Candace Cameron Bure defends representation in Hallmark movies and says the network has 'definitely' improved after being criticized for a lack of diversity

• Candace Cameron Bure told Insider Hallmark Channel has improved diversity its in holiday films.
• The "Fuller House" star said "it's important to represent all people."

Hallmark Channel's original movies are a staple in many households over the holidays but have faced criticism in recent years for a lack of Black leads, exclusion of the queer community, and a lack of religious diversity.

When speaking to Insider about her new Hallmark holiday film "The Christmas Contest," Candace Cameron Bure reflected on the network's recent steps toward more inclusivity.

"Hallmark has definitely made changes in that direction, which we are all very, very happy to see," the "Fuller House" star told Insider.

"It's very important to me in all the casting that we do for the films, and it's important to represent all people and all of their journeys and their family dynamics," she continued, noting that everyone's family looks "so different."

In 2020, Hallmark premiered its first holiday movie featuring queer characters, "The Christmas House." A sequel will air in 2021.

"The Christmas Contest" is Bure's 10th holiday film with Hallmark Channel, and her 30th overall.

"I've been with this brand for a very long time and I understand what it's all about and who the audience is and what they're looking for, because as a producer, as well as an actress, it's what I'm looking for in the films. So I have taken that very seriously," she said.

Bure plays businesswoman Lara in her latest Christmas film. She is unexpectedly reunited with an ex then they compete in a televised contest to raise money for charities of their choice. Lara's love interest, Ben (played Bure's "Fuller House" costar John Brotherton), is a famous athlete competing for his foundation while Lara is hoping to raise money for her mom's senior center, which needs repairs.

There's plenty of funny banter in the film, but Bure is partial to its more serious, quiet moments. "Those are the moments where you get to be still and have real emotion and feelings, and that's where you hope to grab the audience," she told Insider.

"The Christmas Contest," also starring Barbara Niven and BJ Harrison, premieres on the Hallmark Channel on Sunday, November 28 at 8 p.m. ET.