Home and Away star Tammin Sursok: ‘I didn’t know I was part of a cult’

Tammin Sursok, the former Home and Away star, recently opened up about her unexpected involvement in a Hollywood cult—the Hallmark Christmas movie phenomenon. Living in Nashville with her TV producer husband Sean McEwen and their two daughters, Phoenix and Lennon, the 41-year-old actress shares her personal experience with this beloved genre of made-for-TV romantic comedies that have captured the hearts of viewers across America.

The Hallmark Movie ‘Cult’

Having worked on various shows such as Pretty Little Liars, The Young and the Restless, and Hannah Montana, Tammin Sursok never expected to be part of what has now been coined as a “cult” in Hollywood. As she recalls, “Hallmark movies are what people live and die by here. It’s like a cult. I didn’t know I was part of the cult until I became part of it.” For Tammin, the shift into Hallmark’s world came unexpectedly when she starred in her first Hallmark film in November.

Hallmark movies have become a defining genre, particularly around the holidays. With a typical storyline where a career-focused big-city girl returns to her small-town roots and ends up falling in love with a ruggedly handsome man, often wearing plaid, these movies have captured a broad and dedicated audience. Despite their predictability, Hallmark movies offer viewers a safe, comforting experience without the usual drama, making them the perfect escape from the often stressful world of daily news and politics.

From Sweat to Sparkles

In her Hallmark debut, Trivia At St. Nick’s, Tammin portrays a ‘type A’ astronomy professor who finds herself locked in a Christmas Bar Trivia Tournament with colleagues. Filmed during the American summer, Tammin shares the unglamorous side of the experience, “Honestly, it was so hot. I had Fanta and Sprite cans down my butt because I was dripping in sweat.” Despite the challenging conditions, Tammin embraced the moment, remarking, “It is not glamorous. The whole time I’m like: ‘Just move your feet so you don’t pass out.’”

Her experience is a far cry from the polished, cozy imagery that Hallmark movies usually project. Still, Tammin emphasizes that these experiences, though physically taxing, are part of the charm of being in the Hallmark world.

Why Hallmark Movies Are So Popular

The charm of Hallmark movies lies in their simplicity and predictability. As Tammin explains, “I think especially the nature of what’s going on in politics – you turn on the news and it’s just so much fear and division and anger. And sometimes people just really need that lukewarm water bath to get into and just be like, it’s not too hot, it’s not too cold, but it gives me comfort.”

Tammin’s reflections highlight why Hallmark films resonate with so many people—especially during the holidays. They offer a gentle, predictable narrative that offers an escape from the often harsh realities of the outside world. With their lack of intense drama and the guaranteed happy endings, these films have become a source of comfort for viewers looking for a feel-good escape.

Embracing Her Roots

Despite her success in the American entertainment industry, Tammin admits it took her time to embrace her Australian roots while living in the US. She notes, “It took me a long time to be like: I’m allowed to say I love being an Aussie.”

While she is deeply appreciative of her American experience and the life she has built there—including her family—Tammin feels a deep sense of connection to both Australia and the United States. “There’s so much of America that I love too, and it’s also given me a lot – like my husband!” she shares. Her journey of embracing both her Aussie roots and her American life shows the balance she’s found between both worlds.

The Hallmark ‘Cult’ Phenomenon

Tammin’s insights into her experience with Hallmark movies provide a unique perspective on a genre that has become deeply ingrained in American culture. It’s not just about watching movies; it’s about the community that surrounds them, the fans who eagerly anticipate every new release and the comforting, predictable stories they offer. Whether it’s the cheesy charm, the festive spirit, or the wholesome romance, Hallmark movies continue to captivate audiences around the world—and now, thanks to Tammin, we have a glimpse into what it’s like to be part of this beloved ‘cult.’

For those who enjoy escaping into the world of Hallmark, Tammin’s story is a reminder that even stars of popular television shows can be drawn into the warmth and nostalgia these films bring. As she puts it, “I think why these movies do so well is because there’s just no drama.” Sometimes, a little drama-free comfort is exactly what we need.