Hallmark fans have been eagerly waiting for the return to Fletcher Grove, and Mistletoe Murders Season 2 does not disappoint. Sarah Drew, who stars as Emily Lane and also serves as a producer, sat down with Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged to talk about the new season’s higher emotional stakes, deeper mysteries, and why this project means so much to her.
Below are the biggest highlights from the conversation — including behind-the-scenes insight, character teases, and Sarah’s hopes for the future of the series.
“It’s My Favorite Job I’ve Ever Had”
Right from the start, Sarah made it clear just how special this series is to her.
“It’s my favorite job I’ve ever had… I laughed my way through ten weeks of shooting.”
According to Sarah, Mistletoe Murders is the rare project where the filming experience is joyful, the final product is something she’s genuinely proud of, and audiences are deeply invested. The combination of all three, she says, is “the trifecta.”
Juggling Acting and Producing — And Why It Feels Natural
While Sarah wears multiple hats this season, she says producing feels like an extension of what she’s always done as an actor.
She shared that her producer role mainly involves creative conversations: script notes, giving feedback on early cuts, and helping elevate character moments.
“Most of my notes have to do with the romance. I love adding something yummy or tugging on a heartstring.”
Her collaborative relationship with show creator Ken Cooper gives her space to shape the emotional DNA of Emily’s journey.
Season 2 Raises the Stakes for Emily Lane
Fans asked for more backstory — and Season 2 delivers in a big way.
Sarah revealed that this year’s flashbacks take Emily across multiple periods of her life, including revealing her real name and exploring the origins of her guarded heart.
“You saw teenage Emily in episodes one and two… and we continue through the years with her. Episodes five and six show a very different side of Emily.”
These glimpses into Emily’s past are not just emotional additions — they’re crucial pieces of the mystery and her character growth.
Emily and Sam: More Tension, More Heart, Higher Stakes
One of the biggest draws for fans has been the electric chemistry between Emily and Sam. Season 2 throws them into deeper conflict — but also deeper connection.
“They fight, and even when they’re fighting, it’s spicy… There’s so much tension because there’s still so much love there.”
Sarah lights up when talking about their scenes together, describing them as some of the most fun and emotionally rich moments of the entire season.
She also praises Peter Mooney’s ability to switch seamlessly between cop mode, dad mode, and romantic lead — often catching her off guard in the best way.
Balancing Christmas Charm with Murder-Mystery Intrigue
Mistletoe Murders blends two beloved genres: cozy holiday vibes and sharp, twist-filled mysteries. Sarah credits creator Ken Cooper’s vision for keeping the tone perfectly balanced.
“Both genres follow a similar path: something’s broken, something’s messy… and at the end, everything will be okay.”
Even the shop “Under the Mistletoe” feels like its own character — fully decked out with handmade ornaments, music, and endless festive details. Sarah joked that she doesn’t need help getting in the holiday spirit:
“I just walk into my shop and I’m immediately Christmas-fied.”
A Season About Vulnerability, Healing, and Letting People In
When asked what she hopes audiences take away from Emily’s journey this season, Sarah didn’t hesitate:
“There is so much strength in vulnerability.”
Season 2 explores Emily slowly opening her heart again, learning to ask for help, and allowing herself to be truly seen.
Sarah hopes viewers feel inspired:
“Let yourself be vulnerable. Let people meet you where you are so you can do this life together.”
What’s Next for Mistletoe Murders?
While everyone involved is hopeful, Hallmark has not yet announced a Season 3 pickup.
“We’re just waiting. Make as much noise as you can — everybody listens.”
And if the fan enthusiasm for Season 2 is any indication, Mistletoe Murders might just have many more chapters ahead.
Final Thoughts
Sarah Drew’s passion for Mistletoe Murders shines through in every frame of the series — and every moment of this interview. From deeper mysteries to heartfelt romance, Season 2 promises to deliver everything fans love and even more.
Stay tuned to Pop Culture Unplugged for more interviews with the cast and creatives behind your favorite shows.
Photo credit - Ryan West