Great American Media has officially announced its latest holiday feature, A Christmas Rescue, as part of the highly anticipated annual Great American Christmas lineup. Starring fan-favorites Trevor Donovan and Stephanie Bennett, the World Premiere Original film brings a heartfelt mix of holiday romance, community spirit, and a powerful message about animal rescue.
Adding an extra dose of holiday magic to the cast is Niffy, a talented rescue dog turned screen star who plays a central role in bringing the story—and its human leads—together.
What Is A Christmas Rescue About?
Set in the picturesque town of Cedar Ridge, A Christmas Rescue follows Dr. Emma Ross (Stephanie Bennett), a dedicated physician who, alongside her beloved dog Shep (played by Niffy), is determined to make Cedar Ridge’s annual “Christmas Cares” celebration the most memorable one yet.
Her holiday plans take an exciting turn with the arrival of Dr. Matthew McGuire (Trevor Donovan), a traveling veterinarian stepping in to temporarily manage the local animal clinic. Looking to make a positive impact during his short stay, Matthew proposes adding a Christmas pet adoption drive to the town’s festive schedule.
As Emma and Matthew work side-by-side to organize the event and find loving families for shelter animals, their shared passion for helping others sparks a deeper connection. Together, they discover that the ultimate Christmas miracle might just be finding a place where both rescue pets and their own hearts truly belong.
A Powerful Cause Behind the Screen
A Christmas Rescue is more than just a seasonal romance; it highlights a cause deeply important to Great American Media and lead actor Trevor Donovan, a long-time advocate for animal welfare.
“Christmas is ultimately about hope, compassion, and opening our hearts to others – including the animals waiting for a forever home,” shared Kaitlyn Haubrich, Chief Brand Officer at Great American Media. She noted that the film celebrates the bond between humans and pets while reminding viewers that adoption, fostering, and supporting local animal shelters are acts of kindness that strengthen communities far beyond the holiday season.
Related: Every 2026 Great American Family Christmas Movie Premiering This Season
Meet Niffy: From Abandoned Puppy to Movie Star
One of the most inspiring elements of A Christmas Rescue is its four-legged co-star. Niffy’s real-life journey is a true rescue story. Discovered a decade ago as an abandoned puppy in a building in Saskatchewan, Canada, Niffy was given a second chance at life when her owner rescued her.
Since then, Niffy has thrived as an actor, a fast-paced flyball competitor, and a certified therapy dog visiting care homes. Now, she takes on the role of Shep in A Christmas Rescue, serving as a living testament to the incredible potential of shelter animals when given a loving home.
Did you know the co-star of A Christmas Rescue, Stephanie Bennett has a rescue pup of her own? This is why this movie especially hit close to home for her. She says it was such a gift to be part of this story.
How and When to Watch
Fans looking forward to cozying up with this heartwarming movie won’t have long to wait. A Christmas Rescue debuts just in time for Thanksgiving weekend:
- Streaming Premiere: Thursday, November 26 on Great American Pure Flix.
- Television Premiere: Saturday, November 28 at 8:00 PM ET on Great American Family and the GFAM+ app.
Be sure to tune in to Great American Family this November to catch Trevor Donovan, Stephanie Bennett, and Niffy in A Christmas Rescue!
You Will Also Like
How to Shop Candace Cameron Bure’s Most Stunning Clothing & Jewelry
8 Beauty & Health Essentials Candace Cameron Bure is Using Lately
Candace Cameron Bure Shares Her New Favorite Supplement: Create Creatine Gummies
I’m Madison. I live, breathe, and sleep pop culture. You’ll either find me at festivals, concerts, or catching up on the newest Netflix shows. For tips or comments, email [email protected].