Photo: Crown Media (2)
The network has announced that production is set to begin onThe Christmas Bond, to air later this year, starringHolly Robinson Peete,Lyriq Bentand Nik Sanchez, who is a young actor with autism.
“As a single mom (Peete) and her teenaged son with autism (Sanchez) come to a crossroad during Christmas, she must learn to let go so he can flourish and finds her own heart healing in unexpected ways,” a plot description from Hallmark reads.
For Peete, 57, the project is a personal one, as her son Rodney Peete Jr., 23, is on the autism spectrum.
“I am making this movie for my son RJ, others with autism and their families,” Holly said in a statement. “I am grateful to Hallmark for bringing this story to screen with authenticity, respect and hope.”
Holly Robinson Peete and her son RJ.
The21 Jump Streetalumhas been a vocal advocate for autism awarenesssince revealing Rodney Jr.’s diagnosis in 2007. She assists families of children with autism through the nonprofitHollyRod Foundation, which she started with her husband, retired NFL playerRodney Peete, 55, in 1997, also providing support to those living with Parkinson’s disease.
“He’ssuch a genuine kid,” she told PEOPLE of Rodney Jr. in 2018. “I wanted people to see that and fall in love with RJ, and then they wouldn’t be so scared of autism. I think he’s a great ambassador, and I knew his spirit and personality would come through.”
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At the time, she raved about Rodney working “his dream job” as a clubhouse attendant for the Los Angeles Dodgers. “I wouldn’t change RJ for the world, but I would change the world for RJ,” Peete added.
source: people.com
