Alexa PenaVega (“Picture Perfect Mysteries,” Spy Kids franchise) and Carlos PenaVega (“Picture Perfect Mysteries,” “Big Time Rush“) star in “Love in the Limelight,” a new, original movie premiering Saturday, August 6 (8PM ET/PT), on Hallmark Channel, kicking off the network’s annual “Fall into Love” programming event. Inspired by the real-life love story of Willie Aames (“Picture Perfect Mysteries: Exit Stage Death,” “Eight is Enough“) and his wife Winnie Hung, the script was written by Aames, Hung, and Rich Tabach.
As a teenager, Summer (Alexa PenaVega) was a devoted fan of the popular boy band the Mendez Boyz, especially Nick (Carlos PenaVega), their lead singer. After receiving a sweet fan letter from Summer, Nick decides to respond with a phone call, sparking the start of a friendship that’s lasted to this day. When Nick’s manager books a gig for him at a small venue in Summer’s hometown of Salt Lake City where she now works in human resources at a local university, the two finally meet face-to-face. It’s clear their friendship has set the stage for romance and Summer’s abuelita (Ivonne Coll, “Jane the Virgin“) – a hip grandma with a TikTok following – encourages her to follow her heart.
“We are committed to broadening the scope of our storytelling to offer viewers a fresh perspective, while still creating the heartwarming movies they love and expect from us,” said Lisa Hamilton Daly, Executive Vice President, Programming, Crown Media Family Networks. “‘Love in the Limelight‘ is a perfect example of this approach and we can’t wait for fans to see it.”
“This movie takes our Hallmark experience to the next level,” said Alexa and Carlos PenaVega. “They allowed us the freedom to explore and create original music, stylized performances, and a fresh take on a modern love story. We couldn’t be happier or more excited!”
Adding a rich, Latin sound to the movie’s soundtrack are six original Spanglish songs written by Carlos PenaVega: “If You Let Me,” “Someday Somewhere,” “BASIC,” “Vamos Pasar La Bien,” “Fall Again” and “Por Ti.” PenaVega is currently on a national tour as a member of the popular group Big Time Rush.
“Love in the Limelight” is from Crown Media Productions, LLC. James Wilberger is executive producer and David Wulf is producer. Ron Oliver directed from a script by Willie Aames, Winnie Hung and Rich Tabach, inspired by real events.
