The CW is set to captivate audiences with a new series of original films inspired by beloved Harlequin romance novels, starting in Fall 2025.
The CW Expands into Primetime Movies with Harlequin Romance Adaptations
The CW is venturing into the realm of primetime movies with a lineup of six films inspired by Harlequin romance novels.
The network plans to start airing these original films in Fall 2025, with the first movie set for a limited theatrical release this summer, courtesy of Fathom Entertainment.
Montana Mavericks, featuring Katherine McNamara, will hit theaters from August 26-27 before making its debut on the network later this year. The remaining five films will premiere during primetime.
“The CW has cultivated a dedicated weekend audience of movie enthusiasts, and this new collection of original films is tailored for romance aficionados everywhere,” stated Heather Olander, CW’s head of scripted and unscripted content (via Variety). “These uplifting stories, inspired by immensely popular Harlequin novels, perfectly blend nostalgia and escapism. Thanks to our exciting collaboration with Fathom Entertainment, we’re excited to bring these films to theaters first—allowing fans to laugh, swoon, and fall in love together this summer.”
Overview of the Six Upcoming Movies
Read below for details on all six films!
MONTANA MAVERICKS
Heather (Katherine McNamara) is a New York City author striving to overcome writer’s block and avoid repaying an advance on her next book. Her plans take an unexpected turn when she inherits a family ranch in Montana. Accompanied by her two best friends, Heather embarks on a “Yellowstone” adventure, aiming for a quick sale but is unprepared for the ranch’s poor condition and the charming cowboy veterinarian next door, Cliff (Dennis Andres), who challenges her big-city mindset. Heather and her friends discover more than they anticipated in this expansive adventure.
ORDINARY GIRL IN A TIARA
Vintage fashion enthusiast Caro Cartwright (Katharine King So) finds herself harboring her childhood rival turned couture heiress, Philippa Levreaux (Kathryn Gallagher). Their contrasting personalities spark fireworks, yet they help each other navigate challenges, ultimately leading to personal growth and the pursuit of their dreams. This story illustrates that opposites not only attract but can also enrich lives when one dares to embrace true love.
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PAWS IN THE CITY
Issa (Emeraude Toubia) is a rising social media expert whose career takes a hit after a mishap tarnishes a young starlet’s reputation. Left with no choice, she accepts a job caring for Camila, a temperamental dachshund diva. As Issa transports Camila to playdates and pet psychics, she discovers that the dog’s bark is worse than her bite—much like Camila’s reclusive owner, Theo (Carter Jenkins). What begins as a means to support her and her sister evolves into a chance for Issa to showcase her talents and possibly mend her family, while also finding love.
RECIPE FOR ROMANCE
In Little Manila, rival businesses turn enemies into lovers. Sari (True O’Brien) seizes the opportunity to manage her family’s coffee shop while her parents are away, only to have her plans disrupted by a bakery owned by the annoyingly charming Gabe (Alex Mallari Jr.). This sparks an epic prank war, leading Sari and Gabe to discover love amidst their competition, family ties, and the delicious pastries they create together as they prepare for the Little Manila Festival.
SAVVY SHELDON FEELS GOOD AS HELL
Savvy Sheldon (Amber Riley) is balancing a demanding job, a fading situationship, and a beloved kitchen inherited from her grandmother. With support from her mother and best friend, Savvy takes charge of her life, embarking on renovations in her career and kitchen. Isaiah (Dorian Grey), the charming contractor, finds himself drawn to Savvy’s culinary skills, potentially becoming the key to her love life and helping her discover her true passion.
SECOND GUESSING FATE
Event planner Gemma (Danielle Panabaker) has nearly given up on dating until a fortune teller appears at one of her events, predicting she is one disastrous date away from true love. When her last blind date with Nick (Corey Sevier) goes awry, including a car crash with a handsome stranger, Enzo (Brendan Morgan), Gemma begins to reconsider her outlook on love as the fortune teller’s predictions unfold. But is she interpreting the signs correctly? Only fate holds the answer.
