Our holidays will be better this year as two beloved television stars are joining forces for a movie built around family, tradition and real-life magic. Mario Lopez and Tony Danza are starring in “Christmas at The Starlight,” a new original film headed to Great American Family later this year.
According to People, Lopez’s 12-year-old son, Dominic Lopez, will also star in the film, which is set in a small American town, centering on The Starlight, a cherished supper club that has served as a gathering place for generations.
© Getty Images for ExtraThe plot has Danza portraying Frank, a legendary song-and-dance performer considering selling the family-owned restaurant lounge after four decades. As the future of The Starlight hangs in the balance, three generations are pulled into an emotional journey about preserving family history, honoring traditions, and rediscovering what matters most.
“Working with Tony Danza as my father in this story is incredibly special, and having Dominic play my son makes it even more personal,” Lopez said in a statement. “Christmas at The Starlight is about family, honoring where you come from, and recognizing the traditions and people that shape your life. I’m proud to be part of a movie that celebrates those values in such a heartfelt way.”
“Christmas at The Starlight” is leaning into legacy. Lopez, 52, also serves as executive producer.
© Getty Images for ExtraThat authenticity stood out to Great American Media president and CEO Bill Abbott. “At its heart, this film is about legacy — the lessons passed from father to son, the traditions that anchor families, and the cherished places where memories become part of who we are,” Abbott said. “Bringing Mario and Tony together as father and son, with Dominic continuing that lineage on screen, gives this story a rare authenticity and emotional resonance.”
A Reunion Fans Didn’t See Coming
For longtime TV fans, the pairing of Lopez and Danza feels like a cross-generational event. Lopez, who is forever linked to “Saved by the Bell,” while Danza’s legacy includes “Who's the Boss?” and “Taxi,” gives the movie nostalgic pull across multiple audiences.
© Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via GLopez has also become one of holiday TV’s most reliable leading men, appearing in a growing roster of Christmas films over the years, in addition to hosting and co-hosting shows.
With Mario Lopez, Tony Danza, and Dominic Lopez sharing the screen as three generations of one family, “Christmas at The Starlight” is definitely building an emotional hook way before the holiday film premieres.
