Lori Loughlin steps back into 'When Calls the Heart', sending fans wild

Lori Loughlin has sent When Calls the Heart fans into a frenzy by making a surprise early return to Hope Valley at the end of season 13’s finale.

The moment arrived after Elizabeth (Erin Krakow) and Nathan’s (Kevin McGarry) engagement, accompanied by Elizabeth’s tender voice-over. 

A car rolled down Main Street, past Yost’s Mercantile, stopping in front of the Visitor’s Center. 

The camera focused on a woman’s foot stepping out, and there she was: Abigail Stanton herself. 

Smiling, she said simply, “It’s good to be home,” sending fans online into a wave of excitement.

Abigail, a widow and Elizabeth’s first friend in Hope Valley, had been away since 2019, tending to her ailing mother “back East.” 

Her absence has been deeply felt, and seeing her back promises a warm reunion with the beloved cast.

Krakow told PEOPLE in December, “Lori is one of my best friends. Getting to spend time with her again is a real gift. 

Abigail has been missed so much, and seeing her reconnect with everyone is going to be special — not just for fans, but for all of us on set.”

Loughlin has shared her own excitement during appearances at the Hallmark Christmas Experience in Kansas City and at a celebration for When Calls the Heart and its prequel, Hope Valley: 1874, in March. 

Hallmark’s Michelle Vicary said, “Season 14 is the perfect time to continue Abigail’s story — she’s a fan favourite, and her return embodies hope, positivity, and connection.”

Season 14 will film later this year and air in 2027, with Loughlin appearing in at least six of the 12 episodes.

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