There’s a certain kind of magic that only happens when a story is rooted in something real — a place, a tradition, a legacy that stretches far beyond the characters we see on screen. That’s exactly what makes Kentucky Roses feel different.
Premiering May 2 on the Hallmark Channel, the film sweeps viewers into the world of Churchill Downs during the height of Kentucky Derby season. But instead of simply leaning into spectacle, it digs deeper, weaving together romance, family history, and personal ambition into a story that feels both timeless and refreshingly grounded.
At the center of it all is Odette Annable, who makes her Hallmark debut as Sadie Moore — a greenhouse worker with big dreams, a complicated past, and no intention of falling in love anytime soon.
“I’m just so excited and so proud of the movie,” Annable tells Celeb Secrets host Juliet Schroder, her enthusiasm unmistakable. “This is my first Hallmark movie, so just being introduced to the family in this way feels so great. I was welcomed with open arms.”
That warmth didn’t stop there. Starring opposite Hallmark favorite Andrew Walker — who also executive produces the film — Annable found herself in a creative partnership that made the story’s emotional beats land even stronger.
“He’s a total pro,” she says of Walker. “He showed me the ropes… and it made it for an easy time to bring on that chemistry, which you obviously need for these movies.”
And that chemistry? It’s only one layer of what Kentucky Roses has to offer.
While the film delivers the romance fans expect, it’s the multi-generational storytelling that truly sets it apart.
“There’s so much that goes on into this story, which is my favorite part of it,” Annable explains. “We’re touching on so many different emotions.”
Sadie’s journey unfolds alongside the story of her great-grandmother, who once worked at Churchill Downs in the 1930s — a timeline marked by a love that couldn’t survive the social barriers of its time. In the present day, Sadie finds herself walking a similar path, but with the freedom to make different choices.
“It’s so interesting to see the love story back then… and how tragic it was that they weren’t able to be together because of the times,” Annable reflects. “It feels very full circle that Sadie and Ash would fall in love… and be able to fight for it.”
That sense of emotional continuity gives the film a deeper resonance — one that explores not just romance, but how love, loss, and resilience can echo across generations.
Before the romance even begins, Kentucky Roses grounds itself in something even more powerful: self-discovery.
Sadie isn’t searching for love. She’s rebuilding her life, focusing on her craft, and chasing a dream that’s been passed down through generations: designing the iconic rose garland awarded at the Derby.
“She’s finally, for the first time, really trying to step into her own and choosing herself,” Annable says.
That intention makes the love story feel earned rather than expected — especially when Ash Taylor enters the picture. Coming from a powerful family tied to Churchill Downs, Ash represents a completely different world, one that initially clashes with Sadie’s. But their connection, unexpected and undeniable, slowly bridges that gap.
“You have all of these layers… and our love story really blossoming in the way that it did just feels so special,” Annable adds.
Filming on location at Churchill Downs doesn’t just elevate the visuals. It shapes the entire emotional tone of the film.
“It’s so iconic shooting there… the culture is unbelievable and the energy is palpable,” Annable shares. “We were able to see not only the front side, the backside, but these hidden gems.”
That authenticity carries through every scene, from the bustling Derby preparations to quieter, more intimate moments tucked away on the grounds. And then there’s the community — a central force in Sadie’s journey.
Whether it’s rallying together to create the Derby’s signature rose garland or supporting one another through personal challenges, the film highlights the importance of connection in a way that feels both heartfelt and real.
“Just leaning on your community… all of those elements are in our movie,” Annable says.
Of course, you can’t have Kentucky Roses without, well… the roses. But here, they’re more than a visual motif. They’re a symbol of growth, perseverance, and personal triumph.
“The roses are a triumph for her,” Annable explains. “They’re a part of her dream… that’s what she’s working towards.”
For Sadie, creating that garland isn’t just a career milestone. It’s a deeply emotional achievement tied to her identity, her family, and her future.
“They bring so much joy… they represent life in all of its forms,” Annable adds. “There are different layers of a rose, and that’s kind of how people are as well.”
With its layered storytelling, rich setting, and emotionally grounded characters, Kentucky Roses offers something a little more nuanced than the traditional Hallmark romance.
“The movie feels like a grown-up version of a Hallmark movie,” Annable says. “Every age group can find something that they can pull from.”
And she’s right.
Between its sweeping romance, historical depth, and themes of timing, legacy, and self-worth, the film hits that rare sweet spot where it’s comforting yet meaningful, classic yet fresh. Because at its core, Kentucky Roses isn’t just about finding love. It’s about trusting that what’s meant for you will find you — even if it takes time, courage, and a few unexpected turns along the way.
“You have to trust that everything that’s meant to be is meant to be,” Annable continues. “They’re going to come when you need it — not necessarily when you want it.”
The film also uses an heirloom as more than just a plot device, which she compares to the iconic Titanic love story that similarly bridges class divides and lost connections.
“There’s also these like Titanic vibes,” Annable teases, referencing the film.
And yes, there’s even a symbolic piece tying it all together.
“There’s a necklace that’s being uncovered,” she reveals, hinting at a meaningful artifact that connects generations and helps unravel long-buried family history.
Kentucky Roses premieres this Saturday, May 2 @ 8/7c on Hallmark Channel, streaming next day on Hallmark+. For more on the film and Odette Annabel, make sure to watch our full interview below — and don’t forget to let us know if you’re excited to watch by either leaving a reaction at the bottom of the post or by sliding into our DMs on Instagram at @celebsecrets.
Interview quotes have been edited and condensed for clarity.
