How TV holiday rom-coms got so successful (Encore)

This podcast episode delves into the rise of holiday rom-coms made specifically for TV, tracing their journey from a niche interest to a staple of holiday entertainment. It highlights Hallmark's "Countdown to Christmas" as a pivotal influence, showing how its affordable production model, focused on heartwarming stories, has attracted a wide audience. Additionally, the episode examines the creative limits and changing representation within the genre, revealing both the achievements and ongoing challenges regarding diversity and cultural relevance.