Sophia Michaels
After leaving “One Tree Hill” in 2009, Chad Michael Murray’s career took a downturn until he found new opportunities with Hallmark Channel, where he enjoyed creating festive films. However, he later made a move to the Great American Family (GAC) network, which attracted stars from Hallmark, marking a significant shift in his career.
Starting in 2018 with “The Beach House,” Murray embraced Hallmark’s holiday spirit, later starring in films like “Love in Winterland” and “Road to Christmas.” In an interview, he expressed his commitment to participating in at least one holiday project each year. By 2021, however, he shifted his focus to GAC, starring in “Angel Falls Christmas,” and as of 2023, he prepared for his third film with them, “Christmas on Windmill Way.”
The reasons behind Murray’s departure from Hallmark remain unclear but might suggest a desire to steer clear of controversies affecting actors at GAC who switched networks.
Chad Michael Murray’s Other Ventures Beyond GAC
Murray faces scrutiny from fans for his move to GAC, especially following comments from Candace Cameron Bure regarding GAC’s focus on “traditional marriage” and a lack of LGBTQ+ storylines. Bure’s remarks reflect a faith-based direction that seems to resonate with Murray, who mentioned feeling secure in his beliefs while working: “I feel stronger and safer on my sets every day knowing that I have God with me.”
His beliefs significantly influence his role selections, although he is not limited to faith-themed projects. In 2024, he is set to appear in the romantic comedy “Mother of the Bride” on Netflix, alongside Lindsay Lohan in a sequel to “Freaky Friday.” Additionally, he is involved with “Sullivan’s Crossing,” a drama airing on CTV and The CW, and will feature in Netflix’s exclusive holiday film “The Merry Gentlemen.”
Looking to the future, Murray is exploring other projects and expressed interest in revisiting “A Cinderella Story,” driven by his daughter’s affection for the original. She encouraged him, saying, “You need to make another one of those, Daddy.”
