Country Roads Christmas (2022) Movie Script

1

[country version]
Joy to the world!
The Lord has come
Let earth receive her King!
Let every heart
Prepare Him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and heaven
and nature sing

Joy to the world!
The Savior reigns
Let us our songs employ
While fields and floods
Rocks, hills and plains
[DJ on radio V.O.]
Good morning Nashville!
And Merry Christmas!
Here's a holiday treat for you.
We have a living legend
with us today.
[Harris V.O.] Well that just
makes it sound like
I've been around too long.
[DJ chuckles V.O.]
Welcome Harris Sanderson.
[Harris V.O.]
Great to be here.
[DJ V.O.] Now, you're famous for
your country picking
and your heartbreak ballads.
But this year you're
releasing a Christmas album.
[Harris V.O.]
I know. Who'd a thought?
[DJ V.O.] You got fill us in
here, Harris.
How did you manage to catch the
Christmas spirit?
[Harris V.O.] I call it "The
Tour That Changed Everything."
[DJ V.O.]
Sounds like a story.
[Harris V.O.]
Yep, it's a good one.
But it doesn't begin with me.

Dashing through the snow
In a one horse open sleigh
O'er the fields we go
Laughing all the way
Bells on bob-tails ring
Making spirits bright
What fun it is
to ride and sing
A sleighing song tonight
Jingle bells Jingle bells
Jingle all the way
Oh what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh
Jingle bells Jingle Bells
Jingle all the way
Oh what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh
[APPLAUSE]
So you have a beautiful voice.
You should sign with a label.
I work at a label.
This is just for fun.
But thank you.
[Annie]
That's Ryan. Ryan, Skye.
He's my friend, and a
part owner of this place.
So that's the friend
that let you decorate
as many trees as you
wanted for the holidays.
Three, at last count.
Did you really tell
Annie there's no limit?
Because you know, she'll put
20 trees in here by next
week.
That's okay.
The more the merrier.
[LAUGHS]
Everybody ready?
You too, Ryan.
[Skye]
Hark the Herald Angels Sing.
Three, four...
[BLUE GRASS VERSION]
Hark the herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn King
Peace on earth
and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled
[SKYE V.O. PHONE MESSAGE]
You've reached Skye Sanderson.
Please leave a message.
[SKYE'S BOSS LEAVING MESSAGE]
Skye, I want Sophie Hartigan's
signed contract on my desk now!
Make it happen!
[Skye] Okay, Sophie.
Show me what you got.
[SOPHIE SINGING] We've been
stuck in the aftermath
[Harris V.O.] Skye was one
talent discovery away
from her big break at
the record company.
And that discovery
was Sophie Hartigan.
[SOPHIE SINGING]
It never really was before
Can we go back?
Before the aftermath?

Yay!
[SKYE CLAPS]
[Skye]
Thanks Sean.
Your voice moves me
every time, Sophie.
It's so pure and honest.
[Skye]
I smell a hit single.
Mom, Skye loves my song!
It's perfect.
You've been working
hard and it shows.
We'll release some
content online,
Sophie at home,
playing for fun.
And while her socials
gain some momentum,
we'll get her in the
studio, recording the album,
and release
back-to-back singles.
Well, let's all
just take a breath.
We're not interested in
having Sophie's face
splashed across every
screen in the nation.
We're more down home.
Okay.
Well, that's refreshing.
We'll focus on songwriting
and what you have to say.
So I'll send over
the contract today.
Great. I'll look
over every detail.
Merry Christmas.
It's just something small.
Aw. Thank you.
I got something for you too.
When I saw this it
made me think of you.
Merry Christmas.


[Skye]
You know...
I got into this business
because I believe
in the power of music
to uplift the soul,
to motivate and
inspire people.
But now it's hard to find anyone
that cares about
the actual music.
You should be running
our company, Skye.
Your instincts keep the
talent flowing at Alderson.
Not Kelly's.
I don't even think
she has instincts.
I haven't learned one thing
about music from her.
[SKYE'S PHONE ALERT]
[Shelby]
Hey everybody!
I'm here with my
daughter Sophie.
We're at the Bei Panini Cafe...
[Skye]
No. No, no, no, no.
[Shelby] Where she's going to
sing her first original song!
[SOPHIE SINGING]
Why? Why?
Don't do this now!
[Tiffany]
Isn't this good?
You want organic
exposure, right?
Not until after they
sign the contract.
Right now this could
blow everything!
Tiff, I gotta go.
I'm sorry.
Oh. Okay.
[SKYE V.O. ON PHONE]
Kelly, hi...
I'm on my way now.
[KELLY V.O. ON PHONE] I just
saw Sophie's livestream.
Tell me you have
that contract signed.
Get it done, Skye!
Get it done!
Shelby, Sophie, hi!
-Skye.
Loved the video.
Well, I figured I would lift
Sophie's profile and, you know,
raise the stakes a little bit.
Okay...
So, ah, let's just finalize
our working arrangements.
Marketing was our last point and
we settled that in my office.
Listen Skye, Sophie likes you.
But we're going to be
moving in another direction.
Another direction?
You know what I discovered
about you record labels?
Is that you're
kind of like shoes.
Never hurts to shop around.
[CHUCKLES]
And believe it or not, I found
a pair that I like better.
Focus Tone!
[CHUCKLES]
Fits us perfectly.
Let's go baby.


[Kelly] You're from music
royalty, Skye,
but you don't have
the killer instinct.
You just lost us the
next Taylor Swift!
My intuition has
brought in every one of
our highest-grossing artists.
Blind luck!
Over the top emotion.
Lack of business acumen.
And today, you lost
us Sophie Hartigan.
You're fired.
Good luck with that.
I quit.
Ah, great!
[SCOFFS]
[MUSIC STARTS]
[FEMALE SINGING]
It's not far to fall
If you don't look down
Don't have to sink too low
Before you drown
Takes a leap of faith
to land on solid ground
It's not far to fall
If you don't look down

Skye, is that you?
Hey...
Yeah.
It's Ryan, right?
Yeah, that's right.
Are you planning on
staying to play tonight?
No, I actually just came by to
let Annie know I can't make it.
I'd love to though.
Ah man, that's too bad.
Um...
What is all this?
I... left my job today.
Wow!
At Christmas time, eh?
Yeah. Me and the boss, never
really saw eye-to-eye.
And today I lost a big client.
It's been a banner day
at Alderson Records.
You work at Alderson Records?
I did.
Until about an hour ago.
When a lovely young artist who
I discovered and nurtured for
months, up and walked
over to Focus Tone Music.
Focus Tone? Um...
Please tell me you're not
talking about Sophie Hartigan?
How do you know Sophie?
I'm with Focus Tone.
I just signed Sophie.
Wow!
Please. Skye.
Shelby said we were
the first people
she had spoken
to in Nashville.
Oh! Good! That's great.
-Best of luck to you.
-No, no, no, no, no.
I wanna talk.
What you did with
her was amazing.
Yeah, I know.
I trained her all up
for another label.
[SAD MUSIC]

Around the bend
You might find something
that you didn't expect
Hi! I'm Skye Sanderson!
And it could be wonderful
In the end
You'll find what you
weren't looking for
Imperfect beautiful
Around the bend
Hi!
I'm just dropping off a resume.
And, uh...

Close your eyes
And you'll find your way
Take a deep breath
And a leap of faith
It's out of your hands
There's a bigger plan
Around the bend
You might find something
that you didn't expect
And it could be wonderful
And in the end
You find what you
weren't looking for
Imperfect beautiful
Around the bend

[PHONE RINGS]
Oh, please be a job offer!
Skye Sanderson.
[Ryan] Okay, promise
you'll hear me out.
It's Ryan Avery from Focus Tone.
Don't hang up just yet.
Skye? You there?
Yeah, I'm a little
busy right now.
I know.
You're on the job hunt.
Listen. We should talk.


[KNOCKS]
Okay, Oscar.
Yup.
Is that it?
Great.
Yup. Call you back soon. Bye.
Hi. Thank you so
much for coming.
Thanks for having me.
I'd love to pretend I'm
fielding offers but
so close to the holidays,
who am I kidding?
Listen, um...
I think that you may think I
did something unethical...
No, you were in the
right place at the right time.
I'm sure you're very persuasive.
You seem charming.
But, I discovered Sophie
Hartigan the old school way.
I flew across the country
to watch her high school
talent show because
my mom's hairdresser insisted
that she was some big talent.
So, I took a risk and
she really was that good.
So I gave her everything I had.
And now she's poised
to break radio.
And that was all my hustle.
I didn't know all that.
So that's who I am.
Someone who cares
more about the music
than going in for the kill.
I understand.
So... Why did you
bring me in here?
Did you want me to teach you
about my old school methods?
[CHUCKLES] As tempting
as that sounds, no.
See, I need a new road manager
for a very special talent.
Sorry. I'm not interested.
I spent my childhood
on the road.
I know you did actually.
That's why this is
a special talent.
You see, I need a new road
manager for your dad,
Harris Sanderson.
Are you okay?
Yeah, ah, I don't know
what you've heard,
but I'm not close
with my father.
I've heard a little.
From him. Yeah.
How's he doing?
He's good.
His holiday tour got started
and he's seemed a little bit...
[BOTH SAY TOGETHER]
Lonely.
Yeah. And if I'm being honest,
my boss is having a
hard time finding
a replacement for his
current road manager.
Me.
You've been tour
managing for my...
For Harris?
Yeah.
He is a legacy client so we
try to go the extra mile.
His Christmas tour's
had a hard start.
And of course
he's being very...
[BOTH SAY TOGETHER]
Stubborn.
[THEY BOTH CHUCKLE]
See, I knew you
would get that part.
I do get it.
I haven't seen my dad since
a few Christmases ago.
Listen, this is going to
be the last Christmas tour
I'm going out
with Harris.
And, well you need a job, right?
How many people have you asked?
[CHUCKLES]
Everyone.
I've asked everyone.
[LAUGHS]
Thought so.
Listen, this is the
number I'm thinking. Okay?
And on top this we can add
some per diem and some little
extra 'walking around money'
if it helps close the deal.
I'll think about it.
Okay.
And, um, maybe you
should ask my dad first?
Yeah, probably be a good idea.


[MUSIC BOX PLAYS "TAKE ME
HOME, COUNTRY ROADS"]
[MUSIC BOX PLAYS "TAKE ME
HOME, COUNTRY ROADS"]
[MUSIC BOX PLAYS "TAKE ME
HOME, COUNTRY ROADS"]
[MUSIC BOX PLAYS "TAKE ME
HOME, COUNTRY ROADS"]
[MUSIC STOPS ABRUPTLY]

[Harris V.O.]
Now, Skye loves her mama...
[DJ V.O.] You're talking about
The Meg Sanderson now.
The other half of Harris & Meg.
[Harris V.O.]
Right.
Meg's place in West Virginia
is truly heaven on earth.
And no matter where
Skye might be,
she always comes home
for Christmas.


[MEG SINGING AND PLAYING PIANO]
How lovely are your branches
O Christmas tree
O Christmas tree
How lovely are your ---
[Meg]
Oh honey!
That foolish woman, letting
you go right before Christmas.
Well, I'm sure she's
on the 'naughty' list.
Well, look at the bright side.
Now you can help me with the
best Christmas light display
in the state.
You know, with social media
we really are competing
on a national level.
I know!
You put so much love into it.
Are you sure you're doing okay?
Yes, I'm just,
you know, a little lonely
with the holidays coming up.
Did you see the announcement for
dad's annual Christmas tour?
No, no.
My mood is not your father.
Are you sure? I know these
things get under your skin.
[MEG CHUCKLES]
All right.
It was hard to miss.
So, I need to tell you.
I actually may have
a new job already.
Honey!
That's great!
Does that mean you have to go
back to Nashville tomorrow?
No. Um...
Focus Tone Music has a
gig that's close to here.
Your dad's label?
Yeah. Dad's label.
The man who hired
me is named Ryan.
Ryan, huh?
Is he cute?
Mom! Really?
I'm hearing yes.
Ryan has been on
the road with dad
but he needs to get
back to the office.
He's just been filling in since
the last tour manager left.
You're tour managing
your father?
If he agrees, yes.
Are you sure about this?
I know it's awkward.
Neither of us has seen
him since that Christmas.
You're not mad?
Oh honey, you need a job.
I understand.
Thank you.
To be honest, I don't even
know what to say to him.
He's your father.
You'll find the words.

[APPLAUSE AND CHEERING]
I love this time of year.
It comes with its
own song catalogue!
[CROWD LAUGHS]
[HARRIS STARTS
PLAYING GUITAR]

Hark! The herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn King
Peace on earth
and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled
I haven't seen
him play in years.

Let me guess.
Probably about the time he
signed on with me at Focus Tone.
Yeah exactly.
He was supposed to spend
the holidays with me
but Nashville called.
I'm sorry.
It's not your fault.
Ruining Christmas is
kind of his thing.
When I was a kid, he split
with my mom on Christmas,
a few hours after our
big family dinner.
Kind of took the joy out
of music, for awhile.

So that's why you're not
chasing the spotlight then.
I could never.
I'd always be living
in their shadow.
One of the best selling
music acts of all time.
And a tragic love story to boot.
Joyful all ye nations rise
Join the triumph
of the skies
I don't know anything
about love stories.
But I do know music.
And I do know that you
have an amazing voice.
It's kind of my
job to know that.
Yeah, at a small, sort of
well known record label.
Wow!
-Way to kill the mood.
[CROWD APPLAUSE]
There was a mood?
Oh you know there was a mood.
[CROWD APPLAUSE]
Thank you all.


Man, you had them with that
Christmas carol at the end.
[SCOFFS]
'Tis the season to make 'em cry.
Yeah, that's the truth.
Somebody wants to meet me?
Skye?
Hey.
You're more beautiful than ever.
Thanks.
You were great up there tonight.
[SNIFFS] These old bones keep
rolling somehow.
How's life?
It's good.
I'm still living in Nashville.
I've been working
in the business.
Sorry to hear that.
[CHUCKLES]
Actually, it's
a funny story.
So I met Skye when I was
on the road in Nashville,
looking for your
new road manager.
It just made sense.
I thought she'd be
the perfect fit.
Ah... Sorry kids.
[SNIFFS]
No can do.
You two can reconnect. Okay.
The holiday tour is the
perfect time to do that.
She's here, she's
come a long way.
Talk to her for a few minutes.
Catch you inside after?

[DJ V.O.]
What did you say to her?
[Harris V.O.]
All the wrong things.
And now they had
something in common.
Complaining about me.
We just don't have anything
to talk about anymore.
It's been too long.
He's just surprised to see you.
We threw him off.
Yeah, that may be it.
The man does love his routine.
So there had to have been some
fun times, growing up, right?
Well, yeah.
I was just reminding
him of this time that
we found a puppy on a side
road in South Carolina.
I bet you he stopped and
scooped it up, didn't he?
Of course.
It took hours to find
that puppy's home.
Long enough that I'd
already named him Renegade.
Mom and dad liked Houdini.
And he would help me
with my English homework.
We'd write poems all the time.
"Songs are poems," he'd tell me.
-Smart man.
-Yeah.
You know, earlier I was telling
him how doing homework together
are some of the happiest
memories I have.
And he barely remembered it.
It meant
everything to me.
And...
And nothing to him.
And then he changed the subject.
Starts talking about that
time he was on stage in LA,
playing the hits,
and Johnny Cash walks in!
Asked dad to sign
his guitar case.
Skye, let me at least
try to talk to him.
You know, I appreciate you
trying to make this work.
I really do.
But it definitely
doesn't feel right.
Merry Christmas.
Skye.
Skye.
Skye! Don't go!
I can't be around the Harris
Sanderson celebrity persona.
It sucks up all the air.
Believe me. I know. Okay?
I get it.
He's not an easy
person to be around.
Ryan, there's a reason
why we don't talk.
There's a reason why my
mom sits at her piano
singing to keep
herself company.
It's always been the
Harris Sanderson show.
He's the star.
There's no room for
us on his stage.
Everyone needs family.
Don't get me wrong.
I love my dad.
We're just not meant to
be in each other's lives.
Not like this, anyway.
He spends every holiday alone.
That's his choice.
Not mine.
He knows where our home is.
[DIALING]
Harris, open the door.
I'm walking over.


[Skye] How do you remember
where everything goes?
[MEG LAUGHING]
I don't.
It's always a new mix.
Keeps it fresh.
Just help me.
We'll pull everything out
and get it separated.
You're pretty quiet.
Are you going to tell me
why you're not on the road
with your dad?
I don't really want
to talk about it.
I'm just going to start
looking for a new job.
I won't lie.
It's disappointing.
Not just because of dad.
Something tells me
you're missing Ryan.
Just a little?
I guess I am.
And you can admit that
you still miss dad?
Even after all
these years. Yeah.
Me too.
[Skye]
Now let's decorate your porch.
[FUN CHRISTMAS MUSIC]
Up on the housetop
reindeer pause
Out jumps good
ol' Santa Claus
Down through the chimney
with lots of toys
All for the little ones'
Christmas joys
Ho ho ho, who wouldn't go
Ho ho ho, who wouldn't go
[Skye] I honestly think this
is your best display yet.
Down through the chimney
with good Saint Nick
[Skye] You really outdid
yourself this year, mom.
[Meg] Phase 2 starts tomorrow.
You know, I started doing
this to remind myself
there's always
light in the world.
Everyone needs a little
light and happiness
especially during
the holidays.
I really think your dad's
sacrifice of our family time
was because he knew how
much joy he was bringing
to so many people on tour.
That's one way of looking at it.
[HORN HONKS OUTSIDE]
Ha ha!
Our first 'thank
you' of the season.
We've brightened someone's day.
[KNOCKING AT THE DOOR]
What in the world?
[Ryan]
Hello?
Harris!
Meg...
You look good.
Still your favorite?
Yes.
I'll find somewhere to hang it.
Skye...
Hey dad.
[reading] Little Raven by
himself in the big crow's nest.
Thinking about all the
things that he likes best.
Shiny beads and peanuts,
and a crisp French fry.
Sipping from a water
puddle after it's been dry.
But when his mom
and dad flew home
and kissed his
feathered head...
He realized the best
thing of all...
was getting tucked into bed.
I can't believe
you remember that.
Every word.
Come on the road
with me, please.
Okay. Why not?
Two weeks of the finest
honky-tonk bars in the Smokies.
That's the same line you
used on me back in the day!
Come on.
Hey.
Is that Cindy out
there in the driveway?
The original Meg
and Harris tour bus?
Yeah. That's her.
Same blankets and heaters, too.
Okay.
Well, I know where I'm
spending the night tonight.
[SKYE LAUGHS]
That's a lot of enthusiasm for a
vehicle that doesn't even run.
It fuels the imagination.
Um, did you tell him to do that?
I said a few things. Yeah.
But to be honest I did
not see all this going on.
[PIANO PLAYING
"COUNTRY ROADS TAKE ME HOME"]
[HARRIS SINGING]
Country roads
Take me home
[HARRIS & MEG SINGING TOGETHER]
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home country roads
Did you get a good
video there, fanboy?
Cut me some slack.
It's the first time I've
ever heard them together.
And they ain't
legendary for nothing!
In their own home, singing
during the holidays...
That isn't legendary.
That's just a regular evening.
Wow.
You two sound amazing together.
It's a great song from
a great songwriter.
Yes it is.
[Skye] You're bubbly
this evening.
Do you think your dad's eating
okay while he's on the road?
Oh, um... I think so
If I still had a key,
I'd put some meals in the
freezer for when he got home.
He always loved your pot roast.
He's just in those
clubs every night
playing his fingers
to the bone.
Maybe, but mom,
don't forget it's been a
while since you've seen him.
Time has passed.
People change.
Well, I'm glad you're taking
care of him because maybe you'll
get him to eat something
green every once in a while.
How do you know I took the job?
The Little Raven poem? Please.
I almost got on the bus myself.
That was a smooth move.
I'll give him that.


Oscar.
Ah!
[LAUGHS HAPPILY]
Now you are a sight for
sore eyes, young lady!
I've missed you too, Oscar.
Mom's famous shortbread cookies?
Oh!
I should've gotten you some
of those candy necklaces
that you used to love.
I still love those.
And I'm assuming you haven't
given up cheesy popcorn.
Never.
I'm going to need you to play
me some music on this bus.
Any song you want.
I want to hear the songs
nobody's heard yet.
Not even your dad?
Well. He's just the voice.
You're the brains.
Everybody knows that.
[LAUGHS HEARTILY]
Well...
You buy the snacks
and it's a deal.
All right.
It's good to have
you here, Skye.
Welcome back to the
Christmas tour, Ryan.
It's good to be back, Oscar.

[Ryan] So your dad's got the
whole back of the bus here.
Full disclosure,
I sleep in motels.
I love your dad and Oscar,
but a man needs his own space.
Good. Cause I'd really
rather not sleep on the bus.
I need a real bed and
preferably my own bathroom.
Skye, I got to tell you.
Seeing your mom and dad sing
together yesterday, that was,
that was amazing.
Yeah, that was nice.
They sound so good together.
It felt a little bit like
a reunion moment, maybe?
Don't get any big ideas, Ryan.
What are you talking about?
I see those wheels spinning.
You want to set a
parent trap and
get Meg and Harris back
on stage together.
Never had the thought!
But now that you mention
it, it's not a bad idea.

[Ryan]
So tell me...
What happened with
your mom and dad?
You mean why did they split up?
Uh huh.
Well, my dad ate his Christmas
dinner, packed a suitcase
and then left my mom
for LouAnne Mayer.
LouAnne Mayer?
Now there's the fanboy.
You want me to get her to
write on the back of your hand
so you can never wash it again?
-Yeah, yeah.
I didn't grow up with country
music royalty like you did.
Okay.
I did meet Loretta Lynn once.
Really?
She asked me if I wanted
to be a country music star.
What did you say?
I said yes!
And also a large
animal veterinarian.
Apparently, I don't really
remember it but I do remember
she smelled really good.
That's too cool.
I got to tell you though...
Your mom and dad, they really
are great together though.
Like, wow!
Ryan, I don't think
a reunion tour
is even a remote
possibility.
Everyone gets a
Christmas wish, right?
I guess they do.
Well that's mine.

Hey, dad.
Just checking on you.
Oh, Skye.
Come on in.
Wow.
You're really all
set up in here.
Huntington, huh?
Uh huh. Ticket sales
are really good.
If we can trust what
the promoter says.
Never...
[BOTH SAY TOGETHER]
Trust a promoter!
So you did learn something
all those years on the road.
Do you want me to pick out your
wardrobe or is that your thing?
Be my guest.
I like this.
Me too.
It's got an itchy tag.
Drives me nuts!
You know, I can fix
that for you, right?
Nobody deserves an itchy tag.
Now there's a honky tonk
holiday
in all the pubs across
So, what song's up first
tonight, H?
Well, well.
She looks like you.
Poor kid.
[THEY ALL LAUGH]
Why don't you decide
how we open tonight.
Well you already know which
song I'm going to pick.
You remember what you
used to say to me
every night before
I went on stage?
"It's show time, Daddy-O."
Yeah!
[SKYE GIGGLES]
[APPLAUSE AND CHEERING]
[Ryan]
I don't know what it is,
but he has a pep in his step
since you've came along.
[HARRIS ON STAGE]
Y'all know this one?
[AUDIENCE MEMBER]
'Unpolished Dreams'!
-[HARRIS LAUGHS]
-[APPLAUSE]
[HARRIS STARTS
PLAYING HIS GUITAR]


-So, two days, in between here.
-Uh huh.
It's going to be a little tight.
[Skye]
Yeah.
[STRUGGLING SOUNDS, DOOR CLOSES]
-Hey!
-Hey!
Whatcha got there?
Christmas pudding.
Charleston Diner's
holiday special.
Is that where we are right now?
Pro tip: Always know what
town you're in. Right?
Other than geography, how's
my new road manager doing?
She's doing good.
I'll have her trained
up by Christmas,
and I'll be back in the
office by New Year's.
Right on schedule.
That's my girl.
He got one for you too!
There's a great
big world to see
We can go look
at it you and me
Even when your sky is gray
Together we'll
always find our way

Whatever you want
you can have it
Beautiful life full of magic
If it gets heavy I
will carry your load
So you can let it go
There's a great
big world to see
We can go look
at it you and me
Even when the sky is gray
Together we'll
always find our way
[Harris] I mean it!
I'm fine, I'm fine.
I'm fine. Just a bit dizzy.
It must've been the heat.
They had the hot white spotlight
on for most of the set.
What've you eaten today?
I hope it was more than
a donut and some coffee.
I just need to sit down.

[Skye O.S.]
I really don't think he's okay.
[Ryan]
I keep telling him,
he needs to take
better care of himself.
[Skye] My mom told me to
do exactly that.
Now I understand why.
[Ryan]
He needs more exercise
than going from the bus
to the stage every night.
That's all he gets.
All I see him do is
eat, sleep and work.
That's pretty much it. Yeah.
I might book him in
to see his doctor.
He should probably get
some blood work done.
I bet he hasn't gone in
forever.
And when was the last time
he went to see a dentist?
He's up to date on all
his wellness checks. Okay.
'Wellness checks'?
That doesn't sound like him.
Well, no. He calls
them 'pokes and prods'.
[SKYE CHUCKLES]
Of course he does.
Of course he does.


[TIFFANY ON PHONE]
Wow, where are you?
It's beautiful behind you.
That is the wonderful
wilds of West Virginia.
But I miss Nashville.
I miss you.
How's your new job?
[Skye] I'm getting used to it.
Dad is more stubborn.
If that's possible.
-Oh no.
-Yeah.
This is a hard life even
when you're younger.
It's even harder when all you
do is work, eat, sleep, repeat.
True. Even if you
love your work.
I'm right here with him,
but I still feel like we're
so far apart.
[Tiffany] You should try
opening up to him.
You never know, it
might help you both.
Yeah. We'll see about that.
[TIFFANY'S DOORBELL RINGS]
Oh, I gotta go, Skye.
Food delivery is here.
Okay. Love you!
Love you. Merry merry.
Mwah, mwah, mwah!
[HARRIS STRUMMING GUITAR]

[HARRIS SINGING]
Fall on your knees
[HARRIS & SKYE SINGING TOGETHER]
O hear the angel voices
O night divine
O night when Christ was born
Was it worth it, dad?
Was what worth it, sweetheart?
All those years on the road.
The fame.
The fans.
That took your time,
from me and mom.
When all that stuff
went down with mom...
It felt like you were
at a fork in the road.
And we just weren't your path.
I knew a long time ago,
that it was better
for me to be alone.
For all of us.
I don't think that was the case.
You deserve better.
We missed you.
Your mom wasn't happy.
She still cares for you.
[Harris V.O.] I don't care how
much of a loner cowboy you are,
there's nothing worse than
seeing your baby girl cry.
Something changed for me
backstage that night.
I realize all this time,
I've been wrong.
And now, more than ever,
I wanted Skye to
find her happiness.
[Skye] Do you think
he'll try to eat
any of the healthy
stuff we ordered him?
[Ryan]
He'll probably eat those
cheese and eggs we got him.
Do you think we're trying a
little too hard with him?
What do you mean?
I mean, it's a steep ask to go
from eating biscuits and gravy
to eating salad for every
meal, in just a few days.
Yeah, but he's got to
get some vitamins in him.
Right.
Skye, he's not going to
eat salad for breakfast.
That was a fruit salad!
There was juicy Florida oranges,
crunchy California almonds...
Kale.
Okay there was
some kale in there.
Then tell me how to get
him off the French fries.
Slowly.
And no kale.
Cowboys don't eat kale.
Okay, so...
Broccoli? Collard greens?
You're getting warmer.
But try a different color.
Purple!
Purple it is.
[CHUCKLES]
Purple food...
[MEG'S PHONE RINGS]
Hey honey.
[Skye quietly]
Hey mom.
Oh oh. What's wrong?
[Skye]
It's dad.
What's he done now?
He's just not taking very
good care of himself.
A body can only handle
that for so long, right?
[Meg] Well, he loves his work
and his work loves him.
It just doesn't leave a lot of
time or energy for self-care.
Small steps, honey.
Small steps.
It works for everyone.
I'm trying.
I think he's trying too.
[KNOCKING AT SKYE'S DOOR]
Hey, mom. I got to go.
Ryan's outside. We got
to head to the venue.
I love you.
Love you too, honey.
[Harris onstage] I'd like to end
with a Christmas song for y'all.
I know it's sentimental...
But this is the time of year
to really cherish
the ones you love.
[Harris]
And on that note...
I'd like to invite my
beautiful daughter
Skye Sanderson for
this next number.
[WHOOPING, APPLAUSE]
[Harris] I think
she's going to need
a little more
encouragement, folks.
[LOUDER WHOOPING, APPLAUSE]
Come on, honey.
They won't bite.
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
[HARRIS STARTS
PLAYING GUITAR]

O holy night the stars are
brightly shining
It is the night of our
dear Savior's birth
Long lay the world in
sin and error pining
Till He appeared and
the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope
the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks
a new and glorious morn!
[SKYE AND HARRIS SING TOGETHER]
Fall on your knees
O hear the angel voices
O night divine!
O night when Christ was born
-Man! They're amazing.
-Uh huh. Yup.
O night
O night divine
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
[Harris] Skye Sanderson,
ladies and gentlemen!
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
Thanks y'all.
Good night.
And Merry Christmas.
[Harris V.O.] Singing with
my little girl again,
well that touched my heart.
But after that,
the road got rocky.
Skye was heading to Meg's,
but me...
I didn't belong anywhere.
[Ryan] So I saw Raspberry
White Hot Chocolate
on the board and
I thought of you.
-Thank you.
-You're welcome.
You know,
there's no real chocolate
in white chocolate, right?
I meant regular hot chocolate
with extra marshmallows.
How much extra?
-A lot.
-Perfect.
[HARRIS YAWNS LOUDLY]
Hey Dad.
How about you take
me on a walking tour
of your hometown today?
Um...
I was just thinking about
having some coffee,
write some lyrics maybe.
For old times' sake.
This place is like
an hour from mom's
but I haven't been here since...
I don't know when.
All right. Invite that
boyfriend of yours?
[SKYE LAUGHS]
He's not my boyfriend.
Don't think your dad doesn't
see the way you two light up
when you look at each other.
He's all right.
Although you could do better.
He could not do better.
He'd be lucky to have you.
And he knows it.
[LAUGHING] Okay. That's good.
Thank you.
Go get ready.
Hey! We're going on a walk.
You're coming.
Okay.
Where can I find the
key to your place?
Honey...
Dad. I'm not going to
judge your messy house.
I just want to get
your walking shoes.
You're not going to be comfy
walking around
in your boots all day.
I don't have a house anymore.
What do you mean?
I sold it... a while back.
You sold grandma's house?
And everything in it?
So where've you been living?
Right here.
You live on the tour bus?
[Harris]
It's not how it sounds.
Then enlighten me.
My walking shoes are here now.
[Meg]
I'm not surprised.
I tried calling the
house once last year
when the
furnace went out here.
I couldn't remember the name of
the service company we used.
I just thought he got
rid of the landline.
People don't use
them much anymore.
Nobody seems to be alarmed
that my father is homeless!
Who lets that happen to someone
they're supposed
to be taking care of?
[Ryan] To be fair, he does
love it on the bus.
It's like living on a boat.
Everything he needs.
Just a little smaller.
A lot smaller.
He had a garden, a real
bathroom, dignity.
We doubled the tour budget
whenever we went out full time.
So that takes care
of everything.
He had roots!
He got rid of everything
from our past.
Grandma's jewelry,
our record collection.
It's like none of
it mattered to him.
I thought the whole
family knew about this?
That's what he told me.
It's not your fault Ryan.
Harris is a grown man.
If he wants to sell the
house, he's going to do it.
There's nothing you
could do to stop him.
Well, I'm bringing him
here in the morning.
Oh. Does he know that?
Good luck, sweetheart.
[Harris]
More pancakes!
They're delicious.
More coffee!
You come get the coffee, Harris.
[HARRIS CHUCKLES]
So you're just going
to brush over the fact
that you've been
living on a bus?
That's not a home, dad.
It's one step away
from being homeless.
Music is my life and
that life is on the road.
You know that.
It's a bus.
It's a short commute to work,
right across the parking lot.
That's great. Joke about it.
Another wonderful 'Harris
Sanderson' decision
that you can blame
on your career.
Skye, please.
I'm worried about you!
You don't need to be.
You happy now?
I told you I didn't want
her touring with me.
But you went on and on and on
about contractual obligations.
Only because you shut down
when I said you should spend
Christmas with your family.
Have a heart, it's the holidays.
She got fired.
She needs a paycheck.
So that's what this was.
-No!
You didn't really want to spend
Christmas with me, did you dad?
Or any day, really.
-Sweetheart, I...
-Stop!
I've gotten pretty use
to your rejection by now.
Don't even get me
started on you.
You're one stubborn guy.
Come on, Skye.
At least let me explain.
I already understand.
Completely.
[DOOR SLAMS CLOSED]
[PLUCKING CHORDS ON GUITAR]
[KNOCKING]
Am I interrupting?
Actually, I can't find
it in my heart to care.
[HARRIS GROANS]
I can't think straight.
I don't even know
what to say to her.
Well you could start
by coming inside
and not hiding out
here in the driveway.
Of course I want to spend
Christmas with my daughter.
Pushed her away all these years.
I know she'll be
happier without me.
Oh, you know that, do you?
You are as stubborn as a mule.
So I've been told.
I didn't know you
got rid of the house.
I didn't need it.
Everything's here on the bus.
You don't need a home?
Home is where the heart is.
Well you better decide where
your heart is because it's been
rolling down the highway with no
sense of purpose or direction.
Don't be so stubborn
that you don't see
the hand you've
truly been dealt.
Well, I always was a
terrible poker player.
[THEY BOTH LAUGH]
Do you remember that
card shark in Memphis?
Oh, he took you for a ride!
[HARRIS LAUGHS]
Thank goodness you
walked in when you did.
I was about to lose
my wedding ring!
[HARRIS LAUGHS]
Coming in?
Yeah.
[Skye]
How did it not bother you
that he didn't have a
roof over his head?
I know how this may look,
but in my defense, your
father is not the kind of guy
who is going to be
told what to do,
even by the person who
sign his paychecks.
I get it. He's been
working non stop.
A label likes to keep
their earners earning.
Oh, so you think that
somehow I've abandoned
your father's well
being and health?
See, you don't know that
I send him and Oscar
down to the Gulf Coast three,
four times a year for fishing,
a little R&R, on my dime.
But how would you know that?
You hadn't been here.
I know that you lied to me.
I know that you forced
him to spend time with me
so that you could go
back to Nashville.
[Harris]
All those years ago...
I owe you an explanation.
No, Harry. Don't.
I could see the road was
wearing on you and Skye.
She needed a normal life and
I wanted to let you
get off the ride
without feeling like
you'd let me down.
You didn't have to cheat.
Nothing happened with LouAnne.
I slept on her couch and
listened to her snore
more nights than I can count.
How was I supposed to know that?
You brought her as your
date to Christmas dinner.
The two of you seemed
so happy on tour.
LouAnne's a friend.
That's all.
It just...
seemed easier to have
you mad at me than
to talk about the truth.
I'm sorry.
I thought you didn't
love me anymore.
I love you Meg.
I've only ever loved you.


And yeah, I'm sorry,
I didn't tell you that
he needed a little push.
But he loves you.
Surely you know that by now.
Ryan, nothing that
my dad says or does
shows me that he loves me.
That little poem.
He looked at you like
you were his whole world.
Oh you believed that
performance, did you?
I think you should go.
Back on tour, back to Nashville.
It doesn't matter.
Skye. I know you're mad.
But I care a lot about you.
I'm just asking you to trust me.
I don't trust you.
[Meg] I've been doing a
lot of thinking.
And I have something
to tell you too.
I'm lonely.
And I'm not going to beat
around the bush, Harris.
Will you come home?
Uh, look...
I don't want your life
to be on that bus.
I want my husband back.
I want you beside me for life's
big events, and small moments.
For everything.
You gave Skye a stable life.
But are you just going to
continue to give up on us?
I'm on the road all the time.
It's who I am.
You said you love me.
I've loved you since
the day we met.
But I'm not going to
burden you with this life.
Your love is not a burden,
it's a blessing.
Don't you know that?
You love your life.
I love mine.
But we can compromise.
We can find a balance.

[Harris V.O.] I swear on my
oldest Martin guitar,
I had no idea Meg would
ever want me back.

Hey, have you seen my parents?
No.
Your dad was supposed to
cook breakfast. But, no.
Well, they're
not in the house.
They're not outside.
Neither one of them is
answering their phones.
-I'm actually getting worried.
-[RYAN DIALS HIS PHONE]
The car's still here so I
don't know
where they would have
got to.
Ryan. What are you
doing calling?
We left you a note
on the fridge.
[Meg] You stay at the farm over
the holiday with Skye.
Work it out.
Skye doesn't want me here.
You need to come get me.
Harris is going to finish the
last few dates on the tour.
He and Oscar know what to do.
What? No. Absolutely not.
That's an unbreakable
Focus Tone rule.
No one goes anywhere
without a manager.
You have to have
someone there to be...
Responsible.
[Meg] They have a very
responsible tour manager.
She was tough to book right
before the Christmas holiday.
And this mystery manager...
She's been on tour
before, I'm guessing?
[Meg]
Of course I have.
I even know the
words to the songs
because I co-wrote
half of them.
And you never know.
I might be rusty but maybe
I'll get up on stage.
Bye, Ryan!
I found your parents.
Thank you.
For finding them.
Not bad for someone
who doesn't care. Right?

[HORSE SNORTS]


So I read my mom's note.
She actually used the
words 'second honeymoon'.
It's kinda sweet,
though, right?
Giving each other
a second chance.
What are you so angry about?
I'm not angry.
That hay begs to differ.
It just bothers me
that you actually think I let
your father go 'homeless'.
From the time I signed him
everyone said he was washed up.
Said he was a has-been.
For weeks, I'd be on the
phone with promoters trying
to convince them that he was the
one who could fill their rooms.
And guess what?
He wasn't.
Not at first.
I had to eat a lot of
crow in those days.
But I kept working, I kept
promoting, getting press.
First it was the old timers.
They remember his old tunes.
But then the radio picked
up his music again.
Carved out a whole new audience.
A loyal audience at that.
Skye, I care.
About your family.
And I care about you.

Thank you.
Yeah, you're welcome.
[HAPPY MUSIC BEGINS]
In the magic of December
[Harris V.O.] Being on
the road again with Meg
was like a dream I never
thought would come true.
But there was one more
stop on the tour.
I had a few more
things to make right.
I felt bad leaving
the kids in the dark.
But then again,
something was bound to
push those two together.
And that someone lets you in
In their heart
you are invited
Feels like coming home again
Light the tree
and make a memory
And raise a glass or two
This Christmas wish
Has brought me here to you
Light the tree
and make a memory
And raise a glass or two
This Christmas wish has
brought me here to you
[Harris]
Hey Oscar...
Been thinking about how to
make things right with Skye.
I was wondering...
If I were to quit the
road for awhile...
What would you do?
I'd go to that place that
Carmen and me have on
the coast in Mexico.
What would you do down there?
[LAUGHS]
Retire, Harris.
Retire?
You mean, like, when
people stop working?
That's when people like me
start spending those big
songwriting royalties,
and stop worrying
about life.
That sounds nice.
[Oscar] You're finally
tired of the road.
I get it.
Maybe there's more
to life, you know?
More than sleeping,
singing, and scratching?
More Meg.
More Skye.
More life.
You should try it.
At least for a while.
It's been a good
ride, hasn't it?
Yeah! [LAUGHS]
The best.
[APPLAUSE]
Umm...
I want y'all to do
something for me.
You remember it's
Christmas Eve, right?
Take that warm feeling
inside you right now.
Bring that feeling
home to your family.
Bring it to the one you need
to make things right with.
The one you love more than
anything else in the world.
[Harris]
Can y'all do that for me?
[CROWD CHEERS AND CLAPS]
Thank you.
Merry Christmas!
[APPLAUSE]


Well, that's the last stop.
Your rental car's waiting.
You going to drive this
baby all the way to Mexico?
[LAUGHS]
You're kidding me, right?
Once I drop this
off in Nashville,
Carmen is doing
all the driving.
I'm putting my feet
up for a change.
We're going to miss you.
[Oscar]
We'll miss you too.
We'll wait for you on the beach.
I'll build you a guesthouse.
We'll be there.
[Oscar]
You better be.
[Harris]
Megan Caroline Sanderson.
[Meg]
Harris Alfred Sanderson.
You are more beautiful now
than the day we met
at the county fair.
All these years on the road
I thought that was
the only life for me.
I told reporters I
didn't have a home.
It fit the image, you know.
But getting close
with you again...
You remembered
you have a home.
I remembered where my heart is.


Merry Christmas, sweetheart.


[RADIO TURNED ON]
[SONG ON RADIO PLAYING]
[HARRIS SINGS ALONG]
Country roads take me home
[PHONE RINGING]
[Harris V.O.] I finally
found my way home again.
[PHONE CONTINUES RINGING]
[Harris V.O.] But a big
part of Skye's journey
was just beginning.
[Tiffany]
Hey Skye.
Merry Christmas Eve!
[Skye]
Merry Christmas Eve!
Umm, any chance you have
something to drink nearby?
Will hot cocoa work?
[LAUGHS]
Yes!
Anything chocolate
definitely works.
We're celebrating my new job.
[SQUEALS WITH HAPPINESS]
[Skye]
That's amazing!
Who finally stepped up?
Viva? Strikers?
Alderson!
You've got to be kidding me!
Nope.
Kelly's chair is
really comfortable.
[LAUGHS]
I'm so happy for you!
You're going to take the
music world by storm!
Actually, I think you'll be
taking the music world by storm.
I want you to be
my first artist.
What do you think?
I don't think I'm ready.
[Skye]
I only play for small crowds
like tonight at my mom's
Christmas display.
Skye Sanderson! Stop
doubting your talent.
You were born ready.
Tiff...
I don't know what to say.
Say you'll help your best friend
launch her career
as a music exec.
[Tiffany]
Say you believe in me.
[Ryan]
You seem really chipper.
Good news?
Yeah, um, I wasn't
expecting this,
but my friend Tiffany
just got promoted
to head of
Alderson Records.
So she's better than Kelly Kain?
Am I right?
Yeah. Definitely.
And she's always been
my biggest supporter.
She wants to sign me
and she wants me to start
in the studio next week.
So you'll be gone next week?
You're going to do great!
The world needs to hear
that voice of yours.
Thank you, Ryan.
I got a little surprise.
Stay right there.

New addition to the
Christmas light display.
In honor of the most amazing
woman I've ever met.
[Ryan] And who has truly
lit up my heart.
You like?
I love it.
And I love you, Ryan Avery.
I love you, Skye Sanderson.
Thank you...
For getting my
family back together.
It was really a selfish act.
Why is that?
Because I plan on being
part of that family.
Are you sure you know
what you're getting into?
I got a pretty good idea. Yeah.
Well, a house ain't a home
without some music, right?
That's right!
[Harris V.O.]
Every year Meg sings
for the neighborhood
folks at Christmas.
But since the two of us skipped
out like a couple of runaways,
this year was up to Skye
to hold down the tradition.
And good ole Ryan,
he was there to help.
Not that outlet, Ryan!
[Ryan]
Oh yeah. Copy that!
Hey y'all.
How about that
Christmas light display?
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
So, there's someone who's
very important to me.
This song's for you Ryan.
[STARTS PLAYING GUITAR]

This year for Christmas
I don't need a thing
Just your love
My heart flutters
when you say my name
It's enough
I don't need no gifts
under my Christmas tree
All that I want is
you here with me
Just to hold for Christmas
You in my arms
It's where
you belong
Just to hold for Christmas
All that I need is
you here with me
[APPLAUSE]

[MESSAGE NOTIFICATION]
Tiff just texted me.
A video of my performance
tonight is going viral.
Yes it is!
Well I guess everyone likes
a little taste of home.
I feel lucky that I can being
some light into their lives.
[Ryan] I'm lucky that
you're in my life.
I never actually got
a full walk thru
of the Christmas
tree display.
You want to do me the honors?
After you!
[Ryan] I want to always be
by your side.

You're so beautiful.
I'm so happy right now.
I want you to be
happy every day.
So what would you say...
I'll partner up with Tiffany,
help manage your career.
I'd say that's sounds
too good to be true.
The label would still be
Alderson
and Focus Tone will
handle the management.
We can hammer out the
details, but it'll work.
I think that's genius.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.


[Harris V.O.] Things were coming
out pretty good
for the Sandersons.
But I needed one more thing
for Christmas.
Forgiveness.
[HARRIS SNIFFLES]
[Harris] It was your first
almost Christmas.
Your mother was so beautiful.
You made us wait a
whole another week.
[THEY BOTH LAUGH]
Good things take time, right?
[Harris]
Your Star of Bethlehem.
First grade art class.
I never knew a child could
love glitter so much.
I remember I got it all over my
hands, my clothes, the tour bus.
I never cared.
No, I didn't think you did.
You would just tell me to
be creative and get messy.
You got it all over the back
of my favorite guitar.
I like to see it there.
Keep you close.
I love you, Skye.
I made such a mess of things
because I just wanted you
to have a normal life.
But you didn't deserve
to feel rejected.
This Christmas, I still
had to come to you.
I hurt you so much
over the years.
How could I come back from that?
I told myself you're
better off without me.
But I'm not, though.
I'm really not.
Well, I'd like to spend every
Christmas with you from now on.
Me too.
[LAUGHING]
You're such a sap.
Ain't it amazing
How everything changes
Hearts just seem
to be more tender
[Harris V.O.]
Listen to your loved ones.
If you can.
Learn from my
stubborn mistakes.
No matter how far you stray,
you can always come back home.
Somewhere with
the ones you love
[Harris V.O.]
Merry Christmas.
Loving the ones you're with
I'll tell you what it is
It must be Christmas
That candlelight service
Where we all sing
Silent Night
About a baby in a manger
Puts a tear drop in your eye
As you stand so close
To what matters most
Ain't it amazing
How everything changes
Hearts just seem
to be more tender
'Round about mid-December
Yeah you get the good stuff
'Cause you always wind up
Somewhere with the ones you
love
Loving the ones you're with
I'll tell you what it is
It must be Christmas

It must be Christmas
It must be Christmas