The annual It’s a Wonderful Lifetime slate of Christmastime romance has hit the television network’s airwaves. Fresh out of the gate is “CHRISTMAS A LA MODE.”

The film is follows Emily (Katie Leclerc), as she tries to save her family’s dairy farm after the death of her father. But, Emily's sister, and her handsome business partner Charlie (Ryan Cooper), suddenly show up looking to sell the farm this Christmas. Emily comes up with a delicious plan, involving ice cream, and turns to friends and locals for support, including socialite Mrs. Carlson (Celeste Oliva). It will take a Christmas miracle to save the farm and her father’s legacy. But remember this is Lifetime, so all’s well that ends well.

I recently caught up with actress CELESTE OLIVA to find out more:


Tell us about your role in “Christmas A La Mode.”

CELESTE OLIVA: The role was originally for an older woman, but we played her as more of an eccentric socialite who is really rooting for the main character to save her farm.

What would you consider your characters ‘best’ quality? And their ‘worst’?

CO: I would say Mrs. Carlson’s best quality is her enthusiasm and support for Emily (the main character), she doesn’t have a worst… it’s a Christmas movie. If I HAD to come up with one it would be that she still wears fur.

Any interesting stories from the set you can share with us?

CO: That John Stimpson (the writer and director) and I realized that it was the 5th time we’d worked together. The first movie we did was “Beacon Hill” where I played a law student.

Also, in “Christmas A La Mode" in the ice cream parlor scene there was a lovely older couple who I was talking to that I later learned are John’s parents!

I have to ask, what’s your big Christmas wish this year?

CO: That there are no more mass shootings.

You’ll hit theaters in “I Care A Lot” next year; what can you share about that?

CO: I am really excited for this one. I got to get pretty intense in one of the scenes. I think that’s all I can divulge.

And, now just for fun:

Who’s your favorite actor/actress?
CO: Gosh just one?! Viola Davis, Constance Wu, Sandra Oh, Frances McDormand

What role from the past do you wish you could have played?
CO: Mulan or something on “Lilo and Stitch”

Favorite movie or TV show from your childhood.
CO: Are we talking young young? I remember at 5 loving “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father” and when I was in elementary school I liked “The Mod Squad” for TV. One of my all-time favorite movies is “Les Quatres Cents Coups” - that boys struggle is real.

Tell us one thing that would surprise our readers to learn about you.
CO: That I’ve written poetry since I was in 4th grade. I haven’t kept it, but sometimes I just have to write it.

How can fans keep up with you?
CO: Visit my website: www.celestejoliva.com link

Thanks for the Christmastime fun, Celeste!

"Christmas A La Mode" is playing now on Lifetime Television -- check your local listings.