Hallmark star Barbara Niven has worked alongside Lacey Chabert on a number of projects for the network, giving her a front-row seat to the longtime actress’ undeniable talent. But during a recent conversation, Niven had especially high praise for her co-star and revealed that she believes Chabert just delivered what may be her best work yet.
Niven’s comments came while discussing the new limited series on Hallmark+ that she starred in with Chabert, “Paris Is Always a Good Idea,” which the actress says feels like an elevated take on the kind of storytelling Hallmark fans know and love.
Niven Praises Chabert’s Performance in ‘Paris Is Always a Good Idea’
“You know, what’s so special is that the acting is impeccable. Absolutely impeccable on this show,” the interviewer said of the series, adding, “I’ve been watching some of the clips, and I can’t believe how drawn I am into this.”
“I know. Lacey, I think this is her best work ever,” Niven responded. “It’s her story, written by Jenn McKinlay, who’s going to be coming through here. She’s one of my favorite authors.”
The actress continued, “I was stunned because it’s Hallmark but elevated. Even the colors of Europe, and it just brought a different element.”
“I think that Hallmark is elevating everything with Hallmark+,” Niven concluded.
Fans in the comments wholeheartedly agreed, praising the entire cast of “Paris Is Always a Good Idea,” as well as Niven herself:
“Yes! Amazing acting by the entire cast 👏And Barbara your heart felt comment is full of compassion!💕🦋🌹.”
“Such a great actress & human 😍.”
“WatchingYour shows is always a great idea. Thank you for the many enjoyable hours.👏👏👏❤️.”
“Always beautiful. Always inspiring. Always Barbara ❤️.”
All About Niven & Chabert’s Hallmark+ Series ‘Paris Is Always a Good Idea’
GettyChabert and Niven star in “Paris Is Always a Good Idea” alongside Scott Michael Foster, Henry Czerny, Rebecca Hanssen, Stephen Hagan, Julien Marlon Samani, and Alejandro Albarracín. The limited series was adapted from author Jenn McKinlay’s novel of the same name.
The show’s official synopsis reads, “Career-driven nonprofit executive Chelsea Martin (Chabert) travels to Paris with her confident rival-turned-ally, Jason Knightly (Foster) to secure a major donation but a heartfelt message from her late mother – and a loving push from her sister Annabelle (Hanssen) – sends her on an unexpected journey to reconnect with the three great loves she once left behind. From the rolling hills of Ireland to the magic of Paris and the sun-kissed vineyards of Spain, Chelsea retraces old footsteps and discovers that sometimes moving forward means first looking back.”
McKinlay also praised Chabert’s “incredible talent” in bringing her main character to life following an on-set visit during production.
“No spoilers from the set but mad respect for how hard this cast and crew are working to create the adaptation of my novel Paris is Always a Good Idea into a streaming series for @hallmarkplus. I spent my set visit in awe of their hard work and artistry!” McKinlay wrote in the caption of her May 13 Instagram post. “Also, @thereallacey is truly just the nicest person and I’m so grateful that she’s using her incredible talent to bring Chelsea to life.”
Chabert responded to McKinlay in the comments, writing, “So wonderful to finally meet you!!! It meant so much to have you there ❤️” The author wrote back, “Same! I loved every second of watching the process and you were so welcoming! I appreciate you and the cast and crew so much! 🩷”
As well as leading the series, Chabert also served as an executive producer.
“Paris Is Always a Good Idea” concluded its run when the sixth and final episode premiered on Hallmark+ on August 27, 2026. All episodes are available to stream now on the platform.
