'When Calls the Heart' Isn't Canceled (But Lori Loughlin Is Still Fired) Says Producer
Hallmark has broken all ties with Lori Loughlin after the college admissions cheating scandal, but the period series "When the Heart Calls" will (apparently) go on.
The show is currently on hiatus while the producers try to address her character's absence.
"With the full support of the network, we have gone on a creative hiatus to do some retooling on the [seven] remaining Season 6 episodes," executive producer Brian Bird said via Instagram. "That process has already begun. Hope Valley will return to your TV screens as soon as we can bring the episodes to you."
That sounds like they could be merely editing out her character, Abigail Stanton. Bird noted that the series "has always been bigger than the sum of its parts" and insisted, "It has not been canceled."
Although Loughlin was a key player in the show, she's not the lead character; That's Erin Krakow, who plays school teacher Elizabeth Thatcher.
It remains to be seen if the show will continue without Loughlin's character or recast the role. Hallmark had not officially canceled or renewed the series for a seventh season before this.
Cast member Paul Greene thanked fans of the show via Twitter today, saying: "Love you all thanks for the Amazing Love and support through this tough spot. Remember!!!! Love and tenderness win."
Andrea Brooks, who plays Faith Cater on the show, shared these thoughts on Instagram, along with a photo from the set: "Hi #Hearties, I just wanted to take a moment to tell you that I appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love and support over the past week. Your kindness and dedication does not go unnoticed. I love being a part of this family. Thank you."
