Hope Valley 1874 Expands When Calls The Heart Universe

Hallmark fans, get ready to head back to Hope Valley — but this time, the clock is turning way back to the frontier days. The beloved world of When Calls the Heart is officially expanding with a brand-new prequel series, Hope Valley: 1874, coming exclusively to Hallmark+.

This ambitious eight-part series promises to take viewers on an emotional and visually stunning journey into the origins of the town that stole millions of hearts. With a stellar cast, a rich historical backdrop, and the creative team that made the original series a household favorite, this prequel is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Hallmark projects in years.

The Heart of Hope Valley Beats Again

For over a decade, When Calls the Heart has been the crown jewel of Hallmark’s lineup, captivating audiences with its mix of romance, resilience, and small-town charm. Now, Hallmark Media is taking that legacy one step further.

Hope Valley: 1874 will explore the early days of the settlement, long before it became the thriving community fans know today. Production begins next week in Vancouver, with the premiere slated for March 2026 — a date that already has the Hearties fandom buzzing across social media.

The prequel’s storyline centers on Rebecca Clarke, portrayed by Bethany Joy Lenz, a woman who leaves her home in Chicago to chase a new life on the Western Canadian frontier with her 11-year-old daughter. When her wagon breaks down, fate steps in — and so does local rancher Tom Moore, played by Benjamin Ayres.

From there, sparks fly, hearts heal, and the foundation for Hope Valley’s enduring spirit begins to take shape.

A Frontier Story with Heart and Grit

While the original series focused on the post-frontier era of Hope Valley, this prequel dives into the rugged, untamed beginnings of the town. Expect a story that blends romance, hardship, and the pioneering determination that built the West.

Rebecca’s journey from city life to the unpredictable wilderness mirrors the emotional core that made When Calls the Heart so beloved — the idea that hope and community can bloom even in the harshest conditions.

Joining Lenz and Ayres is an impressive ensemble cast that includes Jill Hennessy as the tenacious pioneer woman Hattie Quinn, Roan Curtis as her spirited daughter Olivia, and Lachlan Quarmby as Constable Alexander Vaughn.

Together, this cast promises to bring depth, warmth, and authenticity to a series that’s as much about building a town as it is about building relationships.

Meet the New Faces of Hope Valley

Hallmark has assembled a dream team for this prequel. Bethany Joy Lenz, known for her emotional range and on-screen charisma, steps into the role of Rebecca Clarke with the perfect blend of strength and vulnerability.

Her character’s journey — from a widowed mother seeking safety to a woman discovering her independence — is set to anchor the show’s emotional core.

Benjamin Ayres, a Hallmark favorite, brings charm and grounded masculinity to the role of Tom Moore, the rancher who reluctantly opens his heart to Rebecca and her daughter.

Fans can expect plenty of slow-burn chemistry between Lenz and Ayres, a hallmark (pun intended) of the network’s most successful romances.

The Supporting Cast Adds Depth and Fire

Jill Hennessy steps into the boots of Hattie Quinn, a pioneer woman with grit and compassion who becomes a mentor and friend to Rebecca. Hennessy’s presence promises to add a layer of wisdom and toughness to the story — the kind of character who embodies the spirit of early Hope Valley.

Roan Curtis and Lachlan Quarmby round out the ensemble, bringing youthful energy and a touch of adventure to the series’ frontier setting.

• Bethany Joy Lenz as Rebecca Clarke – a mother seeking a new beginning
• Benjamin Ayres as Tom Moore – a rancher with a guarded heart
• Jill Hennessy as Hattie Quinn – the pioneer matriarch
• Roan Curtis as Olivia – Hattie’s determined daughter
• Lachlan Quarmby as Constable Vaughn – the lawman of a lawless land

A Vision from the Heart of Hallmark

The creative force behind Hope Valley: 1874 is Alfonso Moreno, who previously served as showrunner for When Calls the Heart. Moreno’s storytelling has always been defined by a deep understanding of emotional connection and community — two elements that are sure to shine in this prequel.

His return signals Hallmark’s commitment to preserving the tone and heart of the original while expanding the universe in bold new directions.

According to Hallmark Media’s Head of Programming, Michelle Vicary, this prequel is more than just a spin-off — it’s a chance to explore the roots of a story that has resonated with audiences for over a decade.

Hope Valley: 1874 will give fans a richer understanding of how the town’s values of love, perseverance, and faith were born.

Building a Legacy for the Hearties

Few fan communities are as passionate as the Hearties. Since its debut, When Calls the Heart has inspired conventions, online groups, and countless fan creations.

With the announcement of Hope Valley: 1874, the excitement has reached fever pitch. Social media is already buzzing with theories about whether familiar family names might appear, how the early town will look, and whether the series will weave in Easter eggs connecting it to the main show’s timeline.

Hallmark’s decision to launch the prequel on its streaming service, Hallmark+, also signals a new era for the brand. As audiences shift toward digital platforms, the network is positioning itself to meet fans where they are — while still delivering the wholesome, heartfelt storytelling that defines the Hallmark experience.

Why Hope Valley: 1874 Matters

In an entertainment landscape filled with reboots and revivals, Hope Valley: 1874 stands out because it’s not just revisiting the past — it’s enriching it. By exploring the origins of Hope Valley, Hallmark is adding depth to its most enduring franchise.

The prequel offers a chance to see how the ideals of community, compassion, and courage were forged in the face of hardship. For viewers, it’s a reminder that every town — and every heart — has a beginning.

The struggles and triumphs of these early settlers will echo through generations, connecting the prequel’s characters to the beloved figures of the original series.

The Promise of a New Beginning

As production gears up in Vancouver, anticipation is already sky-high. With its sweeping landscapes, emotionally charged performances, and a story rooted in resilience, Hope Valley: 1874 is poised to capture the same magic that made When Calls the Heart a phenomenon.

The combination of nostalgia and discovery is irresistible — especially for fans who have followed the franchise since its earliest days.

When the show premieres in March 2026, expect it to be more than a simple prequel. It’ll be a celebration of everything Hallmark stands for: love, faith, and the unbreakable bonds of community.

And for the Hearties faithful, it’s a long-awaited chance to step back into a world where hope always finds a way.

Final Thoughts: A New Chapter for a Beloved Legacy

With Hope Valley: 1874, Hallmark isn’t just expanding a television universe. It’s deepening a legacy that’s close to so many hearts.

This prequel promises sweeping romance and emotional storytelling. There’s something special about watching a tiny settlement grow into the beacon of hope fans have come to cherish.

Whether you’re a longtime Heartie or just curious about stories of courage and connection, this series feels like it could be the must-watch event of 2026. Saddle up—Hope Valley’s heart is beating stronger than ever, and honestly, its story is just getting started.