Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s love story seems like something straight out of a rom-com. With her being the biggest singer in the world and him a football superstar, it’s not a surprise that people just want more and more of them. And it seems as though movie studios have given them just that, because Lifetime will be releasing a new Christmas love story inspired by everybody’s favorite celebrity couple on Saturday, November 23.
The film—entitled Christmas in the Spotlight— follows a young musician named Bowyn (Jessica Lord) who struggles to meet the love of her life. But when she encounters football star Drew (Laith Wallschleger) backstage at one of her shows, everything changes after he publicly declares his love for her. Not surprisingly, being in such a high-profile relationship can cause a lot of problems, and soon the two begin wondering if theirs is a story of true love or true loss.
First for Women recently sat down with leading lady Jessica Lord to discuss the film, how she feels about bringing a Taylor Swift-esque character to life and the super sweet way this film helped her reconnect with herself. Keep scrolling for more.
First for Women: What does starring in this movie mean to you, and did it help you get in the holiday spirit?
Jessica Lord: Starring in this movie has meant the world to me. It’s actually my first time being the lead of a film. I feel like I need to keep pinching myself, because I’m literally living out little Jessica’s biggest dreams.
I come from such small towns in the UK and Canada, so it often feels like I’m still wrapping my head around where I’m at today. My mom absolutely loves watching these holiday movies and it’s something we’ve always grown up with as a family. Starring in this film is really special for not only myself but my family as well—which means everything to me, to make them proud.
And I don’t need much help getting into the holiday spirit since it’s my absolute favorite time of year, but since filming Christmas in the Spotlight this past summer, I’ve been in the holiday spirit for the past 6 months already!!
FFW: How was the audition process for this film? Were there any surprises or bumps in the road that you didn’t see coming?
JL: The audition itself was a bit of a surprise. My manager called to let me know I was going straight to a producer’s session, which doesn’t always happen. Usually, there is a self-tape, callbacks, etc. beforehand.
I met the producers and auditioned on a Tuesday, got the call that I booked the role on Friday, and then flew out the following week. It all happened very quickly, which can be common, but certainly still a lovely surprise.
FFW: The plot is clearly inspired by Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. How did you prepare to take on a role like that, and were there any aspects of it that scared you?
JL: I was truly so excited. I felt involved with Bowyn and her story the moment I started reading the script. One of the most challenging parts was portraying the balance between personal vulnerability and public perception, which is something Taylor has handled with so much grace over the years.
Playing a character inspired by someone so influential definitely pushed me to reflect on my own experiences and how love can intersect with identity and image. It was exciting and intimidating, but it allowed me to create something authentic that resonates with the core of the story.
FFW: You are also a very accomplished singer. Did you get to sing a lot in this film?
JL: I can’t claim that I’m a very accomplished singer—I mostly grew up as a dancer, and it’s a massive part of my life and who I am at my core. I did play guitar for seven years and used to sing and play at coffee shops with my instructor. He was like family to me, so when he passed, it took me a long time to pick up my guitar again.
I’m so grateful this film allows me to portray my greatest passions: acting, dancing and music. This role definitely inspired me to get tapped into music again and I’m actually in the studio creating some music now. The very talented musicians, Mason and Julez, are like brothers to me, so working with them has been such a blast.
FFW: Speaking of singing, what’s your favorite Taylor Swift song and why?
JL: “Love Story.” It was one of my favorite songs when I was younger; I have memories blasting and belting it with my friends. I also believe she wrote it in 20 minutes, which is just so incredibly impressive to me.
FFW: Finally, what do you want people to take away from this film?
JL: I hope people walk away from this film feeling uplifted and inspired by the power of love and connection. The holiday season brings people together, and this story beautifully explores how love, self-discovery and perseverance can lead to new beginnings. I hope it will remind people to hold their loved ones close, embrace the unexpected and stay authentic to themselves, no matter the challenges they face.
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