Christmas is usually associated with celebrations, beautiful decorations, gifts, and romantic stories. However, Mistletoe Murders brings a different kind of entertainment to the holiday season by combining Christmas traditions with suspense, crime, and mystery. The Hallmark television series follows a Christmas shop owner whose peaceful small-town life becomes complicated when mysterious murders begin taking place around her.
Starring Sarah Drew and Peter Mooney, the show offers an interesting combination of holiday atmosphere, detective investigations, personal secrets, and developing relationships. It is not simply another Christmas romance. Instead, the storyline introduces viewers to a woman with an unusual past who cannot stop herself from investigating crimes, even when doing so puts her new life at risk.
Since its debut in 2024, the series has attracted attention from viewers who enjoy holiday mysteries and crime dramas. Its combination of Christmas settings and murder investigations makes it different from traditional seasonal television shows.
In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about Mistletoe Murders, including its storyline, main cast, characters, seasons, upcoming episodes, and streaming availability.
What Is Mistletoe Murders About?
Mistletoe Murders is a holiday mystery television series created by Ken Cuperus. It follows Emily Lane, a friendly woman who owns a Christmas-themed shop called Under the Mistletoe in the fictional small town of Fletcher's Grove.
At first glance, Emily appears to be an ordinary shop owner who enjoys Christmas decorations, helping customers, and living a quiet life. However, there is much more to her personality than people initially realise.
Emily has a mysterious past and possesses unusual skills that become useful when crimes begin happening in her community. Although she wants to leave her previous life behind, her curiosity and investigative abilities repeatedly bring her into dangerous situations.
Her life becomes more complicated when she meets Detective Sam Wilner, a local police officer responsible for investigating crimes in the town. Sam gradually develops a connection with Emily, but he also begins questioning her unusual behaviour and hidden background.
The central storyline revolves around Emily's efforts to solve local murders while protecting the identity she has created for herself.
According to Hallmark's official series description, the show combines Emily's new life as a Christmas shop owner with the secrets of her previous life.
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Mistletoe Murders Cast and Main Characters
One of the biggest attractions of the series is its cast. The actors bring different personalities to the story, making the mystery, family relationships, and romantic elements more engaging.
Here are some of the important cast members.
1. Sarah Drew as Emily Lane
Sarah Drew plays the central character, Emily Lane. She is a Christmas shop owner who appears friendly, intelligent, and helpful.
Emily's personality is one of the most interesting parts of the show. Although she wants to enjoy a peaceful life, she cannot ignore suspicious activities happening around her.
Her previous experiences have given her investigative abilities that help her understand complicated situations. However, using those abilities also increases the possibility that people will discover her secrets.
Sarah Drew is known for her television work, particularly her role as Dr April Kepner in the popular medical drama Grey's Anatomy.
Her performance gives Emily a balance of warmth, intelligence, curiosity, and mystery.
2. Peter Mooney as Detective Sam Wilner
Peter Mooney plays Detective Sam Wilner, a local police detective who becomes closely connected to Emily.
Sam is responsible for handling criminal investigations in Fletcher's Grove. He is intelligent, observant, and committed to his work.
Initially, he does not completely understand Emily's involvement in solving crimes. However, as they spend more time together, their professional relationship gradually develops into something more personal.
His character also has family responsibilities, particularly involving his daughter Violet.
The relationship between Sam and Emily adds an emotional storyline to the mystery-focused series.
3. Sierra Marilyn Riley as Violet Wilner
Sierra Marilyn Riley portrays Violet Wilner, Sam's daughter.
Violet adds a family-oriented element to the storyline. Her relationship with her father and interactions with Emily help create several emotional moments.
As the story develops, Violet becomes more involved in the events surrounding the Christmas shop and the people living in Fletcher's Grove.
4. Lara Amersey as June Hubble
Sarah Drew on Christmas Traditions and What She Loved About Mistletoe Murders (Exclusive) - Parade
Lara Amersey appears as June Hubble, another character connected to the town's community.
Her character contributes to the wider storyline and the relationships between the residents of Fletcher's Grove.
5. Kylee Evans as Brooke Carmichael
Kylee Evans plays Brooke Carmichael. Her character is part of the supporting cast that helps bring the town's social environment to life.
Other actors appearing in the series include Jean Yoon, David Hewlett, Steve Lund, Jake Epstein, and Tom Cavanagh.
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Mistletoe Murders Season 1: Storyline and Episodes
The first season of Mistletoe Murders premiered on October 31, 2024. It introduces viewers to Emily Lane and her new life in Fletcher's Grove.
The opening mystery begins when a banker is found dead at a local Christmas tree farm. A poisoned Christmas cookie connected to Emily's shop becomes an important part of the investigation.
This situation puts Emily in a difficult position. She must help uncover the truth while avoiding unnecessary attention from Detective Sam Wilner.
The first season contains three major mystery storylines, each divided into two parts.
Poison in a Pear Tree
The opening storyline introduces the murder investigation involving a poisoned cookie. Emily becomes involved in the case because the evidence leads back to her Christmas shop.
As the investigation progresses, she attempts to prove her friend's innocence and identify the person responsible for the crime.
At the same time, Sam begins noticing that Emily has abilities and knowledge that do not quite match her ordinary shopkeeper personality.
Peril of the Belles
The second storyline focuses on suspicious accidents connected to a local choir.
Emily decides to investigate by going undercover in the choir. Her involvement creates new opportunities for her and Sam to work together.
However, Sam remains uncertain about Emily's methods. Meanwhile, Violet takes on additional responsibilities at the shop and becomes involved in events that put her in a difficult position.
The storyline adds suspense while developing the relationships between the main characters.
Death of a Humbug
The final mystery of the first season begins with the murder of a local businessman known as the town Scrooge.
The victim leaves behind a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt inspired by A Christmas Carol. Emily and other local shopkeepers become involved in solving the clues.
However, the scavenger hunt is not the only mystery that needs attention. Emily must also track down the killer while dealing with complications involving her past.
This storyline brings together the Christmas atmosphere, investigative elements, and personal relationships that define the show.
The first season has six main episodes, with each of the three mysteries presented in two parts.
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Mistletoe Murders Season 2: What Happens Next?
Mistletoe Murders Renewed For Season 2 at Hallmark
Following the response to its first season, Hallmark renewed the series for a second season.
The second season premiered in November 2025 and continued Emily and Sam's story. It expanded the mysteries surrounding Fletcher's Grove while exploring Emily's complicated past.
The relationship between Emily and Sam also became increasingly important. Although they share a connection, Emily's secrets make it difficult for her to build a completely honest relationship.
One of the major developments involves Emily's previous identity and the people connected to her earlier life.
The season also introduces new mysteries and unexpected situations that challenge the characters.
Important Season 2 Storylines
The second season includes several interesting developments:
- Emily continues investigating crimes while trying to protect her identity.
- Sam becomes increasingly aware that Emily has a complicated history.
- New characters bring additional complications to the town.
- Violet's relationship with her father continues developing.
- Emily faces situations that make hiding her past more difficult.
The season's later episodes raise the stakes for Emily and Sam.
The finale, titled 'Twas the Fight Before Christmas, is presented in two parts. An upscale restaurateur is murdered, and Emily finds herself protecting an unexpected fugitive while trying to uncover the truth.
Meanwhile, Sam faces personal complications when his ex-wife arrives in town.
The second season concludes with important developments for Emily's personal life and her relationship with Sam.
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Mistletoe Murders Season 3: Release Date and Latest Updates
Mistletoe Murders Renewed for Season 3 and Fletcher’s Grove Faces More Holiday Secrets
One of the biggest developments for fans is the upcoming third season.
As of November 2, 2026, Hallmark has scheduled Mistletoe Murders Season 3 to premiere on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel.
The new season will continue following Emily Lane and Detective Sam Wilner as they investigate unusual crimes in Fletcher's Grove.
Hallmark has also confirmed that new episodes will be available on Hallmark+ the following day.
The upcoming season is expected to continue exploring Emily's mysterious background, her relationship with Sam, and the unusual cases that appear in the town.
What Is the Season 3 Story About?
The new season continues the central mystery surrounding Emily's identity and her attempts to build a normal life.
The official Hallmark description confirms that Emily continues using her previous skills to investigate murders while trying to keep her past hidden from the people around her.
The season's promotional material also highlights the relationship between Emily and Sam.
One of the announced storylines involves a wreathmaker who is accused of murdering her husband. Emily and Sam investigate the case while Violet and June nominate Emily for the position of town Cheerman in an attempt to encourage her to stay in Fletcher's Grove.
This storyline suggests that the third season will continue combining Christmas traditions with unexpected criminal investigations.
Hallmark has announced the November 5 premiere, with episodes scheduled to stream the following day on Hallmark+.
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Is Mistletoe Murders Based on a True Story?
No. Mistletoe Murders is a fictional mystery series.
Its storyline is based on an original audio drama created by Ken Cuperus for Audible. The television adaptation takes the characters and central concept from the podcast and presents them in a visual format.
The original audio series follows Emily Lane, who owns a Christmas-themed shop and becomes involved in investigating local murders.
The podcast also features Detective Sam Wilner and his daughter Violet.
One interesting difference between the original audio production and the television adaptation is the lead actress.
Cobie Smulders voices Emily Lane in the original podcast, while Sarah Drew plays the character in the Hallmark television series.
The adaptation allows viewers to experience the story through Christmas-themed locations, character interactions, and visual crime investigations.
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Who Created Mistletoe Murders?
The series was created by Ken Cuperus, a writer and television producer who developed the original concept.
He first introduced the story through the Audible fiction podcast before it was adapted for television.
The production brings together Hallmark Media, Headspinner Productions, and other production partners.
The creative concept is particularly interesting because it combines two genres that are not always presented together: Christmas entertainment and crime mystery.
Instead of focusing entirely on romance and holiday celebrations, the series gives viewers a continuing mystery that develops throughout its episodes.
This approach makes it suitable for people who enjoy detective stories but also appreciate the atmosphere of Christmas television.
Where Was Mistletoe Murders Filmed?
Although the story takes place in the fictional town of Fletcher's Grove, the television production was filmed in and around Toronto, Canada.
Toronto and its surrounding areas provide locations that can represent the small-town environment shown in the series.
The Christmas decorations, local shops, residential streets, and seasonal settings help establish the atmosphere of the fictional community.
The production uses these locations to create a setting where traditional holiday celebrations and unexpected criminal investigations can happen together.
Fletcher's Grove is an important part of the show's identity. The town is not simply a background location; its residents, businesses, and community relationships are closely connected to the mysteries.
Where Can You Watch Mistletoe Murders?
If you want to watch the series, Hallmark provides the official streaming and television options.
Here are the main platforms and viewing options:
1. Hallmark Channel
The television series airs on Hallmark Channel. The third season is scheduled to premiere on November 5, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET.
2. Hallmark+
Hallmark+ is the official streaming platform for the series. The first two seasons are available to stream, and the third season is scheduled to arrive the day after its television premiere.
3. Apple TV
The series also has an official listing on Apple TV. Availability and viewing options can vary depending on the country and subscription arrangements.
4. Netflix
Mistletoe Murders also has a Netflix title listing. However, the availability of the show can vary by region, so viewers should check their local Netflix catalogue before subscribing specifically to watch it.
For the most reliable information about episodes and streaming availability, check the official Hallmark Mistletoe Murders page or Hallmark+ series listing.
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What Makes Mistletoe Murders Different From Other Christmas Shows?
There are many television shows built around Christmas celebrations, romance, and family relationships. However, Mistletoe Murders takes a slightly different approach.
Here are some reasons why the series stands out.
1. Christmas and Crime Mystery
The biggest attraction is its combination of Christmas traditions and murder investigations. Beautiful decorations and festive locations create an interesting contrast with the darker mysteries.
2. A Main Character With a Secret Past
Emily Lane is not a typical Christmas shop owner. Her previous life gives her unusual skills, making her character more complicated and unpredictable.
3. Mystery Across Multiple Episodes
Rather than resolving every mystery immediately, the show develops its investigations across multiple episodes. This encourages viewers to continue watching to discover what happens next.
4. Relationship Between Emily and Sam
The connection between Emily and Sam adds emotional depth to the storyline. Their relationship develops alongside the criminal investigations, creating another reason to follow the series.
5. Supporting Characters and Small-Town Life
Characters such as Violet, June, and other residents help create a believable community. Their personal stories make Fletcher's Grove feel more than just a setting for murder investigations.
Is Mistletoe Murders Worth Watching?
If you enjoy mystery dramas, Christmas-themed entertainment, and detective stories, Mistletoe Murders is worth considering.
The show offers something different from traditional holiday television. It combines a festive atmosphere with suspicious incidents, hidden identities, unexpected suspects, and developing relationships.
Sarah Drew's performance as Emily Lane is particularly important because the character needs to appear friendly while maintaining an air of mystery.
Peter Mooney also brings an interesting presence to the story through his portrayal of Detective Sam Wilner.
Another advantage is the episodic structure. Each major mystery introduces new characters and situations while the larger story about Emily's past continues in the background.
However, viewers looking for a dark, realistic crime thriller should remember that this is a TV-PG holiday mystery drama. Its tone is designed for a broader audience rather than an extremely intense crime experience.
Overall, the series offers an enjoyable combination of Christmas entertainment, suspense, and character development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mistletoe Murders
1. What is Mistletoe Murders about?
Mistletoe Murders is a Hallmark mystery television series about Emily Lane, a Christmas shop owner with a secret past. When murders begin happening in her town, she uses her unusual skills to investigate the crimes while trying to protect her identity.
2. Who stars in Mistletoe Murders?
The main cast includes Sarah Drew as Emily Lane, Peter Mooney as Detective Sam Wilner, and Sierra Marilyn Riley as Violet Wilner. Other cast members include Lara Amersey, Kylee Evans, Jean Yoon, and David Hewlett.
3. When will Mistletoe Murders Season 3 premiere?
Mistletoe Murders Season 3 is scheduled to premiere on November 5, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel. Episodes are expected to stream the following day on Hallmark+.
4. Where can I watch Mistletoe Murders?
You can watch the series through Hallmark Channel and Hallmark+. It also has listings on services such as Apple TV and Netflix, although availability depends on your region.
5. Is Mistletoe Murders based on a podcast?
Yes. The television series is based on an Audible fiction podcast created by Ken Cuperus. Cobie Smulders originally voiced Emily Lane in the podcast, while Sarah Drew plays the character in the television adaptation.
Final Thoughts
Mistletoe Murders brings a refreshing combination of Christmas entertainment, suspense, and detective storytelling. Its central character, Emily Lane, makes the story particularly interesting because her peaceful life as a shop owner hides a complicated past.
With Sarah Drew and Peter Mooney leading the cast, the series offers an engaging mix of mystery, relationships, and holiday traditions.
The upcoming third season, scheduled for November 5, 2026, gives viewers another opportunity to follow Emily and Sam as they investigate new cases and face unexpected challenges.
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