’Tis the season for messy, merry reunions. Lil Rel Howery and Tabitha Brown are teaming up — both in front of and behind the camera — for the holiday comedy Unexpected Christmas, coming to theaters November 7.
Joining Howery and Brown is an ensemble cast featuring Anna Maria Horsford, DomiNque Perry, Reagan Gomez, Terrence Terrell, Trell Woodberry, Howie Bell, Cecelia Friday, Ricco Ross, and Koryn Hawthorne.
Written by Cassandra Mann and directed by Michael Vaughn Hernandez, the film follows the Scott family’s holiday reunion — which quickly spirals into hilarity. Melissa (Perry) returns home fresh off a breakup, only to be blindsided when her ex-boyfriend Richard (Howery) shows up with her estranged stepsister Kerry (Gomez).
Trying to save face, Melissa invites a surprise guest of her own — but Kerry’s got a scheme that could upend the whole celebration. Between romantic mix-ups, family rivalries, buried secrets, and more than a few jaw-dropping moments, this Christmas could either bring the Scotts closer together… or blow the roof off.
“Christmas movies are literally the gift that keeps on giving,” said Brown in a statement. “Unexpected Christmas is relatable and hilarious, but will truly be a gift for all families this holiday season!”
Howery added: “This movie and this cast is so special and will be the holiday movie everyone will be talking about.”
Unexpected Christmas is produced by Trell Woodberry and Phil Thornton of 3 Diamonds Entertainment, along with Perri Camper. Howery and Brown executive produce alongside Norman Gyamfi. The film will be co-distributed with Eammon Films.
“We’re proud to bring Unexpected Christmas to audiences this November — a true labor of love from our amazing cast and crew,” said Thornton and Woodberry. “As a Black-owned company, we’re honored to share a story that celebrates our voices, artistry, and impact on the global stage.”