the full story here

Photo Credit: ©SWN/Canva Pro


Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel. 

Listen to Michael's Podcast! He is the host of Crosswalk Talk, a podcast where he talks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christian figures keep their faith a priority in Hollywood and discover the best Christian movies, books, television, and other entertainment. You can find Crosswalk Talk on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an interview that will be sure to encourage your faith.

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