Hallmark’s ‘All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong’ Cast Has Fans Divided—the Network Responds

All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong, Hallmark’s upcoming film set to premiere on May 9, has people talking. While fans of the cozy network are looking forward to this new flick, being that the Chinese tile game has grown in popularity over the last few years, others have mixed feelings about the movie’s cast, storyline and accompanying Mahjong Tile set created in collaboration with Miss Mahjong. 

What’s ‘All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong’ about?

All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong tells the story of Ronni, an empty nester who struggles with her daughter’s absence, her hours at her job being cut and the prospect of selling her home. While attending a school fundraiser, she comes to discover she’s rather good at teaching Mahjong—a game she and her friends often gather for—and so begins an exciting chapter in which she finds a new purpose and even a bit of romance. 

Hallmark responds to the ‘All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong’ casting debate

As the premiere of this film approaches, many have taken to social media to share their thoughts and feelings regarding All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong. In May, viewers can purchase a Mahjong set inspired by Hallmark’s famed pansy design through Miss Mahjong or Hallmark.com, but many have questioned Hallmark on social media for not collaborating with an Asian-owned brand. Additionally, some people have highlighted what they feel is a lack of Asian representation in the cast. 

Hallmark said it approached the film with care and cultural respect. In a statement to Woman’s World, a Hallmark Media spokesperson shared that “All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong is a love story with connection at its core, highlighting family, friendship, and motherhood with warmth and humor” and added that “the movie honors the heritage of Mahjong by recognizing the game’s Chinese origin and its unique ability to connect cultures, generations and communities.”

Meet the ‘All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong’ cast

As the film’s premiere approaches, we take a look at the cast bringing it to life. 

Fiona Gubelmann as Ronni

Fiona Gubelmann is known for her work both on and off of Hallmark, appearing in series like Wilfred and The Good Doctor. In All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong, she will play Ronni, the lead character who finds a new purpose teaching Mahjong. 

Yan-Kay Crystal Lowe as Shelley

Yan-Kay Crystal Lowe will portray Shelley, one of Ronni’s friends she often gathers with to play Mahjong. 

Tamera Mowry-Housley as Carly

Tamera Mowry-Housley, known by most for her work as a child star on the hit sitcom Sister, Sister, will also join the cast as one of Ronni’s close friends. 

Melissa Peterman as Melissa

Melissa Peterman is another fixture on the Hallmark Channel, and she is set to appear as one of Ronni’s friends, Melissa. 

Paul Campbell as Ben

Paul Campbell, who has starred in Hallmark favorites such as Three Wise Men & a Baby (2022), will portray Ben, a contractor with whom Ronni forms a connection. 

How to watch ‘All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong’

All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong premieres Friday, May 9, on the Hallmark Channel.

• Watch live: Tune in on Hallmark Channel through your cable/satellite provider.
• Watch via streaming TV: You can also watch with live-TV services that carry Hallmark Channel (availability varies by provider and location).
• Set a reminder: Check your on-screen guide/listings for the exact airtime in your time zone and encore showings.