The Best Hallmark Channel Actresses

Ranker TV
Updated April 15, 2024 119.8K views 138 items
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538.3K votes
15.7K voters
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When the seasons change or the holidays are just around the corner, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a feel-good, heartwarming film from the Hallmark Channel. At the heart of these beloved movies are the Hallmark actresses who bring each story to life with charm, grace, and a palpable warmth that seems tailor-made for the network's signature blend of romance, comedy, and festive spirit. These women have become the familiar faces that fans look forward to seeing year after year, weaving narratives that span from quaint small towns to bustling city romances, all while teaching us a thing or two about love and family.

Jill Wagner and Merritt Patterson stand out as shining examples of the talent that graces the Hallmark Channel, each bringing their distinct charm and depth to the array of roles they've inhabited. Wagner, with her girl-next-door vibe and compelling screen presence, has a knack for portraying strong, independent characters that resonate with viewers, making her a staple in many Hallmark favorites. On the other hand, Merritt Patterson, with her radiant smile and subtle strength, effortlessly captures the essence of romance and determination, drawing audiences in with performances that are both heartfelt and inspiring.

The roster of Hallmark Channel actresses reads like a who’s who of TV favorites, each bringing their unique flair to the stories that have become a staple in many households. This list, passionately curated by Hallmark enthusiasts, shines a spotlight on the luminaries of this universe, showcasing the talent that has helped to define the Hallmark brand. From seasoned veterans to fresh faces that have captivated audiences, these actresses have left their mark, creating memorable moments that resonate well beyond the screen. Crowdranked by fans, this compilation celebrates the best of the best, as determined by the most loyal viewers of the channel - so be sure to vote on your favorites.

Most divisive: Ali Liebert
Over 15.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Hallmark Channel Actresses
  • Jill Wagner
    1
    3,370 votes

    Mystery 101, The Angel Tree, Hearts of Winter

    Jill Suzanne Wagner (born January 13, 1979) is an American film and television actress, model, and game show personality. She was a co-host for the ABC comic competition show Wipeout from 2008 to 2014.
  • Merritt Patterson
    2

    Chateau Christmas, Picture a Perfect Christmas, Forever in My Heart

    Merritt Patterson is an actress.
  • Autumn Reeser
    3
    3,047 votes

    The Wedding Veil, The 27-Hour Day, A Glenbrooke Christmas

    Autumn Reeser (born September 21, 1980) is an American actress. She is best known for her roles as Taylor Townsend on the Fox series The O.C., Lizzie Grant on HBO's Entourage, Katie Andrews on ABC's No Ordinary Family, Kylie Sinclair on ABC's Last Resort, Dr. Gabby Asano in CBS's Hawaii Five-0, and Leslie Bellcamp on E!'s The Arrangement. Since 2006, she has also been one of the leading members of The Thrilling Adventure Hour, a popular staged comedy show. From 2012-19, she has been the heroine of eight romantic comedies for the Hallmark Channel. She also appeared in Clint Eastwood's film Sully, headlined by Tom Hanks.
  • Nikki DeLoach
    4
    2,651 votes

    The Gift of Peace, Five More Minutes, Taking the Reins

    Ashlee Nicole "Nikki" DeLoach (born September 9, 1979) is an American actress and singer.
  • Lacey Chabert
    5
    2,970 votes

    Haul out the Holly, The Wedding Veil, Sweet Carolina

    Lacey Chabert, an American actress, voice artist, and singer, has established herself as a notable figure in the entertainment industry. Born on September 30, 1982, in Purvis, Mississippi, her innate passion for performing arts surfaced early when she won a role on the Broadway production of Les Misérables at the tender age of 9. This marked the onset of her acting career, which would eventually span multiple decades and platforms, ranging from television and film to voice acting for animated series. Chabert gained substantial recognition for her role as Claudia Salinger in the television drama Party of Five, which aired from 1994 to 2000. Her portrayal of a young girl navigating through life after the loss of her parents earned her critical acclaim and a significant fan following. However, it was her role as Gretchen Wieners in the 2004 cult classic Mean Girls that solidified her position in Hollywood. Chabert's performance demonstrated her versatility as an actress, showcasing her ability to deliver comedic lines with equal ease as dramatic ones. In addition to her on-screen performances, Chabert has also made noteworthy contributions as a voice artist. She provided the voice for Eliza Thornberry in the animated television series The Wild Thornberrys, further demonstrating her diverse talents. Moreover, she has lent her voice to several animated films and video games, expanding her reach beyond traditional acting roles.
  • Taylor Cole
    6
    2,950 votes

    Long Lost Christmas, Pumpkin Everything, Making Spirits Bright

    Taylor Cole (born April 29, 1984) is an American actress and former fashion model.
  • Jen Lilley
    7
    2,678 votes

    A Little Daytime Drama, Snowkissed, USS Christmas

    Jen Lilley is an American actress and singer. She played a supporting role in the hit film The Artist and portrayed Maxie Jones on the ABC soap opera General Hospital, as a replacement for Kirsten Storms from September 2011 until August 2012, due to an illness keeping the actress from playing the role. In April 2013, Lilley was announced to have joined the Days of Our Lives cast. Lilley made her on-screen debut as Theresa Donovan, daughter of Shane Donovan and Kimberly Brady, on July 3, 2013.
  • Rachel Boston
    8
    1,850 votes

    A Christmas Carousel, Check Inn to Christmas, The Last Bridesmaid

    Rachel Elizabeth Boston (born May 9, 1982) is an American actress and producer. Boston has had leading roles in a number of independent films, and was a regular cast member in several television series. She starred in the NBC drama series, American Dreams as Beth Mason from 2002 to 2005, in the short-lived CBS sitcom The Ex List in 2008, and on the USA Network series In Plain Sight from 2008 to 2012. From 2013 to 2014, Boston starred as Ingrid Beauchamp in the Lifetime fantasy-drama series, Witches of East End.
  • Danica McKellar
    9
    1,906 votes

    You, Me & the Christmas Trees, Matchmaker Mysteries, Christmas at Dollywood

    Danica McKellar took the entertainment industry by storm as a child actress, best known for her role as Winnie Cooper on the hit television show The Wonder Years. Born on January 3, 1975 in La Jolla, California, she kickstarted her acting career at a young age. However, her talents were not confined to the acting sphere alone; McKellar also demonstrated a strong competency in mathematics, a skill that played a significant role in shaping her multifaceted career. Balancing her acting career and her passion for mathematics, McKellar pursued a degree in Mathematics from UCLA, where she graduated summa cum laude. She co-authored a groundbreaking mathematical physics theorem, the Chayes-McKellar-Winn Theorem, which is named after her and her collaborators. This accomplishment set her apart as a unique figure in both academia and the entertainment world. McKellar's love for maths didn't stop at research work. She became a prolific author focusing on promoting mathematics to young readers, especially girls. Some of her bestselling books include Math Doesn't Suck, Kiss My Math, and Girls Get Curves: Geometry Takes Shape. Her goal was to combat math phobia and encourage more females to engage with the subject. In her acting career, she continued to shine, appearing in numerous TV shows and movies while still maintaining her commitment to education.
  • Ashley Williams
    10
    1,469 votes

    Two Tickets to Paradise, Sister Swap: Christmas in the City, Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater

    Ashley Williams Dodson (born November 12, 1978) known professionally as Ashley Williams is an American actress. She is best known for starring in the television series The Jim Gaffigan Show on TV Land and in the NBC series Good Morning Miami. Over the many years of its run, Williams played fan favorite Victoria on the hit CBS series How I Met Your Mother opposite Josh Radnor. She has starred in more than a dozen different television pilots over the years and done over 150 episodes of television in addition to television movies for The Hallmark Channel, Lifetime Television, and ABC Family. She's worked in studio and independent films, regional theater, Off-Broadway, and on Broadway. Williams is also a certified birth doula.
  • Bethany Joy Lenz
    11

    Bethany Joy Lenz

    2,281 votes

    An Unexpected Christmas, Five Star Christmas, Just My Type

    Bethany Joy Lenz (formerly Galeotti; born April 2, 1981), also known as Joie Lenz and Joy Lenz, is an American actress, singer-songwriter and filmmaker. She is known for her portrayal of Haley James Scott on The WB/CW television drama One Tree Hill. She also starred as Michelle Bauer Santos on the CBS Daytime soap opera Guiding Light, and is recognized for her music as a solo artist and as a member of the band Everly.
  • Katrina Law
    12
    2,242 votes

    Christmas with the Darlings, 12 Gifts of Christmas, Snow Bride

    Katrina Law is an American actress. She is known for playing the roles of Mira in the Starz television series, Spartacus: Blood and Sand and Spartacus: Vengeance, Nyssa al Ghul on The CW television series Arrow, and Karen Beach on the Sony Crackle series The Oath.
  • Pascale Hutton
    13
    2,055 votes

    When Calls the Heart, We Wish You a Married Christmas, You Had Me at Aloha

    Pascale Hutton (born June 14, 1979) is a Canadian actress. She was born in Creston, British Columbia. Hutton attended the conservatory acting program at the University of Alberta in Edmonton.
  • Alison Sweeney
    14
    2,025 votes

    A Magical Christmas Village, The Wedding Veil, Open by Christmas

    Alison Ann Sweeney (born September 19, 1976) is an American actress, reality show host, director and author. Sweeney is best known for her portrayal of Samantha "Sami" Brady on the NBC soap opera Days of Our Lives, a role she has played under contract with the show since January 6, 1993. In this role, she has earned a Daytime Emmy Award nomination, four Soap Opera Digest Awards and a Fan Voted Daytime Emmy Award. In 2007, she became the host of The Biggest Loser, and left the series at the end of the sixteenth season in 2015.
  • Erin Cahill
    15
    1,570 votes

    Every Time a Bell Rings, A Timeless Christmas, The Secret Ingredient

    Erin Jessica Cahill (born January 4, 1980) is an American actress. She is best known for her roles as Jen Scotts in Power Rangers Time Force, Ted Mosby's sister, Heather, in How I Met Your Mother, and Kendra Burke in Saving Grace. She had a recurring role as Felicity in the ABC series Red Widow. She is also noted to be the first lead female character for the Call of Duty franchise, as Chloe 'Karma' Lynch in Call of Duty: Black Ops II and Rebecca Chambers in Resident Evil: Vendetta. Passionate about charity, Cahill co-founded the group, Charitable Living, which services the local community throughout the year with various fundraisers and days of volunteering. In May 2015, Cahill joined non-profit group BuildOn and traveled to Malawi to promote education and build schools.
  • Brittany Bristow
    16
    1,849 votes

    Holiday Date, Love, Romance, & Chocolate, Christmas at the Palace

    Brittany Bristow is an actress.
  • Emilie Ullerup
    17
    2,052 votes

    Don't Forget I Love You, Love & Glamping, Winter Castle

    Emilie Ullerup (born 27 October 1984) is a Danish actress. She is best known for playing Ashley Magnus on the television series Sanctuary and Bree O'Brien on the Hallmark Channel drama series Chesapeake Shores.
  • Aurora Teagarden Mysteries, The Christmas Contest, If I Only Had Christmas

    Candace Cameron-Bure, a renowned American actress and author, came to prominence in her youth as a child star. She is best known for her role as D.J. Tanner on the television series Full House, a beloved sitcom that aired from 1987 to 1995. Born in 1976 in Panorama City, Los Angeles, California, Candace was drawn towards performing arts from an early age. Her natural talent and charm quickly captured the attention of casting directors, leading to her iconic role on Full House at just 11 years old. Cameron-Bure's role as D.J. Tanner didn't end with Full House. She reprised her character in Fuller House, a Netflix original series which saw her character now grown up and navigating life as a widowed mother. Throughout her career, she has also starred in a number of made-for-TV movies, predominantly for the Hallmark Channel. Aside from acting, Cameron-Bure has authored several books, where she details her journey through fame, family, and faith, further establishing her multifaceted persona. Off-screen, Cameron-Bure is known for her deep-rooted Christian faith, which plays a significant role in her personal and professional life. She married former NHL player Valeri Bure in 1996, and together, they have three children. As a public figure, she often uses her platform to advocate for issues she holds dear, including her faith and family values. Despite the challenges of growing up in the limelight, Cameron-Bure has gracefully transitioned from child star to accomplished actress and author, crafting an enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.
  • Arielle Kebbel
    19
    1,955 votes

    A Brush with Love, Bridal Wave, Sweet Surrender

    Arielle Kebbel, a truly compelling figure in the entertainment industry, is best known for her remarkable versatility as an actress, model, and TV host. Born on February 19, 1985, in Winter Park, Florida, she discovered her passion for performing arts early, which ultimately shaped her journey to becoming a highly recognizable face in Hollywood. Kebbel kick-started her career in the early 2000s, setting foot on the modeling scene first. However, her acting prowess came into the spotlight after she landed a role in the popular television series Gilmore Girls, where she portrayed the character Lindsay Forester. This breakthrough role opened up numerous opportunities for her, leading to her starring in several noteworthy productions including The Vampire Diaries, Ballers, and Midnight Texas. Her radiant performance in these series further cemented her place in the industry. Beyond acting, Kebbel has also demonstrated exceptional skills in hosting. She was the presenter of Perfect Score, a dating game show. Additionally, she served as a recurring guest judge on America's Next Top Model, showcasing her ability to wear multiple hats with ease. Despite her success, Kebbel remains humble and dedicated to her craft, using her platform to advocate for important causes like Mental Health Awareness.
  • Ashley Newbrough
    20

    Love in Glacier National: A National Park Romance, Christmas for Keeps, A Merry Christmas Match

    Ashley Newbrough (born October 13, 1987) is an American-Canadian film and television actress.
  • Cindy Busby
    21
    2,030 votes

    Marry Me in Yosemite, Warming Up to You, Chasing Waterfalls

    Cindy Busby is a Canadian actress. She is best known for her role as Ashley Stanton on Heartland.
  • Rachael Leigh Cook
    22

    'Tis the Season to be Merry, Cross Country Christmas, A Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas

    Rachael Leigh Cook, a captivating figure in the entertainment industry, carved out an illustrious career through her diverse and impactful performances. Born on October 4, 1979, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Cook's entry into the world of acting was as precocious as it was impressive. At the tender age of seven, she began working as a child print model, a stepping stone that eventually led to her pursuit of a career in acting. Cook's breakthrough role came in the form of a 1999 romantic comedy, She's All That. Her portrayal of Laney Boggs, a high-school artist transformed into Prom Queen, earned her wide recognition and catapulted her into the spotlight. However, Cook's talents were not just confined to the realm of acting. She also lent her voice to various animated series and video games, showcasing her versatility. Some notable works include Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within and Robot Chicken, where her vocal performances added depth to the characters she voiced. Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Cook's life has been marked by notable personal milestones as well. In 2004, she married actor Daniel Gillies, with whom she shares two children. Despite the professional demands, Cook has managed to maintain a steady balance between her personal and professional life.
  • Brooke Burns
    23
    1,279 votes

    The Gourmet Detective, Christmas Connection, Undercover Bridesmaid

    Brooke Elizabeth Burns (born March 16, 1978) is an American fashion model, game show host, actress, and television personality. Burns began her television career in 1995, portraying the supporting character Peg, in the Spanish-American teen sitcom Out of the Blue (1995–96), appearing in all episodes but gaining little notoriety. However, Burns won recognition in 1998, when she joined the cast of the action drama series Baywatch alongside David Hasselhoff and Kelly Packard, in her breakthrough role portraying the character Jessie Owens. Burns subsequently starred in Baywatch's second rendition, Baywatch: Hawaii, alongside Simmone Jade Mackinnon, Stacy Kamano and again David Hasselhoff, until she left the show due to her first pregnancy. She appeared in 33 episodes. After her hiatus, Burns returned to television, appearing in several guest roles, including in the NBC sitcom Just Shoot Me! and had a major role in the American soap opera North Shore, appearing in all 21 episodes. In 2009, Burns guest starred in the crime drama CSI: Miami. Burns hosted all episodes of the NBC game show Dog Eat Dog. Burns also hosted 18 episodes of the Fox game show Hole in the Wall, as well as the GSN quiz show The Chase. The Chase was nominated at the 41st Daytime Emmy Awards for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show, and Burns herself was nominated for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host. In addition to television, Burns has also appeared in minor roles in several films, though not to the same degree of success as her television career. She appeared in the romantic comedy Shallow Hal, the mockbuster disaster Titanic II; a parodical illustration of James Cameron's Titanic, and the drama Where Hope Grows (2014).
  • Julie Gonzalo
    24
    1,737 votes

    Cut, Color, Murder, Jingle Bell Bride, Flip That Romance

    Julieta Susana "Julie" Gonzalo (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈʝuli ɣonˈsalo]; born September 9, 1981) is an Argentine actress and producer. She starred as Pamela Rebecca Barnes in the TNT drama series Dallas (2012–14). Gonzalo is also known for her roles in films, including Freaky Friday, A Cinderella Story, and Christmas with the Kranks, and on television series Veronica Mars and Eli Stone.
  • Lindy Booth
    25
    1,662 votes

    SnowComing, Under the Autumn Moon, Rocky Mountain Christmas

    Lindy Booth (born April 2, 1979) is a Canadian actress. She played Riley Grant on the Disney Channel series The Famous Jett Jackson (and Agent Hawk in the show-within-a-show Silverstone) and Claudia on Relic Hunter and A.J. Butterfield on the NBC series The Philanthropist. She then played Cassandra Cillian on the TNT series The Librarians (2014–2018).
  • Sister Swap: Christmas in the City, Sister Swap: A Hometown Holiday, A Nashville Christmas Carol

    Kimberly Payne Williams-Paisley (née Williams; born September 14, 1971) is an American actress known for her co-starring roles on According to Jim and Nashville, as well as her breakthrough performance in Father of the Bride (1991), for which she was nominated for several awards, and its sequel, Father of the Bride Part II (1995). Throughout her acting career, she has guest-starred on TV shows including Tales From The Crypt, George Lopez and Less Than Perfect. She is also known for her roles in made-for-TV movies, including Safe House, The Christmas Shoes, and Lucky 7, and also her role as Laura Parker in Shade, a short film that she also wrote and directed. Williams is married to country musician Brad Paisley, with whom she has two sons; actress Ashley Williams is her sister.
  • Jessy Schram
    27
    1,639 votes

    Time for Them to Come Home for Christmas, A Nashville Christmas Carol, Country at Heart

    Jessica "Jessy" Schram (born January 15, 1986) is an American actress and model. Her most notable roles include Hannah Griffith in Veronica Mars, Rachel Seybolt in Life, Karen Nadler in Falling Skies and Cinderella/Ashley Boyd in Once Upon a Time.
  • Tricia Helfer
    28
    1,614 votes

    It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, Sun, Sand & Romance, Operation Christmas

    Tricia Helfer, a Canadian actress and former model, is best known for her role as Number Six in the critically acclaimed television series Battlestar Galactica. Born on April 11, 1974, in Donalda, Alberta, she was raised on a family farm before being discovered by a modeling agency at the age of 17. This led to a successful international modeling career, during which she won the Ford Models' Supermodel of the World contest in 1992. Helfer transitioned into acting in the early 2000s, making her debut on the television series Jeremiah. However, it was her portrayal of the humanoid Cylon Number Six in Battlestar Galactica that catapulted her into the limelight. Her performance earned her a Leo Award for Best Lead Performance By A Female in Dramatic Series in 2005. Beyond this iconic role, she has demonstrated her versatility with performances in various genres, including crime dramas like Lucifer and Burn Notice, and animated series such as Green Lantern: The Animated Series. In addition to her acting career, Helfer has made significant contributions to philanthropy. She co-founded the charity "Acting Outlaws" with fellow Battlestar Galactica actress Katee Sackhoff, which raises funds through motorcycle rides and donations for various causes. Her journey from farm girl to supermodel to acclaimed actress serves as an inspiring testament to her talent, dedication, and resilience.
  • Julie Benz
    29
    1,572 votes

    Christmas Homecoming, Charming Christmas

    Julie Benz, an American actress, is best remembered for her critically acclaimed roles in both television and film. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on May 1, 1972, she was raised in a family deeply entrenched in the world of figure skating. Her early years were marked by intensive training and competitive events, even reaching the 1988 U.S. Championships in junior ice dancing. However, a stress fracture at 14 ended her promising skating career and steered her towards acting. Benz's acting career began with a small role in the horror movie Two Evil Eyes directed by George A. Romero and Dario Argento. Over the years, she carved out a niche for herself in the entertainment industry, garnering significant roles in various genres. She is notably recognized for her role as Rita Morgan in Showtime's drama series Dexter, for which she won the 2006 Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actress. Benz also portrayed Darla on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and its spinoff series Angel, leaving a lasting impact on fans of the supernatural genre. In addition to her work in television, Benz has appeared in a number of films, including Jawbreaker, The Brothers, and Rambo. She has also lent her voice to video games like Halo 2 and Defiance. Despite her diverse roles, Julie Benz consistently brings an engaging energy and emotional depth to her characters, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Her journey from a figure skater to an accomplished actress serves as an inspiration to many.
  • Jessica Lowndes
    30
    1,992 votes

    Kite Festival of Love, Mix Up in the Mediterranean, Over the Moon in Love

    Jessica Lowndes (; born November 8, 1988) is a Canadian actress and singer-songwriter. She is best known for her roles as Adrianna Tate-Duncan on The CW teen drama series 90210 and for appearing in several Hallmark Channel movies.