Lori Loughlin Returns to Hope Valley After 7 Years in "When Calls the Heart" Season 14 (Exclusive)

Fans of Hallmark Channel's popular drama When Calls the Heart have reason to celebrate: the series has been officially renewed for a 14th season, ahead of the upcoming season 13 premiere in January. The new season will mark the return of original cast member Lori Loughlin, reprising her role as Abigail Stanton in six episodes.

Loughlins comeback comes nearly seven years after her last appearance in season 6. Filming for season 14 is set to begin next year, with episodes scheduled to air in 2027.

The season will also see the return of the series main cast, including Erin Krakow, Kevin McGarry, Jack Wagner, Chris McNally, Pascale Hutton, and Kavan Smith.

Michelle Vicary, Hallmark Medias head of programming, commented on Loughlins return: Since the shows debut in 2014, Abigail Stanton has been a beloved character among Hearties. Hallmark is centered on hope, positivity, and connection, themes that When Calls the Heart embodies. Season 14 is the perfect time to continue Abigails story.

Abigail, a widow and one of Elizabeths (Krakow) first friends in Hope Valley, was written off the series in 2019 following the college admissions scandal. Loughlins final episode aired on March 10, 2019, and the show took a brief hiatus before continuing without her. In her absence, the series explained her characters departure as caring for her ill mother back East.

Since then, Loughlin has returned to acting, appearing on Curb Your Enthusiasm and starring in Dick Wolfs Prime Video drama On Call. She also reprised Abigail in two episodes of When Hope Calls in 2021.

In 2023, co-creator Brian Bird hinted at Loughlins potential return, noting that discussions were underway, though nothing was guaranteed at the time.

The trend of fan favorites returning continues, as Brooke Shields is set to reappear as Charlotte, Elizabeths late husbands mother, for the first time in a decade, appearing in three episodes.

Season 12 concluded with Elizabeth, her boyfriend Nathan (McGarry), Nathans niece Allie (Jaeda Lily Miller), and Elizabeths son Little Jack (Hyland Goodrich) relocating to Cape Fullerton to be closer to an insulin lab for Little Jack. Season 13, however, promises dramatic twists. McGarry teased that an event early in the season will shake Hope Valley and set each character on a transformative journey.

When Calls the Heart season 13 premieres Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Hallmark Channel and will be available to stream the next day on Hallmark+. Season 14 is slated for a 2027 release.

Author: Sophia Brooks