Jessie James Decker is ready to spread some holiday joy with the forthcoming feature Karen Kingsbury’s The Christmas Ring.
Decker, a country singer who starred with husband Eric Decker on the E! unscripted series Eric & Jessie: Game On, will make her acting debut with the film that is set for theatrical release Nov. 6 from Fathom Entertainment, The Hollywood Reporter has exclusively learned. Debbie Winans is also joining previously announced castmembers Kelsey Grammer, Benjamin Hollingsworth and Jana Kramer in director Tyler Russell’s holiday movie adapting Kingbury’s new book, The Christmas Ring, that hits shelves Oct. 21.
Karen Kingsbury’s The Christmas Ring centers on Vanessa (Kramer), a military widow who falls for a charming antiques dealer (Hollingsworth) while trying to track down the titular accessory that is a prized heirloom for her family. However, the antique dealer’s dad (Grammer) makes a discovery that could have major ramifications.
Decker is set to play the military widow’s best friend, Leigh, in the film that is currently shooting. The feature hails from Karen Kingsbury Productions and counts Natalie Ruffino Wilson as producer.
“The minute I read for the role of ‘Leigh,’ I knew this character was perfect for me,” Decker says. “‘Leigh’ and I have so much in common. I related to her immediately. She’s a supportive, loving, enthusiastic, speak-your-mind kind of girl. She genuinely wants her best friend, Vanessa, to find happiness and love again. I really connected to that because I feel the same way. When the people I love are happy, that’s when I feel the most joy. We all deserve love and a happy ending. I also felt deeply connected to the military storyline. As a military brat myself, I understand the lifestyle and the sacrifices that come with it. And of course, Christmas is my favorite time of year.”
Adds Kingsbury, “This film is inspired by the unforgettable Christmas movies from decades ago. Movies like While You Were Sleeping, You’ve Got Mail, Serendipity and Miracle on 34th Street. I love those movies. Our family watches these old Christmas films every year. I wanted to make a movie like that.”
Kingsbury is an author with more than 25 million copies of her books in print. Russell previously helmed Someone Like You, last year’s adaptation of a Kingsbury novel of the same name.
Decker released her second studio album, Southern Girl City Lights, in 2017 and has additionally put out two Christmas albums. She and Kramer are longtime friends who recently teamed up for the song “Do It In Heels.” Decker is also known as a beauty and lifestyle entrepreneur, fashion designer and author.