EXCLUSIVE: Parenthood and Gilmore Girls actress Lauren Graham has boarded Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company’s upcoming holiday theatrical release, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.
The feature take of Barbara Robinson’s classic book, under the direction of Dallas Jenkins, recently wrapped production. The pic hits theaters on Nov. 15.
In addition, some cast members from Jenkins’ The Chosen series also joined the film, including Kirk B.R. Woller, Vanessa Benavente, and Elizabeth Tabish.
Graham will play the pic’s the narrator in addition to making a key on-screen cameo. Woller, Benavente and Tabish respectively play Reverend Hopkins, a first-grade teacher, and church lady Mrs. Grady. Peru native Benavente played Mother Mary in The Chosen, while Tabish portrayed Mary Magdalene.
The family comedy also stars Judy Greer as Grace, the director of the pageant, and Pete Holmes as her husband, Bob.
Screenplay is from Darin McDaniel & Platte Clark and Ryan Swanson and Jenkins. The film is produced by Kingdom Story’s Kevin Downes, Daryl Lefever, Andrew Erwin, and Jon Erwin, alongside Darin McDaniel and Chet Thomas. Jenkins executive produces alongside Gerald R. Molen, Mark Kendell, and Tony Young.
“I’ve been preparing for and visualizing this movie for over fifteen years, so it was going to be tough to meet my expectations,” says Jenkins. “But working with incredible actors such as Lauren, who I adore, along with my Chosen cast members and fan favorites Liz, Vanessa, and Kirk, has exceeded my expectations. The whole cast is elevating the material, and I’m overwhelmed working with them.”
“We’ve been huge fans of Lauren’s for 25 years and have dreamed of one day working with her. She brings her signature warmth and charm that makes her perfect for this cast,” added Downes.
Graham is repped by CAA, John Carrabino Management, and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, Newman, Warren, Richman, Rush, Kaller, Gellman, Meigs & Fox.
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