Exclusive Interview: Sarah Reeves Teases Acting Debut in A Christmas Heart, the Rawness of the Script, Her Feature Song in the Film, and More

All eyes are on Sarah Reeves, the multifaceted artist who sings, writes, and produces, and is now adding actress to her growing list of accomplishments. Later this year, Sarah will be making her feature film debut in her starring role in Bill McAdams Jr.’s holiday film, A Christmas Heart. Pop Culturalist had the pleasure of speaking with Sarah about this exciting milestone in her career, what it was about Bill’s script that resonated with her, collaborating with the cast and crew, and her feature song in the project.

PC: You recently wrapped filming on your debut feature film, A Christmas Heart, which is set to be released in 2024. What can you tell us about the film and your character in it?
Sarah: I had a blast being a part of my first feature film. Acting has been something I’ve wanted to do for a while, and I was so excited when the door opened for this film. My character is Mary, who is the wife of Jack (Bill McAdams Jr.) and the mother of our son, Bobby (Luke Bentley). It’s a holiday family drama about faith, forgiveness, and new beginnings. It’s an emotionally powerful movie that will keep you reaching for the tissues.

PC: What was it about this particular script that resonated with you?
Sarah: I’ve never seen a film with this storyline, so it immediately caught my attention. As I was reading through the script, it took me on a journey, and I never got bored. Tears of sadness and joy—it’s real, raw, and lacks the fluff seen in so many other family Christmas movies. As someone driven by authenticity, it was easy to say yes to this film.

PC: Your character goes on this emotional journey throughout the film. As an actress, how did you create the space for yourself to tackle that vulnerability?
Sarah: Being a creative, I’m wired to be vulnerable—sometimes probably too much. [laughs] I have a big imagination and I feel things very deeply. I’m also an empath, so it’s natural for me to put myself in the shoes of another character.

PC: In addition to acting, you’re also a brilliant music artist. Have you found that your experiences in that industry have lent themselves to your work on screen as an actress, or vice versa?
Sarah: Definitely! As an artist, I’ve done many music videos, and although it’s not exactly the same, it gave me experience and confidence with being in front of a camera. Walking onto a set with lots of cameras can be intimidating, but it’s a normal environment for me, so it made it less daunting.

PC: You’re starring opposite Kevin Sorbo, who is an absolute legend in this industry. Did you learn anything about your craft working alongside him? Did he share any advice for you as you traverse your career as an actress?
Sarah: It was an honor to work alongside Kevin. I definitely took some mental notes as I watched him act. He was very kind on set. He shared some fun stories of his career and gave me good advice for my own.

PC: Bill McAdams Jr. wrote and directed this film. What is the filming experience like when the person who created these characters and this universe is also at the helm directing? What was that collaboration like?
Sarah: I was very impressed with Bill. Not many people can write, act, and direct with his level of excellence, but he somehow juggles all three and makes it look really easy. He’s a deeply caring filmmaker who puts his whole heart into his films. It’s inspiring to watch!

PC: Your song, “Christmas Feels Different This Year,” is also being featured in the film. How did that come about?
Sarah: Yes, this song seemed to fit the script perfectly. It’s actually a sad Christmas song, but it’s real. I think many people feel the weight of loss or tragedy around the holidays more than any other time of the year. For me personally, I went through a divorce after being married for ten years. I wrote this song after spending my first Christmas as a single adult—it was weird, sad, and lonely. Although it’s not the happiest song in the world, it is still hopeful. I hope it reminds people that they are not alone in whatever circumstance they are facing.

PC: With this being your debut feature, congratulations by the way, what was the most surprising part about the experience? What was the biggest takeaway?
Sarah: I surprised myself mostly. I wasn’t sure if I’d be good at acting, to be honest. After watching back my scenes, I was pleasantly surprised. My biggest takeaway was to not be afraid to do new things. They will be scary and uncomfortable at first, but those things are good. They stretch you. They make you better. You never know, you just might step into something you were destined for.

To keep up with Sarah, follow her on Instagram.