A Familiar Text from My Sister
Way back in 2014, my sister sent me a familiar text: “Have you seen this show?” We don’t live close enough to watch TV together, so we instead put each other onto things we can just obsess over on the phone. A link soon followed for When Calls the Heart — a Hallmark period drama set in the early 1900s about a wealthy young teacher who leaves her comfortable city life to lead a school in a coal-mining town called Hope Valley. If you’d asked me a decade ago whether I’d still be invested in the show today, I would not have guessed yes. But my sister obviously sensed there was something inside of this wholesome Hallmark series that would hook me, and she was right. Over the years, I’ve come to think of it as the modern-day answer to Little House on the Prairie: the same kind of simple, comforting TV probably on in the background when we were growing up. Is the allure of When Calls the Heart driven by nostalgia? A lingering fascination with the rugged West? Or could it be the increasing desire to sink into something slower and a little more analog? Whatever the reason, the fandom is real — Season 12 drew in 6.1 million viewers.
What’s New for Elizabeth This Season?
When I caught up with Erin Krakow to discuss the upcoming season of When Calls the Heart, she shared her excitement about exploring new themes and character dynamics. As Elizabeth, Erin has spent more than a decade bringing the heart of the series to life. This year, she’s particularly looking forward to delving into the complexities of motherhood and the challenges that come with it. “Every season offers me something new to chew on and play with as Elizabeth,” Erin shared. “This year, I’ve really enjoyed exploring what it means to be a protective mom — some might say overprotective mom — who is learning to let go with the help of Nathan.”
The Realism of Elizabeth’s Journey
As Elizabeth navigates her love life, Erin noted that her character has made her own bed in various chapters, and it’s time for Elizabeth and Nathan to experience some romantic peace. “It does feel like it’s time for Elizabeth and Nathan to have some romantic peace, to get to enjoy their love story without too many internal or external complications,” Erin said. This season, fans can expect to see a more mature and loving relationship between Elizabeth and Nathan.
The Return of Brooke Shields
One exciting aspect of the new season is the return of Brooke Shields as Jack’s mom, Charlotte. Erin shared that this storyline brings Jack Sr.’s character back to life in a different way, allowing fans to experience his history through Charlotte’s presence. “It was just such a wonderful experience having Brooke back with us,” Erin gushed. “She’s an incredible person and actor, and I’d been wanting to bring Charlotte back to the show for many years.”
The Enduring Allure of Jack and Elizabeth’s Love Story
Despite the show’s many storylines, the love story between Jack and Elizabeth remains a fan favorite. Erin attributed the enduring appeal to the chemistry between the two characters and the way their love story was woven throughout the show’s early seasons. “In many ways, the Jack and Elizabeth love story was the bedrock of our show,” Erin said. “I think seeing Elizabeth fall in love for the first time and the chemistry that Elizabeth and Jack shared was really special.”
Erin’s Personal Journey
As Erin prepares for her first child with costar-turned-husband Ben Rosenbaum, she’s navigating a new chapter in her personal life. When asked about what’s changed for her as a woman, Erin reflected on her growth as an actress and a person. “I feel like I’ve learned so much about myself and about love through this show,” Erin shared. “I’m excited to see what the future holds, not just for Elizabeth, but for myself as well.”
Conclusion
As Erin Krakow looks toward a hopeful new chapter in When Calls the Heart, she brings a sense of excitement and renewal to the show. With the return of Brooke Shields and the exploration of new themes, this season promises to be just as captivating as the last. As fans, we can’t help but be drawn back into the charming world of Hope Valley, where love, family, and community come together in a way that feels both timeless and timely.
