The Merry Gentlemen: Netflix star issues disclaimer after concerns over Christmas movie content

On By Littum

Netflix users are reassured by the star of a new Christmas movie that is topping the charts.

New release The merry gentlemen has shot straight to the top of the streaming service’s most-watched list since its premiere on Wednesday (November 20) – leaving thousands of viewers hot under the collar.

Described as a festive take on Steven Soderbergh’s Magic Mike franchise, the film follows Ashley (Britt Robertson), a Broadway dancer who stages a Christmas-themed revue in small-town America led by a male stripper named Luke (Chad Michael Murray).

Netflix has found a niche in the release of Christmas movies over the past few years and when The merry gentlemen‘s trailer was first released, there was some concern about whether it would be suitable for families to watch together due to the relentless amount of scenes involving a naked Murray.

However One Tree Hill and Gilmore girls star reassures those who want to watch the film about its content.

“It’s not free by any means,” he said Blackadding, “We hit the nail on the head on that movie. You go too far and you make one movie; you go too low and it doesn’t work at all.

“It’s in the perfect spot where people won’t feel wrong with it on the TV in the background. That’s the sweet spot, and I’m really proud of that.”

For Murray’s many shirtless scenes, he underwent an extensive regime, which he said “was a combination of everything from cardio to gyro to vitamins, supplements and clean eating”.

He said his muscular co-star Cole Prattes, who plays Troy, taught him how to do “a third of the work and get better results”.

The merry gentlemen is directed by Peter Sullivan, who co-wrote the film with Jeffrey Schenck and Marla Sokoloff.

Chad Michael Murray in the Netflix film 'The Merry Gentlemen'
Chad Michael Murray in the Netflix film ‘The Merry Gentlemen’ (Netflix)

Its releases come hot on the heels of another Christmas film, Hot Frostylike stars Wild girls star Lacey Chabert and Schitt’s Creek‘s Dustin Milligan.

While the streaming service’s Christmas movies are usually labeled as guilty pleasures, Hot Frosty is the rare movie that viewers say is worth your time.

Hot Frosty follows a widow whose life is changed when she magically brings a snowman to life. Both films can be streamed on Netflix now.