Ellen Wong – The Christmas Setup

By: Jamie Steinberg

Q) Please tell us the premise for the upcoming film The Christmas Setup.

A) The Christmas Setup is Lifetime’s very first movie with a LGBTQ romance as its lead storyline. It’s exciting to be part of this groundbreaking movie and to be part of making TV history.

Q) How was your character Madelyn originally described to you?

A) I first learned about Maddy through my friends Ben [Lewis] and Blake [Lee], who are the leads of the film. They told me Maddy is Hugo’s (Ben) BFF and that’s all I needed to know. I love working with friends. Madelyn encourages Hugo’s relationship with Patrick and also finds her own holiday romance with Hugo’s brother Aiden.

Q) Was there anything you added to this role that wasn’t in her initial breakdown?

A) Our real-life friendship. Since we were all friends already, I hope our chemistry on screen feels real and authentic.

Q) What makes Madelyn decide to join Hugo on his trip to Milwaukee? 

A) I think on some level Maddy is hoping she won’t have to spend the holidays alone. So, when Hugo suggests a cozy family trip back to Milwaukee, it really is exactly what she needs – an old-fashioned cozy small-town Christmas filled with family, nostalgia and fun traditions.

Q) Where does she land on the possibility of Hugo and Patrick finding love?

A) Maddy can see that there is a special connection between Hugo and Patrick and she is definitely rooting for them 100% all the way.

Q) Who were you most looking forward to sharing a scene with in the movie?

A) Fran [Drescher] was the only person I didn’t really know. So, I was definitely looking forward to working with her. She’s so warm and welcoming, a true nurturing mom in life and in the movie.

Q) What were some of your favorite scenes to film?

A) I loved the big group family scenes because it really just felt like we were one big family. The holiday aspect just made the scenes so cozy and extra festive!

Q) What did it mean to you to star in the first Lifetime LGBTQ+ centered holiday story?

A) Knowing that this film is Lifetime’s first LGBTQ Christmas film was a milestone I knew I wanted to support and be a part of. Also, knowing that the head creatives for this film were being led by people in the LGBTQ+ community made me feel confident that the story would be authentic. I understand what it feels like to rarely see yourself reflected on screen, so I think it’s important to come together to support and share underrepresented stories. There is so much value in telling stories about real life and people – it serves everyone.

Q) What do you hope viewers take away from watching The Christmas Setup?

A) I hope viewers love the film and characters, and appreciate our message of love is love. Our movie is so warm, festive and filled with love for all. So, I hope these feelings are passed on and cherished.