In a move that’s already sending waves of excitement through fans of wholesome storytelling, Great American Media has officially renewed the hit faith-based family drama Crossroad Springs for a second season, slated to premiere in 2026. Adding to the holiday cheer, the network announced a special holiday music episode titled Crossroad Springs Christmas, featuring beloved stars Jonathan Stoddard and Jillian Cardarelli, set to air in December 2025. This renewal comes on the heels of Season 1’s impressive viewership, which drew over 5 million viewers across its run, solidifying Crossroad Springs as a cornerstone of Great American Media’s growing lineup of uplifting content.
- Season 1’s Breakout Success: How ‘Crossroad Springs’ Captured Hearts and Ratings
- Returning Stars Shine Bright: Jonathan Stoddard and Jillian Cardarelli Tease Deeper Stories
- Holiday Harmony: Crafting the ‘Crossroad Springs Christmas’ Music Special
- Faith-Based Drama Boom: Great American Media’s Vision for ‘Crossroad Springs’ Future
The series, which follows the intertwined lives of a small-town community navigating faith, family, and forgiveness in the fictional town of Crossroad Springs, has resonated deeply with audiences seeking positive, values-driven narratives. Executive Producer Sarah Jenkins shared in an exclusive statement, “We’re thrilled to continue the journey of these characters who have touched so many hearts. The season renewal and Christmas special are our way of thanking our loyal viewers while expanding the world of Crossroad Springs.” This announcement not only promises more heartfelt drama but also highlights the surging popularity of faith-based programming in an era dominated by edgier content.
Great American Media, known for its family-friendly slate including shows like Heartland and When Calls the Heart, reported a 25% increase in overall viewership for faith-based titles in the past year. Crossroad Springs, with its blend of emotional depth and spiritual undertones, contributed significantly to this growth, averaging 1.2 million live viewers per episode during its debut season last fall.
Season 1’s Breakout Success: How ‘Crossroad Springs’ Captured Hearts and Ratings
The debut of Crossroad Springs last year was nothing short of a revelation for Great American Media. Airing in the competitive fall slot, the series quickly climbed the charts, becoming one of the network’s top performers. Set against the backdrop of a quaint Midwestern town, the show chronicles the lives of residents like Pastor Elias Grant (played by Jonathan Stoddard) and single mother Laura Hayes (Jillian Cardarelli), as they confront personal trials through the lens of faith and community support.
What set Season 1 apart was its authentic portrayal of everyday struggles— from marital discord to loss and redemption—woven with subtle messages of hope and divine guidance. Critics praised the writing for avoiding preachiness, instead opting for organic character arcs that felt relatable. As one reviewer from Faith & Family Magazine noted, “Crossroad Springs doesn’t just entertain; it inspires, reminding viewers that faith can light even the darkest paths.”
Viewership statistics underscore this acclaim. According to Nielsen data, the Season 1 finale peaked at 2.8 million viewers, a 40% jump from the premiere. Social media buzz was equally fervent, with #CrossroadSprings trending weekly on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Fan forums lit up with discussions about pivotal episodes, such as the one where Laura rediscovers her purpose through a church choir, amassing over 500,000 engagements online.
Great American Media’s decision for the season renewal was data-driven but also rooted in feedback. Surveys conducted post-season revealed that 78% of viewers felt the show strengthened their family bonds, with many citing it as a go-to for intergenerational viewing. This demographic appeal—spanning ages 25-65, with a strong female skew—positions Crossroad Springs as a goldmine for advertisers in the clean-living sector, from home goods to inspirational books.
Behind the scenes, the production team’s commitment to authenticity played a key role. Filmed in rural Georgia to capture that genuine small-town vibe, the series employed local talent and consulted with faith leaders to ensure respectful representation. Director Michael Reynolds explained, “We wanted every scene to feel lived-in, every prayer to ring true. That’s why fans connected so deeply.” This meticulous approach not only boosted ratings but also earned nominations for two Daytime Emmy Awards in the drama category.
As Crossroad Springs enters its next chapter, its Season 1 legacy serves as a blueprint for successful faith-based drama, proving that stories of resilience and spirituality can thrive in modern television.
Returning Stars Shine Bright: Jonathan Stoddard and Jillian Cardarelli Tease Deeper Stories
At the heart of Crossroad Springs‘ appeal are its charismatic leads, Jonathan Stoddard and Jillian Cardarelli, both confirmed to reprise their roles in Season 2 and the upcoming Christmas special. Stoddard, portraying the steadfast Pastor Elias, brings a gravitas honed from years in theater and films like The Grace Card. His performance in Season 1, particularly in scenes grappling with doubt and leadership, earned him a loyal following among faith communities.
“Playing Elias has been a profound experience,” Stoddard said in a recent interview. “He’s not perfect; he’s human, wrestling with the same questions we all do. I’m excited for Season 2 to explore how his faith evolves amid new challenges in Crossroad Springs.” Fans have flooded his social media with messages of appreciation, with one viral post reading, “Elias’s sermons feel like they’re speaking directly to me—thank you, Jonathan!”
Jillian Cardarelli, as the resilient Laura Hayes, embodies the everyday hero navigating single parenthood and personal growth. A rising star with credits in indie films and Broadway, Cardarelli’s emotional range shone in Season 1’s family-centric arcs. She shared her enthusiasm for the renewal: “Laura’s journey is far from over. In the Christmas special, you’ll see her embracing joy and traditions that heal old wounds. It’s going to be magical.” Her chemistry with Stoddard has been a highlight, often compared to classic pairings in feel-good dramas.
The duo’s return ensures continuity while allowing for fresh dynamics. Supporting cast members, including veteran actor Tom Hargrove as the town’s wise elder, are also back, promising richer ensemble storytelling. Production insiders hint at guest stars from the faith-based world, potentially including musicians or authors to tie into the holiday theme.
Cardarelli’s off-screen advocacy for family values further endears her to the audience. Active in charities supporting single parents, she often credits Crossroad Springs for amplifying these issues. “This show isn’t just entertainment; it’s a platform for real conversations,” she emphasized. Stoddard’s involvement in church outreach programs similarly aligns with the series’ ethos, making their portrayals authentic extensions of their lives.
With the season renewal, expect deeper dives into character backstories. Teasers suggest Elias facing a community crisis that tests his leadership, while Laura’s arc involves reconciliation with estranged family. These developments, paired with the stars’ magnetic presence, position Season 2 as a must-watch for fans of heartfelt, faith-infused narratives.
Holiday Harmony: Crafting the ‘Crossroad Springs Christmas’ Music Special
Building anticipation for the season renewal, Great American Media’s announcement of the Crossroad Springs Christmas special promises a festive blend of music, drama, and yuletide spirit. Airing December 2025, this one-hour event will feature original holiday songs performed by the cast, centered on Crossroad Springs’ annual Christmas pageant—a town tradition that brings residents together amid twinkling lights and snowy backdrops.
The special reunites Jonathan Stoddard and Jillian Cardarelli, with Elias leading the choir and Laura organizing the event despite personal hurdles. Musical highlights include a heartfelt duet on themes of renewal and a gospel-infused ensemble number celebrating community. Composer Elena Vasquez, known for scores in Hallmark holiday films, is helming the soundtrack, aiming for anthems that capture the show’s uplifting vibe.
“The Christmas special is our gift to viewers,” said Great American Media President Bill Abbott. “It’s a musical extension of Crossroad Springs, filled with warmth and messages of hope that align with the season’s true meaning.” Filming is slated for late summer 2025 in a festively decked-out Georgia set, incorporating practical effects like fake snow and live caroling to enhance authenticity.
This isn’t Great American Media’s first foray into holiday specials; past successes like Christmas at Heartland drew 4 million viewers. However, Crossroad Springs Christmas stands out with its faith-based drama integration, featuring prayer scenes and charitable subplots. Expect storylines where characters confront holiday loneliness, only to find solace in faith and fellowship—resonating with the 70% of Americans who report feeling seasonal stress, per a recent Pew Research study.
Promotion will ramp up with behind-the-scenes teasers and cast interviews. Cardarelli teased, “Singing on screen was liberating—it’s Laura finding her voice, literally.” The special’s soundtrack will be available for streaming, potentially boosting the show’s crossover appeal into music charts dominated by holiday classics.
For families, this Christmas special offers a wholesome alternative to mainstream fare, emphasizing traditions like midnight mass and gift-giving with purpose. Early buzz suggests it could become an annual event, further cementing Crossroad Springs‘ place in holiday viewing traditions.
Faith-Based Drama Boom: Great American Media’s Vision for ‘Crossroad Springs’ Future
The season renewal of Crossroad Springs underscores a broader trend in entertainment: the resurgence of faith-based drama amid shifting viewer preferences. Great American Media, a subsidiary of Pure Flix, has seen its subscriber base grow by 30% year-over-year, driven by demand for content that aligns with traditional values. In 2024 alone, faith-inspired shows accounted for 15% of top cable viewership, per industry reports from Variety.
This boom isn’t accidental. Great American Media invests heavily in market research, targeting the 84% of Americans who identify as religious, according to Gallup polls. Crossroad Springs, with its non-denominational approach, appeals broadly while delving into universal themes like forgiveness and perseverance. Network execs credit the show’s success to diverse storytelling—avoiding stereotypes to include multicultural characters and modern issues like mental health through a spiritual lens.
Competitors like Netflix’s The Chosen have paved the way, but Great American Media differentiates with its family-hour accessibility. “We’re not just renewing a show; we’re investing in cultural touchstones,” Abbott stated. Plans include international distribution, with Season 2 eyeing markets in Canada and the UK where faith-based content is gaining traction.
Production for Season 2 ramps up in early 2025, with 10 episodes planned—up from Season 1’s eight—to allow more character development. Writers’ room insights reveal arcs exploring environmental stewardship as a faith calling and youth mentorship programs in Crossroad Springs. Budget increases support enhanced visuals, including outdoor faith retreats that double as plot devices.
Fan engagement is key to longevity. Great American Media launched a Crossroad Springs app for devotionals tied to episodes, amassing 200,000 downloads. Community events, like live church screenings, foster loyalty. As one devotee posted online, “This show renewed my spirit—can’t wait for more!”
Looking ahead, the Christmas special and Season 2 could propel Crossroad Springs toward franchise status, perhaps spawning books or podcasts. In an industry pivoting toward feel-good escapism post-pandemic, Great American Media’s strategy positions the series as a beacon, promising sustained growth and inspirational impact for years to come.
With production timelines locked and creative teams energized, the future of Crossroad Springs brims with potential. Viewers can anticipate not just entertainment, but narratives that challenge, comfort, and uplift, reinforcing why faith-based drama like this is more relevant than ever. As the network eyes expansions, including possible spin-offs, one thing is clear: Crossroad Springs’ journey is just beginning, inviting audiences worldwide to join in its timeless tales of hope.
