Ready to return to Hallmark? After Neal Bledsoe announced his plans to distance himself from Great American Family following Candace Cameron Bure and Bill Abbott’s controversial remarks about portraying “traditional marriage” on the network, several Hallmark Channel stars are showing the actor support.Bledsoe released a lengthy statement about why he stopped promoting Christmas at the Drive-In, the third movie he stars in alongside Danica McKellar, on Monday, December 5.“My life wouldn’t be where it is today without the love, support, and guidance of the LGBTQIA+ community.
From my mentors in college, to the myriad of agents and managers, writers and directors, teachers and colleagues, and, of course, my dear friends and family, who have all touched my life, I owe them a great debt,” the actor told Variety, noting he “cannot continue with business as usual” in light of the controversy. “I cannot take comfort from, nor will I give refuge to, those who excuse exclusion and promote division in any way, shape, or form.
Everyone is entitled to their beliefs, and these are mine: the recent comments made by leadership at Great American Family are hurtful, wrong, and reflect an ideology that prioritizes judgment over love,” he continued. “I was raised as a Christian, and believe in the essential message of love and forgiveness.
That said, I could never forgive myself for continuing my relationship with a network that actively chooses to exclude the LGBTQIA+ community.”Bledsoe didn’t name Cameron Bure or Abbott but referenced their comments in WSJ.
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