Cast of A Merry Little Ex-Mas (2025) – Full List & Cameos

Few things bring a family together quite like a holiday movie — especially one where the actors’ own children show up on screen. That’s exactly the case with Netflix’s 2025 Christmas rom-com “A Merry Little Ex-Mas,” which reunites Alicia Silverstone and Oliver Hudson as a divorced couple navigating the holidays, with a cast that includes Jameela Jamil, Pierson Fodé, and Linda Kash plus cameos from Silverstone and Hudson’s real-life sons.

Release Year: 2025 ·
Main Cast Members: 5 (Alicia Silverstone, Oliver Hudson, Jameela Jamil, Pierson Fodé, Linda Kash) ·
Director: Steve Carr ·
Streaming Platform: Netflix ·
Notable Cameos: Wilder Hudson and Bear Jarecki (sons of lead actors)

Six key details define the film’s production and cast, one pattern: the movie leans heavily on legacy casting and family connections to create its holiday heart.

Where did A Merry Little Ex-Mas film?

The production likely took place in Canada, specifically the Vancouver area, which is a common filming hub for Netflix holiday projects. While the production has not officially confirmed exact locations, TV Guide (entertainment listings) lists Canadian sites associated with the film. The movie’s snowy, small-town aesthetic fits the region’s winter landscape.

The implication: viewers can enjoy authentic winter scenery without needing a specific location reveal — the setting works as a universal holiday backdrop.

Which cast members’ children appear in the movie?

Two of the lead actors brought their real-life sons to the set for cameo roles, adding a touching layer of authenticity.

• Wilder Hudson (son of Oliver Hudson and Goldie Hawn’s grandson) plays Gabriel Holden, a role that interacts with his father’s character. IMDb (cast database) lists Wilder Hudson as Gabriel Holden.
• Bear Jarecki (also known as Bear Blu Silverstone, son of Alicia Silverstone) appears as Sledder #1. IMDb (cast credits) confirms his uncredited cameo.

The trade-off: the cameos add sweetness but don’t affect the plot, making them easter eggs rather than narrative necessities.

Who played Nigel in A Merry Little Ex-Mas?

The character of Nigel serves as a comic antagonist who tries to disrupt the holiday plans of the main couple. According to IMDb (cast credits), Nigel is played by actor Timothy Innes. Some earlier reports incorrectly attributed the role to Pierson Fodé, but IMDb’s verified cast list confirms Innes in the part. Nigel’s antics provide much of the film’s lighthearted conflict.

The catch: Nigel is a minor role, so his screen time is limited — but Innes makes the most of it with a goofy performance that fits the holiday comedy tone.

Who are the main actors in A Merry Little Ex-Mas?

The core five cast members drive the story, with strong support from additional credited actors. Here’s a breakdown of the principal players and their roles.

• Alicia Silverstone as Kate Holden — the ex-wife navigating a blended holiday with her former spouse. (IMDb)
• Oliver Hudson as Dr. Everett Holden — the ex-husband and father. (IMDb)
• Jameela Jamil as Tess Wiley — the new love interest who shakes up the dynamic. (IMDb)
• Pierson Fodé as Chet Moore — a supporting character with comedic flair. (IMDb)
• Linda Kash as Doris — the quirky neighbor providing local color. (IMDb)

Beyond the main five, IMDb (full cast) lists 13 additional credited performers, including Melissa Joan Hart as April, Geoffrey Owens as Daryl, and Derek McGrath as Mike. The full ensemble brings a community feel to the small-town holiday setting.

What is the critical reception of A Merry Little Ex-Mas?

Early reviews from major outlets emphasize the film’s nostalgic appeal. The Los Angeles Times (entertainment section) called it “a nostalgic dream for its stars,” highlighting how the cast’s familiarity breeds easy chemistry. On Rotten Tomatoes (critic aggregator), the film has not yet gained enough reviews for a consensus score, but audience reactions on social media lean positive.

“A nostalgic dream for its stars.”— LA Times

The pattern: critics agree the movie doesn’t reinvent the holiday rom-com formula, but its cast chemistry and real-life family cameos give it an edge over generic alternatives.

Behind-the-scenes perspectives

In an interview with People (celebrity news and human-interest stories), Alicia Silverstone shared how special it was to have her son Bear on set. “It was so special to have Bear on set with me — he brought such joy to the whole crew,” she said.

“It was so special to have Bear on set with me — he brought such joy to the whole crew.”— Alicia Silverstone, People

The trade-off: while cameos generate buzz, they also risk distracting from the central story. The film balances this by keeping them brief and organic.

Confirmed facts vs. what’s unclear

For fans of cozy holiday films, “A Merry Little Ex-Mas” offers a cast that feels like family — literally. The combination of Silverstone and Hudson’s on-screen reconciliation, Jameela Jamil’s sharp comedic timing, and the genuine cameos from the actors’ children creates a warm, low-stakes watch. The takeaway is clear: if you’re looking for a Christmas movie that leans into its own legacy and doesn’t take itself too seriously, this Netflix original delivers exactly what it promises. For viewers in the US, the choice is simple — queue it up for a lighthearted holiday evening, or skip it if you prefer a less meta approach to seasonal romance.

For a complete breakdown of every actor and their role, check out the full cast list for A Merry Little Ex-Mas on PublicPost UK.

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