Hallmark Media Doubles Down on Diversity With Launch of Mahogany Brand of Movies

K.L. Connie Wang

August 27, 2022 at 11:09 PM·5 min read

Hallmark is going all-in on diversity after years of criticism that the network's feel-good films didn't represent a diverse audience. The most recent step in their desire to add more diversity to their offerings is a new series of movies based of their popular African-American card line.

The first movie under the Mahogany brand, Unthinkably Good Things, will premiere on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries network.

Here's everything we know about Unthinkably Good Things including Parade.com exclusive content!

What is Unthinkably Good Things about?

At a crossroads in her career and love life, Allison (Karen Pittman) is in need of the love and support of her two friends Melina (Joyful Drake) and Reesa (Erica Ash). When they visit her in Tuscany, the reunion causes each woman to reexamine the state of her own life and relationships. While they have different personalities and perspectives, they know each other’s truths and help to make life-changing decisions. Between the good wine, delicious food, a healthy serving of romance, set against the beautiful backdrop of Tuscany the three women relish in the importance of friendship and inspire each other to make this next season the best one yet and to take the leap to pursue the life and loves they have always wanted.

What is the Mahogany brand?

Mahogany is a brand of cards and gifts launched by Hallmark almost 40 years ago and is geared toward the African-American community. It features themes of family, community, human connection, and positivity.

Hallmark Media decided to parlay the iconic brand into a series of films that touches upon the Mahogany brand's themes.

“Mahogany is a beloved brand by millions of consumers around the world and we are thrilled to bring the brand to life on screen with this first new movie,” Toni Judkins, SVP Programming Development, Crown Media said of Unthinkably Good Things.

When does Unthinkably Good Things premiere?

Unthinkably Good Things premieres on Sunday, August 28 at 9 p.m. ET on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

Meet the cast of Unthinkably Good Things

Karen Pittman (Allison)

Allison has reached a crossroads in her life. In Italy to teach a course at a local university there, Allison is looking for a new start in life after her divorce. Will she find it in Tuscany?

You might recognize Pittman from her turn on Yellowstone as the corporate raider, Willa Hayes. Previous roles include The Morning Show, And Just Like That..., and Homeland.

Follow Karen on Instagram and Twitter @thekarenpittman.

Joyful Drake (Melina)

Melina is a chef. After coming off a health scare, the new restaurant owner has to deal with a possible visit from a food critic and the stress that comes with that. There in Tuscany for her best friend, Melina signs up for a local cooking class and hopes to be inspired by the local cuisine.

Drake stars as Tasha on the popular BET comedy series, Let's Stay Together and also has a recurring role on Netflix's P-Valley. She leads the upcoming drama series, HUSH on ALLBLK streaming network. She also previously starred in November Rule, Get Him to the Greek, and Catch Hell.

Follow Joyful on Instagram and Twitter @joyfuldrake.

Erica Ash (Reesa)

Reesa and her husband are trying to start a family, but the stress of it all has her rethinking what she wants out of life. Though she loves her husband, Reesa is hoping to turn her vacation in Italy into a longer stay.

Ash got her professional acting start in theatre with roles in The Lion King, Spamalot, and as part of the original Broadway cast of Baby, It's You.

In TV and film, Ash stars in the comedy western The Outlaw Johnny Black opposite Michael Jai White who also co-wrote and directed the film. She also stars in the upcoming Netflix film, We Have a Ghost.

Follow Erica on Instagram and Twitter @theericaash.

Jermaine Love (Lucas)

Lucas is a chef as well and takes the same class as Melina. Will these two heat things up in the kitchen?

The British Love starred in the Rogue Warfare trilogy on Netflix and will star in the upcoming feature film, Catalyst as well as the third season of Sweet Magnolias on Netflix.

Follow Jermaine on Instagram @jermainelove44.

Luca Seta (Nico)

Nico is Allison's current love interest in Italy. He'd like to make things more permanent but is unsure if Allison intends to head back to the States or wants to extend her teaching gig at the local university.

Seta's previous movie roles include Yara and Nove Lune e Mezza. He most recently appeared in the Netflix romantic comedy, Love & Gelato.

Follow Luca on Twitter @lucasetareal and on Instagram @lucasetofficial.

Lance Gross (Andre)

Andre is Reesa's husband and is back in the U.S. while Reesa heads to Italy for some much needed girl-time. Will the distance make the two grow fonder or grow apart?

Gross was previously a series regular Fox's Star while also having a recurring role on CBS' MacGyver. He currently stars on Our Kind of People on Fox.

Follow Lance on Twitter and Instagram @lancegross.

Where can I watch Unthinkably Good Things?

Unthinkably Good Things will premiere on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries but will be simulcast on Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Drama.

When can I watch Unthinkably Good Things again?

Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 7 p.m. ET
Friday, Sept. 2 at 9 p.m. ET
Sunday, Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. ET
Saturday, Sept. 24 at 3 p.m. ET

Is there a trailer for Unthinkably Good Things?

There is! Check out the official preview for Unthinkably Good Things.

What is the next movie under the Mahogany brand?

The next film under the Mahogany banner is To Her, With Love starring Skye P. Marshall and Tobias Truvillion with a cameo by Shanice Wilson-Knox. The film follows a substitute teacher who takes a teaching job at her old high school. After struggling to connect with her students, she turns to another teacher for help.