Netflix’s holiday lineup for 2025 is shaping up to be a festive feast for rom-com enthusiasts, and at the heart of it all is My Secret Santa, a charming new film starring Alexandra Breckenridge and Ryan Eggold. Announced in early 2025, this holiday rom-com promises to blend the warmth of seasonal cheer with the spark of unexpected romance, all set against the snowy backdrop of a luxury ski resort. Directed by Mike Rohl, known for his work on The Princess Switch franchise, the movie features a talented ensemble cast and a script that twists classic tropes into something fresh and delightful. With production wrapping up in British Columbia and a release date set for December 3, 2025, My Secret Santa is poised to become a staple in Netflix’s ever-growing catalog of feel-good holiday films. As fans eagerly await its premiere, let’s dive deep into the film’s plot, cast, production details, and why this collaboration between Breckenridge and Eggold could be the holiday magic we’ve all been waiting for.

The Plot: A Festive Disguise and Unexpected Romance

At its core, My Secret Santa is a story of reinvention, love, and the magic of the holiday season. The film follows a vivacious single mom named Taylor, played by Alexandra Breckenridge, who finds herself in desperate need of a job to support her daughter’s dreams of attending ski school. In a bold and comedic move, Taylor disguises herself as a man to land the role of the seasonal Santa at an extravagant ski resort. This gender-bending twist sets the stage for a series of hilarious mishaps, heartfelt moments, and budding romance as Taylor navigates her double life while trying to keep her secret under wraps.

The plot thickens when Taylor crosses paths with the resort’s handsome and charismatic hotel manager, portrayed by Ryan Eggold. Sparks fly as the two form an unlikely connection, but Taylor’s disguise adds layers of complication and comedy. Will her true identity be revealed? Can love bloom amidst the deception and holiday hustle? The storyline draws inspiration from classic rom-coms like Mrs. Doubtfire and Tootsie, but infuses them with a modern, festive twist, emphasizing themes of empowerment, family, and self-discovery. According to Netflix’s official synopsis, the film explores how Taylor, a resilient woman from humble beginnings, uses her wits and warmth to turn a challenging situation into an opportunity for growth and romance.

Supporting characters add depth and humor to the narrative. Tia Mowry plays a key role as a fellow resort employee who becomes Taylor’s confidante, offering sage advice and comedic relief. Madison MacIsaac portrays Taylor’s daughter, bringing youthful energy and emotional stakes to the story, while Diana Maria Riva rounds out the cast as a no-nonsense resort staff member who suspects something’s amiss. The film’s writers, Carley Smale and Ron Oliver, have crafted a script that balances laugh-out-loud moments with tender scenes, ensuring My Secret Santa appeals to both rom-com aficionados and holiday movie traditionalists.

This plot structure allows for plenty of visual gags—imagine Breckenridge in a Santa suit, complete with beard and belly, fumbling through interactions with guests—while delving into deeper themes like single parenthood, gender roles, and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a formula that Netflix has perfected in recent years, but My Secret Santa stands out by grounding its whimsy in relatable struggles, making it a perfect escape for viewers during the holiday season.

The Star Power: Alexandra Breckenridge Leads with Charm

Alexandra Breckenridge, best known for her role as Mel Monroe in Netflix’s Virgin River, takes center stage as Taylor, infusing the character with her signature blend of vulnerability and spunk. Breckenridge’s casting was announced in January 2025, generating buzz among fans who adore her portrayal of strong, independent women. “I’m thrilled to bring this story to life,” Breckenridge said in an interview with Netflix’s Tudum. “Taylor is a fighter, a mom who’ll do anything for her kid, and disguising herself as Santa? It’s hilarious and empowering.”

Breckenridge’s performance is expected to be a highlight, drawing on her experience in romantic dramas like This Is Us and comedies such as American Horror Story. Her ability to convey quiet strength amid chaos makes her ideal for a role that requires physical comedy and emotional depth. Fans speculate that her chemistry with Eggold will be electric, given their shared history in heartfelt storytelling.

Ryan Eggold, fresh from his role in New Amsterdam and the upcoming Cross, plays the hotel manager—a suave, workaholic type who softens under Taylor’s influence. Eggold’s addition to the cast was revealed in February 2025, alongside Mowry and others, and his boyish charm is set to complement Breckenridge’s fiery energy. “Working with Alexandra has been a joy,” Eggold shared in a promotional clip. “Our characters have this push-pull dynamic that’s fun to explore—lots of banter and holiday magic.” Eggold’s dramatic background adds layers to the rom-com, ensuring the romance feels authentic and swoon-worthy.

The supporting cast elevates the film further. Tia Mowry, a holiday movie veteran from A Family Reunion Christmas, brings her infectious energy as Taylor’s ally, promising scenes filled with girl-power moments. Madison MacIsaac, a rising star, captures the innocence and determination of Taylor’s daughter, while Diana Maria Riva (Dead to Me) adds sharp wit as a suspicious colleague. Dominic Fox rounds out the ensemble in a yet-to-be-detailed role, adding mystery to the mix.

This ensemble’s diversity—in age, background, and experience—mirrors Netflix’s commitment to inclusive storytelling, making My Secret Santa a film that resonates with a broad audience.

Behind the Scenes: Production and Direction

My Secret Santa was filmed in Kamloops, British Columbia, starting in February 2025, transforming the Canadian locale into a picturesque ski resort. The production, led by Howard Braunstein and Alexander Braunstein under their Banner Productions, captured the essence of holiday wonder with snow-covered sets and festive decorations. Director Mike Rohl, a holiday film expert with credits including The Princess Switch trilogy and Royal New Year’s Eve, brings his flair for whimsical romance to the project. “I wanted to create a world where magic feels real,” Rohl said in an interview, emphasizing the film’s blend of humor and emotion.

The script by Carley Smale and Ron Oliver draws from classic cross-dressing comedies but updates them for a contemporary audience, focusing on themes of gender equality and self-empowerment. Production challenges included filming in real snow, which added authenticity but required careful scheduling to avoid weather disruptions. Cast members bonded over the cold shoots, with Breckenridge sharing behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram of snowball fights and hot cocoa breaks.

The film’s visual style—warm lighting, snowy vistas, and colorful holiday decor—promises to be a feast for the eyes, enhancing the romantic atmosphere. Cinematographer Robert McLachlan, known for Batwoman, captures the resort’s grandeur, making it a character in its own right.

Why This Film Could Be Netflix’s Next Holiday Hit

Netflix has mastered the holiday rom-com formula with successes like The Princess Switch and A Castle for Christmas, but My Secret Santa stands out with its unique premise and star power. The disguise element adds a layer of comedy not often seen in festive films, while the single-mom narrative provides emotional depth, appealing to families and romantics alike. In a year where holiday movies are more competitive than ever, this film’s blend of laughter and tears could make it a standout.

Breckenridge and Eggold’s pairing is a major draw. Breckenridge’s fans from Virgin River will love seeing her in a lighter role, while Eggold’s dramatic chops add gravitas to the romance. The chemistry teased in promotional materials—stolen glances and playful banter—suggests a pairing that could rival iconic duos like Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.

The film’s themes resonate in today’s world. Taylor’s journey as a working mom highlights resilience and reinvention, mirroring real-life struggles. The holiday setting amplifies this, using Christmas as a metaphor for hope and new beginnings.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

Since the announcement, fans have been buzzing on social media. On X, #MySecretSanta trends with speculation about plot twists and cameos. “Alexandra as Santa? Genius! Can’t wait for the holiday vibes,” tweeted one user. Instagram reels feature fan edits of Breckenridge and Eggold, building hype.

Expectations are high for emotional moments, like Taylor’s reveal or a heartfelt family scene. The soundtrack, rumored to include original holiday songs, could add to its charm, potentially spawning viral hits.

Comparisons to other Netflix holidays like The Holiday Calendar are inevitable, but My Secret Santa‘s fresh twist sets it apart. If it delivers on its promise, it could become a perennial favorite.

Potential Challenges and Broader Impact

While excitement builds, challenges loom. Holiday films often face criticism for predictability, so the disguise plot must avoid clichés. The gender-swap element requires sensitivity to avoid stereotypes, a balance Rohl has navigated in past works.

The film’s impact could extend beyond entertainment. By centering a single mom, it promotes empowerment, potentially inspiring viewers. Netflix’s global reach means it could introduce Breckenridge and Eggold to new audiences, boosting their careers.

In the rom-com landscape, My Secret Santa represents Netflix’s push for diverse stories, blending humor with real issues. Its success could encourage more films featuring midlife leads.

Conclusion: A Holiday Treat Worth Waiting For

My Secret Santa is more than a holiday movie—it’s a celebration of love, laughter, and second chances, brought to life by Alexandra Breckenridge and Ryan Eggold’s magnetic performances. With a clever plot, stellar cast, and Mike Rohl’s direction, it’s set to capture hearts on December 3, 2025. As the festive season approaches, this film promises to be the perfect blend of magic and mirth, reminding us that sometimes, the best gifts come in unexpected packages. Don’t miss it—mark your calendars and prepare for a holiday romance that’s sure to become a tradition.