Secret Santa (2003)
A big-city reporter chases a small-town Christmas mystery and finds more than she bargained for in this warm holiday romance.
Secret Santa - Movie Information
- Original Title: Secret Santa
- Release Year: 2003
- Directed by: Ian Barry
- Type: Movie
- Genres: TV Movie, Family, Romance
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 2h 0m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): December 14, 2003
- Alternative Titles: Un Père Noël au grand cœur (FR)
- Production Countries: United States of America
Secret Santa - Plot
Newspaper reporter Rebecca Chandler, who feels she got no fair chance to prove her worth in her three years career, looks forward to a Hawaiian holiday with her fiancé Ryan, but instead of a ring he brings her walking orders — he found better. So she accepts again to be the bachelor on duty in the Christmas season, and write the annual romantic non-news feel-good story, once more about the elusive Secret Santa in small-town Hamden, where the Christmas spirit is said to last all year. Bad luck follows her from Indianapolis: her car breaks down, she can only get lodgings in a home for the elderly without Internet, and nobody wants to help her unmask the secret Santa. Soon she guesses it must be the only rich philanthropist, but the popular Mr. John Martin Carter doesn’t grant her an interview and isn’t tricked either — in fact, he meets her at the worst moments repeatedly without her knowing who he is.
Where to Watch Secret Santa
Looking for where to watch Secret Santa?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Secret Santa - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Ian Barry
Main Cast
- Jennie Garth
- Steven Eckholdt
- Charles Robinson
- Joel McKinnon Miller
- Victor Raider-Wexler
- Josh Randall
- Kathryn Joosten
- Sam Anderson
- Marnette Patterson
- Cody Fleetwood
Writers
- Beth Polson
Secret Santa - FAQs
What is Secret Santa (2003) about?
Secret Santa follows Rebecca Chandler, a newspaper reporter freshly dumped by her fiancé, who heads to the cozy small town of Hamden to investigate its legendary anonymous gift-giver. Along the way she keeps bumping into the charming and wealthy John Martin Carter — not realizing he may be the very man she’s chasing.
Does Secret Santa have a happy ending?
Yes — Secret Santa delivers the warm, feel-good conclusion you’d hope for from a Christmas romance. Rebecca’s investigation leads her not just to the truth about the town’s generous benefactor but also to an unexpected love story, wrapping everything up with plenty of holiday cheer.
Where can you watch Secret Santa (2003)?
You can find streaming and viewing options for Secret Santa on JustWatch, which lists all available platforms in your region. Availability may vary depending on your country, so checking JustWatch is the easiest way to see where it’s currently playing.
Who plays Rebecca Chandler in Secret Santa?
Jennie Garth plays Rebecca Chandler, the determined but unlucky-in-love reporter at the heart of the story. Steven Eckholdt stars opposite her as the elusive philanthropist John Martin Carter, with a supporting cast that includes Charles Robinson, Kathryn Joosten, and Sam Anderson.
Is Secret Santa based on a true story?
No, Secret Santa is not based on a true story. It’s an original holiday TV movie written by Beth Polson. That said, the film draws inspiration from the real-world tradition of anonymous charitable giving during Christmas — a phenomenon that has genuinely occurred in small American towns.
What is the age rating for Secret Santa?
Secret Santa is rated PG, making it a great pick for the whole family. There’s nothing edgy here — just lighthearted holiday romance, small-town warmth, and festive goodwill that works for kids and adults alike.
What movies are similar to Secret Santa (2003)?
If you enjoyed Secret Santa, you’ll likely love Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa, A Christmas Prince, Project Christmas Wish, and Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater. All share that same cozy small-town holiday romance formula with warm characters and feel-good resolutions.
Who directed and wrote Secret Santa (2003)?
Secret Santa was directed by Ian Barry and written by Beth Polson. Barry is a seasoned TV movie director known for his work in holiday and family programming, while Polson brought the heartwarming script to life with a story that balances romantic comedy with small-town Christmas charm.
More About Secret Santa
Explore further details about Secret Santa on these trusted resources.