The Holiday movie is an absolute unicorn. Not only does it capture the Christmas magic I want to feel during ~the holiday~ season (and features an all-star cast with Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black, and Kate Winslet), but it's also an amazing rom-comand compelling family story. Each relationship, both platonic and romantic, is compelling, and it'll make you feel just about every emotion: glee, heartbreak, yearning. And I'm convinced that, in addition to an absolutely bulletproof script from our queen Nancy Meyers, the movie's magic can be chalked up to one other thing: the fact they filmed the final scene of the movie first.
What happened at the end of The Holiday?
Sony Pictures
Yes, you read that right — they filmed the final scene of The Holiday before they filmed anything else! The final scene of the movie takes place at Jude Law's Graham's house in England during the characters' New Year's Eve party. The four leads, and Graham's daughters, are dancing, having fun, and celebrating the new year together. In an interview with Vulture, Miffy Englefield (who plays one of Graham's daughters) talks about how filming that party first set the stage for the rest of production.
"That’s the one scene in the film that all of the main characters are together," she says. "So it was a really, really nice starting point for us to be able to get to know each other...It was the loveliest first day I’ve ever had."
Miffy continues that since she was so young when they filmed the movie, she didn't really understand who she was working with. "My dad was really good at showing me [Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, and Kate Winslet's] work and more underground things that they’d done. He wanted me to realize they were humans and not just these actors."
Is Jude Law's Graham divorced in The Holiday?
Sony Pictures/YouTube
Even though Miffy didn't necessarily know Jude Law before working with him, they grew closer throughout the process of filming. When Amanda shows up to Graham's house, she learns (as do we) that he isn't divorced — he's a widower. That's why he hadn't asked Amanda over before, and why he always answers the phone when Sophie or Olivia call. They're not other women in his life, they're his daughters!
The evening Amanda spends with Graham and his daughters is one of the standout moments of the film because it shows a whole new side of Graham, but it also allows the girls (and Jude Law, TBH) to take center stage.
Why is Jack Black in The Holiday?
Sony Pictures/YouTube
While she wasn't familiar with all her costars in The Holiday, there was one actor Miffy Englefield recognized when she got to set, and that was Jack Black ("I think at that point it was when it hit me like, 'Oh goodness, this is like a thing. This is real, this is real life.'").
Even though Nancy Myers had written the role of Miles for Jack Black, he was hesitant to be in a rom-com. That is, until he realized he would get to work with Kate Winslet!
“I saw School Of Rock and thought he was the cutest guy and fell in love with him," Nancy told IndieLondon in a 2006 interview. “I assured him that I had [seen his work] and told him that I thought he was fabulous and that he’d be in a movie with Kate Winslet. He just said ‘yeah.’”
And I am literally so glad he did because Miles is my favorite part of the movie! His quirky kindness and fun personality are definitely a reason The Holiday is so successful. Another reason? The chemistry between all the actors. Thanks to the energy and community on set for the final scene — which, TBH, I'd never have known was the first scene filmed! — the rest of the movie has that same kind of giddy electricity you feel when you reunite with your best friends or host your first adult party or finally visit New York City during the holidays.
Because just like the party scene is a celebration, The Holiday is about unexpected love and finding joy despite the most heartbreaking, mundane experiences. And THAT is the true magic of Christmas, isn't it?
Did you know The Holiday's end was filmed at the beginning? What's your favorite moment of the movie? Let us know on Facebook!
This post has been updated.
I can totally understand falling for a costar. One scene gazing into each other's eyes, and (as the kids say), I'd be asking, "What are we?" Zendaya & Tom Holland and Ashley Park & Paul Forman both met on the sets of their most famous projects (Spider-Man and Emily in Paris, in case you were wondering), and this year's biggest movie event also features a brand new celebrity couple: Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater.
The co-stars made headlines when they ended their respective marriages and started dating each other, and Ethan Slater finally spoke out on the response to their relationship. Here's what he had to say, and the latest news on this couple.
- Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater met on the set of Wicked, in theaters November 22.
- The couple made headlines when they started dating the same month they separated from their respective spouses.
- In a recent interview, Ethan Slater reveals the reaction to their relationship was "really hard."
Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater's Full Relationship Timeline
Jerod Harris/Getty Images for CinemaCon
Late 2022 — Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater Meet While Filming Wicked
After Ariana and Ethan were both cast in Jon M. Chu's Wicked, the movie began filming in early December. Ariana Grande was cast as Glinda, while Ethan Slater got the role of Boq, one of Glinda's Shiz University classmates.
March 27, 2023 — Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater Were "All Over Each Other"
Ariana and Ethan reportedly could get enough of each other at Michelle Yeoh's Oscars party. A source told The Daily Mail later that summer that "They were seen making out at a pub in Hampstead, and they were all over each other at Michelle Yeoh's Oscar party."
Aliah Anderson/Getty Images
July 2023 — Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater Split From Their Partners And Start Dating
News of Ariana's split from her then-husband Dalton Gomez broke on July 17, while TMZ also reported Ethan filed for divorce from his wife at the time, Lilly Jay, on July 26. (Ariana and Dalton ended up filing for divorce in September).
After People reported Ariana and Ethan were now in a relationship of their own, Lilly told Page Six that “[Ariana’s] the story, really. Not a girl’s girl. My family is just collateral damage.” However, other sources claim Lilly and Ethan had been separated for a couple months before his relationship with Ariana started.
August 2, 2023 — Ethan Slater & Ariana Grande Are Moving Fast
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater reportedly fell head over heels so quickly, their friends were telling them to pump the breaks. “Ariana’s been told it’s too soon to go public with him and to take things slower,” said an Us Weekly insider at the time. “She’s very aware of how she’s perceived by her fans, and she’s trying to be mature. [But] if it were up to her, she’d be seen with him tomorrow.”
Elsa/Getty Images
September 4, 2023 — Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater Are Learning How To Balance Their Relationship
Sources told People at the beginning of September that the costars and couple are trying to figure out how to balance their relationship with their celebrity.
“While this entire situation has been blown out of proportion, it’s much different than what has been portrayed in public,” a friend of the couple says. “They are just trying to navigate their new relationship in private."
Another reemphasizes that Ariana and Ethan only started dating after they were separated from their spouses, while a third adds, “They are doing their best to balance the fact that they are in the public eye with the desire to be respectful to all parties involved.”
September 2023 — Ethan Slater & Ariana Grande Go To Disney World
Surrounded by their friends and family, the Wicked movie stars headed for a day at the happiest place on earth. "They went with a big group of friends as well her mom and brother," a source told People. The source also said they're "really happy and really good for each other. All of her friends love him."
Cindy Ord/Getty Images
October 31, 2023 — Ariana Grande Supports Ethan Slater's Spamalot
Ariana Grande showed up to support her boyfriend for Spamalot's opening night at Broadway's St. James Theater.
December 23, 2023 — Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater Grab Dinner In New York City
To celebrate the holidays, Ariana and Ethan headed out to a nice Italian dinner, reportedly with Ari's dad Ed Butera. "They love to support each other in their work," a source told People. "When she’s done with work, Ariana loves going to the theater when she can."
Considering she's a musical girlie, and has been on Broadway herself, I totally believe Ariana heads to the theatre whenever she gets a chance!
December 28, 2023 — Ariana Grande Says She Feels "Deeply Misunderstood"
“I’ve never felt more at the mercy of and in acceptance of what life was screaming to teach me,” Ariana Grande said in an Instagram story. “I have never felt more pride or joy or love while simultaneously feeling so deeply misunderstood by people who don’t know me, who piece whispers together and make what they want out of me and their assumptions of my life.”
A source also told People that the popstar is “serious with Ethan. She loves being with him."
Matthew Stockman/Getty Images
January 12, 2024 — Ariana Grande Releases "Yes, And?"
In a line heard 'round the world, Ariana Grande's "Yes, And?" (the lead single from her Eternal Sunshine album) begs the question, "Why do you care so much whose d—k I ride?" The song doesn't mention Ethan by name, but there's a lot of room to infer.Although, when the album releases in March, Ariana also talks about a new "interaction" on “Intro (End of the World)," and wonders "if he’s judgin’ me like I am right now."
September 30, 2024 — Ariana Grande Defends Ethan Slater
In a Vanity Fair cover story, Ariana opened up about the reaction to her relationship with Ethan Slater, revealing that “the most disappointing part was to see so many people believe the worst version of [the story]."
“There couldn’t be a less accurate depiction of a human being than the one that the tabloids spread about him,” she says. “No one on this earth tries harder or spreads themselves thinner to be there for the people that he loves and cares about. There is no one on this earth with a better heart...I’m 31 years old and I’m not a perfect person, but I am definitely deeply good, and I’m proud of who I’m becoming. I will never let disreputable evil tabloids ruin my life or my perception of what is real and good.”
Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Lucille Lortel Theatre
October 30, 2024 — Ethan Slater Finally Speaks Out About His Relationship With Ariana Grande
Almost two years after meeting Ariana Grande, Ethan Slater finally opened up about their relationship in a new interview with GQ. “Obviously, it was a really super big year and I think there was something that was really difficult about things in your private life being commented on and looked at by the public," he says. "There were a lot of big changes in private lives that were really happening, so it’s really hard to see people who don’t know anything about what’s happening commenting on it and speculating, and then getting things wrong about the people you love. So just to address that part of it, that feels really hard."
But the clouds also came with silver linings. “Of course, it was an amazing year and a really beautiful thing, and I’m just really excited," he continues. "I’m just really, really proud of Ari and the work she’s done on this. She’s poured herself into it. I’m really proud that I got to be there for that part of it, and I’m really excited to be there for this next step of it when the world gets to see the amazing thing that she did.”
Check back here for the latest news on this Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater's relationship! Read up on Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce while you're at it ;).
In case you missed it, a new rom-com following a pair that bears a great resemblance to the internet's favorite “It” couple is coming to Lifetime for the holidays! Although the film isn’t technically inspired by Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s love story per se, the story line is quite uncanny to their high profile romance (but more on that later). From the release date to the plot, here's everything we know about Lifetime’s Christmas in the Spotlight. Read up on Hallmark's Holiday Touchdown — and the Kelce who joined the cast!
- Lifetime's Christmas in the Spotlight is a new holiday movie premiering this November.
- The movie follows a popstar who starts dating a pro football player after they meet at one of her concerts.
- The film stars Jessica Lord, Laith Wallschleger, Jeannie Mai, and Haley Kalil.
What is Christmas in the Spotlight about?
Lifetime/A&E
Christmas in the Spotlight Plot
Set to be a part of the network's “It’s a Wonderful Lifetime” lineup, which officially starts November 16, Christmas in the Spotlight follows a famous pop star named Bowyn (Jessica Lord), who always sings about falling in love, but has yet to find The One. Right when she's given up on finding Prince Charming, sparks fly when she meets a handsome professional football player named Drew (Laith Wallschleger) after one of her shows. However, they don’t start dating until after Drew publicly declares his feelings for Bowyn. Sound familiar?
The movie synopsis continues, “With each passing day they spend together, their feelings grow stronger…but can it last in the limelight, especially when they both have such hectic schedules? With people questioning if their feelings for each other are real or just for show, the pressure mounts from the press, paparazzi, their fans and even their family.” I need this on my screen now!!!
Is there a trailer for Christmas in the Spotlight?
Well, no. (At least, not yet). But there is a preview teaser for Lifetime’s “It’s a Wonderful Lifetime” lineup, which features numerous clips from the upcoming Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce-esque holiday film Christmas in the Spotlight. In the first few seconds of the teaser, co-stars Jessica Lord and Laith Wallschleger can be seen gleefully walking side by side while surrounded by holiday decor. Meanwhile, another clip shows Lord’s Bowyn wearing a blue football jersey. Now, if that’s not TayVis-coded, then I don’t know what is.
When is Christmas in the Spotlight coming out?
Christmas in the Spotlight Release Date
Be sure to mark your calendars because Christmas in the Spotlight is scheduled to debut on Lifetime November 23, 2024, at 8 PM ET/PT. Let the countdown begin!
Where can I watch Christmas in the Spotlight?
Lifetime/A&E
If you can’t catch the premiere on Lifetime, then don’t worry because we have you covered! After the movie premieres on the Lifetime channel, Christmas in the Spotlight will be available to watch on TVE/VOD in addition to the Lifetime Movie Club.
Who’s in the cast of Christmas in the Spotlight?
Lifetime/A&E
Christmas in the Spotlight Cast
Aside from Lord and Wallschleger, Christmas in the Spotlight stars former The Real talk show host Jeannie Mai, who will portray Bowyn’s manager. But she won’t be the only familiar face in the ensemble cast. And if you’re constantly on TikTok, then you may recognize TikTok influencer Haley Kalil, who, according to People, is set to make her onscreen debut as Drew’s sister-in-law, Nicole.
Stay tuned for more updates about Christmas in the Spotlight and 2024 Christmas movies — & follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
We love our families, we really do, but one of the best parts of growing up is getting to make yourself a new friend-family to celebrate with, whether it's your college buddies or the group you do happy hour with after work. Think Galentines Day and, our more timely fave, Friendsgiving. Whether you're looking forward to Turkey Day at your in-laws' or not, you can always count on your squad for a killer festive time, especially with these 19 Friendsgiving ideas.
Share The Wealth
Fauxels/Pexels
One of the most stressful things about big holiday dinners is the pressure to host the whole thing, from prep to table. You need production calendars, ideally a second oven, and three extra sets of hands. Not so with Friendsgiving! You roast the bird and let your buds bring the rest, potluck-style. Then, let them go around the table and present their dish. Make them really sell it and brag about their sweet cooking skills.
Game of Football or Soccer
Mizuno K/Pexels
If you want to take inspiration from an episode of Friends, a game of football or soccer is always a good idea. Just don't let things get *too* competitive!
Go For a Walk
Thirdman/Pexels
Nothing makes you feel better after a heavy meal than going for a walk. Whether it be a beach, a park, or just around the neighborhood, grab your friends and walk and talk.
Caravan Draw Together Thanksgiving Set
Brit + Co
Print out an epic tablecloth that you can color in, or just put butcher paper, crayons, and paints on the table and let your friends go to town decorating. We bet they wouldn’t even be opposed to making turkeys with their handprints.A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
IMDB
Age is just a number, and the Peanuts gang will live in our hearts forever. Watch the movie on the big screen with all your friend and reminisce about Thanksgivings from your younger days.Macy's Parade Drinking Game
Cottonbro Studio/Pexels
When it comes to the Macy’s parade, some things are a given: There will be a marching band from the Midwest, there will be floats, and there will likely be some country star wearing a cowboy hat. Lay out the rules, and then get ready to do some pre-dinner drinking. If you want to save that valuable stomach real estate for food, make it a workout game rather than a drinking game. Think jumping jacks, burpees, and plank (while you’re doing that, we’ll be in the corner, thank you very much).
Card Games
Yan Krukau/Pexels
If you’re too full to swing a stick around, board games or card games are always a safe bet. Maybe playing Cards Against Humanity might seem slightly wrong on this most thankful of days, but we do promise that it will be fun. You can even get in the spirit of the upcoming season by adding in the Holiday Pack.
Potluck Dessert
Invite each guest to bring a family favorite, provide toppings (hello, whipped cream), and dig in.
Booze Tasting
Pexels
If you consider yourself a connoisseur of a certain elixir, there’s no better time to show off than the holidays. Pick the perf wine to go with your turkey, showcase the beer you’ve been brewing, or tell the crew a thing or two about whiskey.
Gratitude List
Unlike birthday wishes, you can totally tell people what you’re thankful for. In fact, sharing in your gratitude on a group list is a great way to discover what else you may be grateful for.
To-Go Pie
Have your guests help assemble the containers so that at the end of the night everyone gets to bring a slice or two (or three) home.
Thanksgiving Bingo
This fun printable is a great place to start, but if your squad has their own particularities, you may want to create your own. Suzie gets sloshed on rosé? Check. Tom quotes Charlie Brown? Check.
Giant Dominos
Set up lawn games.You can easily play an outdoor version of dominoes while sipping a cocktail in your Turkey Day best, or just watch everyone else run around the yard.
Appetizers
Wendy Wei/Pexels
You don’t need to wait until the afternoon to celebrate Turkey Day. Starting the festivities with some out of the ordinary thanksgiving treats before you all head to your dinners is a great way to say you’re thankful for each other.
Photo Area
Cottonbro Studio/Pexels
Instead of one big awkward photo, you can take all the cute photos you want in a designated photo area. DIY an ombre leaf wall and bring in some fun props like a turkey leg, wishbones, and more!
Have dessert outside
Aline Viana/Pexels
While having your entire Thanksgiving feast probably isn't feasible, take some of the fun outside when it comes to dessert! This allows you to get some fresh air, put on your cutest chunky sweater, and enjoy the fall weather.
Decorate Cookies
Roman Odinstov/Pexels
This activity is fun and tasty! What could be better than that? Play some music, light some fall-scented candles, and watch everyone have a blast.
Gossip Girl Thanksgiving Episode Marathon
Cottonbro Studio/Pexels
Arguably the best Thanksgiving episodes come from Gossip Girl! Queue them all up and sit back and watch all the drama unfold.
Make Hot Chocolate
Cottonbro Studio/Pexels
Nothing is cozier than hot chocolate! Put on a holiday movie, distribute hot chocolate, and have a great time.
If you need ideas for your menu, check out our easy and affordable Friendsgiving recipes!
This post has been updated.
Friendsgiving season is coming folks! And if you have one on the books, but have no idea what to cook, we have you covered. From deliciously cheesy veggies to a healthy take on everyone's favorite spuds, we're rounding-up easy recipes to make that won't weigh heavy on your pocketbook. Take a look through to see the yummy ensembles you should be whipping up!
Brit + Co
Drop Biscuits
Because everyone needs a carb to soup all those juicy drippings on your plate. This 'The Final Table' winning recipe does the job.
Brit + Co
Smashed Brussel Sprouts
Not crazy about veggies? These greens will change your mind. Topped with cheese, chives, and a nice crisp topping, they're extra yummy (and keto-friendly!)
Brit + Co
Cacio e Pepe Chickpeas
Sure this one is a bit non-traditional, but your vegetarian friends will love it. Plus they make the perfect topping to nearly any dish (who needs croutons when you have these anyways?!).
Brit + Co
Roasted Broccoli
Puts some greens on your plate with this holy-grail recipe. Trust us: It's sooo easy!
Brit + Co
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Polenta
Dust off the ole' Instant Pot will this delectable fall polenta. Filled with butternut squash and lots of parmesan you (and your besties!) will quickly fall in *love*.
Brit + Co
Roasted Sweet Potato
Just when you thought you knew how to roast sweet potatoes, this recipe came along. And boy are we taking notes!
Brit + Co
Slow Cooker Mulled Wine
Be the friend that brings the booze. This autumn-themed mulled wine drink will warm everyone's spirits.
Brit + Co
Fall Quinoa Salad
If you're designated salad duty, take a twist on it by packing it full-on quinia, pomegranate, and a tangy dressing. Yum!
Brit + Co
Cheesy Pasta Bake
When the temperatures drop, your friends will be extra thankful for this soul-warming, cheesy pasta.
Brit + Co
Spinach + Mushroom Gnocchi Casserole
No time? No worries! This freezer-friendly pasta bake complete with pillowy gnocchi, creamy mushrooms and spinach is super easy to create ahead of time, without taking away from any day-of deliciousness.
Brit + Co
Cheddar, Jalapeno, and Chive Biscuits
Upgrade your biscuits with "addicting" flavors of cheddar, chives, and jalapeños. Pro tip: Double the batch to ensure you have more than one for everyone!
Brit + Co
Keto Cheese Ball
Your hostess will thank you extra for showing up with an app to tide guests over until the main meal is served. Packed with yummy baked potato fixings, it's got an extra "kick" to make it comparable to store bought options. Plus it's keto-friendly... you can't go wrong with that!
Brit + Co
Cheesy Keto Asparagus
Keep the keto ideas coming, am I right?! Make this popular Pinterest vegetable dish loaded with garlic and extra cheese. Yes please!
Brit + Co
Yogurt Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Pack a 'lil extra protein into your mashed spuds (with the bonus of making them extra creamy!). Who knew yogurt would soon become your go-to secret ingredient?
Brit + Co
Pumpkin Spice Toffee
And let's not forget about the sweets! Make a batch of this pumpkin spice-flavored treat as a great take-home option for overstuffed guests! (Just be sure to save some extra for yourself!)
Follow us on Pinterest for more tasty Thanksgiving recipes!
This post has been updated.