If you’re missing Virgin River and counting down the months until season 7, Netflix has slipped in the perfect holiday treat to tide you over: My Secret Santa, a surprisingly delightful Christmas rom-com led by none other than Alexandra Breckenridge—our unofficial Netflix queen.
A Holiday Hit That Actually Works
Giving a Netflix Christmas movie three stars is basically the genre’s version of a five-star rating—and My Secret Santa earns every sparkle. It’s warm, charming, slightly ridiculous in all the right ways, and easily one of Netflix’s strongest festive films in years.
The setup? Think Mrs. Doubtfire, but swap out the Scottish nanny disguise for a full Santa makeover. Single mom Taylor (Breckenridge) needs cash fast to send her daughter to a top snowboarding academy. The only job opening? A seasonal Father Christmas—beard, belly, and all.
Meanwhile, sparks fly with Matthew (Ryan Eggold), the handsome new resort manager who recognizes Taylor from her singing days. You know where it’s going—but that’s exactly the point.
Alexandra Breckenridge: Netflix’s North Star
Breckenridge carries the film effortlessly, giving heart to a storyline that could’ve easily tipped into pure absurdity. She’s magnetic, funny, warm, and endlessly watchable—whether she’s juggling mom life or fumbling through Santa duties. If Netflix had a crown to give, she’d be wearing it.
Her chemistry with Eggold is another standout. Whoever paired these two deserves a holiday bonus—their dynamic is cozy, believable, and full of that classic Netflix glow.
Surprisingly Fresh for a Christmas Movie
What sets My Secret Santa apart is how modern it feels without forcing trends or cringe Gen-Z jokes. No unnecessary TikTok references, no gimmicks—just a sweet, simple romance wrapped in holiday cheer.
Yes, the ending leans into the yearly cringe quota. Yes, the stakes are low. But that’s what we sign up for at Christmas: comfort, softness, and pure, uncomplicated joy.
The Verdict
My Secret Santa manages to be everything a holiday rom-com should be—festive, fun, heartfelt—and occasionally even better than expected. It’s the perfect cozy watch while we wait (not-so-patiently) for Virgin River to return.
Honestly? You might end up watching it twice.
