Hallmark Channel Sets Kentucky Derby Movie Starring Andrew Walker for May 2026
The Kentucky Derby is heading to Hallmark Channel!
Andrew Walker and Odette Annable are set to star in Kentucky Roses, an all-new original movie that marks a partnership between Hallmark Media and Churchill Downs Racetrack.
The upcoming movie, which also stars Ally Ledford, Peyton Meyer, Brynn Thayer, and Gregg Henry, was filmed last year on location at Churchill Downs and the movie will debut on Hallmark Channel on May 2, 2026.
Keep reading to find out more…
Kentucky Roses unfolds across two timelines—present day and 1932—at Churchill Downs. In present-day, Sadie Moore (Annable) works in the Churchill Downs greenhouse, dreaming of becoming a florist and one day contributing to the Derby’s garland of roses, just like her great-grandmother, Gloria (Ledford). As Derby Day approaches, Sadie meets Ash Taylor (Walker), the son of Churchill Downs’ CEO (Henry), who’s been asked to do an emergency repair on the iconic Twin Spires after a storm left one damaged. Both Sadie and Ash feel the weight of family legacy and the desire to carve out their own paths. Sparks fly, and their budding romance is complicated by a long-buried connection between their families—a bittersweet love story from the past that threatens to repeat itself.
Andrew announced the news in a video shot on location. Watch below!
“Hallmark Media and Churchill Downs are both legacy brands, each with more than a hundred years of history. Additionally, we share a commitment to giving generations of fans a memorable experience that fosters deep connections,” remarked Jessica Callahan, Vice President at Hallmark Media. “Together, we’re thrilled to bring audiences an inspiring story of community, courage, and time-honored traditions.“
Another exciting 2026 movie has been announced already!