Netflix is diving headfirst into the holiday romance season, and this year’s standout is My Secret Santa—a cozy, charming film that feels tailor-made for Virgin River fans. Alexandra Breckenridge leads the movie as Taylor, bringing the same warmth and relatability viewers love from her work on the hit series. And for New Amsterdam fans, Ryan Eggold stars opposite her, giving him a rom-com spotlight where he just might get the girl.
There’s also a clever twist: a playful, gender-swapped spin on Mrs. Doubtfire.
What is My Secret Santa about?
The story follows Taylor, who disguises herself as a man to land a job as a ski resort’s new Santa. Her motivation? A simple one—a 50% employee discount on ski lessons for her daughter. As long as she can pull off a convincing Santa act, everything should work out… in theory.
Of course, romance complicates everything. The resort’s general manager develops feelings for Taylor, setting up a sweet but tangled love story as she tries to keep her real identity under wraps. With nosy coworkers on the hunt for Santa’s secrets, Taylor has to juggle her double life without derailing her budding relationship.
Think Virgin River meets New Amsterdam, wrapped in holiday magic and a touch of gentle, Hallmark-style spice. And honestly? Taylor’s secret is one you can’t be too mad about—who brings up work disguises on a first date?
When does My Secret Santa premiere?
Unlike many of Netflix’s past holiday releases that hit in November, My Secret Santa arrives a little later. The film drops Wednesday, Dec. 3, just in time to transition from Thanksgiving vibes to full-on Christmas mode.
It premieres at 3 a.m. ET / 12 a.m. PT, but as always, you can stream it anytime. And since it’s a Netflix Original, there’s no danger of it disappearing from the platform.
If you’re a Virgin River fan—or simply love a feel-good Christmas romance with humor, heart, and snow-covered charm—My Secret Santa belongs on your holiday watchlist.
