"When Calls the Heart" Renewed for Season 14 with Beloved Cast Member Returning

Even before the first episode of "When Calls the Heart" season 13 airs on January 4, 2026, Hallmark has confirmed via People that the beloved series has been renewed for Season 14 - coming in 2027!

In addition to that exciting news, a former "When Calls the Heart" cast member will be returning to the series - Lori Loughlin, as Abigail Stanton, for six episodes!

It has been nearly seven years since we've seen Lori as Abigail Stanton in Hope Valley since her final appearance in Season 6, when her last episode aired on March 10, 2019.

People has also confirmed more great news! "The show's core cast — including Erin Krakow, Kevin McGarry, Jack Wagner, Chris McNally, Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith — will also return for season 14."

Since Lori has been away, she's added other programs to her acting credits, including her reprisal of the role of Abigail Stanton, for two episodes of "When Hope Calls" on Great American Family in 2021. (I was personally hoping Lori might appear back in Brookfield, but that seems unlikely now with this return to WCTH.)

Abigail was the first friend that Elizabeth made upon arriving in Hope Valley, and losing her in season 6 left a noticeable void. Her return will surely restore some of the warmth and spirit of the show’s early years.

Filming for season 14 will begin next year - in 2026. Erin Krakow is currently 5 months pregnant; however, the cast typically films during the summer, so that shouldn't be an issue. Andrea Brooks (Dr. Faith Carter) has filmed many episodes for WCTH while expecting her children.

I can't wait to see old friendships rekindled, emotional storylines, and that familiar sense of community. I know I've certainly missed Abigail’s kindness, strength, and warm presence in Hope Valley. This is the comeback many of us Hearties have been been waiting and hoping for.

Hope this news 

adds joy to your day!

Net

image: Hallmark Media

Happy December! 'Tis the Week for Christmas Musical Specials and More!

Are you ready for Christmas Carols or Rockin' Around the Christmas tree? Enjoy these special Christmas Programs airing throughout this first week of December...


MONDAY, DEC. 1 on ABC

The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular
Time: 8:00-10:00 p.m.

The 10th annual seasonal celebration will feature new musical performances from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida; Disneyland Resort in California; and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi.


Tuesday, DEC. 2 on ABC:

CMA Country Christmas
Time: 9-10 p.m.

Filmed in Nashville in front of a live audience, the 16th annual “CMA Country Christmas” will feature one-of-a-kind musical performances of festive classics from country music’s biggest stars. Hosted by Lauren Daigle and Jordan Davis, the holiday special will include performances by Daigle, Davis, Riley Green, Lady A, Little Big Town, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks and BeBe Winans.


Wednesday, Dec. 3 on NBC:

CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER Time: 8-10 p.m.

Hosted by Reba McEntire, the dazzling display of musical talents, star-studded surprises and the lighting of the world's most famous Christmas tree remains one of the holiday season's most anticipated events.


Wednesday, Dec. 3 on NBC:

CHRISTMAS IN NASHVILLE
10-11 p.m.

Hosted by Trisha Yearwood
Celebrate the season Nashville-style! Ring in the holidays with dazzling performances and a night of music, magic and merrymaking straight from Music City.


THURSDAY, DEC. 4 on ABC:

The Great Christmas Light Fight: “The Holiday Express” (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 p.m.

On the Season 13 premiere, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas as the Palusso, Greason and Jimenez families compete for the $50,000 grand prize and coveted “Light Fight” trophy as Carter Oosterhouse judges these over-the-top displays.

The Great Christmas Light Fight: “Santa’s Making His List”
10:00-11:00 p.m.

In an all-new episode of “The Great Christmas Light Fight,” judge Taniya Nayak continues the holiday festivities as the Irvin, Lunar and Kopatz families battle for the $50,000 grand prize and coveted “Light Fight” trophy.


FRIDAY, DEC. 5 on Great American Family:

2025 National Christmas Tree Lighting
8 p.m. ET

The 103rd National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on the Ellipse at The White House and President’s Park on December 4, 2025. Great American Family will air the special on Friday, Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. ET and stream on Great American Pure Flix until Jan. 31, 2026. The ceremony will include performances by Alana Springsteen, Brett Young, Gabby Barrett, Jillian Cardarelli, Jon Pardi, Matthew West, The Beach Boys, and Warren Zeiders, with Gabby Barrett and Matthew West serving as co-hosts. The evening’s performances will be led by Music Director Tariqh Akoni, backed by The United States Navy Band Commodores.


SATURDAY, DEC. 6 on the Hallmark Channel:

THE HALLMARK CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE: A HOMETOWN HOLIDAY

Filmed during the first weekend of the event, the Hallmark Christmas Experience is a holiday event in Kansas City, Missouri, featuring a Christmas market, tree lightings, and various activities.


Be sure to mark your calendar or set your DVR for these festive Christmas special events airing this week! (Some of these specials will also be available later on via streaming through Peacock, Pure Flix, etc...)

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Net🎄