Kimberley Sustad: From Hallmark Actress to Screenwriter and Back Again
Kimberley Sustad has become a familiar face on the Hallmark Channel, starring in numerous romantic comedies and, more recently, adding screenwriting to her repertoire. Her journey with the network began in 2012, and she landed her first leading role in 2014’s The Nine Lives of Christmas. This movie, she reveals, holds a special place in her heart as it allowed her to portray a character, Marilee, who closely mirrored her own personality. The klutziness, the self-doubt, the desire to hide away with a gallon of ice cream after a tough day – all elements Sustad infused into Marilee, resonating with audiences and setting the stage for future comedic roles. While she expresses a desire to revisit the character or create similar ones, perhaps echoing the spirit of Miss Congeniality, Sustad’s journey has taken an exciting turn into the world of writing.
Sustad’s foray into screenwriting for Hallmark commenced with 2020’s Christmas By Starlight. However, it was her work on 2022’s Three Wise Men and a Baby, co-written with star Paul Campbell, that propelled her to a new level of recognition. The film became a massive hit for the network, placing Sustad in an unexpected spotlight and triggering a wave of imposter syndrome. Despite the pressure to replicate the success with a sequel, Sustad, alongside Campbell, penned Three Wiser Men and a Boy, a follow-up story centering around the Brenner brothers and the now-toddler they’re raising. Sustad even makes a cameo appearance in the sequel, breaking the fourth wall with a meta-joke about the pressure of creating a successful sequel, further solidifying her connection to the project.
The success of Three Wise Men and a Baby brought with it an immense pressure to deliver an equally compelling sequel. Sustad candidly confessed to experiencing imposter syndrome, doubting her abilities as a writer despite the overwhelming positive reception. This self-doubt, a recurring theme in Sustad’s reflections, is reminiscent of her character Marilee. The fear of not living up to expectations, of the world discovering she wasn’t a "profesh writer," weighed heavily on her. However, the demand for a sequel was undeniable, pushing Sustad to confront her insecurities and embrace the challenge. Despite the initial "fear and panic," Sustad believes the team crafted a sequel even better than the original, demonstrating her growth as a writer and her dedication to her craft.
Sustad’s latest project, The Santa Class, further showcases her versatility within the Hallmark universe. Taking on the role of Kate North, the owner of a Santa School, Sustad navigates the heartwarming story of a Santa with amnesia, working alongside an instructor to help him regain his memories while saving Christmas and the school itself. This project underlines Sustad’s continued commitment to Hallmark and her ability to embody diverse characters within their signature heartwarming narratives. The film also features a cameo from Paul Campbell, further highlighting their collaborative partnership and mutual support.
The experience of writing and starring in Hallmark projects has given Sustad a unique perspective on the filmmaking process. She expresses a particular fondness for the collaborative nature of these productions, working closely with producers, directors, and fellow actors to shape the story and bring it to life. This collaborative spirit, she notes, contrasts with the potential isolation of writing for unfamiliar teams and handing off a script without further involvement. For Sustad, the shared creative journey, the give-and-take of ideas, and the sense of community within the Hallmark family enrich the entire experience. This collaborative approach, she believes, allows for a more fulfilling and rewarding experience, resulting in stories that resonate with both the creators and the audience.
Sustad’s journey within the Hallmark world demonstrates a remarkable evolution from actress to writer and a seamless blend of both roles. Her ability to infuse her own personality into her characters, her willingness to embrace new challenges, and her appreciation for the collaborative spirit of filmmaking have solidified her position as a valued member of the Hallmark family. From her relatable portrayal of Marilee in The Nine Lives of Christmas to the comedic brilliance of Three Wise Men and a Baby and its sequel, and her heartwarming portrayal in The Santa Class, Sustad continues to captivate audiences with her talent and genuine warmth, demonstrating the enduring appeal of heartfelt storytelling.
