New look Hallmark channel turns viewers into stars

“We wanted to find local people with absorbing and compelling lives so we can tell their story,” said Gunn Haglund, head of channels for the NBC Universal-owned Hallmark Channel.

“We didn't realise what extraordinary lives some people lead - and have been overwhelmed by their talents and skills. We feel we've captured the amazing diversity of this beautiful country by revealing their hidden depths! We're also very proud to feature local areas and hope our viewers will enjoy spotting some familiar landscapes.”

Hallmark Channel, which broadcasts award-winning shows including Numb3rs, Cane and NCIS, will showcase 20 South African characters from a whole host of backgrounds but who share a common goal - making the very most of their free time. These include Ntombikayise Masilela (33) who is a systems analyst by day and devotes her free time car racing and taking on challenges like the Sasol Rally. Then there's the story of Darryl Shaff, the married electrician from Lindhurst, Johannesburg who plays poker at least three times a week. Shaff (36) plays one live session at a casino where he spends up to eight hours and then he hopes to get a good hand while trying his luck on online gambling websites.

Sophia Phirippides, the Modern Times producer and director of the local inserts, said: “This is all about Hallmark Channel using the fabric of SA to showcase their passions from car sales to belly dancing to dune boarding. So expect the unexpected.”

Hallmark Channel is broadcast on DStv channel 108, Monday to Sunday.