Holly Robinson Peete Returns to Hallmark with ‘Hats Off to Love’

LOS ANGELES, CA — Holly Robinson Peete is making her long-awaited return to the Hallmark Channel with her new movie, “Hats Off to Love,” set to premiere on May 3, 2025. After a two-and-a-half-year break from the network, both Peete and her fans express excitement about her comeback.

Peete, who last graced the Hallmark screen in 2022, has kept herself busy with family commitments, her charitable foundation, and various television roles. In an interview with EntertainmentNOW, she mentioned feeling the need to “reconnect” with Hallmark and expressed hope that “Hats Off to Love” is just the beginning of her projects with the network.

“I went pretty much since 2015, making one, two, sometimes three movies a year,” Peete shared, reflecting on her Hallmark history. “So I’m just excited to be back in the mix, and especially excited about this particular project. It was a lot of fun.”

In “Hats Off to Love,” Peete plays Rosalind, a socialite from Louisville, whose son Christian, played by John Clarence Stewart, is training a horse for the Derby. Things take a romantic turn when Christian meets Stella, a hat designer who creates fascinators for the big day.

“She’s a woman who’s finding her way, realizing it’s never too late to chase your dreams,” Peete described her character. “Rosalind is a very astute, fashionable businesswoman who loves her horses. She can be a bit cold, but she’s also full of love.”

Interestingly, Peete’s immersion into Derby culture began when she attended the 2024 Kentucky Derby, accompanied by music legend Smokey Robinson. “Had I not gone to that Derby, I would not have realized how seriously people take it; they begin planning their outfits months in advance!” she exclaimed.

Beyond the glamour and excitement of the Derby, Peete found inspiration for her role from a friend who is well-connected in the racing community. “I was sending her pictures during the film. I’m really looking forward to her seeing this. She’s excited!”

Among her favorite moments while filming were interactions with Broadway alum Mason, whom she praised as “talented beyond belief,” and working with horses — a passion she has held since childhood. “I love horses; I think they’re amazing,” she stated, reminiscing about her childhood dreams of owning one.

Peete laughed about the horse’s cooperation on set, recalling a day when some horses were less than enthusiastic about their roles. “At one point, there were like 20 or 30 horses in the stables, and I just had the best time. Some of them are super friendly and curious, too!”

While Peete is unsure of her next steps with Hallmark, she confirmed she is in talks for future projects and even has ideas for unscripted shows. Fans can look forward to watching “Hats Off to Love” when it premieres May 3 at 8 p.m. ET, with streaming available the next day on Hallmark+.