Hallmark to Release Kentucky Derby-Themed Movie May 2

Hallmark Media and Churchill Downs racetrack announce "Kentucky Roses," an all-new original movie shot on location at the iconic Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby (G1), will premiere for viewers in early May. The movie stars Andrew Walker ("Three Wisest Men") and Odette Annable ("Supergirl," "Walker"), alongside Ally Ledford ("His Nerd"), Peyton Meyer ("Girl Meets World," "Days of Our Lives"), Brynn Thayer ("Fatal Attraction," "Suits"), and Gregg Henry ("Gilmore Girls," "Guardians of the Galaxy"), and celebrates the pageantry, tradition, and enduring spirit of the Kentucky Derby. The movie wrapped production last year and is set to premiere May 2 on Hallmark Channel, streaming next day on Hallmark+. The partnership continues in Hallmark Gold Crown stores with a collection of romantic jewelry inspired by the movie. "Hallmark Media and Churchill Downs are both legacy brands, each with more than a hundred years of history. Additionally, we share a commitment to giving generations of fans a memorable experience that fosters deep connections," remarked Hallmark Media vice president Jessica Callahan. "Together, we're thrilled to bring audiences an inspiring story of community, courage, and time-honored traditions." "Kentucky Roses" unfolds across two timelines—present day and 1932—at Churchill Downs. In present day, Sadie Moore (Annable) works in the Churchill Downs greenhouse, dreaming of becoming a florist and one day contributing to the Derby's garland of roses, just like her great-grandmother, Gloria (Ledford). As Derby Day approaches, Sadie meets Ash Taylor (Walker), the son of Churchill Downs' CEO (Henry), who's been asked to do an emergency repair on the iconic twin spires after a storm left one damaged. Both Sadie and Ash feel the weight of family legacy and the desire to carve out their own paths. Sparks fly, and their budding romance is complicated by a long-buried connection between their families—a bittersweet love story from the past that threatens to repeat itself. "Kentucky Roses" is a Hallmark Media production.