Snowy with a Chance of Christmas (2024) Movie Script
1
Hmm.
Choo.
- Morning, Gwen.
- Morning.
Hi!
- Hi.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
Morning, Dad!
Morning, Kev.
...great ideas from
our very own Don McBreen.
Don.
Did you know
you can order Christmas gifts
on delivery apps?
Check names off your list
with zero effort?
Here's what's trending
as must-haves for this holiday.
If you are heading out the door,
be sure to crank up
those car seat warmers
and blast some holiday music
because the first big snow
of the season
is dropping by this morning.
But be sure to get outside
later today
because I see nothing
but sunny skies ahead.
Temperatures in the high 30s
rest of the week with...
And that's the wrong graphic!
But this is exactly
how the upper 30s will feel
in your heart
because we're in
the fifth season, folks.
An entire month of warm feelings
that will melt away
the chilly air.
As Sir Walter Scott once wrote,
"Heap on more wood,
the wind is chill,
but let it whistle as it will.
We'll keep our Christmas merry,
still."
And so, for the third day
of my December challenge,
25 Ways to Say Christmas,
I challenge you to get out...
- Me.
...and experience
this winter wonderland
by taking a hike.
I, myself, will be
trekking along
the Stockton Crest Trail today.
Maybe I'll see ya there.
Can we go, Dad?
Yeah, I mean, some exercise
would help you out
with hockey training, so...
maybe after school, huh?
Back to you, Mary.
Actually, I uh, do wanna do
a quick challenge first.
Seeing how we are experiencing
this first snowfall,
why don't you get out there,
embrace that holiday
joie de vivre,
and catch a snowflake
on your tongue.
Ready?
Let's go!
Coming up after the break,
more of your local news on WYSH.
Hey, no, hey, Kev.
Kev, jacket. Jacket!
Okay.
Hey.
We could always just sell out.
I will not be bought!
We have always been about
journalistic integrity
over money.
- Yeah.
- Endorsement deals
are against our DNA.
- Yes.
- So, what do we do then?
Our ratings are at
an all-time low.
Because of WHNR.
Even more reason to ignore
them and focus on us.
Come on.
I need ideas.
Ownership is gonna shut us down
unless our December
viewership goes up
or we put our budget
back into the black.
- Hmm.
- Paid endorsements
can buy us time.
Or they'll just turn us
into an infomercial disguised
as local news like WHNR.
No, no, no.
I have a better idea.
Rather than sell out or cut...
...we go big.
No, no, no.
No, no.
I said trim costs.
We put on a highly visible
December event
to prove that we are
the only local,
values-driven news station.
Not some consumer
hype echo chamber.
And what better way
to showcase our...
our small-town ethics
than to partner
with a cause for Christmas?
Our jobs are on the line, Gwen.
My 25 Ways to Say Christmas
challenges
are the perfect vehicle
for engagement.
The whole station
can get involved.
We'll partner with
a local cause,
not some brand
looking for sympathy.
It's Christmas.
Plus social media viral.
Yeah, I'm in.
Who likes Gwen's plan?
Me.
Everyone brainstorm ideas
and pitch 'em to me
by the end of the day.
Wow.
Hello, WYSH viewers.
Well, look at this beauty
under the sun.
I'm out here completing
today's challenge.
What about you?
Oh, cool.
A squirrel?
Now, you see,
even in the middle of winter,
the forest is still
full of life.
Ooh.
Finally, peace.
Whoa!
Hey, you're off
on the brush there.
You should stick
to the main trail.
- Where's the fun in that?
Well, the fun's in not
calling search and rescue.
Ah.
Clearly, you've never been
carried by a firefighter.
Hmm.
Well, enjoy the trail.
And uh, thanks for watching.
You're "the" Gwen.
I am the Gwen.
What's tomorrow's challenge?
Oh, you'll have to tune in
tomorrow to find out.
What's your name?
- Kevin.
How do you know the weather?
I interpret meteorological data.
Cloud coverage, air pressure, temperature.
Yeah, studied it in school.
- What school?
Why don't we let Gwen
get stuck in the snow here
while we carry on, okay?
Uh, what's the weather
right now?
It is 37 with
a low of 24 tonight.
Warming air overnight with
sunny skies ahead.
Hats and gloves optional
for an incoming blizzard
of holiday joy.
Kev, we've gotta keep you
in shape for hockey. Let's go.
- Uh, can we take a photo?
- Absolutely!
Here, come on over.
Uh, wait.
I have a better idea.
Why don't we do a video
and then I could post it to
the station's social media page
for the daily challenge!
Huh?
If it's all right with your dad?
Uh, yeah. Okay.
Um...
Hmm. I am here
with cool kid,
and weather enthusiast, Kevin,
who is out here hiking
with his hockey dad,
and enjoying this beautiful day
that we're having.
So, Kevin, do you watch WYSH?
Every morning.
And what have you found
out here hiking?
You.
Ah!
Well, there you have it, folks.
Get out there and seize
the day, just like Kevin.
Oh.
Oh, uh, this is WYSH,
thanks for watching.
- Perfect!
You're a natural.
You want one too?
- Ah, no. No, I'm good.
Thank you.
- Mm-hmm.
Nice to meet you.
How cool was that, Dad?
Yeah, that was pretty cool.
That was cool times infinity.
Hi!
So, boss,
what's the plan?
Well, Mary suggested
that we do ride-alongs
with investigative journalists.
Kind of like reality TV.
- Right.
- And Isaac suggested
that we turn the station
into a speakeasy after hours
to earn some extra income.
Which leaves your idea, or this.
This would be
our first endorsement.
A... a coat rack?
It's a Christmas tree.
- It looks like a cat tree.
- It's chic.
It's sacrilegious, Gus.
Yeah.
Listen, I don't like your idea.
It's risky and rushed.
Kinda like writing a college
paper the night before.
But everyone else is on board.
So, 25 Ways to Say
Christmas is a go.
I will not let you down.
We're all on the chopping block.
Don't forget it.
And I don't need to remind you
that weather presenter jobs
are scarce.
Find a nonprofit.
We officially relaunch 25 Ways
to Say Christmas in two days.
Yes!
Thank you so much.
Okay, Anna,
kolaczki is in the oven.
Ah.
Americans make a holiday
out of anything.
It's a bit gimmicky,
but who cares?
Who am I to say it's not
national cookie day?
It's your freedom to choose
cookies for a day.
- Mm!
- Mm.
- Hm.
- Hm.
Feeling patriotic now?
Okay.
Mm.
So how was your date with Jason?
Argued a lot.
You argued with a lawyer?
- Well, it wasn't meant to be,
so...
So, you should have men
lining up.
I do.
All the wrong ones.
Look, do you have any idea
what it's like
being an insignificant
celebrity around town?
I get at least one e-mail
marriage proposal per year.
Why only one?
I just want something real.
People see me as this persona,
this uh...
cheery, pixie dream
weather woman.
Not a real human.
- Well.
It makes dating frustrating.
- So?
Go somewhere where
nobody knows you.
I might have to.
If 25 Ways to Say
Christmas fails,
the station will probably close
and I'll have to take
a meteorologist's job
at some remote airstrip
somewhere.
E-mail marriage proposals are
the least of my worries.
Just don't put
everything on hold
waiting for the clouds
to clear like...
like I did.
Hey, your parents made it work.
How are they?
Outsourcing.
They are currently stuck
in Malaysia until Christmas Day.
Bridge project.
Mum's the lead engineer.
And they've saddled me
with overseeing
this STEM scholarship
that they've funded
for my old high school.
Okay, you need some help.
Oh, no.
No, no, no, no, it's fine.
- I'm still helping you
with your school projects.
Okay, so, what shape
do we make next?
And since it's
national cookie day,
and a warm treat is heaven
in this crisp air,
I challenge you to bake cookies,
and in the spirit of
the holidays, share them.
Can we, Dad?
Uh no, we're giving back
today, Kev, remember?
We're live in an hour.
Right.
Uh, we're looking for a...
a deeper partnership.
Not just social media posts.
We are fighting WHNR
through cookies.
I, I understand that
the holiday season
has already started, but...
...it's never too late to jump
into something new, right?
I see.
Well, maybe next year then.
Buh-bye.
Gus, we are going
around town to...
All of you?
Yes!
We are going
to distribute cookies
as promotion for the station.
Yeah, just um, don't forget
about the broadcast.
Heh.
All right, everyone,
let's get to it.
We've got cookies to distribute.
I'm an elf making toys.
And I'm a Christmas tree.
- But you don't have lights.
- Right.
Uh...
Wrap me.
Go show my dad.
One sec.
What's going on?
- It's not enough.
It's your first year.
Even one donation will
make a difference.
No, but we can do so much
better than this. It...
Dad, look, I'm an elf.
That's great, Kev.
Hey, uh, look, can you, um...
can you help out and sort
the toys in that box there?
- Yeah.
- Thanks.
Hey.
It's Christmas.
- I know.
Do you?
It's just my family goes
so overboard
with all of this and...
And I'm excited to meet them.
No, no, like my mum,
she wears Santa pants
and a hat all of December.
My brother, he just grows
his beard out for months
to get into Santa mode,
and my dad,
he goes so overboard with
lawn decorations
that getting a cease and desist
for city code violations
is basically like our...
holiday tradition.
Sounds great.
Oh yeah. Yeah.
No, it's...
I mean, Christmas is
deeper than that. It's...
it's not just about
silly stuff, right?
It's giving back.
Like this. Like, every single
one of these toys,
this is a small miracle
for the kids and families
that get them, and isn't
that what people deserve?
Just like, miracles? Instead of
just a bunch of jolly hype?
So, you're the black sheep
of the family.
- Yeah.
Yeah.
- All right.
Miracles it is.
Let's do this.
- Thank you.
- Yeah.
Hey, Kev?
Let's give your dad
a little time to work.
Okay, I uh,
I'll see you guys later.
Bye.
Happy national cookie day!
- Oh wow, thank you.
- Oh, thank you!
Be sure to tune into WYSH
for today's daily challenge.
- Absolutely.
- Yeah.
- Thanks again.
- Thank you.
Wow, that is really good.
Happy national cookie day!
- Oh, thanks.
- Oh.
Hey! What...
What's the forecast?
- Oh, well...
Today,
we have a low-pressure system
coming down from the north
that will dash away
these angelic clouds for
Santa-approved clear skies.
Today's forecast is cozy,
merry, and bright.
Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
- Happy national cookie day!
- Merry Christmas.
Someone can help you
over at the counter.
- Are those toys?
- Yeah. Uh, look.
Any donations you have,
just drop them in the bin.
Thanks.
Weather lady.
Hockey dad.
You're donating cookies?
Offering an opportunity.
Are you in charge here?
I uh, yeah,
this is my toy drive.
How can I help you?
- What if I said
I could help boost
your donations?
Make it rain toys.
- How?
A little free publicity
from WYSH.
Um, a shoutout, yeah.
Yeah, that'd be...
that'd be great. Thank you.
Good! Oh, I think that
this will be such
a mutually beneficial
partnership!
Wow, wait.
Partnership, what do you mean?
We are looking for
a sympathetic cause
to promote alongside my daily
weather challenges.
You know, we want
to remind people
that we are the only local
values-driven news station.
So, you want to use my toy
drive as advertising.
- Helping your cause.
- Hmm.
You're already partnering
with the brewery, right?
Uh, no. No, they donate
the space. I just work here.
Ah.
Toy drive in a brewery.
It's just one drop-off
location. We've got others.
And besides, families come
in here all the time.
They get food, they...
it's perfect.
They uh, tell
their friends about it,
we host community events.
And you...
you... you want me
to help you get sympathy
for your network
as the good guy.
- Mutually beneficial.
- Yeah.
Like, holiday NATO.
Doesn't that seem
a little disingenuous?
There's no catch here.
Just a deluge of donations.
We would just have to film
some challenges together
and get up to a little bit
of promotional mischief
for social media.
- Ah.
And maybe hang a few WYSH
posters up in here.
Ah, yeah, I got you.
I got you.
Just some lighthearted fun
to motivate people to donate.
No, you wanna use me
like you used my son
to promote your network
yesterday.
I was just trying to be nice.
I will take any
positive exposure I can get
for this but I'm not gonna
be your little pity mascot
just to make more money
for your network.
I didn't realise there was
a holiday charity purity test.
- We're...
we're genuinely trying
to help people here.
This isn't fluff news.
- That's the other station.
- Yeah, well,
everyone's hyping
something, right?
Hmm.
I will have you know,
I take the weather seriously.
I just add a little love to it.
Okay, that's great.
Thanks.
This is a meaningful effort
to help people, not fluff news.
Tell me the good news.
I did find a big
sibling nonprofit.
I am hopeful.
I just need a bit more time.
We needed to start yesterday.
What else?
- Um...
I found a toy drive.
Unfortunately,
they were not interested.
- Lock something down
or we will all have to become
fans of the cat tree.
Go for Gus.
Gwen.
- 10 seconds.
I just pitched
to corporate some of
the nonprofits you're chasing.
They were about
to make us accept
the cat tree deal, so I lied.
I am live in 10 seconds.
I told them we had already
locked down the toy drive
as promotional partner.
They came around
and latched on to it
as the only cause they like.
Good optics. Helping kids.
- Gus, I haven't had...
- Make it happen.
Gwen Marley here with
your daily weather report.
I challenge you
to pay it forward.
That's what we do, Dad.
Yeah. Yeah, it is.
Like donating!
Or donating...
to a local toy drive.
In fact, there's probably
a local toy drive
looking for donations right now.
There might actually be one
with a drop-off location
at Railside Brewing.
How convenient!
They may just be accepting
donations this afternoon.
What better way
to pay it forward?
These are for the toy drive.
- Thank you so much.
- Of course.
- And enjoy these holiday ales.
- Oh, nice.
- Thank you.
Cheers.
Paying it forward
Paying it forward
Ah?
- Thank you.
So...
was there a downpour
of donations?
Steady showers.
Wouldn't it be nice if
it rained toys every day?
You're pretty confident
in that forecast of yours.
100% chance of showers.
- Nothing is 100%.
- I am.
You're asking me
to be your prop.
I am asking you
to pay it forward
to my station by having
a little bit of fun on camera.
Come on!
I will get my station staff
to volunteer here.
- What you...
- I will help you.
Wow, you're reminding me
of my family.
- Thank you.
- No, see,
that's what I'm worried about.
How many toys is
your pride worth?
So we have to agree
upon everything.
This is mutually beneficial.
- Mm-hmm.
I'm serious about Christmas.
I like your holiday ambition.
I'm Adam, by the way.
Gwen.
Well, I will be back later,
Adam.
Make sure you bring
your most brilliant
holiday challenge ideas.
Okay?
- Mm-hmm.
And merry Christmas.
Well, credit goes to my parents
for the scholarship.
I'm just helping out.
You were a good student.
- Mm-hmm.
- You mean a nerd.
Your parents were the nerds.
Oh, don't tell them I said that.
Well, nerds do run
the world these days.
Your mum was the local legend
winning every regional
science fair.
And your father was
always second.
Nothing's changed.
Actually, my dad did tell me
that it was the egg experiment
in your science class
that got him interested
in becoming an engineer.
My first year of teaching.
Your father spent so much time
in the library researching.
And he shows up with
this complicated contraption,
using rubber bands
and popsicle sticks.
Your mum strides in
with the eggs suspended with
panty hose in a jug.
Oh.
And she wins.
Your father was in awe.
Humpty Dumpty fell in love.
Um, do you work in
engineering as well?
Oh no.
I crack eggs.
Anna was my nanny growing up.
Oh. How lovely.
Well, no, she is lovely.
I'm strict.
Me too.
Oh!
Well, we did move around
a lot growing up.
But Anna always made it
feel like home.
And we did live here
the longest,
to be near my grandparents,
so this always did feel the most
like a home town for me.
Now you're the hometown
hero on TV.
Oh, I don't know about that.
Oh yes. Come on.
So, the scholarship.
Yes, um...
Done your hockey reps yet?
Hey, look, I just want you
to be prepared, Kev. Okay?
- I will.
- Okay.
Wow, looks great!
So colourful.
I wanna do another one.
What?
What do you think of mine?
- The icing's all messed up.
So, um...
WYSH wants to promote
the toy drive.
- That's great!
- Yeah.
- Right?
No, I...
They're asking me to do
all these promotional videos
and assist, it seems.
- It sounds fun.
But what if it turns
into a thing?
Well, what if you get
more donations?
No, but a thing.
And it could turn into, like,
a bigger thing and snowball
into a really big thing...
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Say that in English.
Okay, look, any time, any...
Any time a brewery
I worked for expanded
or got taken over or sold out,
they just...
they lost their soul.
It's a toy drive, Adam.
Yeah. Yeah.
My icing got a little messed up.
No, it looks like
a cookie to me.
Hey!
Cookie saboteur!
No, I'm a cookie sampler,
not some...
mm... 7.5 out of 10.
Okay, give me a bite.
Okay.
Okay, so we can film
the key challenges on air
and the rest, we'll livestream
on social media.
Oh, and for the weather
challenge announcement,
we could do that outside, like
reporters in a weather hot zone.
They don't let you
out much, huh.
I'll handle the weather.
You just have to stand
there and smile.
Why do I even need
to be on camera then?
To show that the toy drive
and the station are a team.
Oh, so what, like stand
there like a mascot?
You could be a dancing mascot.
Okay.
All you really have to do
is be charming and smile
like you know a smile is worth
a thousand donations.
Okay. How's this?
Good enough.
Did you get the ideas
I sent over?
Um, yeah.
Yeah, the uh, the 22nd,
that delivery makes sense.
- Great.
And I was thinking,
since you're the founder,
it might be a nice touch
to deliver
a deeply personal speech
on stage?
It could be really
inspirational.
Uh, no.
No, this is not about me.
- Right.
So, how did you come up
with the toy drive idea?
Uh... huh.
I um...
That was a dream of
my late wife and I.
We uh... her family,
they always donated toys
as a tradition, and then
they'd just...
they'd get new ones and then...
give the old ones
to those who need.
Adam, that's really beautiful.
Why don't you share that?
No, look, I'm not guilting
people into donating.
It's not guilting people.
It's taking hearts
and baking them in an oven
of Christmas grace.
And shouting to the world,
"Tonight we feast on joy!"
What about a gingerbread
house challenge
with a hand tied
behind your back?
- No. Uh...
- Okay.
How about a...
flash mob nativity scene
challenge?
You are so desperate for likes.
I am trying to save my station
and I need eyeballs for that.
And I'm trying
to keep my charity
from turning into a sideshow.
Eyeballs equal donations.
The more fun we have on camera,
the more we can pay it forward.
I mean, what is your problem?
- Standards.
Dad?
Look, Christmas is about action.
It's not about showboating.
You're above the holiday spirit.
I get it. You don't like
any of my ideas,
what do you wanna do?
- Dad!
I... I gotta go. But...
why don't we just do
these first challenges
and then we can figure out
the rest as we go. Okay?
Okay,
you guys ready? And action.
It is a toasty 32 today, folks!
That's more than half
the heat in Hawaii right now.
Right, Adam?
- Yeah.
Folks. I would love
to introduce you
to my smiley cohost,
Mr. Adam Docker,
founder of the local toy drive,
Miracle of Toys.
And we at WYSH are
partnering with him
to give back
this holiday season.
We at WYSH are
a values-driven station.
Not motivated by pushing
Christmas holiday products
like some other local stations.
And so, Adam and I
will be doing my daily
challenges together.
What do you say, Adam?
Are you down?
Uh, can I say something?
Absolutely.
Gah, uh, please donate.
Thank you.
Please.
- Yes.
- Ahem.
- What's that?
- It's...
"A good conscience is
a continual Christmas."
Benjamin Franklin said that.
- Okay!
Hah!
The Miracle of Toys donation
drop-off will be
at Railside Brewing,
and it will be hosted
by your talent from WYSH.
So, come on down
in the spirit of Christmas.
And now, without further ado.
Today's challenge
inspired by the weather is...
Express your holiday spirit!
Express your holiday sp...
Ahem. Hmm.
Supposed to be at the same time.
I tried. I'm sorry.
We didn't really practise that.
Uh no, just all stop touching
everything, please.
Best in snow smile!
Oh, what is this?
This is the holiday makeover
challenge for socials.
You have to pick
a Christmas outfit.
I have Santa pants in here.
- You sound like my mum.
You should probably take that
up with your therapist.
Okay, but can you stop them?
What are they doing?
We are bringing up
the temperature in here
from like, a zero to Christmas.
It's not a zero.
I had...
there was poinsettias and I...
What?
- Put on that Christmas spirit.
Mmm!
Hello, WYSH viewers.
I have a question for you.
What are you thankful for?
I know I am thankful for you all
because every day
I come to work,
I feel like I'm with family.
What are you thankful for, Adam?
I... I...
I'm thankful for um...
for perspective.
Because Christmas gives you
a chance to take the whole year
into stock and just...
and appreciate what you have.
Because it can all
be gone in a flash.
Huh.
Uh...
I also wanted to ask,
what is everyone's best
and worst Christmas gift?
Ah, Gus!
Uh... turkey frying kit?
Also the worst 'cause
I burned my lawn.
That's good!
Adam?
Uh, my best, best
Christmas gift is the...
is the miracle of giving.
'Cause when you're...
when you're a part of something
that's so much bigger
than yourself, it's just,
it's... that's better than
any superficial gift, right?
- Hmm.
- And then the worst gift
would be... indifference.
Are you holiday joy celibate?
What? No.
'Cause...
your holiday gravitas
is killing us here.
You're asking
the questions here.
This whole thing is supposed
to be uplifting, not gloomy.
I'm gloomy? No, I'm...
Look, I'm giving you heartfelt
answers here and you...
Okay, look, you need me, right?
So, maybe what your station
could use
is a little less whimsy
and a little bit more
holiday gravitas.
Your holiday cheer is
hibernating, mister.
Don't, don't touch the...
Ah...
- No, he's... like,
he doesn't hate Christmas,
he just...
takes it too seriously.
Christmas means different
things to different people.
When your family moved around,
your parents made us try
different Christmas traditions
to be as multicultural
as possible.
Some were just silly
but others more religious-based,
more thoughtful,
and... and you need
to respect that.
Yeah, but it's not that.
It's...
it's something else.
Well, maybe his Christmas
gravity will deepen
your weather motivation.
Or... or...
- Or?
- It will kill my station
and deepen my career's grave.
Seriously, our views
are pitiful so far.
Come on. Be patient.
You have enough Christmas
spirit to melt anything.
Mmm.
- Hmm. Mm.
Even, uh...
- Hmm.
Like, Mr. Bah-humbuggy?
He looks normal.
Oh, okay.
- Hmm.
Well, he can be normal
the other 11 months of the year,
but right now,
I need a razzle-dazzle.
Razzle-dazzle, okay.
So...
how about you
and Principal Liam?
- What do you mean?
I saw you two eye-flirting.
Eye cake and eye sauce
and winky facing.
- Oh, come on!
I'm too old for the winky face.
Oh, stop! No.
- No, you're not.
I'll show you, look.
- Okay, okay, okay, here.
Here, open this. Come on.
- What? No!
- Yes.
- Anna...
I'm not a little kid anymore.
You'll always be to me.
But come on, it's for the Day
of St. Nicholas.
Come on.
Excuse me, I have not
been naughty this year.
Keep going.
Oh, Anna.
Mm-hmm.
It's... it's for when
you present the weather.
I love it.
I love that we have these
traditions together.
- Me too.
And that's the moment I realised
that the holidays were
a barometer of grace.
Of not thinking about me,
but of thinking of others.
Of us. Of... society
and what we...
Of giving back.
So, come on down and donate!
Christmas is in the house.
And so, today's challenge is...
are you ready, Adam?
- So ready.
Blindfold tree decorating.
Eh? Huh?
Mm-hmm.
Okay.
This is ridiculous.
It's the right amount of
ridiculous to go viral.
Hmm.
Okay. Oh, uh,
do we have a safe word
in case things go wrong?
- Uh, pfft, I don't know.
Uh, plum pudding.
- Perfect.
- Okay.
Ahem.
All right, WYSH viewers,
welcome to blindfold
tree decorating.
Let's do this!
Okay.
I feel something.
Whoop!
- Ow.
- Oh no, I... oh, are you okay?
- Yeah, we're good. I'm good.
- Are you sure?
Just a little...
Oh, something's coming down.
- Okay. Are you okay?
We almost lost the tree.
It's okay. Keep going,
keep going.
Okay, no, plum pudding.
Plum pudding.
- Keep going.
- This... no. No, no.
- Just keep going.
- Ah, okay, cool.
Great, just go.
- Oh, okay! I'm...
Uh, plum pudding!
I'm done.
Plum... pudding!
I uh...
- But...
I didn't sign up for this, okay?
Hey, hey!
What'd that ball do to you?
Are you having fun?
"Hard work is necessary
to achieve excellence."
Ah.
Your dad is a lot like my dad.
Do you even like practice?
My dad says
I just have to do it.
Right.
You know, I used to play
a bit of hockey
when I lived in Sweden.
- Really?
- Yeah.
Look, the thing about drills
is they have to be fun.
If you're having fun,
you'll be consistent
and consistency is so important.
What do you do to make it fun?
Have you ever tried blasting
your favourite music?
When I was your age,
I used to watch a hockey game
while I practised
for inspiration.
Because it...
if you're having fun,
it won't feel like work.
Can I help you with some drills?
- Yeah.
Great.
Okay.
Good.
Increase your speed
as you get comfortable.
Hey, don't worry about it.
Who cares? Who cares?
No pressure here.
You got this.
Good, confidence, right?
Confidence.
Yeah, okay.
Okay, here we go.
Focus on the tiny moves
this time.
Be the boss of the tiny moves.
Yeah, boss Kevin.
- Yes!
- Nice!
There ya go!
Hey.
Video got the highest views.
Hmm.
We are not here
to look foolish. Not you.
Not my station.
Can we talk it out?
Okay.
All right, one more.
One more!
Nice!
Hmm.
A little crooked.
- It's a 7 out of 10.
Okay, I have to ask,
why the chip on your shoulder
when it comes to holiday cheer?
Just think that all
the meaningfulness of Christmas
got lost in the hype.
Just...
sip this, buy that.
And do what we want or
we'll call you Scrooge.
It's like a holiday mob.
Hmm.
So, so what's Christmas to you?
It's miracles.
It's having everything
you love and recognising it.
It's the miracle of appreciation
because it's not always
gonna be there.
- You know,
joy is a miracle, too.
That's what I try to instil
in my viewers.
Christmas was sacred
to your family.
- Kind of.
- Ah.
Every little holiday thing
turned into this giant affair.
It was...
And my birthday was
on the 26th so...
- The 26th?
- Yeah.
Okay, so...
so you're jealous.
- Well, I...
I uh...
I mean, I was a kid.
So yeah, I...
Ah, but then, I grew to like it.
I really appreciated it.
It was...
it's like the whole world was
decorated for my birthday.
- Hmm.
- We all shared this one day.
Made me appreciate things.
Wanna give back.
Hmm.
So, why are you so obsessed
with Christmas?
I am not obsessed
with Christmas.
Oh yeah? Hmm.
Okay.
I suppose...
I had the opposite experience.
- Hmm.
- We moved around a lot
because of my parents' work.
My nanny, Anna,
always made sure that
Christmas felt special.
But... we just didn't really
have any traditions of our own.
- Hmm.
We kind of just adopted
the holiday traditions of
whatever country we were in.
Well, that's unique.
It's lucky.
Hmm.
You know, I know it's silly
but these challenges...
they're kind of my way of
making my own traditions.
Hmm.
You know,
we can have fun and be
meaningful, right?
Well, we can try.
What if we do the help
a stranger challenge
but we make it fun
with a dress code?
Uh, so black-tie optional.
Decorating for those in need.
Bound to trend on social media.
- Hey, Kevin!
- Hey, Kev!
Idea.
What do you think about
helping strangers with tasks
but we dress all fancy
like we were going
to a Christmas ball?
- Awesome!
- He likes all your ideas.
- He's our barometer of fun.
What's a barometer?
It means you tell us what to do.
Can I be a barometer
all the time?
Hmm.
Well, I mean,
my family would love it.
Ooh!
How about we try
making maple lollipops
in the snow?
Bound to trend as a DIY.
Yeah, but how does that link
to our theme of giving back?
Well, it's giving back
if people share them.
- Kev?
- Kevin?
Maple lollipops?
- Yeah.
Okay, okay!
These cards are clearly stacked.
We are gonna settle this
the way our family settles it.
- Oh
- Oh, yes!
Ah!
Nice!
Lollipops it is.
And after lollipops,
speed gift wrapping.
- Wait, what?
- It's giving back.
- Huh? Uh, no. Veto.
Veto.
- Come on, hockey dad.
Best outta 10?
- Oh.
- Yeah!
My mum and uncle used to make
these when they were young.
You pour the maple syrup
and they become...
Lollipops.
December magic.
Just like today's weather.
And once you finish
making these,
we challenge you to share them
in the spirit of giving.
Just like donating Christmas
toys to spread joy.
Okay.
Oh, uh, just...
that's a big pour.
- I got it, Mr. Plum Pudding.
Slow it, slow it down.
Hey, wait, wait!
No! No, no, no!
- Okay.
- Uh...
- That was... That was...
- Okay.
- Uh...
Ta-da!
Um...
Yum!
Oh, okay. Okay.
Christmas can't
always be perfect.
Ah.
Well, perfectly imperfect.
That is so good.
- It's really good.
- It's really good.
It's really, really good.
The plan was to do
the toy drive in Chicago
but doing it here to start.
Hmm.
Why'd you leave?
I uh... I needed
to change things up.
They had a guest brewmaster
residency here, so...
Does Kevin miss it?
Ahem. So, this dry
bitter holiday stout,
that's my favoUrite right now.
Pairs perfectly with
some chocolate bark.
Ooh.
A pairing. Fancy.
Well, yeah. People take beer
as seriously as wine now.
I do.
- HMm.
It's good.
- Now don't forget
the chocolate bark.
So, I mean,
why all the Christmas
challenges?
Why not?
'Cause you're a weather woman.
I don't know. I...
I guess I just like...
promoting that holiday optimism
for my viewers.
- So, okay, here's a question.
- Hmm.
If you could do anything
you wanted
with that weather show,
what would you do?
Uh...
No, but someone's like,
"Hey, Gwen,
sky's the limit,
you've got unlimited funds."
No one's holding you back.
No Adams, no...
no, like, need for views.
What do you do?
- You are not holding me back.
- Oh yeah?
Much.
Mm.
You know this tastes like
I'm drinking gingerbread.
Mm-hmm.
No, but seriously,
you're on a nationally
broadcasted morning show.
What's your plan?
Well...
I guess I would try
to make people's mornings
a little brighter
by being their daily
motivational weather presenter.
First thing in the morning,
what do you say?
Uh...
Okay, we don't actually do that.
Okay, well there, there.
We're live, we're live, Gwen.
Hi, I'm Gwen Marley.
Welcome to the show.
I will be speaking to you
every morning
from your breakfast table,
like you were my family.
And today's forecast
is Christmas hope.
I don't know, too much?
- No, no, you gotta...
you gotta speak the truth of
your own forecast, right?
True.
You have to embrace
the temperature.
You can't hide from it.
- Yeah.
You are... you are the queen
of weather puns.
You want another one?
Um...
Views are plateauing.
I mean, the video just went up.
Should... It'll be fine.
Hmm.
I should probably get back
and work on the evening
broadcasts.
Um, yeah. I got, look,
I've got stuff to do.
The thing. Yeah.
- Yeah, okay.
- Uh, okay.
- Okay.
Do you miss Chicago?
Mm-hmm.
Well, I think we've got
a great life here.
You know, we get
to go on adventures together
all the time.
I can make my residency
permanent.
It gets kinda lonely sometimes.
You know, I...
I miss my friends.
Miss Nana and Papa.
Uncle Jason.
Well, we're gonna see
them all at Christmas.
We used to see them
all the time.
Miss getting red hots.
Come on, we got the best
hotdogs here, franks.
It's not the same.
After hockey, down by the lake.
What do you think of Andrea?
Hey, what is that?
- What?
- Right there, on your face.
What is that?
- What?
- No, right there.
What is that?
- Ah!
You missed a spot shaving,
you old man.
- Dad!
So, how's the holiday
tornado coming?
Um, well, arguing is way down
and toy donations are shoo,
way up.
Looks like you guys had fun
with the maple lollipops.
Yeah. How was that?
How'd I look?
Hey, you're finally having
silly holiday fun.
It's great.
Well, I mean, I am, like,
holiday jolly hype
personified, right?
Ho, ho.
That you are.
Uh, but no, no we should
do that sometime, huh?
Make those lollipops?
- Ah, it's fine.
No, it'd be fun.
I um, I...
Okay.
Cheers.
Aw.
Anna, thank you for this.
I know we're not supposed
to decorate your tree
until Christmas Eve but look!
Well, we're not in Poland
anymore, Toto.
How is Adam?
It looks like things
are much better.
At least,
that's what I see on the TV.
Well, it won't matter much
if the station closes.
Mum, hi.
Merry Christmas!
Hang on, let me put you
on speaker.
Mum, guess who's here right now.
- Anna?
- Merry Christmas, Miriam!
Merry Christmas!
Wish I was there.
Oh, well then, join us.
Yeah, Mum, why don't you
come back early?
We can leave some branches open
on the tree for you to decorate.
Thanks, but we can't.
Work. You know.
So, is it finalised?
Yes.
Do you wanna go over
the scholarship details while
we decorate the tree?
Yes, please.
Great.
Why is WHNR here?
Come on, guys.
We need a soundcheck.
Tape!
Dolly trucks.
I'm losing patience.
Need a board here.
Hair and makeup, please.
Okay, where's the clapper?
Can we move this tree?
'Cause they don't have
a single original idea.
Hmm.
We're live in 30, guys.
And action.
Exercise is great.
For health and mental wellbeing.
Especially around the...
Test, test, test. Levels.
Levels. Levels.
Check, hey, hey.
Looks like a party moved in.
As I was saying...
...exercise is great...
- Puddles, pity, pizza, party.
- I've got sound.
Ca-caw!
- Ah, that's rude.
No, Adam. Adam, don't!
- Well, I don't work
for the news.
Huh. Uh, yes.
So... ahem.
This is Don McBreen from WHNR.
What, are you kidding me?
Somebody fix this.
You wrap the resistance band
around yourself, like so.
And then...
- Ahem.
They're taking a little break.
Where were we?
- Lunges.
- Lunges.
- As I was saying,
you wrap the resistance band
around yourself, like so.
And let's burn off
that holiday fudge, people!
Whoa!
- Whoa!
- Did you...?
- I'm sorry.
No, hey, I'm alive.
I'm good.
You good? You're good?
You're good.
- Yes.
- We're good!
The unexpected
heavy snowfall will continue
for at least the rest
of the afternoon.
The high pressure was supposed
to send this south.
- Maybe the radar lied?
- No.
No, no, no,
this is me messing up.
I've been too distracted
thinking about views.
Oh, so what do we do
about the challenge?
- We can't exactly
encourage people to go outside
and get frostbite.
This weather was made
for an at-home spa day.
So, we challenge you
to try our exquisite
recommendations.
- Challenge?
- It was a figure of speech.
They even have a sponsor.
Look, they're copying my idea
like some kind of cheap
knockoff.
Well, it doesn't look
that cheap.
- Hey, Gus.
- Thought this was moving south?
- Radar lied.
Got the numbers.
Viewership has barely increased.
Okay, we just need
a bit more time.
You're almost halfway.
How are the donations, Adam?
Those are great, actually,
thank you.
Uh, you know, we just need
to be a little bit
more visible to the public.
We could go door-to-door
if we have to.
We are the station with heart.
Yeah, heart doesn't
keep the lights on.
Now that WHNR is copying us,
we have to give people
an exclusive reason to tune in.
Something they can't copy,
like a spa day challenge.
I'm pulling the plug on this
unless you can turn it around
in the next few days.
Maybe I can cut enough staff
to convince ownership.
I don't know.
I got nothing left.
Sorry.
Talk soon.
- Wait, Gus...
So, what do you do when
you're stuck inside?
Oh, I go full hygge.
Cozy Christmas comfort.
Okay, so maybe we do that.
Yeah, but how is that
any different
from what WHNR is doing?
Or even meaningful?
Guys, I made a new drill.
- Yourself?
- Can I show you?
- Uh...
- Sure!
Yeah, yeah.
You are so much faster!
Don't.
Wow, he's really owning
his practice.
Yeah.
It's not just about ambition,
it's about how you achieve it.
Great job!
Nicely done, Kev!
- I made another one.
- Ah, I would love to watch it
but we gotta get back to work.
- Why?
'Cause our challenges
need to get better.
Why don't you just have fun?
Like Christmas?
Having fun is what
Gwen taught me.
Just have fun like
it's Christmas.
I mean, I don't have
any better ideas.
But hey, what do you think
we should do
for the exercise challenge?
- Snowball fight.
Can't go outside.
But we could do
a sock snowball fight.
Yes!
We used to do those
when you were little.
A hygge snowball fight!
Hygge!
Kevin the Barometer!
You and Adam looked pretty
cute in that video today.
- Hmm.
- Oh, come on, it's obvious.
It doesn't matter.
- Sometimes it's the only thing
that does matter.
- No, because at this rate,
I am probably gonna end up being
a weather forecaster in Siberia.
And I'm pretty sure
that someone like Adam,
who has a child,
won't want to move to Siberia.
I think you're jumping the gun.
Is it real?
I don't know.
Well, then,
let their hearts decide.
Hmm?
- No.
I am not going to lead
on a single parent.
Plus, I owe it to my station
to see this thing through.
I sold them on my idea
and their families,
their jobs depend on me.
- If you wait too long,
opportunity vanishes.
Come on.
Oh, Principal Liam!
Please, come in.
The scholarship's official.
Congrats!
Oh, well, thank you.
You did not have to come
all this way.
Oh, I was just passing through.
Oh, hi. Uh...
lovely to see you, Anna.
Oh, good evening,
Principal Liam.
- Call me Liam.
- Oh!
Wait, why don't you join us?
- Oh, no, thank you.
- We have Belgian ale,
we have cocoa.
- I don't want to impose.
- No, no, no.
- I have an early day tomorrow.
Kids, you know.
Oh, um, made these.
- Thank you.
- Hope you like them.
- And I hope to see you soon.
- Me too.
- Oh! Oh!
- Oh!
- Yes!
- M-Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas!
- "Hope to see you soon"?
- Shh!
He'll hear you.
- Well, like you said,
time and tide await
for no woman.
Also, he made science cookies.
Oh, he's such a good man.
Wow.
Wow back.
Thanks for letting me borrow
your brewmaster belt.
- Hmm.
Solves the old pocket problem.
What are you keeping in there?
Chapstick, brush, staple gun.
Solid choice.
Uh, so what's next?
- Got it?
- Yeah.
Okay. Woo!
Perfect.
Okay.
When I was younger,
I'd always help a neighbour
put up decorations.
Um, usually it was someone
who was older or didn't
have the time.
Like, they had multiple jobs
or other circumstances.
So, we challenge you
to help someone with
a holiday task
while looking
Christmas fabulous.
Be sure to take a photo
and tag WYSH so we can share.
And then help a child
by donating toys.
Oh, and...
watch out for needle showers.
One hiding under there.
- Ooh.
- Hey.
Every house should
have mistletoe,
inside and out.
Because you never know when
you might share a holiday kiss
with that special someone
at a Christmas party.
You always have to be prepared.
In...
in case sparks fly.
Christmas is miracles.
It's having all
that you love around you.
And...
And realising it.
It's...
holiday joy as miracles.
It's, uh, it's hope
on the calendar.
So, be sure to tag us
and join us
so that we can share
in that joy too.
Like one big family.
Hello, Adam.
- Anna.
- I heard so much about you.
- Oh, really?
- Hmm.
So, tell me something.
Can you work anywhere
there's a brewery?
Um, yeah.
Uh, yeah, I guess I can.
Even in Siberia?
If, if there's a brewery
in Siberia, yeah.
Okay, think we're ready
to get started.
- We're live.
- Great.
For the Christmas Your Way
challenge,
we encourage you to create
a dish or dessert
from your own family traditions.
Don't forget to share
and tag WYSH.
And we wanna share something
with you, our viewer family.
Growing up, I experienced
a lot of Christmas traditions
because we moved around a lot.
But none of them quite felt
like my own except for my nanny
Anna's traditions.
Come on!
- Oh, okay.
Hello.
Anna always made it feel
like Christmas,
even when working over
the holidays
created a challenge
for my family.
Lucky us,
Anna is going to show us
how to make...
- Makowiec.
- Makowiec.
A Polish Wigilia,
Christmas Eve dessert.
My family's tradition.
Hmm.
Ready?
Ahem, Makowiec!
Oh.
He's punching his
like a caveman.
Uh, um...
yeast is a living,
delicate thing.
- Okay.
- You have to be firm
but gentle.
- Okay.
- Can you handle that?
Uh, yeah. Um,
I can handle that, yeah.
- Show me.
- Okay.
- Adam.
- Yeah?
You've got something.
Like, there's
a little bit of a...
- Where, what?
- Right, hang on.
- Where?
- No, right...
- You're so...
- Told ya.
Just have to stand there
and smile.
Uh-huh.
I'm getting you back.
- Are you?
- I'll get you back.
- Getting me back? Oh.
- Mm-hmm.
- Hey.
- Hey.
I thought you were coming later.
- Listen, I...
No, you go.
I'm looking for something more.
It just doesn't feel like
it was meant to be between us.
And I don't know why
I don't feel more.
We have fun together
and I love Kevin, but...
I've been feeling this way
for a while now.
Look, you are...
you're amazing.
You're gorgeous.
And I just, I was hoping
that with some time, it...
I don't wanna settle.
Me neither.
Say goodbye to Kevin for me?
Yeah, of course.
Okay.
You trying to copy my homework?
- Uh, no.
- You okay?
- Uh, yeah.
Yeah, I'm fine.
I just, um...
got a lot on my mind.
- Ah.
Yeah.
Well, why don't we share
what good we've done with Santa
and then we will share
our letters with our viewers?
- I've done a lot of good.
- Ah.
Look, writing letters
isn't just for kids.
It's a good way to reflect
on the year that passed
and think about what ambitions
you have for the year ahead.
It's like a mindfulness
journal and a vision board
all wrapped up into one letter
to the North Pole.
- What's a vision board?
It's like a wish list
for the future.
I know what I want next year.
Uh, what do you want, Adam?
- Um...
happiness all around.
- Ah, ambitious.
Yeah.
What about you?
A Christmas happiness
forevermore.
- Okay.
But what about... you?
A real Christmas miracle.
Me too.
Gwen, you're great.
Oh.
Why am I great?
Because you...
you really like Christmas.
For real.
You don't pretend.
I try.
Keep on being Christmas.
Huh?
Don't worry about the views.
Just follow whatever
feels right.
Is something wrong?
You are never this positive.
Negative.
Nothing's wrong.
Now you are officially
scaring me.
Don't freak out
but WYSH's viewership has
just edged out WHNR.
- What?
Yes, they're copying us
and they're failing.
Okay, well, what are you
doing? What's this?
Oh, everybody's commenting
on how WNHR's Christmas joy
feels fake.
And I'm enjoying
the schadenfreude.
I did not know
that came with a dance.
We're what people wanna
wake up to in the morning.
You are. I'm not.
You crazy blizzard of a person.
- You just might save
the station.
Wow.
Sorry, you are just joking
and laughing and dancing,
and it's a little weird.
And also wonderful.
Ownership's gonna be
at the delivery this evening.
Don't mess it up.
Hmm.
Gwen Marley, WYSH.
Hi, Laura from
Channel 3 Chicago.
- Hello.
- So, the reason I'm calling is
we've been following
your challenges
after they started trending
and well,
frankly, we love them.
Oh.
Wow. Thank you.
We're looking for someone
with genuine appeal
and we're hoping
you might be that person.
I'd like to shortlist you,
if you're interested.
Wow. Uh...
uh, yes.
Yes, of course.
Wonderful.
We'll just need a reel of
your regular segment
and we'll have you come in
and audition here
as soon as possible.
My assistant will reach
out with details.
Thank you.
Okay, WYSH viewers,
stay tuned for more adventures
from the great indoors.
Ah, perfect.
Oh.
I forgot to tell you.
I got shortlisted for a job
in Chicago.
Channel 3.
Uh, that's um...
that's amazing.
Congratulations.
- Thanks.
Yeah, I still have to audition
and everything
but I'll make sure
that I schedule that
around the challenges.
- No, I mean,
it's your dream job.
I hope you get it.
Does this mean
you have to move away?
Uh, look, Gwen needs to do
what's best for her career
and in Chicago,
there's so many more people
who can see her on TV.
Would we?
I could definitely
send you clips.
See?
We could move back to Chicago.
Um, you know what?
Why don't we talk about
that one later, okay?
Are you gonna watch
my hockey tryouts?
Gwen has her own life, Kev,
and she is really, really busy.
But it can be, you know,
just the two of us again.
Why can't we move
back to Chicago?
- Hmm.
- Um, I, it's, um...
not yet.
- Why?
Because there's just too much.
There's room for more
people there, Dad.
Um... no. Hey.
No, Kev. Kev.
- Oh.
- Kev, come on.
C...
I am so sorry.
Just give me a minute.
Of course.
Okay.
What is the problem?
- I...
I spoke with her assistant
and it sounds like
all of the on-air talent
has built-ins.
- Uh...
- Endorsement deals.
Oh. So, you're going
to just pass?
No. No, no, no,
I'm not, I just...
it breaks the trust
with my audience.
Like, they are like
family to me.
Hey, I'm your family.
And you never compromised
taking care of me.
- Okay.
- I am with these people
every morning, in their homes.
Don't they deserve
some sincerity?
But you would be finally
reaching the audiences
that you've always dreamed of.
And no more thinking,
"Oh, is my station
going to stay afloat
another year?"
Come on, this is ridiculous.
You will do your career
a disservice.
And what would
your parents think?
I am so proud of you.
Look at this!
Donations through the roof.
Well, it's thanks to you.
- So?
Are you gonna do this again
next year in Chicago?
Ah, no. No,
I mean, like,
not without you or the station,
we're gonna have a tough
time matching this, so...
WYSH will help.
And who says I'm leaving?
- Oh, come on, you're going.
I'll still help.
No, you're gonna be down
there, you're gonna be...
you're gonna be sharing
your challenges,
traditions with a whole
new viewer family.
That's your dream, right?
What about doing this again
next year?
In Chicago.
Isn't that your dream?
Uh, no, I um...
Look, I wanna spend some time
with Kevin,
just the two of us, here.
You know, I mean,
I'm not gonna have
that opportunity
when he's older.
Plus they offered me
a full-time position here.
- Wow.
- Yeah.
I would have to do endorsement
deals at Channel 3.
Uh, like push products?
Yeah.
But what happened to being
honest with your audience?
It's a huge opportunity.
But no, that's what Kev loves
about you, is you being you.
You're... that's what
makes you special.
Well, who I am on camera
is just a part of me.
Right? I have ambitions.
I really wanna make
a difference.
You're better than that.
Huh.
What about you?
- What about me?
- Kevin hates it here.
No, he... look, he just,
he misses his friends.
I think it's more than that.
I just don't see why
you can't go back to Chicago.
You have no idea
what we went through.
You're right.
I don't.
But you said it yourself
that Christmas is about being
around everything you love
and realising it.
So, if you don't
have everything,
it's not Christmas, and that's
not living for you or for Kevin.
I uh... I know
what's best for my son.
Thank you.
So, why don't you just go?
Chase your limelight.
And I'll take care of
my priorities here.
I think it's best if we just
finish this and move on.
- I agree.
Yeah.
Think you'll be more
than happy with us.
Uh...
the mandatory built-ins.
- Mm-hmm.
Standard for all
our on-air talent.
I can't.
I'm sorry,
it's not non-negotiable.
It's part of our bottom line
and it's what pays for all this.
The journalism, sets,
your salary.
I mean, people know what it is,
recommendations, that's all.
You told me your dream was
to reach a bigger audience.
This is it, Gwen.
WYSH is about values.
And it's probably closing.
It's not a secret.
Affiliates are being cut
across the country.
It's the times.
This is survival.
But what if...
what if doing a really
good job meant something?
Connecting genuinely
with audiences.
Couldn't that pad
the bottom line?
Listen, we love you
but if this is a no,
then we'll just move on
to the next person on our list.
Yeah.
What are those?
Oh, fan mail.
Letters to Santa from
our kid viewers.
Hmm.
A wise person once told me
that I don't pretend.
I can't change who I am.
And as much as I want this job,
I think I would be doing
a disservice to your viewers.
Like, how can I
influence audiences
if I can't be honest?
This destroys that trust.
- Hmm.
I would just be a smile
with nothing behind it.
Gwen, I hear you,
but this is ridiculous.
This isn't a big deal.
I would really love
to make this work
but I have some conditions.
I would want to finish
my Christmas challenges
with WYSH, and I won't
do endorsement deals.
And if that's a deal breaker,
then so be it.
You're gonna walk away
because you won't simply mention
a product recommendation.
Not everything can be bought.
This would solidify your career.
You could get a job anywhere if
you just compromised a little.
You'd be crazy to walk away.
I hope that you will
consider my terms.
Thank you for your time.
And merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Okay, that is the one, yes.
Ooh.
You know,
Chicago is only
a couple of hours away.
I could take the train.
Look, I very likely
did not get this job.
And if by some miracle I did,
I will be the one taking
the train to you.
- I am so happy for you.
Don't jinx it.
- No.
- Anna.
Did I just sabotage
my entire career
by making some silly, foolish...
They saw something different.
And it's worth way more
than any endorsement deal.
Maybe Adam will move back
to Chicago for you.
- I think he has to follow
his own forecast.
- Oh, honey.
Christmas reveals
what's true to the heart.
What really matters.
And that's the greatest
gift of all.
For me, that's staying
true to who I am.
And a young boy reminded
me of that.
Me.
And I thank him for that
wonderful Christmas gift.
I promise I won't ever change.
Um, hey, everyone,
if I can just have
your attention
for a quick second.
I know you're busy.
What I wanted to say
is merry Christmas.
And you know, every one of those
toys being loaded up right now
will be distributed on time,
and will be sitting under a tree
in time for Christmas morning.
Aw.
- And just wanted to say
thank you so much.
So, um,
in the spirit of fifth season...
...let's do this.
- Did you speak to Adam yet?
- No, I've been busy.
- What's new?
What do you have to lose?
Just go.
I...
- Come on.
- Excuse me.
Ugh!
Hello?
Gwen, hi. Laura.
So, we showed our morning's
broadcast to a focus group
and you killed it.
So, we've agreed to your terms.
But we'll need you here
to start prepping immediately.
Like, tomorrow immediately.
Our temp weather presenter
is terrible.
- I will be there!
- Wonderful.
- Thank you.
Congratulations.
You saved the station.
- Uh...
- Our jobs.
- Gus, I...
- You know I wasn't a big fan
of your challenges
but you have proven me wrong.
I took a job
at Channel 3 Chicago.
Oh.
Well, I always knew
you were going places.
WYSH will always be
home for you.
You know that, right?
Oh.
1,126 toys found homes
thanks to Adam Docker
and all the volunteers
for the Miracle of Toys.
And uh, on a personal note,
I wanted to say thank you
for allowing me and WYSH
to be a part of
this... Christmas miracle.
And I have some news.
I will be starting my new job
at Channel 3 Chicago tomorrow.
Hey, good for you!
I also have to thank
Adam and Kevin.
Because they really showed me
what I'm missing in my life.
Um, what I want.
And they really helped
prove to me
why these values are important.
And I hope that they'll follow
their hearts, too.
So, thank you.
Good night.
And merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
- Gwen.
- Thank you. I...
Kevin.
Look, thank you for everything.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Gwen.
Listen, I...
Uh...
I really hope that you expand
to Chicago next year
like you planned.
So, good luck.
And take care.
You, uh, you...
Anna, why are there
six place settings here?
Well, I've told you this.
It's Polish tradition
to have one extra setting
to symbolise a place
for a lonely wanderer
who might be in need of food.
- Right.
Right.
- Mm-hmm.
But that's still three
settings too many.
Ha, is it?
Ooh!
Go.
Okay.
Oh, hi!
Come in!
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
Uh, please!
Thank you so much for coming.
- Anna?
I am a little confused.
Oh yeah, there's more.
Just wait.
One more. Come on.
- Okay.
What?
Mum!
You came back early.
Your father lands in an hour.
When we saw your segment
about how Anna's
holiday traditions felt like
your own, well,
I'm sorry.
It's time we spend more time
with you going forward.
Oh.
- Okay, come on.
Let's get ready.
The soup is ready.
Come on. Come in!
Oh, hey.
- I have something to say.
- Okay.
We both know
you're not happy here.
What, how? What?
Kevin deserves better.
You deserve better, frankly.
I mean, I deserve better.
And you need to be in Chicago.
So, go.
Merry Christmas.
Okay.
Go get 'em.
- Kevin?
- Yeah?
- Pack your bags.
- All right!
Gwen. Gwen.
- What are you doing here?
- Hey, look, I know you're on
in like, 30 seconds so
I'm gonna keep this quick.
But you, you are amazing.
You helped me find joy again.
You um...
you woke me up.
I'm done hiding from my life.
I'm moving back to Chicago.
I wanna be the dad
that Kevin deserves and I...
I wanna be with you.
Adam...
that's all I've wanted to hear.
You know, all I've ever wanted
is to be true
to myself and my audience,
and you understood that.
You and Kevin inspired me
to be who I'm truly meant to be.
Are you back from commercial?
Yeah, it happened
about 30 seconds ago.
Oh. Oh.
Oh. Um...
- Ahem.
Well, I... I told you
I could do better.
Well, it's nothing
but snowy skies ahead, folks.
Yeah!
Hmm.
Choo.
- Morning, Gwen.
- Morning.
Hi!
- Hi.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
Morning, Dad!
Morning, Kev.
...great ideas from
our very own Don McBreen.
Don.
Did you know
you can order Christmas gifts
on delivery apps?
Check names off your list
with zero effort?
Here's what's trending
as must-haves for this holiday.
If you are heading out the door,
be sure to crank up
those car seat warmers
and blast some holiday music
because the first big snow
of the season
is dropping by this morning.
But be sure to get outside
later today
because I see nothing
but sunny skies ahead.
Temperatures in the high 30s
rest of the week with...
And that's the wrong graphic!
But this is exactly
how the upper 30s will feel
in your heart
because we're in
the fifth season, folks.
An entire month of warm feelings
that will melt away
the chilly air.
As Sir Walter Scott once wrote,
"Heap on more wood,
the wind is chill,
but let it whistle as it will.
We'll keep our Christmas merry,
still."
And so, for the third day
of my December challenge,
25 Ways to Say Christmas,
I challenge you to get out...
- Me.
...and experience
this winter wonderland
by taking a hike.
I, myself, will be
trekking along
the Stockton Crest Trail today.
Maybe I'll see ya there.
Can we go, Dad?
Yeah, I mean, some exercise
would help you out
with hockey training, so...
maybe after school, huh?
Back to you, Mary.
Actually, I uh, do wanna do
a quick challenge first.
Seeing how we are experiencing
this first snowfall,
why don't you get out there,
embrace that holiday
joie de vivre,
and catch a snowflake
on your tongue.
Ready?
Let's go!
Coming up after the break,
more of your local news on WYSH.
Hey, no, hey, Kev.
Kev, jacket. Jacket!
Okay.
Hey.
We could always just sell out.
I will not be bought!
We have always been about
journalistic integrity
over money.
- Yeah.
- Endorsement deals
are against our DNA.
- Yes.
- So, what do we do then?
Our ratings are at
an all-time low.
Because of WHNR.
Even more reason to ignore
them and focus on us.
Come on.
I need ideas.
Ownership is gonna shut us down
unless our December
viewership goes up
or we put our budget
back into the black.
- Hmm.
- Paid endorsements
can buy us time.
Or they'll just turn us
into an infomercial disguised
as local news like WHNR.
No, no, no.
I have a better idea.
Rather than sell out or cut...
...we go big.
No, no, no.
No, no.
I said trim costs.
We put on a highly visible
December event
to prove that we are
the only local,
values-driven news station.
Not some consumer
hype echo chamber.
And what better way
to showcase our...
our small-town ethics
than to partner
with a cause for Christmas?
Our jobs are on the line, Gwen.
My 25 Ways to Say Christmas
challenges
are the perfect vehicle
for engagement.
The whole station
can get involved.
We'll partner with
a local cause,
not some brand
looking for sympathy.
It's Christmas.
Plus social media viral.
Yeah, I'm in.
Who likes Gwen's plan?
Me.
Everyone brainstorm ideas
and pitch 'em to me
by the end of the day.
Wow.
Hello, WYSH viewers.
Well, look at this beauty
under the sun.
I'm out here completing
today's challenge.
What about you?
Oh, cool.
A squirrel?
Now, you see,
even in the middle of winter,
the forest is still
full of life.
Ooh.
Finally, peace.
Whoa!
Hey, you're off
on the brush there.
You should stick
to the main trail.
- Where's the fun in that?
Well, the fun's in not
calling search and rescue.
Ah.
Clearly, you've never been
carried by a firefighter.
Hmm.
Well, enjoy the trail.
And uh, thanks for watching.
You're "the" Gwen.
I am the Gwen.
What's tomorrow's challenge?
Oh, you'll have to tune in
tomorrow to find out.
What's your name?
- Kevin.
How do you know the weather?
I interpret meteorological data.
Cloud coverage, air pressure, temperature.
Yeah, studied it in school.
- What school?
Why don't we let Gwen
get stuck in the snow here
while we carry on, okay?
Uh, what's the weather
right now?
It is 37 with
a low of 24 tonight.
Warming air overnight with
sunny skies ahead.
Hats and gloves optional
for an incoming blizzard
of holiday joy.
Kev, we've gotta keep you
in shape for hockey. Let's go.
- Uh, can we take a photo?
- Absolutely!
Here, come on over.
Uh, wait.
I have a better idea.
Why don't we do a video
and then I could post it to
the station's social media page
for the daily challenge!
Huh?
If it's all right with your dad?
Uh, yeah. Okay.
Um...
Hmm. I am here
with cool kid,
and weather enthusiast, Kevin,
who is out here hiking
with his hockey dad,
and enjoying this beautiful day
that we're having.
So, Kevin, do you watch WYSH?
Every morning.
And what have you found
out here hiking?
You.
Ah!
Well, there you have it, folks.
Get out there and seize
the day, just like Kevin.
Oh.
Oh, uh, this is WYSH,
thanks for watching.
- Perfect!
You're a natural.
You want one too?
- Ah, no. No, I'm good.
Thank you.
- Mm-hmm.
Nice to meet you.
How cool was that, Dad?
Yeah, that was pretty cool.
That was cool times infinity.
Hi!
So, boss,
what's the plan?
Well, Mary suggested
that we do ride-alongs
with investigative journalists.
Kind of like reality TV.
- Right.
- And Isaac suggested
that we turn the station
into a speakeasy after hours
to earn some extra income.
Which leaves your idea, or this.
This would be
our first endorsement.
A... a coat rack?
It's a Christmas tree.
- It looks like a cat tree.
- It's chic.
It's sacrilegious, Gus.
Yeah.
Listen, I don't like your idea.
It's risky and rushed.
Kinda like writing a college
paper the night before.
But everyone else is on board.
So, 25 Ways to Say
Christmas is a go.
I will not let you down.
We're all on the chopping block.
Don't forget it.
And I don't need to remind you
that weather presenter jobs
are scarce.
Find a nonprofit.
We officially relaunch 25 Ways
to Say Christmas in two days.
Yes!
Thank you so much.
Okay, Anna,
kolaczki is in the oven.
Ah.
Americans make a holiday
out of anything.
It's a bit gimmicky,
but who cares?
Who am I to say it's not
national cookie day?
It's your freedom to choose
cookies for a day.
- Mm!
- Mm.
- Hm.
- Hm.
Feeling patriotic now?
Okay.
Mm.
So how was your date with Jason?
Argued a lot.
You argued with a lawyer?
- Well, it wasn't meant to be,
so...
So, you should have men
lining up.
I do.
All the wrong ones.
Look, do you have any idea
what it's like
being an insignificant
celebrity around town?
I get at least one e-mail
marriage proposal per year.
Why only one?
I just want something real.
People see me as this persona,
this uh...
cheery, pixie dream
weather woman.
Not a real human.
- Well.
It makes dating frustrating.
- So?
Go somewhere where
nobody knows you.
I might have to.
If 25 Ways to Say
Christmas fails,
the station will probably close
and I'll have to take
a meteorologist's job
at some remote airstrip
somewhere.
E-mail marriage proposals are
the least of my worries.
Just don't put
everything on hold
waiting for the clouds
to clear like...
like I did.
Hey, your parents made it work.
How are they?
Outsourcing.
They are currently stuck
in Malaysia until Christmas Day.
Bridge project.
Mum's the lead engineer.
And they've saddled me
with overseeing
this STEM scholarship
that they've funded
for my old high school.
Okay, you need some help.
Oh, no.
No, no, no, no, it's fine.
- I'm still helping you
with your school projects.
Okay, so, what shape
do we make next?
And since it's
national cookie day,
and a warm treat is heaven
in this crisp air,
I challenge you to bake cookies,
and in the spirit of
the holidays, share them.
Can we, Dad?
Uh no, we're giving back
today, Kev, remember?
We're live in an hour.
Right.
Uh, we're looking for a...
a deeper partnership.
Not just social media posts.
We are fighting WHNR
through cookies.
I, I understand that
the holiday season
has already started, but...
...it's never too late to jump
into something new, right?
I see.
Well, maybe next year then.
Buh-bye.
Gus, we are going
around town to...
All of you?
Yes!
We are going
to distribute cookies
as promotion for the station.
Yeah, just um, don't forget
about the broadcast.
Heh.
All right, everyone,
let's get to it.
We've got cookies to distribute.
I'm an elf making toys.
And I'm a Christmas tree.
- But you don't have lights.
- Right.
Uh...
Wrap me.
Go show my dad.
One sec.
What's going on?
- It's not enough.
It's your first year.
Even one donation will
make a difference.
No, but we can do so much
better than this. It...
Dad, look, I'm an elf.
That's great, Kev.
Hey, uh, look, can you, um...
can you help out and sort
the toys in that box there?
- Yeah.
- Thanks.
Hey.
It's Christmas.
- I know.
Do you?
It's just my family goes
so overboard
with all of this and...
And I'm excited to meet them.
No, no, like my mum,
she wears Santa pants
and a hat all of December.
My brother, he just grows
his beard out for months
to get into Santa mode,
and my dad,
he goes so overboard with
lawn decorations
that getting a cease and desist
for city code violations
is basically like our...
holiday tradition.
Sounds great.
Oh yeah. Yeah.
No, it's...
I mean, Christmas is
deeper than that. It's...
it's not just about
silly stuff, right?
It's giving back.
Like this. Like, every single
one of these toys,
this is a small miracle
for the kids and families
that get them, and isn't
that what people deserve?
Just like, miracles? Instead of
just a bunch of jolly hype?
So, you're the black sheep
of the family.
- Yeah.
Yeah.
- All right.
Miracles it is.
Let's do this.
- Thank you.
- Yeah.
Hey, Kev?
Let's give your dad
a little time to work.
Okay, I uh,
I'll see you guys later.
Bye.
Happy national cookie day!
- Oh wow, thank you.
- Oh, thank you!
Be sure to tune into WYSH
for today's daily challenge.
- Absolutely.
- Yeah.
- Thanks again.
- Thank you.
Wow, that is really good.
Happy national cookie day!
- Oh, thanks.
- Oh.
Hey! What...
What's the forecast?
- Oh, well...
Today,
we have a low-pressure system
coming down from the north
that will dash away
these angelic clouds for
Santa-approved clear skies.
Today's forecast is cozy,
merry, and bright.
Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
- Happy national cookie day!
- Merry Christmas.
Someone can help you
over at the counter.
- Are those toys?
- Yeah. Uh, look.
Any donations you have,
just drop them in the bin.
Thanks.
Weather lady.
Hockey dad.
You're donating cookies?
Offering an opportunity.
Are you in charge here?
I uh, yeah,
this is my toy drive.
How can I help you?
- What if I said
I could help boost
your donations?
Make it rain toys.
- How?
A little free publicity
from WYSH.
Um, a shoutout, yeah.
Yeah, that'd be...
that'd be great. Thank you.
Good! Oh, I think that
this will be such
a mutually beneficial
partnership!
Wow, wait.
Partnership, what do you mean?
We are looking for
a sympathetic cause
to promote alongside my daily
weather challenges.
You know, we want
to remind people
that we are the only local
values-driven news station.
So, you want to use my toy
drive as advertising.
- Helping your cause.
- Hmm.
You're already partnering
with the brewery, right?
Uh, no. No, they donate
the space. I just work here.
Ah.
Toy drive in a brewery.
It's just one drop-off
location. We've got others.
And besides, families come
in here all the time.
They get food, they...
it's perfect.
They uh, tell
their friends about it,
we host community events.
And you...
you... you want me
to help you get sympathy
for your network
as the good guy.
- Mutually beneficial.
- Yeah.
Like, holiday NATO.
Doesn't that seem
a little disingenuous?
There's no catch here.
Just a deluge of donations.
We would just have to film
some challenges together
and get up to a little bit
of promotional mischief
for social media.
- Ah.
And maybe hang a few WYSH
posters up in here.
Ah, yeah, I got you.
I got you.
Just some lighthearted fun
to motivate people to donate.
No, you wanna use me
like you used my son
to promote your network
yesterday.
I was just trying to be nice.
I will take any
positive exposure I can get
for this but I'm not gonna
be your little pity mascot
just to make more money
for your network.
I didn't realise there was
a holiday charity purity test.
- We're...
we're genuinely trying
to help people here.
This isn't fluff news.
- That's the other station.
- Yeah, well,
everyone's hyping
something, right?
Hmm.
I will have you know,
I take the weather seriously.
I just add a little love to it.
Okay, that's great.
Thanks.
This is a meaningful effort
to help people, not fluff news.
Tell me the good news.
I did find a big
sibling nonprofit.
I am hopeful.
I just need a bit more time.
We needed to start yesterday.
What else?
- Um...
I found a toy drive.
Unfortunately,
they were not interested.
- Lock something down
or we will all have to become
fans of the cat tree.
Go for Gus.
Gwen.
- 10 seconds.
I just pitched
to corporate some of
the nonprofits you're chasing.
They were about
to make us accept
the cat tree deal, so I lied.
I am live in 10 seconds.
I told them we had already
locked down the toy drive
as promotional partner.
They came around
and latched on to it
as the only cause they like.
Good optics. Helping kids.
- Gus, I haven't had...
- Make it happen.
Gwen Marley here with
your daily weather report.
I challenge you
to pay it forward.
That's what we do, Dad.
Yeah. Yeah, it is.
Like donating!
Or donating...
to a local toy drive.
In fact, there's probably
a local toy drive
looking for donations right now.
There might actually be one
with a drop-off location
at Railside Brewing.
How convenient!
They may just be accepting
donations this afternoon.
What better way
to pay it forward?
These are for the toy drive.
- Thank you so much.
- Of course.
- And enjoy these holiday ales.
- Oh, nice.
- Thank you.
Cheers.
Paying it forward
Paying it forward
Ah?
- Thank you.
So...
was there a downpour
of donations?
Steady showers.
Wouldn't it be nice if
it rained toys every day?
You're pretty confident
in that forecast of yours.
100% chance of showers.
- Nothing is 100%.
- I am.
You're asking me
to be your prop.
I am asking you
to pay it forward
to my station by having
a little bit of fun on camera.
Come on!
I will get my station staff
to volunteer here.
- What you...
- I will help you.
Wow, you're reminding me
of my family.
- Thank you.
- No, see,
that's what I'm worried about.
How many toys is
your pride worth?
So we have to agree
upon everything.
This is mutually beneficial.
- Mm-hmm.
I'm serious about Christmas.
I like your holiday ambition.
I'm Adam, by the way.
Gwen.
Well, I will be back later,
Adam.
Make sure you bring
your most brilliant
holiday challenge ideas.
Okay?
- Mm-hmm.
And merry Christmas.
Well, credit goes to my parents
for the scholarship.
I'm just helping out.
You were a good student.
- Mm-hmm.
- You mean a nerd.
Your parents were the nerds.
Oh, don't tell them I said that.
Well, nerds do run
the world these days.
Your mum was the local legend
winning every regional
science fair.
And your father was
always second.
Nothing's changed.
Actually, my dad did tell me
that it was the egg experiment
in your science class
that got him interested
in becoming an engineer.
My first year of teaching.
Your father spent so much time
in the library researching.
And he shows up with
this complicated contraption,
using rubber bands
and popsicle sticks.
Your mum strides in
with the eggs suspended with
panty hose in a jug.
Oh.
And she wins.
Your father was in awe.
Humpty Dumpty fell in love.
Um, do you work in
engineering as well?
Oh no.
I crack eggs.
Anna was my nanny growing up.
Oh. How lovely.
Well, no, she is lovely.
I'm strict.
Me too.
Oh!
Well, we did move around
a lot growing up.
But Anna always made it
feel like home.
And we did live here
the longest,
to be near my grandparents,
so this always did feel the most
like a home town for me.
Now you're the hometown
hero on TV.
Oh, I don't know about that.
Oh yes. Come on.
So, the scholarship.
Yes, um...
Done your hockey reps yet?
Hey, look, I just want you
to be prepared, Kev. Okay?
- I will.
- Okay.
Wow, looks great!
So colourful.
I wanna do another one.
What?
What do you think of mine?
- The icing's all messed up.
So, um...
WYSH wants to promote
the toy drive.
- That's great!
- Yeah.
- Right?
No, I...
They're asking me to do
all these promotional videos
and assist, it seems.
- It sounds fun.
But what if it turns
into a thing?
Well, what if you get
more donations?
No, but a thing.
And it could turn into, like,
a bigger thing and snowball
into a really big thing...
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Say that in English.
Okay, look, any time, any...
Any time a brewery
I worked for expanded
or got taken over or sold out,
they just...
they lost their soul.
It's a toy drive, Adam.
Yeah. Yeah.
My icing got a little messed up.
No, it looks like
a cookie to me.
Hey!
Cookie saboteur!
No, I'm a cookie sampler,
not some...
mm... 7.5 out of 10.
Okay, give me a bite.
Okay.
Okay, so we can film
the key challenges on air
and the rest, we'll livestream
on social media.
Oh, and for the weather
challenge announcement,
we could do that outside, like
reporters in a weather hot zone.
They don't let you
out much, huh.
I'll handle the weather.
You just have to stand
there and smile.
Why do I even need
to be on camera then?
To show that the toy drive
and the station are a team.
Oh, so what, like stand
there like a mascot?
You could be a dancing mascot.
Okay.
All you really have to do
is be charming and smile
like you know a smile is worth
a thousand donations.
Okay. How's this?
Good enough.
Did you get the ideas
I sent over?
Um, yeah.
Yeah, the uh, the 22nd,
that delivery makes sense.
- Great.
And I was thinking,
since you're the founder,
it might be a nice touch
to deliver
a deeply personal speech
on stage?
It could be really
inspirational.
Uh, no.
No, this is not about me.
- Right.
So, how did you come up
with the toy drive idea?
Uh... huh.
I um...
That was a dream of
my late wife and I.
We uh... her family,
they always donated toys
as a tradition, and then
they'd just...
they'd get new ones and then...
give the old ones
to those who need.
Adam, that's really beautiful.
Why don't you share that?
No, look, I'm not guilting
people into donating.
It's not guilting people.
It's taking hearts
and baking them in an oven
of Christmas grace.
And shouting to the world,
"Tonight we feast on joy!"
What about a gingerbread
house challenge
with a hand tied
behind your back?
- No. Uh...
- Okay.
How about a...
flash mob nativity scene
challenge?
You are so desperate for likes.
I am trying to save my station
and I need eyeballs for that.
And I'm trying
to keep my charity
from turning into a sideshow.
Eyeballs equal donations.
The more fun we have on camera,
the more we can pay it forward.
I mean, what is your problem?
- Standards.
Dad?
Look, Christmas is about action.
It's not about showboating.
You're above the holiday spirit.
I get it. You don't like
any of my ideas,
what do you wanna do?
- Dad!
I... I gotta go. But...
why don't we just do
these first challenges
and then we can figure out
the rest as we go. Okay?
Okay,
you guys ready? And action.
It is a toasty 32 today, folks!
That's more than half
the heat in Hawaii right now.
Right, Adam?
- Yeah.
Folks. I would love
to introduce you
to my smiley cohost,
Mr. Adam Docker,
founder of the local toy drive,
Miracle of Toys.
And we at WYSH are
partnering with him
to give back
this holiday season.
We at WYSH are
a values-driven station.
Not motivated by pushing
Christmas holiday products
like some other local stations.
And so, Adam and I
will be doing my daily
challenges together.
What do you say, Adam?
Are you down?
Uh, can I say something?
Absolutely.
Gah, uh, please donate.
Thank you.
Please.
- Yes.
- Ahem.
- What's that?
- It's...
"A good conscience is
a continual Christmas."
Benjamin Franklin said that.
- Okay!
Hah!
The Miracle of Toys donation
drop-off will be
at Railside Brewing,
and it will be hosted
by your talent from WYSH.
So, come on down
in the spirit of Christmas.
And now, without further ado.
Today's challenge
inspired by the weather is...
Express your holiday spirit!
Express your holiday sp...
Ahem. Hmm.
Supposed to be at the same time.
I tried. I'm sorry.
We didn't really practise that.
Uh no, just all stop touching
everything, please.
Best in snow smile!
Oh, what is this?
This is the holiday makeover
challenge for socials.
You have to pick
a Christmas outfit.
I have Santa pants in here.
- You sound like my mum.
You should probably take that
up with your therapist.
Okay, but can you stop them?
What are they doing?
We are bringing up
the temperature in here
from like, a zero to Christmas.
It's not a zero.
I had...
there was poinsettias and I...
What?
- Put on that Christmas spirit.
Mmm!
Hello, WYSH viewers.
I have a question for you.
What are you thankful for?
I know I am thankful for you all
because every day
I come to work,
I feel like I'm with family.
What are you thankful for, Adam?
I... I...
I'm thankful for um...
for perspective.
Because Christmas gives you
a chance to take the whole year
into stock and just...
and appreciate what you have.
Because it can all
be gone in a flash.
Huh.
Uh...
I also wanted to ask,
what is everyone's best
and worst Christmas gift?
Ah, Gus!
Uh... turkey frying kit?
Also the worst 'cause
I burned my lawn.
That's good!
Adam?
Uh, my best, best
Christmas gift is the...
is the miracle of giving.
'Cause when you're...
when you're a part of something
that's so much bigger
than yourself, it's just,
it's... that's better than
any superficial gift, right?
- Hmm.
- And then the worst gift
would be... indifference.
Are you holiday joy celibate?
What? No.
'Cause...
your holiday gravitas
is killing us here.
You're asking
the questions here.
This whole thing is supposed
to be uplifting, not gloomy.
I'm gloomy? No, I'm...
Look, I'm giving you heartfelt
answers here and you...
Okay, look, you need me, right?
So, maybe what your station
could use
is a little less whimsy
and a little bit more
holiday gravitas.
Your holiday cheer is
hibernating, mister.
Don't, don't touch the...
Ah...
- No, he's... like,
he doesn't hate Christmas,
he just...
takes it too seriously.
Christmas means different
things to different people.
When your family moved around,
your parents made us try
different Christmas traditions
to be as multicultural
as possible.
Some were just silly
but others more religious-based,
more thoughtful,
and... and you need
to respect that.
Yeah, but it's not that.
It's...
it's something else.
Well, maybe his Christmas
gravity will deepen
your weather motivation.
Or... or...
- Or?
- It will kill my station
and deepen my career's grave.
Seriously, our views
are pitiful so far.
Come on. Be patient.
You have enough Christmas
spirit to melt anything.
Mmm.
- Hmm. Mm.
Even, uh...
- Hmm.
Like, Mr. Bah-humbuggy?
He looks normal.
Oh, okay.
- Hmm.
Well, he can be normal
the other 11 months of the year,
but right now,
I need a razzle-dazzle.
Razzle-dazzle, okay.
So...
how about you
and Principal Liam?
- What do you mean?
I saw you two eye-flirting.
Eye cake and eye sauce
and winky facing.
- Oh, come on!
I'm too old for the winky face.
Oh, stop! No.
- No, you're not.
I'll show you, look.
- Okay, okay, okay, here.
Here, open this. Come on.
- What? No!
- Yes.
- Anna...
I'm not a little kid anymore.
You'll always be to me.
But come on, it's for the Day
of St. Nicholas.
Come on.
Excuse me, I have not
been naughty this year.
Keep going.
Oh, Anna.
Mm-hmm.
It's... it's for when
you present the weather.
I love it.
I love that we have these
traditions together.
- Me too.
And that's the moment I realised
that the holidays were
a barometer of grace.
Of not thinking about me,
but of thinking of others.
Of us. Of... society
and what we...
Of giving back.
So, come on down and donate!
Christmas is in the house.
And so, today's challenge is...
are you ready, Adam?
- So ready.
Blindfold tree decorating.
Eh? Huh?
Mm-hmm.
Okay.
This is ridiculous.
It's the right amount of
ridiculous to go viral.
Hmm.
Okay. Oh, uh,
do we have a safe word
in case things go wrong?
- Uh, pfft, I don't know.
Uh, plum pudding.
- Perfect.
- Okay.
Ahem.
All right, WYSH viewers,
welcome to blindfold
tree decorating.
Let's do this!
Okay.
I feel something.
Whoop!
- Ow.
- Oh no, I... oh, are you okay?
- Yeah, we're good. I'm good.
- Are you sure?
Just a little...
Oh, something's coming down.
- Okay. Are you okay?
We almost lost the tree.
It's okay. Keep going,
keep going.
Okay, no, plum pudding.
Plum pudding.
- Keep going.
- This... no. No, no.
- Just keep going.
- Ah, okay, cool.
Great, just go.
- Oh, okay! I'm...
Uh, plum pudding!
I'm done.
Plum... pudding!
I uh...
- But...
I didn't sign up for this, okay?
Hey, hey!
What'd that ball do to you?
Are you having fun?
"Hard work is necessary
to achieve excellence."
Ah.
Your dad is a lot like my dad.
Do you even like practice?
My dad says
I just have to do it.
Right.
You know, I used to play
a bit of hockey
when I lived in Sweden.
- Really?
- Yeah.
Look, the thing about drills
is they have to be fun.
If you're having fun,
you'll be consistent
and consistency is so important.
What do you do to make it fun?
Have you ever tried blasting
your favourite music?
When I was your age,
I used to watch a hockey game
while I practised
for inspiration.
Because it...
if you're having fun,
it won't feel like work.
Can I help you with some drills?
- Yeah.
Great.
Okay.
Good.
Increase your speed
as you get comfortable.
Hey, don't worry about it.
Who cares? Who cares?
No pressure here.
You got this.
Good, confidence, right?
Confidence.
Yeah, okay.
Okay, here we go.
Focus on the tiny moves
this time.
Be the boss of the tiny moves.
Yeah, boss Kevin.
- Yes!
- Nice!
There ya go!
Hey.
Video got the highest views.
Hmm.
We are not here
to look foolish. Not you.
Not my station.
Can we talk it out?
Okay.
All right, one more.
One more!
Nice!
Hmm.
A little crooked.
- It's a 7 out of 10.
Okay, I have to ask,
why the chip on your shoulder
when it comes to holiday cheer?
Just think that all
the meaningfulness of Christmas
got lost in the hype.
Just...
sip this, buy that.
And do what we want or
we'll call you Scrooge.
It's like a holiday mob.
Hmm.
So, so what's Christmas to you?
It's miracles.
It's having everything
you love and recognising it.
It's the miracle of appreciation
because it's not always
gonna be there.
- You know,
joy is a miracle, too.
That's what I try to instil
in my viewers.
Christmas was sacred
to your family.
- Kind of.
- Ah.
Every little holiday thing
turned into this giant affair.
It was...
And my birthday was
on the 26th so...
- The 26th?
- Yeah.
Okay, so...
so you're jealous.
- Well, I...
I uh...
I mean, I was a kid.
So yeah, I...
Ah, but then, I grew to like it.
I really appreciated it.
It was...
it's like the whole world was
decorated for my birthday.
- Hmm.
- We all shared this one day.
Made me appreciate things.
Wanna give back.
Hmm.
So, why are you so obsessed
with Christmas?
I am not obsessed
with Christmas.
Oh yeah? Hmm.
Okay.
I suppose...
I had the opposite experience.
- Hmm.
- We moved around a lot
because of my parents' work.
My nanny, Anna,
always made sure that
Christmas felt special.
But... we just didn't really
have any traditions of our own.
- Hmm.
We kind of just adopted
the holiday traditions of
whatever country we were in.
Well, that's unique.
It's lucky.
Hmm.
You know, I know it's silly
but these challenges...
they're kind of my way of
making my own traditions.
Hmm.
You know,
we can have fun and be
meaningful, right?
Well, we can try.
What if we do the help
a stranger challenge
but we make it fun
with a dress code?
Uh, so black-tie optional.
Decorating for those in need.
Bound to trend on social media.
- Hey, Kevin!
- Hey, Kev!
Idea.
What do you think about
helping strangers with tasks
but we dress all fancy
like we were going
to a Christmas ball?
- Awesome!
- He likes all your ideas.
- He's our barometer of fun.
What's a barometer?
It means you tell us what to do.
Can I be a barometer
all the time?
Hmm.
Well, I mean,
my family would love it.
Ooh!
How about we try
making maple lollipops
in the snow?
Bound to trend as a DIY.
Yeah, but how does that link
to our theme of giving back?
Well, it's giving back
if people share them.
- Kev?
- Kevin?
Maple lollipops?
- Yeah.
Okay, okay!
These cards are clearly stacked.
We are gonna settle this
the way our family settles it.
- Oh
- Oh, yes!
Ah!
Nice!
Lollipops it is.
And after lollipops,
speed gift wrapping.
- Wait, what?
- It's giving back.
- Huh? Uh, no. Veto.
Veto.
- Come on, hockey dad.
Best outta 10?
- Oh.
- Yeah!
My mum and uncle used to make
these when they were young.
You pour the maple syrup
and they become...
Lollipops.
December magic.
Just like today's weather.
And once you finish
making these,
we challenge you to share them
in the spirit of giving.
Just like donating Christmas
toys to spread joy.
Okay.
Oh, uh, just...
that's a big pour.
- I got it, Mr. Plum Pudding.
Slow it, slow it down.
Hey, wait, wait!
No! No, no, no!
- Okay.
- Uh...
- That was... That was...
- Okay.
- Uh...
Ta-da!
Um...
Yum!
Oh, okay. Okay.
Christmas can't
always be perfect.
Ah.
Well, perfectly imperfect.
That is so good.
- It's really good.
- It's really good.
It's really, really good.
The plan was to do
the toy drive in Chicago
but doing it here to start.
Hmm.
Why'd you leave?
I uh... I needed
to change things up.
They had a guest brewmaster
residency here, so...
Does Kevin miss it?
Ahem. So, this dry
bitter holiday stout,
that's my favoUrite right now.
Pairs perfectly with
some chocolate bark.
Ooh.
A pairing. Fancy.
Well, yeah. People take beer
as seriously as wine now.
I do.
- HMm.
It's good.
- Now don't forget
the chocolate bark.
So, I mean,
why all the Christmas
challenges?
Why not?
'Cause you're a weather woman.
I don't know. I...
I guess I just like...
promoting that holiday optimism
for my viewers.
- So, okay, here's a question.
- Hmm.
If you could do anything
you wanted
with that weather show,
what would you do?
Uh...
No, but someone's like,
"Hey, Gwen,
sky's the limit,
you've got unlimited funds."
No one's holding you back.
No Adams, no...
no, like, need for views.
What do you do?
- You are not holding me back.
- Oh yeah?
Much.
Mm.
You know this tastes like
I'm drinking gingerbread.
Mm-hmm.
No, but seriously,
you're on a nationally
broadcasted morning show.
What's your plan?
Well...
I guess I would try
to make people's mornings
a little brighter
by being their daily
motivational weather presenter.
First thing in the morning,
what do you say?
Uh...
Okay, we don't actually do that.
Okay, well there, there.
We're live, we're live, Gwen.
Hi, I'm Gwen Marley.
Welcome to the show.
I will be speaking to you
every morning
from your breakfast table,
like you were my family.
And today's forecast
is Christmas hope.
I don't know, too much?
- No, no, you gotta...
you gotta speak the truth of
your own forecast, right?
True.
You have to embrace
the temperature.
You can't hide from it.
- Yeah.
You are... you are the queen
of weather puns.
You want another one?
Um...
Views are plateauing.
I mean, the video just went up.
Should... It'll be fine.
Hmm.
I should probably get back
and work on the evening
broadcasts.
Um, yeah. I got, look,
I've got stuff to do.
The thing. Yeah.
- Yeah, okay.
- Uh, okay.
- Okay.
Do you miss Chicago?
Mm-hmm.
Well, I think we've got
a great life here.
You know, we get
to go on adventures together
all the time.
I can make my residency
permanent.
It gets kinda lonely sometimes.
You know, I...
I miss my friends.
Miss Nana and Papa.
Uncle Jason.
Well, we're gonna see
them all at Christmas.
We used to see them
all the time.
Miss getting red hots.
Come on, we got the best
hotdogs here, franks.
It's not the same.
After hockey, down by the lake.
What do you think of Andrea?
Hey, what is that?
- What?
- Right there, on your face.
What is that?
- What?
- No, right there.
What is that?
- Ah!
You missed a spot shaving,
you old man.
- Dad!
So, how's the holiday
tornado coming?
Um, well, arguing is way down
and toy donations are shoo,
way up.
Looks like you guys had fun
with the maple lollipops.
Yeah. How was that?
How'd I look?
Hey, you're finally having
silly holiday fun.
It's great.
Well, I mean, I am, like,
holiday jolly hype
personified, right?
Ho, ho.
That you are.
Uh, but no, no we should
do that sometime, huh?
Make those lollipops?
- Ah, it's fine.
No, it'd be fun.
I um, I...
Okay.
Cheers.
Aw.
Anna, thank you for this.
I know we're not supposed
to decorate your tree
until Christmas Eve but look!
Well, we're not in Poland
anymore, Toto.
How is Adam?
It looks like things
are much better.
At least,
that's what I see on the TV.
Well, it won't matter much
if the station closes.
Mum, hi.
Merry Christmas!
Hang on, let me put you
on speaker.
Mum, guess who's here right now.
- Anna?
- Merry Christmas, Miriam!
Merry Christmas!
Wish I was there.
Oh, well then, join us.
Yeah, Mum, why don't you
come back early?
We can leave some branches open
on the tree for you to decorate.
Thanks, but we can't.
Work. You know.
So, is it finalised?
Yes.
Do you wanna go over
the scholarship details while
we decorate the tree?
Yes, please.
Great.
Why is WHNR here?
Come on, guys.
We need a soundcheck.
Tape!
Dolly trucks.
I'm losing patience.
Need a board here.
Hair and makeup, please.
Okay, where's the clapper?
Can we move this tree?
'Cause they don't have
a single original idea.
Hmm.
We're live in 30, guys.
And action.
Exercise is great.
For health and mental wellbeing.
Especially around the...
Test, test, test. Levels.
Levels. Levels.
Check, hey, hey.
Looks like a party moved in.
As I was saying...
...exercise is great...
- Puddles, pity, pizza, party.
- I've got sound.
Ca-caw!
- Ah, that's rude.
No, Adam. Adam, don't!
- Well, I don't work
for the news.
Huh. Uh, yes.
So... ahem.
This is Don McBreen from WHNR.
What, are you kidding me?
Somebody fix this.
You wrap the resistance band
around yourself, like so.
And then...
- Ahem.
They're taking a little break.
Where were we?
- Lunges.
- Lunges.
- As I was saying,
you wrap the resistance band
around yourself, like so.
And let's burn off
that holiday fudge, people!
Whoa!
- Whoa!
- Did you...?
- I'm sorry.
No, hey, I'm alive.
I'm good.
You good? You're good?
You're good.
- Yes.
- We're good!
The unexpected
heavy snowfall will continue
for at least the rest
of the afternoon.
The high pressure was supposed
to send this south.
- Maybe the radar lied?
- No.
No, no, no,
this is me messing up.
I've been too distracted
thinking about views.
Oh, so what do we do
about the challenge?
- We can't exactly
encourage people to go outside
and get frostbite.
This weather was made
for an at-home spa day.
So, we challenge you
to try our exquisite
recommendations.
- Challenge?
- It was a figure of speech.
They even have a sponsor.
Look, they're copying my idea
like some kind of cheap
knockoff.
Well, it doesn't look
that cheap.
- Hey, Gus.
- Thought this was moving south?
- Radar lied.
Got the numbers.
Viewership has barely increased.
Okay, we just need
a bit more time.
You're almost halfway.
How are the donations, Adam?
Those are great, actually,
thank you.
Uh, you know, we just need
to be a little bit
more visible to the public.
We could go door-to-door
if we have to.
We are the station with heart.
Yeah, heart doesn't
keep the lights on.
Now that WHNR is copying us,
we have to give people
an exclusive reason to tune in.
Something they can't copy,
like a spa day challenge.
I'm pulling the plug on this
unless you can turn it around
in the next few days.
Maybe I can cut enough staff
to convince ownership.
I don't know.
I got nothing left.
Sorry.
Talk soon.
- Wait, Gus...
So, what do you do when
you're stuck inside?
Oh, I go full hygge.
Cozy Christmas comfort.
Okay, so maybe we do that.
Yeah, but how is that
any different
from what WHNR is doing?
Or even meaningful?
Guys, I made a new drill.
- Yourself?
- Can I show you?
- Uh...
- Sure!
Yeah, yeah.
You are so much faster!
Don't.
Wow, he's really owning
his practice.
Yeah.
It's not just about ambition,
it's about how you achieve it.
Great job!
Nicely done, Kev!
- I made another one.
- Ah, I would love to watch it
but we gotta get back to work.
- Why?
'Cause our challenges
need to get better.
Why don't you just have fun?
Like Christmas?
Having fun is what
Gwen taught me.
Just have fun like
it's Christmas.
I mean, I don't have
any better ideas.
But hey, what do you think
we should do
for the exercise challenge?
- Snowball fight.
Can't go outside.
But we could do
a sock snowball fight.
Yes!
We used to do those
when you were little.
A hygge snowball fight!
Hygge!
Kevin the Barometer!
You and Adam looked pretty
cute in that video today.
- Hmm.
- Oh, come on, it's obvious.
It doesn't matter.
- Sometimes it's the only thing
that does matter.
- No, because at this rate,
I am probably gonna end up being
a weather forecaster in Siberia.
And I'm pretty sure
that someone like Adam,
who has a child,
won't want to move to Siberia.
I think you're jumping the gun.
Is it real?
I don't know.
Well, then,
let their hearts decide.
Hmm?
- No.
I am not going to lead
on a single parent.
Plus, I owe it to my station
to see this thing through.
I sold them on my idea
and their families,
their jobs depend on me.
- If you wait too long,
opportunity vanishes.
Come on.
Oh, Principal Liam!
Please, come in.
The scholarship's official.
Congrats!
Oh, well, thank you.
You did not have to come
all this way.
Oh, I was just passing through.
Oh, hi. Uh...
lovely to see you, Anna.
Oh, good evening,
Principal Liam.
- Call me Liam.
- Oh!
Wait, why don't you join us?
- Oh, no, thank you.
- We have Belgian ale,
we have cocoa.
- I don't want to impose.
- No, no, no.
- I have an early day tomorrow.
Kids, you know.
Oh, um, made these.
- Thank you.
- Hope you like them.
- And I hope to see you soon.
- Me too.
- Oh! Oh!
- Oh!
- Yes!
- M-Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas!
- "Hope to see you soon"?
- Shh!
He'll hear you.
- Well, like you said,
time and tide await
for no woman.
Also, he made science cookies.
Oh, he's such a good man.
Wow.
Wow back.
Thanks for letting me borrow
your brewmaster belt.
- Hmm.
Solves the old pocket problem.
What are you keeping in there?
Chapstick, brush, staple gun.
Solid choice.
Uh, so what's next?
- Got it?
- Yeah.
Okay. Woo!
Perfect.
Okay.
When I was younger,
I'd always help a neighbour
put up decorations.
Um, usually it was someone
who was older or didn't
have the time.
Like, they had multiple jobs
or other circumstances.
So, we challenge you
to help someone with
a holiday task
while looking
Christmas fabulous.
Be sure to take a photo
and tag WYSH so we can share.
And then help a child
by donating toys.
Oh, and...
watch out for needle showers.
One hiding under there.
- Ooh.
- Hey.
Every house should
have mistletoe,
inside and out.
Because you never know when
you might share a holiday kiss
with that special someone
at a Christmas party.
You always have to be prepared.
In...
in case sparks fly.
Christmas is miracles.
It's having all
that you love around you.
And...
And realising it.
It's...
holiday joy as miracles.
It's, uh, it's hope
on the calendar.
So, be sure to tag us
and join us
so that we can share
in that joy too.
Like one big family.
Hello, Adam.
- Anna.
- I heard so much about you.
- Oh, really?
- Hmm.
So, tell me something.
Can you work anywhere
there's a brewery?
Um, yeah.
Uh, yeah, I guess I can.
Even in Siberia?
If, if there's a brewery
in Siberia, yeah.
Okay, think we're ready
to get started.
- We're live.
- Great.
For the Christmas Your Way
challenge,
we encourage you to create
a dish or dessert
from your own family traditions.
Don't forget to share
and tag WYSH.
And we wanna share something
with you, our viewer family.
Growing up, I experienced
a lot of Christmas traditions
because we moved around a lot.
But none of them quite felt
like my own except for my nanny
Anna's traditions.
Come on!
- Oh, okay.
Hello.
Anna always made it feel
like Christmas,
even when working over
the holidays
created a challenge
for my family.
Lucky us,
Anna is going to show us
how to make...
- Makowiec.
- Makowiec.
A Polish Wigilia,
Christmas Eve dessert.
My family's tradition.
Hmm.
Ready?
Ahem, Makowiec!
Oh.
He's punching his
like a caveman.
Uh, um...
yeast is a living,
delicate thing.
- Okay.
- You have to be firm
but gentle.
- Okay.
- Can you handle that?
Uh, yeah. Um,
I can handle that, yeah.
- Show me.
- Okay.
- Adam.
- Yeah?
You've got something.
Like, there's
a little bit of a...
- Where, what?
- Right, hang on.
- Where?
- No, right...
- You're so...
- Told ya.
Just have to stand there
and smile.
Uh-huh.
I'm getting you back.
- Are you?
- I'll get you back.
- Getting me back? Oh.
- Mm-hmm.
- Hey.
- Hey.
I thought you were coming later.
- Listen, I...
No, you go.
I'm looking for something more.
It just doesn't feel like
it was meant to be between us.
And I don't know why
I don't feel more.
We have fun together
and I love Kevin, but...
I've been feeling this way
for a while now.
Look, you are...
you're amazing.
You're gorgeous.
And I just, I was hoping
that with some time, it...
I don't wanna settle.
Me neither.
Say goodbye to Kevin for me?
Yeah, of course.
Okay.
You trying to copy my homework?
- Uh, no.
- You okay?
- Uh, yeah.
Yeah, I'm fine.
I just, um...
got a lot on my mind.
- Ah.
Yeah.
Well, why don't we share
what good we've done with Santa
and then we will share
our letters with our viewers?
- I've done a lot of good.
- Ah.
Look, writing letters
isn't just for kids.
It's a good way to reflect
on the year that passed
and think about what ambitions
you have for the year ahead.
It's like a mindfulness
journal and a vision board
all wrapped up into one letter
to the North Pole.
- What's a vision board?
It's like a wish list
for the future.
I know what I want next year.
Uh, what do you want, Adam?
- Um...
happiness all around.
- Ah, ambitious.
Yeah.
What about you?
A Christmas happiness
forevermore.
- Okay.
But what about... you?
A real Christmas miracle.
Me too.
Gwen, you're great.
Oh.
Why am I great?
Because you...
you really like Christmas.
For real.
You don't pretend.
I try.
Keep on being Christmas.
Huh?
Don't worry about the views.
Just follow whatever
feels right.
Is something wrong?
You are never this positive.
Negative.
Nothing's wrong.
Now you are officially
scaring me.
Don't freak out
but WYSH's viewership has
just edged out WHNR.
- What?
Yes, they're copying us
and they're failing.
Okay, well, what are you
doing? What's this?
Oh, everybody's commenting
on how WNHR's Christmas joy
feels fake.
And I'm enjoying
the schadenfreude.
I did not know
that came with a dance.
We're what people wanna
wake up to in the morning.
You are. I'm not.
You crazy blizzard of a person.
- You just might save
the station.
Wow.
Sorry, you are just joking
and laughing and dancing,
and it's a little weird.
And also wonderful.
Ownership's gonna be
at the delivery this evening.
Don't mess it up.
Hmm.
Gwen Marley, WYSH.
Hi, Laura from
Channel 3 Chicago.
- Hello.
- So, the reason I'm calling is
we've been following
your challenges
after they started trending
and well,
frankly, we love them.
Oh.
Wow. Thank you.
We're looking for someone
with genuine appeal
and we're hoping
you might be that person.
I'd like to shortlist you,
if you're interested.
Wow. Uh...
uh, yes.
Yes, of course.
Wonderful.
We'll just need a reel of
your regular segment
and we'll have you come in
and audition here
as soon as possible.
My assistant will reach
out with details.
Thank you.
Okay, WYSH viewers,
stay tuned for more adventures
from the great indoors.
Ah, perfect.
Oh.
I forgot to tell you.
I got shortlisted for a job
in Chicago.
Channel 3.
Uh, that's um...
that's amazing.
Congratulations.
- Thanks.
Yeah, I still have to audition
and everything
but I'll make sure
that I schedule that
around the challenges.
- No, I mean,
it's your dream job.
I hope you get it.
Does this mean
you have to move away?
Uh, look, Gwen needs to do
what's best for her career
and in Chicago,
there's so many more people
who can see her on TV.
Would we?
I could definitely
send you clips.
See?
We could move back to Chicago.
Um, you know what?
Why don't we talk about
that one later, okay?
Are you gonna watch
my hockey tryouts?
Gwen has her own life, Kev,
and she is really, really busy.
But it can be, you know,
just the two of us again.
Why can't we move
back to Chicago?
- Hmm.
- Um, I, it's, um...
not yet.
- Why?
Because there's just too much.
There's room for more
people there, Dad.
Um... no. Hey.
No, Kev. Kev.
- Oh.
- Kev, come on.
C...
I am so sorry.
Just give me a minute.
Of course.
Okay.
What is the problem?
- I...
I spoke with her assistant
and it sounds like
all of the on-air talent
has built-ins.
- Uh...
- Endorsement deals.
Oh. So, you're going
to just pass?
No. No, no, no,
I'm not, I just...
it breaks the trust
with my audience.
Like, they are like
family to me.
Hey, I'm your family.
And you never compromised
taking care of me.
- Okay.
- I am with these people
every morning, in their homes.
Don't they deserve
some sincerity?
But you would be finally
reaching the audiences
that you've always dreamed of.
And no more thinking,
"Oh, is my station
going to stay afloat
another year?"
Come on, this is ridiculous.
You will do your career
a disservice.
And what would
your parents think?
I am so proud of you.
Look at this!
Donations through the roof.
Well, it's thanks to you.
- So?
Are you gonna do this again
next year in Chicago?
Ah, no. No,
I mean, like,
not without you or the station,
we're gonna have a tough
time matching this, so...
WYSH will help.
And who says I'm leaving?
- Oh, come on, you're going.
I'll still help.
No, you're gonna be down
there, you're gonna be...
you're gonna be sharing
your challenges,
traditions with a whole
new viewer family.
That's your dream, right?
What about doing this again
next year?
In Chicago.
Isn't that your dream?
Uh, no, I um...
Look, I wanna spend some time
with Kevin,
just the two of us, here.
You know, I mean,
I'm not gonna have
that opportunity
when he's older.
Plus they offered me
a full-time position here.
- Wow.
- Yeah.
I would have to do endorsement
deals at Channel 3.
Uh, like push products?
Yeah.
But what happened to being
honest with your audience?
It's a huge opportunity.
But no, that's what Kev loves
about you, is you being you.
You're... that's what
makes you special.
Well, who I am on camera
is just a part of me.
Right? I have ambitions.
I really wanna make
a difference.
You're better than that.
Huh.
What about you?
- What about me?
- Kevin hates it here.
No, he... look, he just,
he misses his friends.
I think it's more than that.
I just don't see why
you can't go back to Chicago.
You have no idea
what we went through.
You're right.
I don't.
But you said it yourself
that Christmas is about being
around everything you love
and realising it.
So, if you don't
have everything,
it's not Christmas, and that's
not living for you or for Kevin.
I uh... I know
what's best for my son.
Thank you.
So, why don't you just go?
Chase your limelight.
And I'll take care of
my priorities here.
I think it's best if we just
finish this and move on.
- I agree.
Yeah.
Think you'll be more
than happy with us.
Uh...
the mandatory built-ins.
- Mm-hmm.
Standard for all
our on-air talent.
I can't.
I'm sorry,
it's not non-negotiable.
It's part of our bottom line
and it's what pays for all this.
The journalism, sets,
your salary.
I mean, people know what it is,
recommendations, that's all.
You told me your dream was
to reach a bigger audience.
This is it, Gwen.
WYSH is about values.
And it's probably closing.
It's not a secret.
Affiliates are being cut
across the country.
It's the times.
This is survival.
But what if...
what if doing a really
good job meant something?
Connecting genuinely
with audiences.
Couldn't that pad
the bottom line?
Listen, we love you
but if this is a no,
then we'll just move on
to the next person on our list.
Yeah.
What are those?
Oh, fan mail.
Letters to Santa from
our kid viewers.
Hmm.
A wise person once told me
that I don't pretend.
I can't change who I am.
And as much as I want this job,
I think I would be doing
a disservice to your viewers.
Like, how can I
influence audiences
if I can't be honest?
This destroys that trust.
- Hmm.
I would just be a smile
with nothing behind it.
Gwen, I hear you,
but this is ridiculous.
This isn't a big deal.
I would really love
to make this work
but I have some conditions.
I would want to finish
my Christmas challenges
with WYSH, and I won't
do endorsement deals.
And if that's a deal breaker,
then so be it.
You're gonna walk away
because you won't simply mention
a product recommendation.
Not everything can be bought.
This would solidify your career.
You could get a job anywhere if
you just compromised a little.
You'd be crazy to walk away.
I hope that you will
consider my terms.
Thank you for your time.
And merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Okay, that is the one, yes.
Ooh.
You know,
Chicago is only
a couple of hours away.
I could take the train.
Look, I very likely
did not get this job.
And if by some miracle I did,
I will be the one taking
the train to you.
- I am so happy for you.
Don't jinx it.
- No.
- Anna.
Did I just sabotage
my entire career
by making some silly, foolish...
They saw something different.
And it's worth way more
than any endorsement deal.
Maybe Adam will move back
to Chicago for you.
- I think he has to follow
his own forecast.
- Oh, honey.
Christmas reveals
what's true to the heart.
What really matters.
And that's the greatest
gift of all.
For me, that's staying
true to who I am.
And a young boy reminded
me of that.
Me.
And I thank him for that
wonderful Christmas gift.
I promise I won't ever change.
Um, hey, everyone,
if I can just have
your attention
for a quick second.
I know you're busy.
What I wanted to say
is merry Christmas.
And you know, every one of those
toys being loaded up right now
will be distributed on time,
and will be sitting under a tree
in time for Christmas morning.
Aw.
- And just wanted to say
thank you so much.
So, um,
in the spirit of fifth season...
...let's do this.
- Did you speak to Adam yet?
- No, I've been busy.
- What's new?
What do you have to lose?
Just go.
I...
- Come on.
- Excuse me.
Ugh!
Hello?
Gwen, hi. Laura.
So, we showed our morning's
broadcast to a focus group
and you killed it.
So, we've agreed to your terms.
But we'll need you here
to start prepping immediately.
Like, tomorrow immediately.
Our temp weather presenter
is terrible.
- I will be there!
- Wonderful.
- Thank you.
Congratulations.
You saved the station.
- Uh...
- Our jobs.
- Gus, I...
- You know I wasn't a big fan
of your challenges
but you have proven me wrong.
I took a job
at Channel 3 Chicago.
Oh.
Well, I always knew
you were going places.
WYSH will always be
home for you.
You know that, right?
Oh.
1,126 toys found homes
thanks to Adam Docker
and all the volunteers
for the Miracle of Toys.
And uh, on a personal note,
I wanted to say thank you
for allowing me and WYSH
to be a part of
this... Christmas miracle.
And I have some news.
I will be starting my new job
at Channel 3 Chicago tomorrow.
Hey, good for you!
I also have to thank
Adam and Kevin.
Because they really showed me
what I'm missing in my life.
Um, what I want.
And they really helped
prove to me
why these values are important.
And I hope that they'll follow
their hearts, too.
So, thank you.
Good night.
And merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
- Gwen.
- Thank you. I...
Kevin.
Look, thank you for everything.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Gwen.
Listen, I...
Uh...
I really hope that you expand
to Chicago next year
like you planned.
So, good luck.
And take care.
You, uh, you...
Anna, why are there
six place settings here?
Well, I've told you this.
It's Polish tradition
to have one extra setting
to symbolise a place
for a lonely wanderer
who might be in need of food.
- Right.
Right.
- Mm-hmm.
But that's still three
settings too many.
Ha, is it?
Ooh!
Go.
Okay.
Oh, hi!
Come in!
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
Uh, please!
Thank you so much for coming.
- Anna?
I am a little confused.
Oh yeah, there's more.
Just wait.
One more. Come on.
- Okay.
What?
Mum!
You came back early.
Your father lands in an hour.
When we saw your segment
about how Anna's
holiday traditions felt like
your own, well,
I'm sorry.
It's time we spend more time
with you going forward.
Oh.
- Okay, come on.
Let's get ready.
The soup is ready.
Come on. Come in!
Oh, hey.
- I have something to say.
- Okay.
We both know
you're not happy here.
What, how? What?
Kevin deserves better.
You deserve better, frankly.
I mean, I deserve better.
And you need to be in Chicago.
So, go.
Merry Christmas.
Okay.
Go get 'em.
- Kevin?
- Yeah?
- Pack your bags.
- All right!
Gwen. Gwen.
- What are you doing here?
- Hey, look, I know you're on
in like, 30 seconds so
I'm gonna keep this quick.
But you, you are amazing.
You helped me find joy again.
You um...
you woke me up.
I'm done hiding from my life.
I'm moving back to Chicago.
I wanna be the dad
that Kevin deserves and I...
I wanna be with you.
Adam...
that's all I've wanted to hear.
You know, all I've ever wanted
is to be true
to myself and my audience,
and you understood that.
You and Kevin inspired me
to be who I'm truly meant to be.
Are you back from commercial?
Yeah, it happened
about 30 seconds ago.
Oh. Oh.
Oh. Um...
- Ahem.
Well, I... I told you
I could do better.
Well, it's nothing
but snowy skies ahead, folks.
Yeah!