Season 12 of When Calls the Heart has shown promise but is struggling with an overwhelming cast and uneven distribution of storylines. As the series progresses, the focus on a select few characters is beginning to limit the show’s potential, leaving other key figures in the shadows.
At the start of When Calls the Heart Season 12, there was a noticeable shift towards community-driven storytelling. Characters like Lucas and Lee were engaged in the National Park project, while Henry and Joseph ventured into the hazelnut business, involving the children of Hope Valley in their entrepreneurial efforts. Meanwhile, Florence and Ned became central to a comic debate, contributing to the discovery of a gold coin.
However, this broader focus quickly faded as the season wore on, with most of the supporting cast relegated to brief appearances, leaving the show to revolve primarily around Elizabeth, Nathan, Allie, and Rosemary. If the Hallmark Channel decides to renew the show, some adjustments are necessary to better balance the character arcs and ensure the continued success of the series.
Focusing on a Few Characters Limits the Story’s Impact
While When Calls the Heart has made progress in developing its main characters, the concentration on just a few figures detracts from the overall storytelling. Nathan, Elizabeth, and Allie have been at the forefront since the season’s start, with the romance between Nathan and Elizabeth being the central narrative thread. Though Rosemary has had more screen time, Lee has largely been sidelined, and fans have expressed frustration at the lack of development for certain characters.
The familial bond between Elizabeth and Allie is one of the standout moments of the season, with Allie maturing and seeking guidance from Elizabeth about her growing interest in boys. These intimate, family-focused moments are some of the best in the series. However, Rosemary, who is usually a fan favorite, has become somewhat overbearing in recent episodes, often inserting herself into situations where she isn’t needed. While her partnership with Fiona in hosting “The Daily Dialogue” was a highlight, showcasing local issues and the voices of Hope Valley’s residents, it’s clear that her involvement has reached a saturation point.
Lucas’s storyline has been more compelling when centered around his care for others, especially the Hope Valley children. His attention to their concerns about the environment, particularly the lack of access to a stream, showcased his commitment to the community. The hope is that the show will continue to build on Lucas’s strong relationships with the town’s younger residents, unlike other characters who have seen their arcs diminished.
A Massive Cast with Underused Characters
The series’ large ensemble cast, while appealing, has become unwieldy. Many characters are barely seen, and when they do appear, they feel like mere plot devices rather than fully realized individuals. Faith, for instance, has been largely absent since the beginning of the season, and her storyline, particularly her role in gaining guardianship of Lily, was left underexplored. Similarly, Fiona’s brief return to Hope Valley lacked substantial interaction with her close friends, leaving her character feeling underdeveloped.
The newlyweds Mei and Mike have also been largely ignored, despite the potential for compelling narratives about their adjustment to married life. The couple’s brief appearances in Season 12, particularly their Mid-Autumn Festival planning, highlight Mei’s cultural background, but it’s clear that the series could benefit from giving them more time on-screen to explore their relationship and living arrangements.
Henry Gowen, once a central figure in the series, has been relegated to the role of advisor, and his potential to become a mentor to the younger generation has been largely unexplored. His brief involvement with Joseph in the hazelnut business felt like a missed opportunity to showcase his character in a more dynamic role.
Angela Canfield’s arc, particularly her graduation and struggle to fit in with a blind community, should have been a focal point. When Calls the Heart rarely addresses issues of disability, and this storyline could have provided an important and impactful narrative. The lack of development around Angela’s fears and her parents’ struggles to support her is a significant oversight.
New Characters Bring Fresh Energy
Despite the challenges of an overcrowded cast, some new additions have injected fresh life into the series. Oliver Garrett (Jacob Shoemay) has been a standout character, particularly in his interactions with Nathan, which have softened the latter’s approach to bending the rules for the sake of helping others. His storyline, particularly his struggles with being behind in school due to his foster parents’ restrictions, adds depth and emotion to the show.
Edie Martel (Miranda MacDougall) has proven to be an excellent counterpart for Lucas. She’s intelligent, fair-minded, and unafraid to stand her ground, making her an ideal match for him. Fans are eager to see how their relationship evolves.
Georgie McGill (Melissa Gilbert) has also made a strong impact, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by women working in male-dominated fields. Her complex relationship with Bill needs further exploration, especially after the intriguing chemistry between Gilbert and Wagner.
Guest Characters: Some Serve a Purpose, Others Feel Superfluous
Certain guest characters, such as the Garrison Gang, have contributed meaningfully to the plot, particularly in their role in the discovery of gold. Bill and Georgie’s investigation into Sonny’s criminal connections helped drive the storyline forward. Likewise, Toddy Davis and his wife Trudy brought some much-needed levity and intrigue, contributing to Nathan and Elizabeth’s undercover investigation.
However, not all guest characters have been as effective. Ava’s arc, for instance, felt disconnected from the rest of the season’s storylines. Her secret past and connection to a shady magician seemed to serve little purpose, and fans are left questioning her relevance to the larger narrative.
Moving Forward: Balancing Character Arcs and Storylines
If When Calls the Heart continues into another season, a more balanced approach to its cast and storylines is crucial. While the show has managed to create some compelling arcs, its reliance on a small group of characters has left many others feeling underutilized. A more cohesive narrative that gives equal weight to the entire ensemble cast, rather than focusing on a few select figures, would help reinvigorate the series and maintain its charm. Fans are eager to see how these changes could unfold in future seasons, hoping for a more dynamic and inclusive approach to storytelling.
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