Jason and Kylie Kelce's daughter is proving love actually is all around us—even on their TV. On the December 24 episode of the Kelce brothers' podcast, New Heights, Kylie, who is currently pregnant with her fourth child, shared her daughter Elliotte's adorable reaction to watching the holiday classic Love Actually for the first time.
"The cutest thing about watching was at the end of the movie when Ellie got all flushed and was so excited," Kylie recalled. Apparently, the 3-year-old was quite taken with young Sam, played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster. "The next day she told me, 'Mom, can you show me a picture of the cute boy who played the drums?' So, I had to Google 'Sam from Love Actually,' and she was giggling!"
Jason confirmed his daughter's budding young crush by saying, "She was feeling her some Sam." Their older daughter, Wyatt, 5, chimed in the fun, giggling alongside her sister. "Wyatt loves every boy she sees on TV," Kylie noted, with Jason adding, "That's true. Anyone who kisses on screen gets her excited!" Despite the girls' reactions, the Kelce couple made sure their kids didn’t watch the entire film, opting to fast-forward through some scenes. Kylie wryly mentioned, "They almost saw the boobs but I warned Jason, who then sped it up." Along with Elliotte and Wyatt, the Kelces are also parents to 22-month-old Bennett.
While discussions about Love Actually can elicit nostalgic reflections, it can also invoke scrutiny. The film, which debuted back in 2003, has garnered its share of critique over the years, particularly for its portrayal of romance and family values. An Essex connection pop culture enthusiasts might find interesting revolves around the character Colin Frissell, played by Kris Marshall. After unsuccessful attempts at romance with various British women, Colin heads to America, convinced his British charm will land him success. There, he meets and becomes smitten with American women, leading to memorable comedic scenes.
Interestingly, Love Actually concluded with many of its character arcs intersecting at Heathrow Airport, which became iconic for its depiction of love's various forms. This include Colin’s return from America as viewers find out what happened to him and his newfound friends, reaffirming the film's enduring popularity.
But why exactly do we find ourselves gravitating toward cheesy Christmas flicks like Love Actually? Noel McDermott, CEO and psychotherapist, elaborates, explaining how during Christmas time, our oxytocin levels—often dubbed the "love hormone"—skyrocket as we gather with loved ones. This biological response influences our attraction to feel-good films full of romance and familiar tropes. McDermott states, "Comfort, predictability, and structure are absolutely necessary for psychological security and stability." Many individuals experience Christmas traditions as rituals, creating excitement and fond memories surrounding beloved films.
Even after more than two decades since its release, Love Actually continues drawing viewers during the holiday season, looping back to fond memories. Yet, some modern takes urge viewers to question the messages unclear under the guise of romantic comedy. During another recent podcast episode, Jason Kelce openly criticized the plot, saying, "Love Actually might be the worst Christmas movie I’ve ever seen. I don’t even know if it's up for debate." While Travis Kelce had mixed feelings on the film, recognizing its festive charm yet agreeing with his brother’s critique, Jason expressed concern for the film’s family values. "I prefer more of the Shakespearean love where they actually communicate and have real romantic interaction," he noted, describing the plot about infidelity and miscommunication as terribly unbelievable.
Interestingly enough, his wife Kylie quipped back, teasing Jason over his perspective, saying, "He’s an advocate for communication. He wouldn’t recognize romance if it smacked him square in the face!" The playful banter reflects how deeply personal and relatable movies can be to viewers, stirring up nostalgia alongside critique.
The ensemble cast of Love Actually featured celebrated actors including Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, and Keira Knightley, making it not just a holiday staple but also memorable for its stellar performances. With more than $246 million at the box office and even inspiring its 2017 television sequel for Red Nose Day, it stands as one of the cinematic works defining the Christmas movie canon.
Meanwhile, fans of other British sitcoms like Gavin & Stacey are buzzing as one of its stars, Joanna Page, reminded audiences of her lesser-known role as Judy, the body double who shares heartfelt moments with her on-screen partner John, played by Martin Freeman. Her reflections on the set highlighted both excitement and terror at working alongside the ensemble cast. "I just can’t believe everyone is here," she recalled feeling starstruck during early rehearsals.
Though critics and fans may debate the merits of Love Actually, its central theme remains—love consistently finds its way, embodying different forms and expressions. No matter how individuals approach the movie—through the eyes of thrilled young children, starstruck actors, or skeptical adults—the nostalgic charm of 'love actually' resonates widely across generations.
