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."

• "The Christmas Contest" airs on the Hallmark Channel on Sunday, November 28 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

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.