Chad Michael Murray Steams Up Christmas by Dancing Shirtless inThe Merry GentlemenTrailer (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Britt Robertsonis enlistingChad Michael Murrayto save Christmas with his dance moves.

PEOPLE has the exclusive first trailer forThe Merry Gentlemen, a Netflix rom-comabout a former big-city dancer (Robertson) who decides to stage an all-male, Christmas-themed revue to save her parents’ small-town performing venue.

Sokoloff, 43, tells PEOPLE the film is “a different take on Christmas movies,” adding, “This one has a different and fun vibe and something for everyone. Chad and Britt are such a magical combo. I just smile so big when watching them together.”

Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray in “The Merry Gentlemen”.Patrick Wymore/Netflix

Patrick Wymore/Netflix

Robertson, 34, who plays Ashley in the film, explains that “a lot of hard work and effort went into choreographing” the dance performances and the different acts throughout the film. “It’s sort of at the heart of the film, so I hope people can appreciate that,” she says.

“I love tap dancing and the sound of tap, and the boys are pretty cute too,” says Robertson of the film’s appeal. “They get a very shirts-off, abs-out kind of look — it’s pretty good. It’s really the reason you want to watch. I’m just the decoration.”

Chad Michael Murray in “The Merry Gentlemen”.Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix

Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix

The physical transformation was “very intense” but, ultimately, “I love a good challenge,” he adds.

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Robertson recalls meeting Murray during a dance rehearsal and seeing him in “full-out hip-hop gear” with knee pads.

“He was really immersed in the whole element and spirit of dance rehearsal, so I really appreciate that,” she says. “He seemed to put a lot of effort into it and he cared a lot. I always think that’s a good sign when your actors care about what they’re doing. I was impressed.”

Marla Sokoloff and Britt Robertson in “The Merry Gentlemen”.Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix

Says Sokoloff, “I have never been around so many people that have such impressive abdominal muscles — including Britt! Not to mention how lovely they all were. The set was super fun.”

The Merry Gentlemenis on Netflix Nov. 20.

source: people.com