Time really flies in Hope Valley.
Although season 8 of When Calls the Heart has been longer than most, it still passed by in a blink of an eye. And now that the season finale has aired, Hearties are left wanting more — more of Rosemary (Pascale Hutton) and Lee’s (Kavan Smith) adorable antics, Elizabeth’s (Erin Krakow) wistful glances, Nathan (Kevin McGarry) and Lucas’ (Chris McNally) unmatched devotion to the woman they love, all of it. For that reason, fans are already asking the important questions, namely if (and when) When Calls the Heart is coming back for season 9.
Right after the season 8 finale wrapped, Erin Krakow appeared onscreen to announce some great news: “Who knew even an extra-long season would fly by so quickly, but don’t worry, When Calls the Heart will return next year for an all-new season,” she said, delighting Hearties everywhere.
That’s right, When Calls the Heart has been renewed for season 9! While it’s too early to determine what’s next in Hope Valley, here’s what we know about a potential ninth season, including if Abigail’s (Lori Loughlin) return is in the cards.
When is the When Calls the Heart season 9 release date?
Given the show’s record season 8 ratings and passionate fanbase, it’s no surprise that Hallmark Channel renewed When Calls the Heart for another season. “We are proud to have When Calls the Heart as a central part of our programming, it continues to captivate audiences with its amazing cast and storylines of love, community, and optimism and we are excited to continue the journey in Hope Valley for season nine,” Michelle Vicary, Executive Vice President of Programming at Crown Media Family Networks wrote in the official announcement.
In the 15-second video announcement, Erin mentioned that the show would return in 2022, but didn’t give an exact date. At this point, it’s safe to assume that the new season will drop in February 2022, similar to past seasons.
What has the cast, including Erin Krakow, said about season 9?
Erin has been very vocal about her desire to return to Hope Valley. “There would be an awful lot to look forward to, so hopefully we have that opportunity,” she said in a recent interview with Good Housekeeping. Specifically, she wants to see Little Jack’s personality blossom, spend more time with the students and explore uncharted territory with her new beau. “I’m really excited to explore the courtship. Now that Elizabeth has decided on the man of her dreams, it’ll be really nice to see them explore that connection together,” she continued.
By the sound of it, Erin is hopeful that the show will continue for future seasons — yes, plural. When discussing Elizabeth’s love triangle with Good Housekeeping, she confirmed that both suitors will continue on with the show, no matter who she picks. “This also isn’t a situation where only one guy gets the girl and the other one leaves town. We are so lucky to have both Kevin McGarry [plays Nathan] and Chris McNally [plays Lucas] on the show and intend to keep both of them, assuming that we get to have future seasons.”
The rest of the cast has stayed fairly quiet about the impending season, but the show’s creator Brian Bird has been rallying for a season 9 renewal for months, even using #Season9WouldBeDivine on Twitter.
Any season 9 spoilers?
Season 9 would presumably pick up right where the season 8 finale left off: We’ll finally get to see Elizabeth commit to a relationship, Rosemary explore a new business venture, the Canfields settle into Hope Valley and so much more. There’s also a possibility that Abigail and/or Cody (Carter Ryan Evancic) will return — or at least, it’s wishful thinking. All season long, fans have been questioning if Abigail would return to Hope Valley, especially since Bill and Henry mention her quite often.
The show’s creator hasn’t ruled out the idea, telling From the Desk that some fans “shared their opinion that Hope Valley should be an example of forgiveness and grace. As Lori’s friend, I could not agree more.” Erin, who often refers to Lori as her “forever friend,” also supports this possible reunion: “I love Lori and would be so happy to see her back in Hope Valley sooner than later. She’s obviously always in my heart, so that would bring me a lot of joy.”
Will there be a When Calls the Heart Christmas Special?
At this point, it’s still a mystery if there will be a 2021 Christmas special. Hallmark Channel aired a When Calls the Heart movie on Christmas Day for five straight years, but had to shelve the one planned for 2020 due to filming delays amid the coronavirus pandemic. If Hearties get their wish, then the tradition will continue in 2021!
How can I watch or stream When Calls the Heart?
Although the Hallmark drama isn’t available on Netflix or Hulu, there are many places that you can watch past episodes. Set on re-watching the show while you wait for season 9? Here’s how you can stream When Calls the Heart right this second:
- Amazon: Buy individual episodes for $2.99 or get an entire season for $19.99.
- VUDU: By far, the most cost-friendly option out there. The price of each season varies, starting as low as $12.99 for season 2 and $18.99 for the most recent one.
- iTunes: Although you can buy each season for $19.99, you’ll save big by picking up the season 1- 6 bundle for $59.99. Season 7 and 8 are slightly more expensive, priced at $21.99 each.
- Google Play: Purchase individual episodes for $1.99 each, or get a whole season for anywhere from $12.99 to $18.99.
- Hallmark Movies Now: If you just want to catch up on season 7, stream all 10 episodes on Hallmark’s very own streaming service for $4.99/month. Or try a free seven-day trial and plan a weekend of binge-watching.
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