A Childhood Crush Turns Into Real Love in Hallmark Channel's Love in the Limelight

As we head into August and cooler weather, we say farewell (for now) to summer and hopefully to scorching heatwaves as well. Hallmark Channel kicks off their "Fall into Love" series of original movies which will lead into their annual Countdown to Christmas holiday movies starting at the end of October. Love in the Limelight launches the network's fall lineup with a sweet new movie starring real-life couple Alexa and Carlos PenaVega.

Here's everything we know about Love in the Limelight including a Parade.com exclusive sneak peek!

What is Love in the Limelight about?

As a teenager, Summer (Alexa PenaVega) was a devoted fan of the popular boy band the Mendez Boyz, especially Nick (Carlos PenaVega), their lead singer. After receiving a sweet fan letter from Summer, Nick decides to respond with a phone call, sparking the start of a friendship that’s lasted to this day.

When Nick’s manager books a gig for him at a small venue in Summer’s hometown of Salt Lake City, where she now works in human resources at a local university, the two finally meet face-to-face. It’s clear their friendship has set the stage for romance.

Summer’s abuelita (Ivonne Coll)—a hip grandma with a TikTok following—encourages her to follow her heart.

Related: The Complete List of Hallmark Stars Who Are NOT Leaving

Is Love in the Limelight based on a true story?

Love in the Limelight is inspired by the real-life love story of actor Willie Aames (Eight is Enough, Picture Perfect Mysteries: Exit Stage Death) and his wife, actress Winnie Hung. For Winnie, Aames was her childhood crush! The two had been pen pals for over three decades before they met and married.

Who's in the Love in the Limelight cast?

Alexa PenaVega (Summer)

Alexa PenaVega got her start in acting as a young Jo (Helen Hunt) in the blockbuster film, Twister. She is probably best known for her role as Carmen in the Spy Kids movies. Since then she has starred in several Hallmark Channel movies, many opposite her real-life husband, Carlos PenaVega. She also competed in season 21 of Dancing with the Stars alongside her husband.

Follow her on Twitter @alexavega and on Instagram @vegaalexa.

Carlos PenaVega (Nick)

After guest-starring roles on ER, Summerland, and Judging Amy, Carlos PenaVega landed a role in Nickelodeon's Big Time Rush, a musical comedy about four hockey players who are chosen to form a boy band. The band in the show went on to record several albums and are still touring! In fact, PenaVega is currently on national tour as a member of Big Time Rush.

Follow him on Twitter @TheCarlosPena and on Instagram @TheRealCarlosPena

Are there any original songs in Love in the Limelight?

Yes! Love in the Limelight will feature six original songs by Carlos PenaVega!

When does Love in the Limelight premiere?

Love in the Limelight premieres on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 8 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel.

When can I watch Love in the Limelight again?

Sunday, August 7 at 6 p.m. ET
Thursday, August 11 at 8 p.m. ET
Sunday, August 14 at 12 p.m. ET
Saturday, August 20 at 4 p.m. ET

Related: The Complete List of Hallmark Stars Who've Moved to GAC Family

Does Parade.com have a sneak peek of Love in the Limelight?

We sure do! Check out the Parade.com exclusive first look at Love in the Limelight below and check out the gallery for some exclusive images!

Is there a trailer for Love in the Limelight?

You betcha!