Kirk Cameron says he's happy people are responding to his 'Saving Christmas' film

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Former teen idol Kirk Cameron says he is pleased with the response to his holiday film Kirk Cameron, Saving Christmas.

Best known as the star of the 1980s sitcom Growing Pains, Cameron is now a married father of six children. His career focuses on acting in spiritual-themed films, such as the 2008 drama Fireproof and 2013 documentary Unstoppable. He also is active in the evangelical Christian ministry The Way of the Master.

Released in only 400 theaters across the United States the weekend of Nov. 14-16, Saving Christmas earned $1 million. Cameron starred in and produced the film.

"I love hearing from people who saw the movie and now are inspired to put Christ back in Christmas," Cameron said in a statement Friday. "My hope is that families will continue to see the film and join with my family and focus on the true reason for the season. My hope is the film continues to touch hearts and help reorient believers back toward Christ during the Christmas season."

A synopsis of the film says it "provides a biblical basis for time-honored traditions and celebrations, and the inspiration to stand strongly against a culture that wants to trivialize and eliminate the faith elements of this holy season."