Hallmark says “When Calls the Heart” must go on with or without Lori Loughlin.
Two new episodes of the popular primetime series have been announced for May 5 and 6. “We can’t wait to welcome you back to Hope Valley and share all-new stories with you,” said star Erin Krakow in an announcement video.
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The show’s future has been in question ever since star actress Loughlin and her husband were arrested in connection with an alleged nationwide college entrance exam cheating scandal. They were initially charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and honest services mail fraud.
Hallmark alluded to Loughlin’s legal battle when announcing the return of “When Calls the Heart” on Instagram. “Thanks for sticking with us through this challenging time,” the show’s team wrote. “As you now know… the show not only must go on, but will go on.”
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“Life throws all of us painful curveballs, and the only way to survive is to walk right through them with courage, grace, a forgiving spirit, and most of all, hope,” the statement continued. “Many of you have wondered what the future holds for our cast and crew, and for the citizens of Hope Valley.”
Following the back-to-back episodes, “When Calls the Heart” will return to its regular airing schedule on Sundays.