A Kindhearted Christmas (2021) Movie Script

1
[MAN ON TV] We've got
discounts store-wide.
Come on in today
till the end of December.
We'll have you ready,
and for the first 10,000
coming through,
they'll get a free
Secret Santa hat.
Come on down.
We're waiting for you now.
Good morning, everyone.
It is time to Wake Up Upstate.
- I'm Scott Morris.
- And I'm Amari Harris.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
Can you believe that Christmas
is right around the corner?
Honestly? I can't.
But our man on the street,
Cory Thomas, can,
because he's been out
in the county
and he's found a holiday story
that is sure to warm our hearts.
Well, good morning
from Porter's Cafe.
Now, just over six months ago,
a kitchen fire
shut the cafe down,
and Marco, the owner,
didn't have the funds
to make the needed repairs.
Well, that is until
an anonymous fan of the cafe
started a Save Porter's
fundraiser online.
Nobody knows who did it,
but the effort went viral,
the locals pitched in,
and before you know it,
the cafe had a new kitchen.
Now just over two weeks
until Christmas
and they are celebrating
their grand reopening today.
That just warms your heart.
What a beautiful story of
neighbors helping neighbors
during the holiday season.
I love that.
And I hear their famous
Christmas sugar cookies
are to die for.
You know what, Cory,
I'm gonna make you a deal.
I will de-ice your parking spot
for a week if you bring me back
a dozen of those cookies,
what do you say?
You've got a deal, Scott!
- Yes!
- Those must be some cookies.
I would have de-iced his spot
for a month, by the way.
I'm telling you.
Cory, a deal's a deal.
You bring back those cookies.
[FESTIVE MUSIC PLAYING]
[BUZZER]
- Good show.
- You too.
One more day and I am
out of here.
Where is it you're headed
this year?
- Bali?
- Bali?
That was three years ago.
I'm going to Belize.
Ten days.
Sun, surf, and scuba.
It's gonna be amazing.
You can never get out of here
fast enough.
What do you got against
Christmas, anyway?
Nothing.
I love Christmas.
Christmas is great if you've
got people to spend it with.
All my friends
are visiting family
and my relatives live
so far away,
I just decided a few years ago
that I'm way better off
traveling the world
at Christmastime, thank you,
instead of sitting at home,
watching the snow fall.
Ah, the life of a bachelor,
full of fun and freedom.
Yeah.
Something like that.
["WE WISH YOU A MERRY
CHRISTMAS" THEME]
Hey, guys!
Beautiful day.
Hi.
[DOOR CHIMES]
- Good morning!
- Good morning, boss.
Fresh cup of joe for ya.
What would I do without you,
Colleen?
[CLEARS THROAT]
Hard to believe it's already
the holidays again.
I know.
Any big plans this time around?
Uh, well Kylie and I
will trim the tree,
then make sugar cookies
and maybe a little
Christmas caroling,
then the winter carnival.
Just like every year.
Exactly. Why fix it
if it isn't broken?
If you say so.
But, I do remember a time
when you and Matt were always
coming up with fun new things
to do at Christmas.
Sorry. I didn't mean to...
No, it's fine.
To be honest with you, Christmas
was always Matt's thing.
Since he's been gone I've
tried to keep up the tradition,
but it's just not the same.
Every year I think,
this year will be easier.
It never is.
I'm sure Kylie taking off for
Europe next week isn't helping.
Yeah, I am gonna miss her, but
I am so happy for her and David.
I mean, what could be
more romantic
than a Christmas honeymoon
in Paris?
Newlyweds.
Well, you're handling her
leaving better than I could.
Yeah. I couldn't have made it
through the last five years
without Kylie.
She's more than a niece,
she's... she's like
a sister to me.
So, we'll just celebrate a
little early, before they go.
See, this Christmas is already
shaping up to be different.
You could try to meet someone?
Uh, no. I'm good.
The only man I'm going to be
spending time with this
Christmas is Mayor MacLean.
Sounds like the winter carnival
is gonna be different
this year, too.
That's what I'm afraid of.
I'm meeting with him later.
Hopefully he'll still be open
to a few ideas.
If anyone can convince him,
it's you.
["JOY TO THE WORLD"]
I understand if you don't have
the budget
for a Santa's village this year,
but can we at least put a tree
in front of town hall?
Christmas in Cooperville
just isn't the same without it.
It's tradition.
Well, you know the town
took a big hit
when the plant shut down.
Our budget is stretched so thin,
we can barely afford
a scaled-down version
of the winter carnival.
It's been a tough year
all around.
Yes, I know.
All the more reason
for some holiday cheer.
Okay, if you've got
any other ideas
that won't break the bank,
I'm all ears.
Actually, I do have one.
The other night I was on a walk,
on that path from Main Street
to the park's gazebo
and I was thinking,
wouldn't it be so beautiful
if we lined both sides,
and even over the top,
with holiday lights.
Welcome lights.
I love it.
Wait, that sounds too expensive.
Why don't we just save
that idea for next year?
Mr. Mayor. Randy, a walk
of lights would increase
foot traffic to all of our
Main Street businesses.
Would make our town more of a
destination for holiday shopping
and that would be great
for all the businesses.
I'm not saying no just yet.
Go on.
Well, I'm sure the town
has plenty of lights
packed away in storage.
Let's put them to use.
And I was thinking we could hire
Sean Cain,
I'm sure he could use the work.
Yeah.
Yeah. He and his wife had a
pretty rough go of it this year.
Okay, I'm sold.
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
Now, if we could just put a big
beautiful tree, right out front.
Don't push your luck, Jamie.
There you are!
I can come back
if I'm interrupting.
It's okay.
I guess you're looking
for these?
Yeah.
And to congratulate you
on the great work
that you've been doing.
I mean, the message boards
are lighting up.
People love the upbeat
positive feel-good stuff
you've been doing.
- Great work.
- I'm glad.
Ah, yes.
[SMALL LAUGH]
What's going on?
Cory's family surprised him
and Vera with tickets
on a Caribbean cruise with the
whole family for the holidays.
That's amazing.
Why are you so bummed?
Because I can't go.
There's no one to cover for me.
No, there's gotta be some-
What about meteorologist Molly?
I asked, she can't.
Anyway, I've been doing these
feel good local stories
around Christmas for years.
Our viewers love them
and they're counting on me.
They're practically a holiday
tradition for our show.
I'll stay put.
Hopefully I can FaceTime
the grandkids from the islands.
Hey... what if I cover for you?
Very funny, Scott.
Nah, I'm being serious.
Really, I've been in the studio
for so long.
Look, it would be good for me
to get out there in the field
and do some reporting again.
But what about your trip?
Belize will always be there.
Cory, this could be a trip
that you guys never forget.
You really deserve this.
Are you serious?
Yeah.
Scott. Wow, thank you.
I can't wait to tell Vera.
- You got it.
- Yeah.
That was very sweet, Scott.
You sure you can handle it?
You're forgetting I started
in the field, Amari.
It'll be fun. It'll be fine.
I'll fill in for Cory,
co-host with you.
Works for me.
Looks like you'll be here
for Christmas after all.
Hm. Looks like it.

Remember this one?
Of course, I do, from our
road trip to Niagara Falls.
Yes. Kylie was in charge
of navigation.
Somehow, we ended up
on the Canadian side
without our passports.
- Really?
- Yeah.
It's a miracle
they let us back in.
You might want to keep that
in mind when you're in France.
Otherwise you might
end up in Switzerland.
Um, we've actually had
a change of plans.
David and I decided
that it's not really
the best time for us to go
on our honeymoon.
You cancelled your trip?
Just postponed it for a while.
Why? I don't understand.
We want to save as
much money as we can
for a down payment
on a home next year.
You don't have to postpone
your honeymoon.
You can always ask me for help.
But you've already done
so much for me.
Like, when I moved up here
for college,
you wouldn't even let me
pay rent.
And when Matt got sick, you were
my shoulder to cry on.
We support each other.
We're family.
Why do I get the feeling
you guys aren't telling
me something?
I got a job offer.
It's an amazing program,
helping young adults
with disabilities
get vocational training.
Kylie, that's fantastic.
Why wouldn't you tell me?
That sounds like your dream job.
It is, but it's in Seattle.
Oh.
Well, I knew when you moved
up to Cooperville
it wouldn't be forever.
I mean, that job though,
it sounds exactly like
what you've always wanted.
You have to take it.
I already did.
And David found a buyer
for his shop.
It all happened really fast,
but we're moving next month.
Wow.
I'm, I'm really happy
for you guys.
That's another reason why
we wanted to spend
the holidays here with you
in Cooperville.
Because who knows
what the future holds?
Maybe next year you'll
spend Christmas with us.
Or we'll take a trip somewhere.
Future, right.
And in the meantime,
I want this to be the best
Christmas we've had in years.
Let's make this year different.
Don't get me wrong, it's nice.
It's just felt a little
stale recently.
No offense.
No, stale is the right word
for it.
When it comes to Christmas,
your uncle really set
a high bar.
I mean, I try but he was the one
that always brought
the holiday spirit.
More like he was
possessed by it.
Well, I remember when he came
in the shop
with flyers promoting his idea
for a town gift exchange.
[LAUGHTER]
Yes. He wanted to spread
holiday cheer
in a meet your neighbor
kind of way, I don't know.
He didn't write anything down
and his plan got so mixed up,
nobody knew who
they were buying for.
No need for a spreadsheet,
Kylie,
I've got it all stored in
my super computer, right here.
Yeah. Ideas were his forte.
But execution, not so much.
But I did love the way he
always brought joy
to Cooperville.
Our town could use someone
like Uncle Matt right now.
That's for sure.

[AMARI] So, while Cory's
on vacation,
Scott here has nobly offered
to step in
and do a bit of field reporting.
Those are some
big shoes to fill.
That they are, but I promise
everybody I will do my best
to be a worthy replacement.
[AMARI] We'll see about that.
In the meantime, I understand
you've invited
some special musical guests
to the studio this morning?
Yeah, I have.
That's right, Amari.
I'd like everybody to meet
Bellevue High classic quartet
and their amazing teacher
Ms. Ramirez.
Welcome everybody.
Welcome to wake up.
Thank you, we are
so excited to be here.
We're excited to have ya.
And, as I understand,
you're not just here to play
some beautiful music,
you also are on a mission
because of a very, very special
invitation you got this week?
I'm very excited to tell you
that this quartet was recently
invited to Washington, DC,
to perform for the president
at the White House's
annual Christmas party.
That is so fantastic.
You must be so proud.
I am.
But, unfortunately, our school
doesn't have the funds
to send these kids to Washington
right now.
[SCOTT] Well, this is
an opportunity
that you can't let pass you by.
So, what are you gonna do?
[MS. RAMIREZ] We've decided
to raise enough money
to cover the travel
costs ourselves.
[SCOTT] That's a great idea.
Tell our viewers, right now,
how they can help support you
all to be able to do just that?
Well, tonight, my students
will be performing
a donations-based concert at
the Bellevue High auditorium.
We hope everyone in the area
can come and show their support.
Fantastic.
It's gonna be a great show.
It really is. Thank you
so much, Ms. Ramirez.
Kids, fantastic.
You heard it here everybody,
come on out and support
these talented, talented kids
and at the same time,
listen to some beautiful music.
[QUARTET PLAYING
JOY TO THE WORLD]
Hey, Kylie.
Quick question, do you and David
have plans tonight?
Perfect.

And then we can crisscross all
the way up to the gazebo there.
I could run the lights around
the edge of the roof there too
and support beams as well,
if you like.
Yes. That would be great.
If I get started right away,
I'll be done by tomorrow.
Okay. Perfect.
I'll let Randy know.
You selling your truck?
[SIGHS]
Ah, yeah.
I don't want to, but I'm
running out of options
unless some more nice people
like you hire me.
We had to tell the kids
this year
that Christmas might not be
what they're used to, you know?
How's Marcie?
Oh, you know Marcie.
She's trying to stay positive.
Hopefully she'll get a good
job soon.
Well, I'll keep my fingers
crossed for both of you.
Thanks. I can't wait to show
this to her and the kids.
You know, it's little things
like this that go a long way
to lift people's spirits up.
Forget their troubles.
You know what I mean?
Yeah, I do.
- Oh, hi!
- Hi.
You made it.
Not exactly Carnegie Hall.
Since when do you go out
of your way
to help some high school kids
you don't even know?
Since today.
I thought it would be nice
to show some support.
You did say Christmas was
getting a little stale, so?
Where'd you hear about it.
Wake Up Upstate.
Scott did a story on it.
Come on.
That explains it.
Scott Morris is Aunt Jamie's
TV crush.
No, he's not.
Here.
Why not? He's cute,
he's nice.
He might even be single.
I doubt it.
- Does he wear a ring?
- No.
So you've checked.
See what I mean?
TV crush.
I do not have a crush on...
Scott Morris.
Yeah. You guys, uh,
you guys watch the show?
I don't, but she does.
Every day.
Never misses it.
Well, we appreciate that.
Would any of you mind
being interviewed right now?
Sure. Aunt Jamie
would love to.
- No, she wouldn't.
- Yes, she would.
- Go.
- Okay.
We'll just kind of be up there.
Okay, hi, Jamie, I'm...
- Scott Morris.
- Yeah.
That's what they call me.
Oh, sorry.
No, that's okay.
You ready?
Okay, three, two...
Hey, everybody.
Coming to you from Bellevue High
where the audience
is starting to gather
for a great benefit concert.
I'm here with Jamie,
so tell everybody at home
what brought you out to support
the kids here, Jamie?
Uh, you did.
You invited me.
Well, us, we all got invited
by you.
That's true.
I di-Um, so do you live
in Hudson City?
Cooperville, actually.
It's off the 90 West.
About a 40-minute drive
from here.
Give or take, you know,
if there's no traffic.
Which there wasn't 'cause
there's no rush hour right now.
Well, that's good to know.
I'm sure everybody appreciates
you making the drive out.
The kids appreciate
your support.
Yes, it's for the kids.
That's right, mm-hm.
Absolutely, which is the spirit
of Christmas.
That's for sure.
Thank you so much, Jamie.
You're welcome.
Great. Thanks.
You did, you did really well.
[NERVOUS LAUGH]
That was terrible, I'm sorry.
No, that's not true.
You did, you did great.
It's hard, with the camera
and everything.
Thank you again,
for your support.
- Yeah.
- Alright.
Enjoy the show.
- Oh.
- Yeah.
Okay, who's next?
What just happened?
Well, you just got interviewed
by Scott Morris
who was nice and cute
and very charming.
While you were totally
nervous and awkward.
All caught on camera.
I am so embarrassed.
Don't be, I'm sure he interviews
so many nervous Nellies
he's used to it.
And hey, look on
the bright side,
you finally got to meet
Scott Morris.
And now I have a reason
to watch his show tomorrow.
Hm. Okay.
I need some air.
Hello, Bellevue!
- How's everybody doing?
- [APPLAUSE]
Great. Good to see
those smiling faces.
Look, if it's all right
with everybody,
before the concert starts
we would like to shoot
a quick update
with Ms. Ramirez here
that will be on tomorrow's show.
All right?
Oh, look, there's
your TV crush again.
Oh, stop it.
- You ready to go?
- Yes.
All right, let's do this.
Here we go.
Rolling?
In three, two...
Hello everybody, I'm Scott
Morris coming to you
from Bellevue High
where the benefit concert
for these talented kids
right here,
this amazing quartet
is about to begin.
Ms. Ramirez, great
to see you again.
Nice to see you too, Scott.
How's the fundraising going?
Well, we've raised
about $300 so far.
So, we have a long way to go.
But we're so grateful
to everyone who came out
and dropped cash in our donation
box or texted in a donation.
Oh... okay.
Is something wrong?
Yes. I mean, no.
We just had an anonymous
donation for the full amount!
What?! That's amazing!
[CHEERING]
Oh boy, hugs too!
This is crazy.
- Congratulations, everybody.
- An absolute miracle.
Congratulations, guys.
[SING-SONGY] You're going
to the White House!
Lots of smiles...
Whoever you are, thank you.
You're our hero!
[SCREAMS OF DELIGHT]
Woo.
Well done, everybody.
[APPLAUSE]

So, do you live in Hudson City?
Cooperville actually.
It's off the 90 West.
About a 40-minute
drive from here.
Give or take, you know,
if there's no traffic.
Hello.
Well, if it isn't Cooperville's
latest celeb.
I was just watching
your screen debut.
I was hoping that would end up
on the cutting room floor.
Tell me Scott Morris is as nice
in person as he is on TV?
He is. Was... nice.
And very handsome.
I might just be imagining it,
but I got the sense
he kind of likes you.
- Okay.
- You two would make a cute couple.
You are being ridiculous.
Why not, Jamie?
Newsflash, you're a catch.
You're smart, kind, fun, pretty.
[PHONE RINGING]
Cooperville Tours?
No, I didn't. Really?
Okay. Thanks.
What, what's up?
There's something
we need to see.
Come on.
I thought our town couldn't
afford a tree this year.
Maybe the mayor
had a change of heart.
I'm glad you came to
your senses, Mr. Mayor.
It's not Christmas
in Cooperville
until there's a tree
outside town hall.
Oh, I can't take credit
for that.
It's an anonymous gift.
Kind of like what happened at
Bellevue High last night, right?
Maybe it's the same person.
No, doubtful.
It's probably just a couple
of random acts of kindness.
Whatever you call it,
I'm grateful.
Town Hall already looks
more festive.
Yep.
Looks great.
Thank you.
Wishing you were in Belize
right now?
What Belize?
- I haven't given it a second thought.
- Good.
I might have a scoop for you.
I got a call from the mayor
of Cooperville.
It seems somebody
anonymously gifted the town
with a Christmas tree.
Not exactly a hot scoop, Amari.
What if it's the same person
who gifted those kids
their trip to DC?
Or, an epidemic of
coincidental kindness.
Either way, it's worth
checking it out.
Okay, you got me.
I've been meaning to visit
Cooperville anyway.
- Really?
- Mm-hm.
Uh-huh. Sure.
With Christmas just
around the corner,
it seems that Hudson county has a
bona fide holiday mystery on our hands,
as another anonymous donation
has spread Christmas cheer
in one of our towns.
Good morning, Scott.
Good morning, everyone.
For the first time in years,
Cooperville was not able
to get a Christmas tree for the
season due to a budget crisis.
However, yesterday,
this beautiful tree
that you see right here
showed up, no note,
no explanation whatsoever.
I'm joined here with Cooperville
mayor, Randy MacLean.
Mr. Mayor, you must have been
as surprised as anybody
when this beautiful tree
showed up at your doorstep?
You can say that again.
It's absolutely amazing.
In fact, it didn't feel like
Christmas around here
until this happened,
so we're all very grateful
to the person that made
this possible.
I bet you are. Absolutely.
Very happy for everybody here
in Cooperville.
Uh, well there you have it,
everyone,
you heard it from
the mayor himself.
Come on out to Cooperville,
where the Christmas spirit
is in full display
each and every night.
Great.
Good job, Mr. Mayor.
- Thanks.
- Fantastic.
Can I ask you a question?
Do you happen to know
that young woman
that's standing right there
by the back of the van?
Do you know who that is?
Oh yeah, that's Jamie Monroe.
She runs Cooperville Tours.
Kind of a local expert
around here,
if you need a guide.
Hm. You know, I just might.
Oh!
- Were you just at the tree?
- Yeah.
Isn't it gorgeous?
Last night, Gary and I
came down,
got hot chocolates and just
looked at the tree for an hour.
Most romantic thing we've done
in years.
Is that Scott Morris?
- Welcome to Cooperville.
- Oh, thank you.
This is great.
Um...
I'm sorry to bother you,
it's, it's Jamie, right?
You were at the concert
the other night?
Yep, that's Jamie.
I have things to do.
In the back.
Leaving now.
So, what brings you here?
The Christmas tree, actually.
No, I meant here,
to Cooperville Tours.
Oh, um, yeah, I need a tour.
We need some shots of
Cooperville and I figured,
who better to show me around
than the local tour company.
Oh, okay.
Would that be for you or
you and your camera man?
Just me, for now.
Well, unfortunately our tour van
already left for the morning.
Well, that's okay.
I'm more of a walking tour
kind of guy anyway.
We don't have that
in the winter.
I'm so, so sorry.
But, we were just talking about
adding a Cooperville
Christmas tour.
- Right, Jamie?
- Oh.
Today would be the perfect
day to do a trial run,
don't you think?
I'll cover here.
You give the tour
and you take the tour.
- Off you go!
- Okay, great!
Have fun, explore.
Enjoy Cooperville!
We're glad you're here.
Okay, well, uh, it looks like I
will be giving you your tour.
Great.
Is there anything in particular
you wanted to see?
Not really, no.
I'll just... I'll just follow
your lead.
All right. Well, uh, this is
our downtown.
- Obviously.
- It's beautiful, it really is.
I love the mix of old
and new architecture.
Exactly.
Okay, well if you will
follow me, Mr. Morris,
I will begin your tour.
Great.
- You okay?
- I don't know.
- Which side do you?
- Doesn't matter to me.
What an amazing space.
I mean, you don't typically
see buildings like this
in small towns around here.
Performing arts has been
a great way to bring
the community together.
It's one of the reasons
Cooperville was voted
best upstate town in 2016.
Really? That's pretty cool.
It was a great honor,
but it's not that cool.
I don't know why
I just said that.
Because you're proud of
your town and I admire that.
Besides, I've always wondered
who won best upstate town 2016.
Now I know.
Shouldn't you be taking notes
or something
for your shot list or whatever?
- I got it stored all up here.
- Huh.
You don't believe me?
No. You just reminded me
of someone.
This is one of my personal
favorite spots.
I can see why, I really can.
How long have you lived here?
- My whole life.
- Really?
By choice or just circumstance?
Um, I guess a little of both.
When I was a kid, my parents
moved here for work
and then after I met Matthew,
he said I knew so much
about this town
we should start a tour company,
so we did.
- Matthew?
- My late husband.
- I'm sorry.
- Thanks.
After he passed, I could have
gone anywhere.
Started fresh, but Cooperville's
been good to me.
I have a job here that I love,
a wonderful home
and a niece that I love like
a sister so I decided to stay.
I mean, I get it.
I really do.
I traveled a lot as a kid and
then even more with my career.
So, I don't really have
a place that I call home.
You're lucky.
Well, maybe someday
you'll find it.
Maybe I will.
Come on.
Okay.
[BELLS RINGING]
Merry Christmas!
That was very generous of you.
Ah, it's the holidays.
It's the time to be generous,
right?
Yeah.
To be honest, I'm trying to get
into the holiday spirit.
Really?
I get the impression from TV
that you are Mr. Christmas.
You'd think so.
But I actually try
and get out of here
and escape to warmer
destinations.
I haven't stuck around for
Christmas in a very long time.
How is it going this year?
Full of surprises.
- I know what you mean.
- Hm.
Well, I guess that concludes
your impromptu personal tour.
You get everything you need?
Did you get ideas for the show?
Actually, I was having
too much fun,
I seem to have forgotten
some of the landmarks.
- Noggin let you down, huh?
- Hm.
Probably should have
taken notes.
I was hoping for another tour.
One that includes dinner?
Oh, we don't offer that.
That was, that was my attempt
at asking you out to dinner.
Oh.
I got to work on that, huh?
Yeah. Wow, okay.
Yeah?
- Mm-hm.
- Great.
Okay. I'll call ya.
You don't have my number.
Sure, I do.
Well, there it is, okay.
Okay.
Call me. [LAUGHS]

When I saw what that person did
for those high schoolers,
and then the tree at town hall,
I realized I should do something
to spread some cheer myself.
So, I bought these cards
and I gave them to the kids
at the shelter to fill out.
Now, anybody who shops here
can read a card from a kid
and buy them the present
they're asking for.
That is a great idea, Kylie.
Hopefully we'll be able to get
something for every child.
There's so many more families in
need at the shelter this year.
We can barely feed everybody
this Christmas.
I had no idea it was so bad.
How 'bout we go first?
I'd love to.
Let me get a shot of you two
in action.
And I'll take one
of those cards too.
What better way to start
the giving then now, right?
Oh, you two.
[LAUGHS]
[TV SHOW THEME]
[SCOTT] Good morning everyone.
It is time to Wake Up Upstate.
- I'm Scott Morris.
- And I'm Amari Harris.
- We missed you in studio yesterday, Scott.
- Oh.
How was your trip
to Cooperville?
It was great.
The townspeople there
are just so excited
about their new Christmas tree,
it was hard not to get into
the Christmas spirit myself.
In fact, I took a tour.
- Really?
- Yeah.
This beautiful old town,
so charming,
with so much history.
Of course, it probably helped
to have a great tour guide,
which I did.
I highly recommend Cooperville
Tours and Sightseeing
if you happen to be in the area.
You planning to go back?
Absolutely.
Especially if more of these
mysterious Christmas donations
keep popping up.
Oh, well let's hope they do
because our viewers are loving
these stories.
Here are a few of the posts
we've gotten just this morning
from our page.
"Keep up the great work, Scott."
My favorite.
"People at Christmas are Santa,
Amari and Scott."
- Aww.
- And oh, "We love you Scott".
[SCOTT] That's very sweet.
I love you, too.
I really do.
And we'll have today's
top stories
after a very short break.
We'll see you in a little-
[BUZZER]
A tour guide, huh?
What's her name?
- Hm?
- Oh, you heard me.
Her name was, well, is,
it's Jamie.
Oh, well whoever this Jamie is,
she's got you blushing
redder than Rudolf's nose.
Hm.
Maybe she is the reason
for all this holiday spirit
you're giving off on camera?
- It's that obvious, huh?
- A little bit, yeah.
Being out in the field's
giving you fresh energy.
Keep it up.
Oh, and call this Jamie, okay?

Here she comes right now.
One moment, please.
It's Scott Morris.
Be peppy.
But not overeager.
Hello, this is Jamie.
Uh-huh.
Mm-hm.
Can I just put you on hold
for one second?
He's coming back to Cooperville
this afternoon for a story
and he wants to take me
to dinner.
A date! That's fantastic!
I haven't been on a date
in so long.
Just think of it as dinner
with a friend.
A successful, charming,
really good-looking friend
we all watch on TV
every morning.
- Just be yourself and have fun.
- Okay.
You know he's still on hold.
Right, yeah. Okay.
What should I say?
Should I go?
Hi, sorry about that.
Busy morning here.
Um, yes, that would be great.
It's perfect. It's just how
I pictured it.
I can't wait to see it at night.
The town's gonna love it.
You pulled all this off
by yourself?
Some of my construction buddies
volunteered to help me out.
- Ah.
- I still have a couple more things to do,
but it will be ready
for tonight's unveiling.
I love it.
Thank you, Sean.
Happy to do it.
Let me get back to it.
Oh, did you hear
the shelter received
a big food donation today?
What? That's fantastic.
You didn't know about it?
Me? No.
Why would I know about it?
Well, I kind of figured,
since your niece works there
and you always know everything
that's going on
around town anyway.
Do they know who the donor is?
No one knows.
But when I find out,
I am going to personally
throw a parade for that person.
I called Scott Morris,
you know, the TV guy,
he said he's gonna come out here
and do a bigger story
in order to figure out who
the generous mystery person is.
That kind of PR is going
to bring a lot more
holiday shoppers to this town.
I wouldn't play it up so much.
I mean, if the donations
were anonymous,
don't you think they probably
want to keep it that way?
I mean, shouldn't we respect
their wishes?
Well, it wouldn't be nearly
as much fun then, would it?
No. It wouldn't.
I'm here with Kylie Monroe
outside of the Cooperville
shelter.
- Hi, Kylie.
- Hi, Scott.
And hi David!
My husband.
We're newlyweds.
Oh, well congratulations.
Tell everybody
what happened here.
It's been a tough winter
in our town.
A lot of families in need
and not enough food
to feed everyone.
But, today a truck showed up
unloading cases of canned goods.
Pasta, eggs, bread, milk.
It was really amazing.
But, just like with the town's
Christmas tree,
it was an anonymous donation.
Did anyone happen to speak
with the donor,
or were there any clues at all?
The delivery guy said
it was all ordered online,
so, we just don't know.
But, whoever they are,
they're really good at
figuring out what's needed
in this town and making
it happen.
And we couldn't be
more grateful.
Or more deserving.
Thank you so much, Kylie.
All right.
Well, there you have it,
everybody.
A lot of acts of kindness here
in Cooperville
but the mystery remains.
Is this the work of one person
or many?
Tell you what, I'm gonna stay
on this story until we find out.

Kind of hard to believe
that in one week
I've interviewed both you
and your niece, right?
I should probably tell David
he's probably next.
Yeah, I'll give him a heads up.
So, how did you become the host
of Wake Up Upstate?
Honestly, I never really set out
to be on a morning show at all.
I was just hoping for a career
somewhere reporting the news.
And I got my big break
in a small little station
in Wilmington, North Carolina.
It's kind of a fun story.
There was a hurricane watch.
Our producer was just desperate
to find someone
to go out on a remote shoot,
so I volunteered.
No experience at all, zero plan.
- What could go wrong?
- Exactly.
We all thought it was going to just
be a quick weather update, but I...
- Am I talking too much?
- No.
- No, I like it.
- Okay.
Here I was, out there,
just like wind blowing sideways,
soaking wet,
but I was shooting
my first story.
Well, clearly you survived.
- Hm.
- Barely.
But I knew after that, I knew
that's what I wanted to do.
I wanted to be out in the field
reporting real news.
So, I just worked hard and paid
my dues and here I am.
Sounds like you made a lot
of sacrifices.
You ever have time for a
relationship or marriage?
Uh... almost, once.
It was a long time ago.
Sounds like there's more
to the story?
No. We just met in the field.
She was a producer and we were
both travel junkies.
There comes a time when
you got to make a decision
whether you want to settle down
or you want to continue on
at the crazy pace
that we were going at.
I was ready, put down roots,
buy a house, start a family.
But right before the wedding,
she decided that the settled
life wasn't for her.
That was it.
Never saw her again.
I'm sorry.
Losing someone you love
is never easy.
I think it was the, the loss
of trust that hurt the most.
But it's in the past,
and you move on.
And honestly, if it
hadn't happened,
I probably wouldn't be
in Cooperville right now.
I have a feeling you would be
in town anyway,
covering the big
Christmas mystery.
I hope that I meet the real
person, I really do.
I mean, if it is just
one person.
And get that interview,
right before Christmas.
Don't take this the wrong way,
but are you sure
it's a good idea
to make a bigger deal
out of this whole thing?
Are you kidding me?
Our viewers are loving this.
They can't get enough of it.
Yeah, I owe it to them
to keep looking into it.
And in the meantime, I get to
spend more time in Cooperville.
With you.
Thanks.
- Oh, here you go.
- Thank you.
- Cheers.
- Cheers.
Oh.
So, you've heard all about me.
What about you?
Do you date often?
To be honest with you,
you are the first man
I've dated since Matt.
Can I ask how long ago that was?
Five years, one month,
three days.
I get it.
I do.
When you lose someone
that's important to you.
I mean, the past makes us
who we are, right?
Exactly, yeah.
You know what, it's after 8:00,
I bet they're on.
Come on, I want to show
you something.
- You did all this?
- Mm-hm.
No, it was just my idea.
There were other people involved
in making it happen.
Humble. Another one
of your great qualities.
I appreciate you saying that,
but I'm just like everybody else
in this town.
You see what I mean?
You're such a good person,
you do so much for the community
and you're not looking for
any credit at all.
That remind you of anybody?
I don't know what
you're getting at.
I'll take your word for it.
It's just all so beautiful.
Would you look at that?
I was just in charge
of the lights,
I had nothing to do with that.
It is a tradition, after all.
Well, we wouldn't want to break
tradition, I guess.
Deck the halls
with boughs of holly
Fa la la la la,
la la la la
'Tis the season
to be jolly
Fa la la la la,
la la la la
It's late.
Yeah, I've got a really
early start tomorrow.
But, I had a really great time
with you tonight.
Me too.
Scott?
There's something
I should tell you.
It gets really icy in the
parking lot, so be careful.
Thank you, I will.
Good night.
Am I late?
You're never here before me.
I need to tell you something.
How did your date with Scott go?
It was nice. It was
really nice.
We went to dinner and we took
a romantic walk in the park.
But that's not what I want
to tell you.
You know the things that have
been going on around town?
The tree in front of town hall,
the music students,
the shelter...
The anonymous acts of kindness?
Yes.
You?
You're our town's Secret Santa?
Ah, it feels so good
to say that.
I've been dying to tell someone.
But why?
I mean, I always knew you
were kind-hearted and generous,
but this is above and beyond.
Yeah, well, the other night,
Kylie and I
were reminiscing about Matthew
and she said something like,
what this town really needs
right now
is someone like Uncle Matt.
And I thought, why not me?
Why not, you know, share
some of my good fortune
with the town and all
the people that need it?
Well, you've certainly
done that.
It's just, it's felt
so rewarding.
I mean, I just can't
stop thinking about
what I'm gonna do next.
By far, you are the coolest
person I have ever known.
But you can't tell anyone, okay?
Of course.
Mums the word.
Good, 'cause I might need
your help.
I am so in.
Okay.
It looks like Scott is going
to keep reporting
on the things that are going
on around Cooperville
until he figured out
who the mystery donor is.
So, you two will be spending
more time together?
That's great.
Yes. But, I also want
to stay anonymous.
You know, I... I... I don't want
people to feel like
they have to thank me
or they owe me anything.
Sounds like you got yourself
into a bit of a pickle.
Do you think Scott suspects?
- No, I don't think so.
- That's good.
Christmas is in five days.
If we can stall him until then,
keep him off track,
he won't uncover your identity
before Christmas
and then, poof, the story
will go away.
Okay, that's good.
Stall him.
How do we do that?
Oh, I've got it.
What if I do a couple of
good deeds on your behalf,
to throw him off the scent?
Meanwhile, when you're together,
you act a little bit Scroogey.
Scroogey?
You know, selfish, cold-hearted,
not into Christmas.
That way he won't see you
as the type
who would do any of this stuff.
Maybe I should just tell him
it's me,
I mean, I don't like
misleading him.
You said you like doing
these things for people
but you want to stay anonymous,
right?
Yes.
So, let's try my plan.
You get to spend time with Scott
and do your good deeds.
Okay, but if he asks me,
I'm gonna tell him the truth.
Agreed.
So? What's your next mission,
Agent Double S?
Secret Santa?
Okay. I have some ideas.

Merry Christmas, Colleen.
How did you know it was me?
Can I help you find anything?
You want to buy all these toys?
That's right.
Ring 'em up.
Happy to.
It'll take me a few minutes.
Wait a second, Colleen,
are you the Secret Santa?
Me? No.
Let's just say I work
for a client who is, okay?
Oh, okay. Cool.
Yeah. So, I'm gonna buy
all those toys
but I need you to do
something for me.
Sure. Anything.
Great. If anyone asks,
here's what I want you to say.
[LAUGHING]
This goes all through town
and it stops at a great
little restaurant,
where they have some
very good fondue.
Aunt Jamie, can I talk to you
for a second?
Yeah, sure.
Hey, Colleen, can you come help
this couple book a trolley tour?
- Sure.
- Thanks.
Hey. What's up?
Well, I have some good news.
Someone bought all
the toy drive gifts.
Yes, that's awesome.
But, so, is there something
you want to tell me?
Hmm. No, not that
I can think of.
Really?
Because I know for a fact you've
been hiding something from me.
Okay. I was gonna tell you.
I didn't mean any harm.
I... I... Let me explain.
Please do, because it was pretty
shocking to find out online
that you're dating Scott Morris.
Oh, that. Yes, I can
explain that.
Why don't I take you
for a coffee?
So, earlier this morning
a customer wearing
a hat and sunglasses bought
all of the remaining gifts
for the Cooperville toy drive.
Someone who the owner here
describes as being a very tall,
over six-foot female
with blonde curly hair,
used a cane but had
no noticeable limp.
Did I get that right?
Now that I think about it, she
could have been wearing a wig.
Well, there you have
it everybody.
Who is this mystery person?
Great. Thank you, so much...
I think.
Don't mention it.
He's a pretty great guy.
He's funny and smart
and down to earth.
And handsome.
You like him.
We're still getting
to know each other.
I can't believe you
didn't tell me.
You never keep secrets from me.
Maybe I do.
Oh, really?
What else are you keeping
from me besides Scott?
And speak of the devil.
Jamie.
- Hi.
- Hi.
[CLEARS THROAT]
You remember my niece?
How could I forget.
Hi Kylie.
Hi.
I didn't think you'd be back
in Cooperville so soon.
Well, I was just at your
husband's toy shop and it seems
that someone in disguise bought
all the toys for the toy drive.
So, the mystery continues.
Your job is so cool.
Isn't his job cool?
So cool.
I better get back to the studio.
I'll see you.
Do you want to join us
for dinner tonight?
Our third wheel over here
needs a date.
I wasn't aware we had
dinner plans.
You must have forgotten.
You should join us.
I would love to.
Um, where's dinner?
It's a surprise.
Aunt Jamie will send you
all the details.
Just don't wear anything fancy,
okay?
Perfect. I'll see you there.
- Okay.
- Okay.
[KYLIE] Looks like we have
a double date.

Did you get it?
Don't be shy, come on up.
Would you like some bread?
There you go.
Thanks for being here.
Merry Christmas.
Have seconds if you want.
Okay. Lots of food.
Lots of food, everybody.
Hey, thanks for this.
Really.
I mean, usually I spend
so much time at the studio,
reporting on other people's
good deeds,
that it just feels great to
actually be helping out myself.
So, thank you.
What?
I was just thinking,
I've watched you for so many
years, every morning, on TV.
I felt like I knew you.
And now I'm getting to know you,
in real life,
in a soup kitchen.
It's just all still
a little surreal.
You know that I'm just
a regular guy
who wears makeup every day
and talks to people, right?
[CHUCKLES]
I think you're a little more
than that, Scott.
Well, hello.
Oh, my gosh, look at you,
you're all cozy.
Merry Christmas.

You guys are gonna love France,
especially Paris.
I mean, the sights
and the food...
The bread, you cannot fathom
how good the bread is.
Mmm, bread. I love bread.
You think you love bread now,
you just wait, man.
When's the honeymoon?
It was supposed to be this week,
but we decided to postpone
for a while.
That's too bad, how come?
We want to buy a house
next year,
so, we decided to save as much
as we can for now.
These two are far too young
to be so sensible.
We'll get to Paris eventually,
right?
Right.
So, what else are you working on
besides the Secret Santa story?
Hmm.
A lot of serious journalism,
as a matter of fact.
A caroling competition,
there's a dog that can bark
"Jingle Bells."
Big stuff. I love it.
I really do.
But the viewers,
they just want to find out
who's behind these stories
of anonymous generosity.
That's what they want to know.
Really? I don't see why
it's so interesting.
Why is that?
Well, at the heart of it,
it's just some guy
giving people a bunch of stuff
they don't really need.
What?
Just, um, I'm a little surprised
hearing that come from you.
Well, I don't mean to sound
cold-hearted, but I'm just...
I'm a little tired of this
whole Secret Santa gag.
Well, I'm not, and I'm happy
to help however I can.
We know just about everyone
in town.
Scott's a professional reporter,
he'll be fine.
Personally, I say go with
the talented dog.
This fruit cake just
really looks good.
Mmm... so good.
You should try it.

Okay.
Good morning.
Don't "good morning" me.
I barely slept last night
because I couldn't stop thinking
about dinner and how weird
you were acting.
And then it hit me.
It's you, isn't it?
I'm not following.
You can't fool me.
It's you.
You're Cooperville's
Secret Santa.
Okay, yes, it's me.
I can't believe I didn't
figure it out sooner.
I mean, it all makes
perfect sense.
But, why don't you want anyone
to know?
Because I didn't do any of
those things for attention.
So, you acted like
a weirdo at dinner
so Scott wouldn't think
it was you?
Colleen told me to act Scroogey,
which felt so weird.
I'm not doing that again.
Colleen knows?
Yes, I needed help.
I couldn't just walk
into David's shop
and order up all the toys,
could I?
I'm gonna tell Scott.
Kylie.
Unless, you let me help
with your next anonymous gift.
Of course.
Yes, you can help.
My last Christmas here before
we move will be so memorable.
So, what's the next plan?
I haven't thought of it yet.
They kind of just come to me.
I know. How about we adopt
a family?
We find a family that's had
an especially hard year
and we help give them
a great Christmas?
Someone like...
[BOTH] The Cain family.
Sean's carpentry business
has really been struggling.
Yeah, and Marcie lost her job.
They could really use
some holiday cheer.
Let's give the Cain family
their best Christmas ever.
So, Kylie knows our secret?
She figured me out.
The more the merrier.
So, what's the plan,
secret Samaritan?
Oh, shoot.
Jamie! Jamie, hi!
Scott. Hi.
You planning on feeding
the whole town?
No.
Of course not. No.
It wouldn't be the holidays
if you didn't overeat.
I know I do.
You've got like 30 bags
of groceries there.
Yes, I do.
Do you need some help?
No, I'm good.
I didn't expect you to be back
in town so soon.
You working on another story?
Better get to it.
Yeah, well we probably should
get back to work.
Actually, just wanted to say hi.
Hey, are you free tonight?
There's a place in West Hudson
I'd love to take you to
if you are.
Uh, yeah, okay.
Great. Okay.
I'll text you the address.
- All right.
- Okay.
And you're sure you don't need
any help?
No. I'm good.
- Okay, let's do it.
- Okay.
You think he suspects you?
No. I mean, he was looking
at me weird
but I don't think he thought
much of it.
People stock up during
the holidays, right?
Not that much.
Should we call it off?
No, no way.
He's taking me
somewhere tonight.
I think that will buy us
enough time to get to Christmas
if I have your help.
[BOTH] Absolutely.
[DAVID] Hey Colleen.
So, another person knows
our secret?
Sorry, I had to tell him.
I couldn't load everything
by myself.
Plus, we're newlyweds.
We don't keep secrets
from each other.
I totally get it.
All right, let's do this.
This will work for you,
look inside.
Uh, yeah, put that on.
We look ridiculous.
I think that's the point.
Now, if we're spotted, it'll be
hard for them to identify us.

Thank you.
- Hi.
- Wow.
You look amazing.
Not that you don't always
look beautiful,
I just meant now.
I'm gonna stop talking.
Breaking news,
Scott Morris speechless.
Thank you.
I've never been here before.
Where is everybody?
Did you buy this place out?
It's just my way to say
thank you
for sharing your town's
Christmas with me.
- Shall we?
- We shall.
- Definitely.
- Okay.
Here, let me get this.
- Thank you.
- Okay.
- Are you okay there?
- Yeah, I got it.
David, be careful.
Shhh.
- Okay, let's go.
- Faster, guys.
Here, take this.

- Thank you.
- Ooh. Okay.
- What are we having?
- Oh, here we go.
I had the chef prepare
some of the Morris family
Christmas classics.
The Cornish hen,
which is kind of the star
of the show, a little bit.
And then you've got a little bit
of the mashed maple
sweet potatoes.
Oh, my gosh, it all looks
so amazing.
Good.
Being here for the holidays for
a change has got me reminiscing
about family Christmases and
the feast that we used to have.
The Morrises don't do Christmas
dinners anymore?
Well, my sister moved
to New Zealand,
my folks passed away
a few years ago, so...
- I'm sorry.
- Yeah, me too.
I miss them.
Especially this time of year.
So, are you glad that you
stayed in town for Christmas?
Absolutely.
I love being here for,
for a lot of reasons.
Reminded me of what I loved most
at Christmastime.
The way that people
come together,
and the joy that you get
from Christmas traditions.
I mean, I totally get why
you love this town so much
and I know what I'm missing
from my own life.
And if I jetted off to Belize
I wouldn't have met you.
[DOORBELL RINGS]
Marcie, kids!
Come here!
- You have to see this!
- What is it, honey?
Wha...
I can't... This is amazing!
This is incredible!
Can you believe this?
[MARCIE] Kids, look over here.
Oh, my gosh!
Grab the one on top.
- Yay, so many presents!
- Honey, look at this!
- Santa came.
- Yes, it's a huge present.
[MARCIE] Yes, Secret Santa
is with us.
Kids, can you believe that
Secret Santa came here?
Grab all the stuff...
Anyone else got
the warm fuzzies?
- Mmm.
- Wow.
This is ridiculously good.
Good. I'm so happy.
I've got a secret for you.
Because as good as the food
is here,
and I love the food,
I actually come for
the gingerbread cake.
It's so great.
And you're probably wondering
what these guys are.
Another Morris family tradition,
right here.
These are Christmas crackers
from England.
Okay.
Typically, you open them
before the meal,
but my parents always used
to make us wait until dessert.
So pretty.
I'm gonna show you how to do it.
Okay.
So, you go... you go in here
and you find the little tab.
Uh-huh.
And I'm gonna show you right
now why they call it a cracker.
Make sure you squeeze them hard,
and then on the count of three,
everybody pulls
at the same time.
- You got 'em?
- Okay. Ready?
Here we go, one, two, three!
[CRACKERS POP]
There it is! You see?
Isn't that good?
Yeah, wow.
What is all this?
It's just more surprises.
For instance, I got a joke
for you.
Who is Santa's favorite singer?
I... Yeah, I don't know.
Elfis Presley.
[LAUGHS]
Good one.
Okay, ready? I'll tell you
mine.
What do reindeer hang
on their Christmas trees?
I have no idea.
- Hornaments.
- Hornaments.
[LAUGHING]
I thought mine was bad.
Now, if you choose
to open that up,
then you gotta wear it.
Oh, it's open now.
You gotta wear it.
Okay.
Like this.
See that?
Look at you!
How is it possible that you
still look great wearing this?
[LAUGHS]
- How about a little coronation dance?
- Okay.
- Yeah?
- Mm-hm.
Since we're royalty.
Okay. If you say so.

Snow is falling
lightly on the ground
People smiling,
love is all around
There's a feeling
in the air tonight
You are here beside me
and the stars
are shining bright...
There is something I want
to tell you.
[PHONE CHIMES]
- It's okay, you can answer it.
- No, no, no.
What, what were you gonna say?
[PHONE CHIMES]
It might be an emergency.
Go ahead.
Okay.
It's an anonymous text.
"Secret Santa does it again."
Oh?
- And there's a video attached.
- Oh.
No, you know what, it's work.
No.
- I can look at it later.
- I want to see it.
Okay.
- [CAIN FAMILY CHEERING]
- This is incredible!
Oh, the Cain family,
I know them well.
- You do?
- Mm-hm.
I'd love to interview them.
Could you introduce me, maybe?
Sure, yeah.
Great.
Okay. Um...
What were you going to say?
Oh, um...
I just wanted to say
that I'm really glad I met you.
Me too.
...Christmas, Christmas
once again
What a wonderful Christmas
moment caught on camera.
Absolutely.
It's been a very tough year
for the Cain family,
but thanks to someone they may
never get the chance to thank,
at least their Christmas will be
a memorable one.
It's a great reminder about
what the holidays are all about.
Absolutely.
See you tomorrow, everybody.
Bye-bye.
[BUZZER]
I've been getting emails
from all over the county
from people inspired to give
back in their own communities.
Hm. Well, that means
that we are doing our job.
- [PHONE RINGS]
- Absolutely.
- Excuse me.
- Okay.
This is Scott Morris.
Really?
Last night felt so good.
It's a shame you missed it,
but, I guess, that was
the point.
Uh... we have a problem.
Last night with Scott
was so perfect.
That's fantastic.
Yeah, I'm not really seeing
the problem.
Well, the problem is, I'm not
being honest with him.
And right when I was about
to tell him the truth,
the phone beeped with that video
and I chickened out.
- Good.
- No, not good!
I don't like keeping
secrets from
the only man that I've really
liked in a very long time.
So, here's what I'm gonna do.
I am going to just come clean
and I'm gonna tell him
the truth,
say I'm sorry for wasting
your time,
even though I could have outed
myself days ago.
And just hope that
he looks past it.
Or, we could stop
the anonymous donations.
He has nothing to report on,
Christmas arrives, the story's
forgotten and no one ever knows?
No, he deserves better
than that.
You're right.
You should tell him.
Right now.
Now?
Well, he's about to walk in
through the door.
How'd you do that?
You guys are not gonna
believe this,
but we found the Secret Santa.
What? Who?
The person responsible for
all this anonymous generosity.
I'm gonna go meet him right now.
Give him a little pre-interview
before I get him on
the show tomorrow.
Would it be okay if I came
with you?
I don't see why not.
Okay.
Great.
Let's go.
So, why did you want to do
these things anonymously?
Just wanted to spread,
you know, some holiday cheer.
Make people happy.
So, am I gonna be on
TV tomorrow?
Oh, well, we got a couple things
to go over
before we start scheduling.
Ah, ah, sorry. I'm curious
about one thing.
What made you want to fund
that trip to New York
for those five students?
They're great kids.
They deserve it.
Except it was DC,
and they're a quartet.
That's a quartet, is four kids,
not five.
Yeah, yeah, four.
I know that.
Anyway, they're going to DC and
that's all that matters to me.
What can I say?
I'm just bursting
with holiday spirit.
So, would it be all right
if we shoot the interview
at my tire shop instead of
the studio?
Yeah, I can make that happen.
Uh, the Christmas tree
in front of town square.
What was your inspiration
for that?
I go by my gut and it felt like,
you know,
every town needs
a Christmas tree.
So, we... we good?
Where'd you get it?
Joe's Christmas Trees?
Okay.
I don't need you
cross-examining me
and questioning my motives,
okay?
I withdraw my admission.
I'm not the Secret Santa.
You happy now?
You really thought
it was him, though?
Well, I mean, I wanted to break
the story before Christmas
so, I guess, just part of me
wanted to believe him.
Can I ask you something?
Um, does finding out this
person's identity really matter?
I mean, it's just another
news story, right?
Yeah, and I thought that
at first
but it's just such
a feel-good mystery
that people are getting
so interested in.
I gotta believe that
it's inspired people
to celebrate Christmas a little
differently this year.
You know what I mean?
Yeah. I do.
Well, I better get back
to the studio.
Me too.
I mean, to the office.
Okay.
- See you later.
- Bye.
[VOICEMAIL] Hey, this is Scott.
Leave me a message and I'll get
back to you as soon as I can.
Hey, Scott. It's Jamie.
I was hoping that you could
meet me at the auditorium
where we first met.
Tonight at 8:00?
I'll be there with
the Secret Santa.
Okay. Bye.
[KYLIE] You should do
this again next year.
[JAMIE] I don't know.
I loved helping people
but keeping it a secret
has not been easy.
What did you want to show me?
Look what you've inspired.
Wow. How cool is this?
People from all over
the county donated.
This is amazing.
I'm so glad.
But I'm really feeling like
this was all a big mistake.
I don't like misleading Scott.
I'm gonna tell him
the truth tonight.
Hopefully he will respect
my wishes and keep my secret.
What if he doesn't?
I'll just have to accept
whatever happens.
I have to go.
See ya later.
Hey, I need your help
with something.

Well, there she is, but where's
the Secret Santa?
- Hey.
- Hi.
I didn't expect
to find you alone.
About that.
I came here to tell you that...
I'm the Secret Santa!
What?
Kylie?
Actually, it's me.
Wait, Jamie, what's going on?
I have no idea, but I came here
to tell you that I...
Secret Santa, here.
Wait a second, guys.
So, let me get this straight,
all of you were lying to me?
No. It was me.
To string me along
so that you'd get more publicity
for your town?
Is that what this is about?
Is that what's happening?
No.
If you would just
let me explain.
All of this was a lie?
Scott, if you would just give me
a chance to explain.
Explain what?
Like, I don't even know
what's happening here!
They had nothing to do
with it, okay?
We were just trying to help.
I have been wanting to tell you
the truth this whole time.
I trusted you.
Scott.
[SIGHS]

We just wanted to stop by
and make sure you're okay.
Yeah. I'll be fine.
Besides, it's Christmas, not
a time to mope around, right?
We're sorry about what happened
with Scott.
Maybe we took things
a little too far.
No, don't be.
If anything, you two helped me
do good deeds
for a lot of people.
Good morning, you two.
Oh. Kylie, something came
for you this morning.
For me? Here?
I was surprised too.
What is it?
Two tickets to France.
Leaving tonight!
[LAUGHS]
Aunt Jamie, this is so sweet.
You did not have to do this.
No, I didn't.
- Really?
- I swear, it wasn't me.
David?
Is this one of your surprises?
Not me.
Don't look at me.
Is there a note in there
or anything?
Nothing.
Wait.
Did we just get Secret Santa'd?
It looks that way.
[LAUGHING]
Well, bon voyage.
Well, it looks like we'll be
away for Christmas after all.
Which I couldn't be
happier about.
You two deserve the best
honeymoon ever.
Thanks.
And we better get packing,
like, now.
Yeah, you guys have
a great time.
Send me lots of pics, okay?
We will. Merry Christmas.
- Uh, I gotta make some calls.
- Okay.
Well, I have to admit,
you made this the most
memorable Christmas ever.
Not too stale for you?
No. Not at all.
I think Uncle Matt
would have been proud of us.
Me too.
- I'll miss you.
- I'll miss you too.
And, you swear this wasn't you?
Believe it or not, this is
one of those random acts
that I had nothing to do with.
I'll miss you.
And hey, Aunt Jamie, maybe
you should give him a call.
Yeah, maybe I will.
Thank you.
There's something
I should tell you...
There's something I want
to tell you...
I have been wanting to tell you
the whole time...

Christmas Eve is finally here.
Scott, I understand you have
a very special story
that you want to share
with us today.
I really do. I do.
And if I look a little tired
this morning
it's only because I was up very
late last night working on it.
I'm sure our viewers
are wondering
if you finally unmasked
Cooperville's Secret Santa.
I'm sure they are.
And, I'm sorry to say
that I have not.
But, I have an even better story
that I'd like to share
with all of you.
But, before I do that, I need
to say a heartfelt thank you
to all the people of Cooperville
for sharing this Christmas
with me.
I've gotta say, for the first
time in many years,
I really felt home
for the holidays.
So, thank you.
And, without further ado,
here's the story.
Hope you enjoy.
The holiday season means a lot
of things to a lot of people.
But, for the town
of Cooperville,
this year Christmas was
all about a Secret Santa.
And it seems everyone wanted
to be one,
whether it was making a
difference close to home,
helping out a friend,
or providing something
for strangers in need.
So, what started
as a personal, anonymous mission
quickly spread to
an entire community.
It's just so easy to say
a quick Merry Christmas
and then just get lost in
our hectic holiday plans.
But the residents of Cooperville
consciously made time to give.
They rolled up their sleeves,
and they showed each other,
they showed all of us, what
the season is truly all about.
It's about letting others
know that you care.
It's about showing them
that they matter.
It's about doing, for others.
And the Secret Santas of
Cooperville have done just that.
[DIRECTOR] And we're out.
I don't know what to say.
My work the last couple weeks
definitely has reminded me
that there's good out there
in the world
and that people need to see it.
And honestly, I don't want
to stop telling these stories.
You think maybe Cory's
going to want to take vacation
every Christmas?
He might.
So, no more jet-setting
to exotic places
at the holidays for you?
I think I'm gonna save those
for summer hiatus.
- Oh.
- Hm.
Looks like somebody's got
their holiday spirit back.
So, how will you be planning
to spend Christmas?
I mean, I hate to picture you
sitting all alone in your condo
watching the snow fall.
I'll think of something.
Mm-mm. I will think for you.
Call her.
Merry Christmas, Amari.
I should just text him.
No, I shouldn't text him.
I should call him.
But if he doesn't want
to talk to me,
then I'll just send my call
to voicemail.
And what do I say?
I don't know what to say.
And then if I don't say anything
on voicemail
he'll still know I called
because...
You know what, I should just
go old school.
Great.
Looking for someone?
You're Amari Harris.
I am. And you are?
Jamie.
Monroe.
Um, I was looking for Scott,
is he around?
Oh, he left a while ago.
Said he was going home.
Okay. Okay.
You could call him.
Merry Christmas.
[VOICEMAIL] Hey, this is Scott,
leave me a message
and I'll get back to you
as soon as I can.
Hi, it's me. Jamie.
Look, I... I wanted to apologize
for what happened.
I had no idea that Kylie
and my friends
would interfere like that
and I would never waste your
time or mislead you.
I was just trying to help
a few people out
and spread some Christmas
cheer in my town.
But then something
unexpected happened.
I met you.
And we got to know each other,
and I got to see what a kind,
good man you are.
And for the first time,
when we kissed,
I felt like I was ready to have
love in my life again.
And that is the best Christmas
present I could hope for.
So, thank you.
Merry Christmas.
[CAROLERS] Joy to the world,
the lord is come
Let earth receive
her king...
Well, I don't like to toot
my own horn, but...
You pulled it off, Mr. Mayor.
We pulled it off, team work.
That story that Scott did,
boy, that was really touching.
I actually got a little
misty-eyed.
Me too.
It was you, wasn't it?
I don't know what you're
talking about.
You can deny it all you want,
but that was a good thing
you did, Jamie.
I'm very proud of you.
Hey, that's my cue.
Care to join us for a little
caroling at the gazebo?
I think I'm gonna head
home soon.
Merry Christmas.
Hey, to you as well.
[CAROLERS SINGING
"SILENT NIGHT"]
...Radiant beams
From thy holy face
With the dawn
Of redeeming grace
Jesus Lord
at thy birth...
I didn't expect to see you here.
After almost 48 hours I started
to miss this town.
And, I got a mystery invitation.
Apparently, the winter carnival
is the...
is the place to be
on Christmas Eve.
That it is.
Especially since you're here.
I take it you got my message.
The story you did
was really amazing.
Only because you're amazing.
All of those selfless acts
inspired so many people.
Where'd you get
all those pictures?
Flash drive just showed up
at my office yesterday,
anonymously, of course.
Huh.
Kylie.
Speaking of Kylie,
I hope she and David
are enjoying their flight
to Paris right now.
Once you fly first class,
there's just no going back.
- First class.
- Mm-mm.
Ah-ha, you are the one
that anonymously gifted
that trip to them.
I had some miles saved up
and I honestly don't believe
that anybody should have to wait
for their honeymoon, so...
Besides, this way I get you
all to myself this Christmas.
As long as there's
no more secrets.
No more secrets, I promise.
Until next year.

I've been dreaming
of Christmastime
Every day through
the year
Trees shine in
every window
Children all dream
Of reindeer hoof-prints in
the snow
Christmastime the best
time of the year