Mick Foley is trading the wrestling ring for a Christmas movie this fall. The WWE Hall of Famer has joined the cast of The Christmas Heartbeat, a new holiday film set to be released on September 29, 2026.
Vantage Media announced on September 9 that it acquired worldwide distribution rights to the movie, which was previously titled The Heart Brake. Foley appears alongside Brittany Curran, Hunter Sansone, Beverly D’Angelo, Joey Lawrence, Rachael Thompson and Courtney D’Angelo, although Foley’s role in the film has not been revealed.
The Christmas Heartbeat centers around Julia Winters, played by Curran, a New York food critic whose life takes a dramatic turn after she suffers sudden cardiac arrest. Julia returns to her hometown in Tennessee, where she is forced to deal with old relationships, unresolved wounds and a future she never expected.
Director Lance Smith, who co-wrote and executive-produced the movie with Chuck Fusca, said the project is about much more than just Christmas.
“The Christmas Heartbeat is equal parts a Christmas story, a family story, and a love story, but above all, it’s a reminder of the resiliency of the human heart.”
The film was inspired by the real-life experience of executive producer Carrie Romero, a sudden cardiac arrest survivor and advocate. Carrie and Gus Romero served as executive producers on the project, while Trey McClarnon produced the film alongside Delaney Blanton, Quinton Macari III and Brian Yuran.
Smith also opened up about what securing worldwide distribution meant for the independent production after Vantage Media came aboard.
“For independent films, finding distribution can be like looking for an exit door in a dark room. Vantage Media was a beacon of light from the moment they reached out to us. They understood our movie and its mission. We weren’t just another title on the roster. We’re very excited to bring The Christmas Heartbeat to audiences and grateful VMI opened the door.”
Vantage Media COO Jessica Russo also made it clear the company believes the movie has all the ingredients audiences expect from a Christmas release.
“We couldn’t be more excited to bring The Christmas Heartbeat to audiences around the world. This is the kind of holiday film that reminds us why we fall in love with Christmas year after year—it’s filled with heart, warmth, hope, and the magic of coming home.”
Russo added that the story ultimately revolves around healing, family and second chances.
“At its core, it’s a beautiful story about healing, second chances, and rediscovering the people and places that shape who we are.”
Foley has spent decades entertaining wrestling fans with everything from brutal matches to comedy, books and acting appearances, and now he’s adding another movie role to the list. Exactly what Foley will be doing in The Christmas Heartbeat remains under wraps, but fans won’t have to wait long to see how the Hardcore Legend fits into this holiday story.
The Christmas Heartbeat arrives September 29, though Vantage Media has not yet announced which platforms will carry the movie.
What kind of role do you think Mick Foley will play in The Christmas Heartbeat, and will you be checking out the movie when it drops? Let us know what you think and leave your feedback in the comments.
