Why When Calls the Heart Won’t Return to Netflix
When Calls the Heart, one of Hallmark Channel’s most beloved TV shows, has captivated audiences since its debut in 2014. Inspired by Janette Oke’s novel, the series has journeyed through 12 seasons, with fans eagerly awaiting each new episode.
However, if you’re hoping to catch it on Netflix, you might be out of luck. This blog post delves into the show’s journey, its current streaming options, and why it’s unlikely to return to Netflix.
The Journey of When Calls the Heart
When Calls the Heart follows the life of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a high-society teacher whose world is turned upside down when she takes up a teaching position in the modest mining town of Coal Valley, later renamed Hope Valley.
Her attempts to fit in with the locals, especially Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing), form the crux of the narrative. The show has been a staple on the Hallmark Channel, with its heartwarming stories and charming characters winning over viewers season after season.
Initial Netflix Availability
For a time, fans could enjoy When Calls the Heart on Netflix. The first season premiered on the platform in 2015, with subsequent seasons being added annually until 2018.
However, in early 2021, Netflix removed the series, much to the disappointment of subscribers who were eagerly anticipating Season 6.
Global Reach and Withdrawal
Although it remained available on Netflix in other regions like the UK and Canada for a while, the series has since disappeared from the streaming service entirely.
This global withdrawal marks a significant shift in the show’s accessibility, pushing fans to seek alternative platforms to continue their journey with Elizabeth Thatcher and the residents of Hope Valley.
Hallmark’s Strategic Move: The Launch of Hallmark+
Hallmark Channel’s decision to launch its own exclusive streaming platform, Hallmark+, has reshaped the landscape for its content.
Formerly known as Hallmark Movies Now, the platform was rebranded to Hallmark+ in September 2024. This move underscores Hallmark’s commitment to retaining its popular titles and offering a comprehensive viewing experience for its audience.
What Hallmark+ Offers
Hallmark+ is a treasure trove for fans of the network, featuring:
- Cheesy holiday movies
- Unscripted shows like Home is Where the Heart Is
- Smash-hit series like The Way Home
According to Mike Perry, President & CEO of Hallmark, Hallmark+ intertwines new, rich content experiences with tangible rewards and premium Hallmark gifts.
This unique approach reflects Hallmark’s dedication to spreading joy through its deeply beloved brand touchpoints.
Streaming Options for When Calls the Heart
Currently, all 12 seasons of When Calls the Heart are available to stream on Hallmark+. New episodes air on the Hallmark Channel before being added to the platform the next day.
Subscribers can sign up for Hallmark+ at $7.99 per month or opt for an annual fee of $79.99, which includes perks like a new-member welcome gift, a birthday gift, and a keepsake ornament. A seven-day free trial is also available for those hesitant to commit immediately.
Other Platforms
In addition to Hallmark+, eight seasons of When Calls the Heart are available on Peacock. Moreover, the first season can be watched for free on the Roku Channel, providing multiple options for fans to catch up on the series.
Why When Calls the Heart Won’t Return to Netflix
With Hallmark+ now firmly established, it’s highly unlikely that When Calls the Heart will return to Netflix or any other streaming service in the foreseeable future.
The success of Hallmark+ has been evident, with the Hallmark Channel being the most-watched entertainment cable network of 2024. When Calls the Heart was listed among the top 10 cable shows of the year, emphasizing its enduring popularity.
Financial and Strategic Reasons
From a financial and strategic perspective, Hallmark benefits more from hosting its popular shows on its own platform.
By keeping When Calls the Heart and other beloved titles exclusive to Hallmark+, the network can maximize its revenue and maintain a loyal subscriber base. This strategy ensures that Hallmark+ remains a go-to destination for fans of the network’s unique brand of entertainment.
Conclusion
While fans of When Calls the Heart may miss the convenience of watching the series on Netflix, the launch of Hallmark+ offers a dedicated platform for all things Hallmark.
With its extensive library of holiday movies, unscripted shows, and hit series, Hallmark+ provides a comprehensive viewing experience that is hard to beat.
As the show continues to captivate audiences, Hallmark+ stands as the definitive home for When Calls the Heart, ensuring that the beloved stories of Hope Valley remain accessible to its devoted fanbase.
Stay tuned for more updates on When Calls the Heart, including insights into the show’s latest developments and what’s next for Elizabeth Thatcher and the residents of Hope Valley.
