Hallmark Stars Parrish and Young Bond Over Military Families in Christmas on Duty

In the new Hallmark Christmas movie "Christmas on Duty," airing on November 1, 2025, actors Janel Parrish and Parker Young play feuding military members who are forced to work together as a snowstorm approaches their base. For both stars, the roles held special significance.

Parrish, whose sister is in the military, was thrilled to honor military families in the film. "This was very, very near and dear to my heart," she says. "She just loved that we were honoring the military families, and she loved seeing me represent." Young, who has played several military characters, also felt a deep connection to the subject matter, as members of his own family serve in the armed forces.

Beyond the meaningful storyline, the two actors bonded over their competitive natures while filming. Young, who describes himself as "too competitive," struggled to lose the obstacle course scene, as his character was meant to be bested by Parrish's. "It was really a growing experience for me to lose," he admits. Parrish, meanwhile, says she is competitive with herself, always striving to meet her own high standards.

Despite the challenges, the co-stars had an absolute blast on set, with the director creating a fun, collaborative environment. "We would just break laughing and just have the absolute best time," Parrish recalls. Both actors agree that the joy and camaraderie they experienced is a hallmark of working on Hallmark movies.