A new romance movie titled “Hats Off to Love” premiered on the Hallmark Channel Saturday, May 3. The film debuted at 8 p.m. Eastern time, airing simultaneously at 7 p.m. Central.
The movie centers on Stella, a hat designer, who creates hats and fascinators for socialite Rosalind. Stella then meets Rosalind’s son, Christian, who is training a horse for competition in the Kentucky Derby.
Ginna Claire Mason stars as Stella, John Clarence Stewart plays Christian, and Holly Robinson Peete takes on the role of Rosalind. Additional cast includes Matheus Campos Doro, who shared behind-the-scenes views.
Though the story takes place in Kentucky, the production filmed primarily in Florida during February. Director Amy Barrett stated Florida’s sunny conditions provided the spring look needed to double for the Kentucky setting during cold winter months.
Filming locations in Florida included Tampa Bay Downs, a horse racing track in Westchase, and a 20-acre farm facility in Odessa.
Holly Robinson Peete prepared for her role as Rosalind by attending the 2024 Kentucky Derby. She drew inspiration for the character from Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, who owns Ebony magazine and founded The Trifecta gala.
The movie, originally titled “Derby Romance,” also featured equestrian actors provided by Kacey Hoyer and dresses from Mae New York. Ginna Claire Mason shared details about the production aspects.
Viewers can watch “Hats Off to Love” through cable providers carrying the channel, such as Cox, Verizon Fios, AT&T U-verse, Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum/Charter, Optimum/Altice, DIRECTV, and Dish. anchor phrase/word/keyword
Streaming options include Philo, FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, and Frndly, all of which offer trials for new users. anchor phrase/word/keyword
Discussing her experience immersing herself in the event's environment, Holly Robinson Peete commented, "Had I not gone to that Derby, I would not have really known how seriously people are about the Derby."
