‘When Calls the Heart’: What Did You Think of the Aftermath of Elizabeth’s Choice? (POLL)
Spoiler Alert
[Warning: The below contains MAJOR spoilers for the When Calls the Heart Season 9 premiere “In Like a Lion.”]
As When Calls the Heart begins its ninth season, Elizabeth Thornton (Erin Krakow) and Lucas Bouchard (Chris McNally) are very much together — and making each other a priority — and it seems that all have moved on from the love triangle, with Nathan Grant (Kevin McGarry). But Nathan is very much still part of Elizabeth’s life (and the two are planning to spend time together), so does it all seem just a bit too easy or about what you’d expect from the Hallmark drama?
As the episode begins, Elizabeth returns from bringing her son to visit her family, and Lucas spends the episode balancing time with her and work (he’s meeting with a potential investor for his oil business, only to realize that the other man, Jerome Smith, has a very rocky past with Martin Cummins’ Henry). Elizabeth’s clearly happy with Lucas (who “made us feel as though we hadn’t been away for any time at all,” she notes in her opening voiceover), and he decides to let work wait as he walks her and Jack home upon their arrival to town. And while he has to run off again after bringing her the week’s paper, he does plan for dinner for the two of them.
Meanwhile, things are about as awkward between Elizabeth and Nathan as you’d expect after she told him she loved him but wasn’t in love with him. When he finds out that Mounties are being required to learn to drive a car, he turns to Elizabeth to ask Lucas to teach him how. She offers to do it instead, and he agrees. Then, later in the episode, while Lucas is tied up with business, Nathan sits with Elizabeth in the saloon. “It’s really nice to see you happy,” he remarks. “I’m so glad we could remain friends. I would’ve really regretted it otherwise,” she tells him.
Sven Boecker/Crown Media
When Lucas joins them to tell Elizabeth he needs to cancel their plans for the night, the two men are cordial in acknowledging each other — after Nathan interjects with a “great” of his own to echo the couple’s. And Lucas thanks Nathan for helping break up Henry and Jerome Smith’s fight.
The episode ends with Elizabeth and Lucas going up in the hot air balloon that came to town, and he tells her that he’s selling his stake in the oil business instead. “I don’t want work getting in our way. You and Jack, it’s what’s important now,” he explains.
But it seems as though Nathan might not be single for long, after he crosses paths with a rider, later revealed to be Mei (Amanda Wong), when she rushes past him on the way into town. She never outright confirms she was the rider — Jack’s the only one to see her remove her cloak and let down her skirt — but that’s what makes their exchanges so fun already.
The thing is, Mei’s hiding something. She’s come to town as a licensed pharmaceutical chemist to work at the new Yost’s Pharmacy & Soda Fountain … but everyone had been expecting her husband — if he is her husband. That seems to be in question. While Faith (Andrea Brooks) can vouch for her as far as working with her at the hospital, she, too, is hesitant. All Mei will say is she wants to make a new life on her own.
As the episode ends, however, Nathan rides his horse right into the path of a car. And the promo (below) teases that he may suffer memory loss as a result of his injuries. What could that mean for the love triangle and the dynamics established in the premiere?
So what do you think of how When Calls the Heart handled the triangle in the premiere? Vote in the poll below.
When Calls the Heart, Sundays, 8/7c, Hallmark Channel
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The show ended with that awful season 8 finale for me. My favorite character Nathan was treated horribly episode after episode and got his heart broken in such a horrid way by not only belittling him and his love but also Jack by amounting them to their uniform! how terrible! It’s no longer the charming humble show, and it pains me to say this because I still love so many characters but it feels like a completely different show with the characters I loved but a flimsy superficial story! The story of Lucas and Elizabeth is beyond forced and so superficial. All of the most heartfelt and impactful scenes she had were with Nathan and the writing completely obliterated the beautiful story that was there. Rosemary and Lee and the kids of Hope Valley and Nathan & Allie and the Canfields are the heart of the show. After the loss of Jack I had quit watching the show, but last year I decided to give it a chance w s8 premiering. I completely fell in love with Nathan and he became not only my favorite character on wcth but one of my favorite characters ever. Kevin is a phenomenal actor to have so many of us fall in love with Nathan so fiercely after Jack, but sadly when it came to s8 it just felt like a completely different show and seems to be going in a direction I don’t care to watch. It’s become flashy and a soap opera. Not even my favorite characters can keep me watching. It could have been such a beautiful inspiring story. Sorry
95 12
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Completely agree!!!
30 8
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Someone had to get their heart broken. He was not treated badly🙄
Actually E was given a terrible part to play. She’s a widow with a child stringing guys along like a teenager. Really stupid.
They need new writers. Watching Jack and her for 5 seasons b4 they got married was so boring my daughter stopped watching it. There’s little on TV today that isn’t trash, we don’t have a lot of choices.
2 6
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Have you forgotten Nathan literally getting knocked off his horse, kicked, having a gun pointed in his face... and then date cancelled at the last second in front of poor Allie (And that was just the 1st episode)?!? Or laying his heart bear & confessing his love TWICE... just to have E run away instead of answering. Or having to humiliate himself by going to his romantic rival to borrow money? Or saying, "I'm not giving up... True love is worth fighting for"... just to give up and be left in tears in the finale? Usually adversity like that is for character development... but with no delayed gratification it's just downright cruel.
Even Brian Bird compared Nathan to the "Tortoise" from the "Tortoise in the Hare" multiple times. He's also called him "Prince Charming" and "My man" after the S7 finale. And people wonder why fans felt baited & betrayed into rooting for the underdog.
What great challenges, trials or heartbreak has Lucas endured? The one conflict of his parents' separating was effortlessly remedied within episodes & he didn't even have to do anything... except cruelly attack Elizabeth ("What would you know about it?"). Everything seems to come easily for him... which is not usually how great storytelling goes.
9 3
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Don't much care what Lucas & Elizabeth do. I think she can do much better. I am more interested in the other characters at this point. If Lucas and Elizabeth were written out of the program that would be fine.
76 11
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I will not watch. Don’t like Lucas. Nathan was the one I want given that the chemistry had been there since his arrival. You have lost quiet a few viewers. Bad call!
69 8
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The whole Team Nathan/Team Lucas thing was so rediculous & Season 8 was absolutely horrible ... I faithfully watched & loved every episode beginning w/ Season 1, Episode 1 but Season 8 completely ruined it for me ... Nathan was by far my favorite character, in my opinion perfect for Elizabeth, & Kevin's a great actor ... however, I am no longer interested in WCTH as it is no longer the wonderful series it once was & have zero interest in watching the relationship between Elizabeth/Lucas or Nathan & whomever ... for me, WCTH ended w/ the finale of Season 7 w/ the 'hug heard around the world' ... watching Season 9 would be frustrating/infuriating, not the reason I tune into Hallmark ... but PLEASE, more Signed, Sealed, Delivered!!!!!!!
71 12
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Re-watch S1 and tell me this show hasn't drastically changed... and NOT for the better. Elizabeth was immediately introduced in S1 to the dangers of gamblers & alcoholics with her experiences with Cat Montgomery, Billy Hamilton & Wendell Backus... yet now a gambler/saloon owner is an ideal mate?
From the start, E put great emphasis on noble or honorable professions... now that's out the window? Do we even know what calls Lucas' heart? Poker? Whiskey? Dangerous Liaisons? Adventure? Travel?
Another theme has always been that "the Uniform doesn't make the man"... except suddenly that doesn't apply to Nathan? He's much #MoreThanASerge.
I was hoping this "unpredictable" choice was just a ploy by Hallmark to draw out the triangle & Elizabeth would come to her senses... but I'm not sure E still deserves N & I'm not going to be watching live in order to find out.
63 9
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And I don’t think N deserves her. The stupid triangle should not have been carried out so long. She and N have nothing in common. Lucas and she have much in common. After marrying a Mountie, and being left alone pregnant, I don’t think I would be looking for another Mountie.
It’s just entertainment!
People take these shows as if they were real.
A woman from her kind of wealth wouldn’t have stayed in the frontier alone with a baby and going to work every day!
She would have taken care of her child instead of leaving him with a nanny.
It’s all stupid, but it’s just to entertain!
5 23
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See, I think E&N actually have a lot more in common than E&L. Remember the authors Nathan mentioned reading? Louisa May Alcott, Emily Dickenson, Mary Shelley... sounds much more like something E would also enjoy, instead of Dangerous Liaisons. L specializes in grand gestures, while little moments/thoughtful gestures already come naturally to N (apple, plaque, offering to hold Jack).
I also think E&N have similar life goals... helping people & bettering their lives. Gambling / owning a saloon doesn't fit that lifestyle.
No one is saying these characters are REAL. And of course shows are supposed to be for entertainment... but once a show starts making me feel worse for having watched it, something is wrong. It's no longer the show I loved for 7 years... so it can go on without me.
22 1
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When it was all said and done even though I preferred Nathan over Lucas character for her what made me not want to come back and watch the show is how they ruined Elizabeth… they made her flip-flop back-and-forth and here is this woman who initially left in season one to get away from the trappings of wealth and what does she do??? She hooks up with the wealthiest guy in town in the end. She treated Nathan like crap and basically toyed with both their emotions which was not the Elizabeth that was strong-willed and determined in other seasons. I think she was the one who came across as a hypocrite and totally unrecognizable from the beginning of the series and since the show seems to be centered around her I won’t be watching any longer, the writers totally ruined it for me. I would’ve been OK with her choosing Lucas had they had written the season better and didn’t play with the viewers emotions as drastically is they did.
38 4
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I totally agree; and what mother is always letting others look after her child. Elizabeth never interacts with him and he never acknowledges her as his mother. Also, I am feed up with everyone running around with light, pristine, starched outfits when everyone knows clothes were mostly dark. Without modern conveniences, dark clothes were easier to maintain. And… too much make-up. It’s all fake anymore.
11 2
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I didn’t watch and it looks as though I didn’t miss much! S8 ruined six years of investment into this show for me! Sloppy, soap opera stories and a main couple with no chemistry was the final nail in the coffin for me! Such a shame, Ms. Oke must be devastated at the debacle that Bird has made of her wonderful story! If not for a friend who encouraged me to vote and voice my opinion here I wouldn’t be writing here at all! I’ve moved on, don’t miss it, and won’t be surprised when it is canceled!
68 15
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If she is devastated why did she approve it?
2 10
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She didn't 'approve' it... being informed of the direction of the show is totally different. She sold the rights to the book.
17 1
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Oke's story ended when Daniel Lissing left the show.
15 9
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You hit the nail on the head for me I saw no chemistry between her and Lucas as a matter fact when he was lurking around every time she was near Nathan it was a very creepy stalker vibe for me. Her scenes with him or cringe-worthy. But what really ruined it for me was how they destroyed Elizabeth’s character she supposed to be the strong and determined woman who knows what she wants but she was playing with both of them throughout the entire season and the writers were playing with their audience as well… they handled it poorly. I will say one thing after watching the season play out I would not have wanted Nathan with Elizabeth at all… he deserves so much better.
30 4
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I used to like Lucas and Elizabeth's story together, based on their mutual love for literature, but after that it was straight downhill. Over-the-top unrealistic cringe-worthy cheesy scenes, made their chemistry look so superficial and meaningless. Now they just say and do most shallow extremely-typical romantic scenes with zero story. I felt like its wasting my time on needlessly dragged romantic scenes with no creative/new story into writing anymore & literally no value to the story at all. The character introduction of Lucas and Nathan was good, but seems the writing has gone nowhere since. They dragged the love-triangle for too long, monetizing on seasons, that I surely got bored and uninterested. And every season since then has only killed my any excitement or interest to watch the show. Please don't ruin Janette Oke's legacy, and write something more sensible and wholesome for all the characters
76 27
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Well said. What book have they both read that they actually discussed?... Mother Goose? 😂 Hardly something to base a relationship off of! She likes Virginia Wolf & his favorite book is Dangerous Liaisons... not exactly compatible. No depth. They say they want to enjoy little moments... and then go for a ride in a hot air balloon! Ridiculous. And I agree, it's an insult to Janette Oke's legacy.
34 14
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Extremely well said! You articulated my sentiments exactly!
17 6
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100% agree. The writers clearly weren’t paying attention to their audience they knew that half the audience were for one man with her and the other half were for the other man. Causing some drama is one thing but manipulating emotions so long into a season is ridiculous. She treated Nathan like crap and he deserved much better. But what really ruined it for me was Elizabeth’s character…. how she changed, and NOT for the better. In the first few seasons she never would’ve been attracted to a character like Lucas.
27 2
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Agree... except it was never 50/50. Hallmark polls were consistently 60-80% in favor of Nathan.
S1 Elizabeth would have remembered the lessons she learned about gambling / drinking from experiences with Cat Montgomery, Billy Hamilton & Wendell Backus. Nathan saying, "Who are you?" to Elizabeth in the preview for E2 is all of Team Nathan since S7! 🤦
12 1
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I won’t Nathan and Elizabeth should be together. I don’t like Elizabeth with Lucas!!!!
4 1
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I didn't drop Hallmark (yet) but that is not because of this show. I watched episode 1 out of curiosity...the worst thing to me is the writers that don't have an original thought...memories pressed between the pages of my mind, are we commercials now, do they even know that is from a commercial or are these young silly writers too young and silly? Also the same Facebook meme garbage between Elizabeth and Lucas (her character is ruined, I agree, I can't even take it seriously, like a joke to me now). I am kind of glad I watched it because it confirms what I thought at the end of season 8 (that the show is ruined and I would not like it anymore because the tone of it has changed, and characters I used to like (Elizabeth, and the Rosemary and Lee dialog wasn't doing it for me either). If this was the way the show was in the first place, I never would have watched it. The great thing is I have completely lost interest and I am done. I thought it was fair to watch 1 episode but that was more than enough. Way to ruin a perfectly good show Hallmark. I really don't like the direction your channel is going in, I have kept it and watched a lot of the mystery things, but I am deciding whether to switch to another service my son would rather have (he is not a big DTV fan) that does not have Hallmark Channel. I spend more time watching more interesting things on youtube, it may be time to call it quits on the whole thing. I gave it enough of a chance, I was more than fair.
25 3
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It's a soap opera with angst & drama - not interested - just plain boring - don't even get me started on the choice of a teacher in 1920 choosing a saloon owner, card sharp as a father figure for her young son whose dad was a Mountie.
69 25
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LOL Right? That's the most unrealistic part of the whole thing. It would never happen back then.
26 12
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lol the bitterness flows from your words. You are so bigoted.
10 19
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It's the way it was then. 🤷♀️
9 1
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No bitterness, just truth. I guess it hurts.
17 4
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Exactly!! She would have been run out of town as a loose woman!
17 8
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yes, the characters are very cartoonish and not realistic for the times...compare to Season one...there is no comparison...soap opera stuff now...and silly...whatsup with those candy striper shirts...did they wear those back then?
12 4
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I do not like that Elizabeth chose Lucas. I can hardly watch them together. She should have chosen Nathan. I have loved this show but I can't watch Elizabeth and Lucas together. Its just not right.
47 4
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I truly hope that the powers that be it WCTH read these comments but clearly they will ignore them as they ignored almost everything during the last season. I don’t think they really care much about what half their audience wants. Yes I was definitely pulling for Nathan anytime Lucas was even remotely in any scene with her, I cringed …it’s not that I don’t like the actor I just couldn’t stand the character. But what will cause me not to watch any longer is what the writers and the show runners did to the show…. they totally destroyed it making her flip-flop back-and-forth all season long when she could’ve made up her mind a lot earlier. THEY RUINED ELIZABETH. She’s not likable for me any longer I find her actually a hypocrite and a phony…and NOTHING Like she was in the first season. She wanted to get away from the wealth traps of her upbringing but what does she do she chooses a man who is wealthy and prefers to stay in that lifestyle apparently. And after watching a realistic show like 1883, WCTH is just a glorified soap opera .
47 5
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There is a new CEO in town, and they have to follow His direction to some point. Lucas represents where the world is today. Lucas is not a regularly church goer, and this also represents the world today. Chris also did a gay film, so it helps to pull in that arena. WCTH is no longer a conservative show. Even Mei Suo is married going after Nathan. Not family friendly at all. The pot stirring by JT, BB and Hallmark. I call that deception at its best. Hallmark continues to market Lucas as mischievous. They have an older age market now they need to get the 18-49 demo back. Last week was .16, week before .14. Ok! JT just did soap opera style, but Mei was never married. I still do not see anything romantic between N & M. (just my opinion.)
13 2
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I want Nathan with Elizabeth. I do not like or trust Lucas.
56 15
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Yeah, me neither.
27 6
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Why?
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For me... I don't like Lucas as a mate for Elizabeth because:He wouldn't keep his word to Abigail about closing the saloon early.He lied to Rosemary about not speaking French.He taught Allie to gamble with that card trick. (Placed a bet + Raised the stakes = Gambling)He cheated Amos Dixon at cards instead of loaning Jeanette the money or paying her debt.He put Elizabeth in mortal danger because he kept a secret.His favorite book is Dangerous Liaisons (A scandalous book about making bets to seduce an innocent woman).He throws Nathan under the bus every chance he gets... especially in front of E.He wouldn't respect E's boundaries & kept orchestrating dates before she was ready.He got her to go with him to UC under false pretenses... he wasn't a fan of Virginia Wolf & had never even read her book.He didn't insist they have a chaperone for the overnight trip.He offered to help Henry with the oil business... but instead strong-armed him into selling him the business.He ran off without explanation after 'the hug heard around the world'.He guilt tripped E into holding hands in public before she was ready.He's the opposite of Patient.He was cruel to E. "What would you know about it?"He always deflects questions he doesn't want to answer.He makes Gustave do his dishes. (Trust me... you want a mate who is willing to help with dishes!)He hired Henry's own son to spy on him. Everything comes easy to him & he's never held accountable.He was going to run again.
32 2
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I was disappointed that Elizabeth chose Lucas.
40 4
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With BB,JT ,WL &RR The character of Nathan will never be treated with respect dignity and kindness will always be used as a puncing bag,a scapegoat and his fans will never be given anything good or worth watching so I don't think I can watch anymore 😉
40 8
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For some reason, this is the role Kevin McGarry always seems saddled with. On Heartland, Mitch pretty much got the same treatment from Lou. When they did get engaged, it didn't even last. It lasted less than a season, he ended things for good and was written out of the show.
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Nathan was treated horrible in Season 8
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I don’t believe he was treated horribly. He just wasn’t for Elizabeth. They really had nothing in common. I like Nathan, but Lucas was much better for Elizabeth. It just took too long too many seasons, before she made the decision. They drag things out way too long.
8 30
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Lucas can have season 8 Elizabeth. Nathan deserves much better.
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Mei sou is married. If they love Nathan so much why set him up with a married woman? Ok! so Mei is not married, but this is soap opera style at best.
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That’s the problem, they don’t love Nathan. Kevin is such an incredible actor, any available woman they match him up with would blow the golden couple out of the water. They can’t have that so they‘ll continue to use Nathan as a punching bag.
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The direction of this show has gone downhill, there is no cohesiveness in the story telling. It’s has become a show for lust and money and not a family show. Do not support HM anymore.
33 5
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So many invested people over a tv show. I think I'm going to laugh if they wind up having Elizabeth and Nathan spend so much time together that it causes her to have second thoughts when Lucas pops the question. She's courting one guy, but spending time alone with another while teaching him to drive. Wouldn't put it past JT to have another dramatic shocking turn. In the mean time JT said in an interview last season that the guy she has now may not be the one she winds up with and Kevin McGarry recently said that you never know what might come down the road between these two characters so who really knows, maybe E and L will stay together, but maybe they won't. 🤷♀️
35 8
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JT does seem to LOVE shock value. I've had the same thoughts... but I'm not watching live to find out.
28 5
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She has time for work, play, while a nanny takes care of her child. She acts like a school girl. Terrible script, but that would really destroy the show to decide to take up with N.
I won’t lose any 😴 over it.
😂Omg It’s just a show. I would like to see more of Rosie and LeLand. I ❤️ them, though her character has changed too much.
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RM is over the top acting just like when she started on WCTH. Too much for me! Bring back the old Rosie!
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What would really be hilarious is if both of them dump Elizabeth because that’s what she deserves… the writers totally ruined her character she’s wishy-washy, boring and seems to gravitate toward the wealthy trappings that she initially left home for in the first season. The show definitely has take a turn for the worst. And you can blame the show runners and writers for that they messed around with their audience too much.
40 4
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Honestly i wanted Lucas, but i was hoping that he would be digging in the trench's oil company because otherwise the story line will get boring! Hopefully a lot less romance because it makes it look shallow. I'm feeling like Nathan was picked for the substance, and E & L are just more the romance part. Then i miss 1-5 where we had such a good balance of life in coal valley!
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It has turned into a silly soap opera. Really boring with uninteresting characters.
35 9
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lol so described what a soap opera means to you? Is it a show where your fav character didn’t get the girl.
5 10
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It’s bad writing and poor, unrealistic storylines! Just being honest. S1 was the best, after that it really became more unrealistic and S4 on it was more of a Disney version of the Canadian west at the turn of the century. S8 writing just wasn’t good!
13 1
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Don't like it. He is hiding something. Not trusting him. She made a terrible choice.
27 2
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As long as you watch it live you are helping the ratings!
3 1
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I was most impressed with Jack and Elizabeth, it really upset me when Jack died.
I do not care for Lucas.
29 4
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Season 8 was horrible. And the season finale was terrible. Elizabeth chooses Lucas? This goes against everything in the previous 7 seasons! And the have zero chemistry. No depth and all he does is run whenever there is trouble. He's a shallow character with no back bone. And, sorry but Nathan is so much better for her. It must have been a decision from high up in the ranks that had nothing to do with the story because it just didn't fit. And, was just terrible. JT and BB should be ashamed of what they did to this show. S9 is a no go!!! Steer clear of this train wreck!!!
28 6
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I don’t like Elizabeth and Lucas together.
24 3
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Lucas is hiding something from Elizabeth which will put an end to their romance
30 10
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I hope not! I love E&L together. They have so much in common. Hope they don’t drag out the wedding for five years like they did with Jack and Elizabeth. That was painful & senseless
5 12
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What exactly do E&L have in common? 😂
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Culture, family, lifestyles. I don’t know how anyone can get so wrapped up in a tv show. It’s entertaining, not real life.
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No one here is saying it's real life. Where has anyone said that? I'm guessing you haven't invested 8 years into watching like some viewers had.
Elizabeth left behind the Hamilton cultured lifestyle... her embracing it again shows how far her character has regressed. It's not a positive. Lucas prioritizes family so much he had never held Little Jack until JT white-washed his character. A saloon owner / gambler's lifestyle in 1919 would be pretty much the exact OPPOSITE of a single mother / teacher's lifestyle. 🤣
5 2
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I'm sorry but Elizabeth should have ended up with Nathan. There was a awkwardness between her and Lucas. Nathan's eyes showed so much love for Elizabeth. N & E had so much chemistry it leaked through the TV! Please let them end up together! There's always future episodes to right a wrong! 😔😭
20 2
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I think the writers missed the mark on Lucas and Elizabeth. I will not watch anymore and this was my favorite show. Lucas doesn’t match with Elizabeth. I love rosemary.
22 4
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You're all right. Elizabeth and Lucas don't seem to have chemistry and I wish she had chosen Nathan too. She definitely has chemistry with Tyler Hynes....bring him on the show to shake things up and make it worth watching! The writers of this nighttime soap have definitely dried up creatively.
23 5
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Elizabeth should have picked Nathan the Mountie, Allie would have been a big sister to little Jack and I feel they had better chemistry together. Elizabeth picked the safer guy who has money and a mother who can promote her books. If she was a strong woman, she would have done that. Also season 10 so far is boring, no action at all.
19 3
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I was very disappointed when they had Elizabeth choose Lucas. There was such natural chemistry between her and Nathan and come on, he is so much better looking than Lucas. Everything with her and Lucas is so forced and is obvious they’re trying to do something “out of the box”... it’s obviously not what the majority of the audience wants! Please change the story line and have Elizabeth choose Nathan instead! The new pharmacist and Lucas go wayyyy better together!! I was not going to watch this season at all but when I saw more scenes planned for Elizabeth and Nathan together I thought I’d try one more time. Was not impressed whatsoever with the Lucas and Elizabeth scenes so I fast forwarded them to get to the good scenes. So sad to watch this show go in this direction. Away from the wholesome good show to now a saloon owner and “worldly” guy is the pick?? I sure hope not! Bring back the conservative family values that made this show popular to begin with!
17 2
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The relationship between Lucas and Elizabeth seems forced. I do not see any real chemistry. However, the chemistry between her and Nathan is natural. I wasn’t planning on watching the show after last season. Watched 2 episodes, and decided my first instinct was right.
17 3
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I quit watching Hallmark after they ruined Elizabeth A teacher in that time period would have been fired!!! i can't believe how they treated this beloved Oke book. I'm done with all of Hallmark. I watched just a hand full of the Christmas season. But When Hope Comes was magical with Daniel and Lori
15 1
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And on When Hope Calls, Jack (Daniel) asked Abigail to tell Elizabeth that he's proud of her & Little Jack & he's happy she found someone to move on in her life with. He was giving her his approval of Lucas.
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definitely something fishy going on with the above polling...
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Some hearties have a problem with John Tinkers writing. He is the showrunner of WCTH. After episode 1 i have mixed feelings. Brian Bryd said the ratings were 2.30 but if you look online, they rate at 2.27, which did set a record. Although they continue to lose the Demo 18-49 age group. Nathan & Elizabeth were shown together to many times in episode 1. How in the world could the nathan fans start to heal? More like a fast forward and now he's getting hit with a car and gets Amnesia and forgets E. Reminds me of a soap opera. Hallmark continues to be deceptive by promoting Lucas as mischievous and nathan fans think that E will come back to him. This is a lie! Nathan fans please do not fall for this. Yes, i was for Lucas, but this manipulative, deception is so wrong. The show deserves to fail if hallmark is going to continue doing this for high ratings. Even Kevin Mcgarry said that it was a soap opera. How sad!
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2.27 was actually NOT a record like Brian Bird claimed. The S6 premiere had 2.45 million viewers. And the target demographic went down from .19 in the S8 finale to .14 in the S9 premiere. He's very good at spinning things to sound better than they are. And I agree 100%... they've turned the show into a soap opera, which is NOT what it used to be.
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I Think Lucas is the wrong person for Elizabeth he just to perfect and agreeable suck
22 11
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C
yeah guess that is terrible to you. You prefer a hot headed liar?
5 15
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P
It's his poker face. Perfect until he gets irritated & then lashes out. Even Elizabeth called him cruel.
16 4
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O
Nosy Elizabeth as usual. I personally thisnk she is a fake. Ahainst my better judgement, I looked at it for a while and was bored. I switched to the food network channel which was much more interesting!
11 1
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C
My wife and I thought Elizabeth and Nathan were a better match ! Not happy she picked Lucas! She looked happier with Nathan !
9
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G
I wanted Elizabeth with Nathan. They seem more suited for each other
9
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B
I really am disappointed in Elizabeth's choice. I also think she treated Nathan badly an led him on. Don't care for Lucas, never did an don't trust him. He's sneaky, I think. I hope Nathan falls in love with someone else an then Elizabeth to regrets her choice, but also hope she get as hurt as much as she hurt him.
11 2
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B
I have watched all seasons and season 8 went way of course. what happened to showing Elizabeth's family? Do they approve of Lucus being saloon owner? I seriously doubt they would approve. They did not welcome Jack with open arms! I continue to watch for the other characters, not the Elizabeth storyline.....
9
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G
Was introduced to this show last month and made to season 8 finale today .. hate it Lucas ./ it took her how long to kiss jack and then they were just like a second kiss and sweet now elabeth goes straight to kissing him more passionate and longer it’s gross what she become .. if liking a Mountie was look down by her parents what would a bar owner mean … I’ve never written a chat but this I had to say .. hope she rethinks and choose Nathan
8
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G
Yeah but why would Nathan want her now after she’s been slobbering all over the saloon owner for weeks? Nathan needs a sweet, loving woman not what Elizabeth has become. Fiona would be perfect for him.
7
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A
There's a video on YouTube that shows the 11 kisses that Elizabeth & Jack had. Elizabeth & Lucus will break this record by the end of season 9 or before.
1
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B
Very curious as to what the ratings will show not only this week but in a couple of weeks time when everyone has settled back in again.
If the show is to survive to a 10th season they'll need to stay consistent.
9 1
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G
I have saw every episode of when calls the heart, it did not hold my attention like other seasons has. Maybe it will get better, I am definitely a Critic when it comes to Janette Oake Series of Books !!
9 1
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G
Keep in mind that John Tinker is the showrunner now. he wrote episode 1 &2. I feel like JT is trying to save the show! Maybe i'm wrong. Some Nathan fans came back to watch the first show just to find out that N has to be around E & L all the time. I can't even imagine how they are feeling. Grateful that some TN gave it a try. I am not even sure if mei sou who is married? Is pursuing Nathan for the right reason.
7 4
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P
I'm also a big Janette Oke fan. And I have to say... she never went down this storyline of teacher & gambler. Not the stuff of bestsellers when it comes to Christian fiction... or Hallmark tv shows, apparently.
22 3
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C
Tired of Erin’s character…no substance, sickening sweet all the time is boring. No interest in seeing her relationship with Lucas. Erin character becoming increasingly annoying and nauseating. All she is capable of doing in show is giggle/smile, or gaze at Lucas, when not repeatedly seeking to kiss him whenever she can. Terrible acting, awful storyline.
7
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A
Lucas represents the world of today, which is where WCTH is going. I do not see it as a friendly family show any more. Who knows what's next after Lucas stayed the night over her house, which Jack never did?
2 1
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B
Elizabeth is no longer my favorite character. Rosemary an lee are an the show should focus more on them an let them have a baby. They are the main characters as far as I'm concerned.
9 2
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A
Seems like RM & Lee do not have big parts lately. I miss seeing Lee run his lumber company. Even Bill has not had a Great storyline. Maybe it's coming!
-
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G
Agree
6
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R
Hate Elizabeth with Lucas. she needs to be with Nathan. Don’t like to watch the show when they show Elizabeth and Lucas together.
5
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G
Agree
5
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G
I don't trust Lucas. I think he is hiding something. I hope Rosmary and Lee become parents.
7 2
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B
I have gone ahead and watched the new season. Still don’t think that there is any chemistry between Lucas and Elizabeth. Still disappointed in the storyline.
4
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G
SHE NEEDS TO BE WITH NATHAN!! I purchase every season. I won't anymore until I see a spoiler that they finally get it right!
4
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G
Wow - getting nasty are we?
4
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O
This show has gone downhill. Elizabeth’s choice was all wrong, and I think the ratings prove it. Elizabeth and Nathan were a way better match and the show would have been so much better. I think the problem lies with the writers, John Tinker, and the other execs that got involved and ruined this show. I could have gotten behind the E and L pairing if it had been written well. But instead, the wrote the love story of E and N and then flipped it at the last minute for shock value. Hallmark watchers don’t want shock value. We want predictable good feels, and heart warming. And this show has become void of any heart warmth or any good feels. It’s just “put together two actors who have no chemistry and see what happens” and “explore these awkward relationships”. Well we don’t want to see that, not on a network that claims fun family entertainment and that we pay for! Good luck, Hallmark. I think you are doomed if you don’t understand your audience!
3
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O
I feel that since the beginning to now Elizabeth's character is anything but the strong-willed woman that came to this town. The writers have made her wishy-washy and whiny. I find a woman like her would never be able to make it on her own in that time period. Most woman after the death of her husband (if this were her true character) would have ran back home to her family instead of staying in this small town where only the strong survive. Elizabeth who came in season 1 was strong, independent and fearless able to stand up to the town's women who resented her and make a place for herself as a teacher and as an independent woman. I much prefer "When Hope Calls " over this show and Iam looking so forward to new episodes on GAC. I also think that Rosemary and Lee could be the main characters focused on in WCTH, and then Elizabeth would not be missed at all because of what the writers have done to her character.
3
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O
She belongs with Nathan
3
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G
I think Lucas is hiding something. I love Nathan to be with Elizabeth. I hope Rosemary and Leer become parents.
5 2
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A
Wow! The morals of WCTH have gone out the window right with the hallmark channel. Jack & Elizabeth never had a sleepover. Jack & Elizabeth had only eleven kisses, in five episodes. Now Lucas and Elizabeth are sleeping in the same house overnight. They have sensual touching and kissing all of the time. They should move the show to GMC and make it family friendly again. One person suggested that Elizabeth would be pregnant and have to get married. This is a sad thought and shows you this show has turned the way the world is going. Any thoughts?
2
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R
I don't like that Elizabeth is with Lucas she should have ended up with Nathan.
4 2
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R
I don't think Lucas & elizabeth have the chemistry or spark that jack & elizabeth had. Too 'sweet' not enough 'spice' between them, even though both are good actors.
4 2
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O
She doesn’t deserve Nathan. Her character changed so badly in 8 and 9 that Nathan deserved much much better
1
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B
Thinking about not watching. Poor choice for Elizabeth.
1
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A
I stopped watching live after episode 1. Had mixed feelings. Bought it on iTunes to watch at my leisure and now i have many episodes to watch when i feel like it. I even wanted Lucas. Will there be a 10? Time will tell!
-
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A
I have spectrum tv and they are showing a picture of Elizabeth, Jack, Abigal & Bill. Wonder why they are not showing Elizabeth & Lucas? Just seems odd to me. Hallmark continues with their deception to draw fans in.
1
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O
I agree
1
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G
Have Elizabeth realize she is in love with Nathan after Lucas does something unforgiving. She should break off engagement right before wedding
-
P
THAT DRIVES ME TOMALMOST
-
P
AGREE
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P
My favorite character is STILL NATHAN, AND HIS ADOPTED DAUGHTER ALLIE
-
B
I don’t love Lucas and Elizabeth together….I can’t put my finger on why but I am hoping that there’s still a chance between her and Nathan!
-
A
I never believed Nathan and Mae would be a couple. I felt this was part of the diversity of hallmark working at its best. Of course she was not married more like a soap opera drama, and now that she has gone back to Chicago. This show is not the same from season 1-5.
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A
They turned it into a worldly version of WCTH. They should chance the name. This is not like Janet Oakes book at all. The morals being shown with E & L are not like E & Jack at all. In my opinion.
-
A
How can the viewership be so high, and the key demo be low? Only four episodes left. Time will tell.
-
R
I would like to see Nathan and Mae be a couple.
I can see so many are upset about the direction the show is heading. I can completely understand. But I would love to see a pairing/couple where one of them looks like me. I know it’s foolish but I can’t say that I wouldn’t want to see it because I would.
So my two cents, I would love to see Nathan and Mae be a couple on the show.
1 1
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G
The show was so much better before it got so syrupy sweet. It really doesn’t matter who she chooses, just show happenings relevant to the time period and not so much gooey sweet.
2 2
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C
Still waiting for Jack to come back… not what it was….
5 5
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A
It definitely is not! They are looking for a new audience base. Maybe they will change the name.
3
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O
Thank you for being a voice of reason. I agree. I enjoy the show immensely. Especially compared to the garbage Netflix is putting out.
1 2
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S
I'm sorry, but I disagree. In the Library, Lucas said, 'But if this were a date, I'd take your coat'. Elizabeth could have refused to take off her coat, but she removed it & happily smiled. He did send chapters of her book to his mother without asking, but he explained why he sent them & then apologized saying he was wrong. Elizabeth replied with, 'Well, I guess your heart was in the right place'. So in the end, she wasn't really upset. And last, Lucas said he wanted to hold her hand, but to honor her request to go slow, he told her just to tell him when she was ready. A day or so later she asked if he'd like to walk her home, smiled & held her hand out to him. He smiled, took her hand & they walked on. Nothing seemed forced to me. Lucas has always been respectful & patient with Elizabeth. I believe that's why he never went inside her house until she was sure she cared for him & she was comfortable. After she told Nathan she couldn't see him anymore, she didn't do anything to lead him on. All the sweet, loving & touching moments were with Lucas.
1 3
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O
One of the best written shows on television.
3
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S
I have been watching WCTH since the beginning & am still loving the show. When Daniel Lissing wanted to leave WCTH, they had a very hard decision to make about what direction to go. Mrs Oke was consulted & she was fine with the direction they chose. She wants the show to reflect Friendship, Love, Family, Honesty, etc, & it does. Lucas bought the saloon, but it's not a sleazy place. It's more of a community center...has a restaurant, holds weddings, Christmas gatherings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, anniversaries & even a town movie night. I agree that Nathan didn't have as much time with Elizabeth that Lucas had, to me, that was a big clue! Elizabeth just had more in common with Lucas. People who didn't see chemistry between Elizabeth & Lucas just didn't want to see it. Lucas is an upstanding gentleman/businessman. He has always been respectful of Elizabeth, of everyone in HV. IMO, a lot of people are being disrespectful of Elizabeth (Erin). Some say she was wishy-washy & carried her grief for Jack too long....how do you put a timeframe on grief? She'll always have a place in her heart for Jack, but now has made room to love again & she choose Lucas. I'm anxiously waiting for the stories to continue. I think Lucas & Nathan will become friends like Rosemary & Elizabeth did. And now we'll have two great storylines to follow.
4
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C
I think Season 8 was great and Season 9 is shaping up to be even better!!! The interactions between Lucas & Nathan have been comical as they work toward building a friendship. Elizabeth's book has been released to mixed reviews...where art imitates life. I am a devoted fan and never miss an episode. I think it is a wonderful show!!!
3 7
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G
I am thrilled. I have wanted her with Lucas all along. My only fear is that something will happen and it won’t last. I am not really a Nathan fan when it comes to Elizabeth.
3 7
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R
I think Elizabeth made the right choice.
3 8
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P
Love Lucas she absolutely made the best choice...Nathan should be with Fiona
5 10
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O
Didn't Lucas sell the saloon at the end of last season? He had already closed it when he met Elizabeth at the bridge.
5
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O
Nope. Nathan talked him out of running away... again. 🙄
3 1
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G
Good to see that generally people were happy with Season 9 because after the backlash of Season 8 finale. It was always going be tough for some return. Myself included.
That said, I struggled to get through the first episode. It stills feels like the heart and soul of what the show started out to as is missing amongst a sea of Soap operatic storytelling and characters but I am keeping my fingers crossed they are just shaking off the reminants of last season and this year they build it back up.
3 8
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S
When Lucas came to HV, he bought the saloon, but immediately started making improvements. Yes, men drank, played cards, darts, etc, but it was a far cry from a typical, sleazy bar/saloon. Yes, Lucas had a drink & played cards, but so did Bill, Lee, Carson, Hickam, Jesse & even Nathan when he got to HV. His profession is being a great businessman. He kept Gowen's oil business going by paying the employees & vendors out of his own pocket. After everyone found out he helped the 'widow', he became somewhat of a hero. He's a very caring man...loaned Nathan $1,000 out of the goodness of his heart. To this day, no one knows about that except Bill because Nathan told him. He gave HV a fantastic Christmas party, helped Lee give Rosemary a great Anniversary party (movie), that benefited the whole town. So what calls his heart? Being a caring, loving person to everyone of HV. Right, the uniform doesn't make the man, so stop labeling Lucas as Not a good person because he has money, dresses nice & owns a Saloon, which is almost more of a Restaurant. It's like people think Nathan is next to perfect because he's a Mountie & unfortunately, he's not. He has flaws, just as Lucas does, but that's because they're both human. Maybe people need to stop watching WCTH with so much negativity & stop worrying about who was or wasn't chosen to be with Elizabeth. Elizabeth was hit with Jack's death, dealt with a pregnancy & then had to take care of a new baby & still be a teacher.. that's a lot!!
6
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O
I love Nathan’s character, but he was not the right choice for Elizabeth! E and L are perfect together!❤️
31 37
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C
According to your expert opinion?
11 12
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C
Totally agree btw ignore the “Me” person's response she picked the proper nickname for a self entitled cry baby.
9 8
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B
Love the show…. Love Lucas and Elizabeth…….Chris McNally as Lucas is the best!!!
6 14
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C
I think most of comments are very mean, it’s so sad to spread so much hate for a show just because we didn’t get the ending we wanted. Go so far as to hope for the show will be cancelled, it’s awful! People work for this show, jobs depend on it!
People are arguing for characters, how it’s possible!
There’s inconsistencies, okay but like most of the shows. Reading the comments, everyone would have done better, like it’s easy to please everyone!
We can’t like it, it’s normal, but then we just not watch it and spare others from our bitterness .
It’s just a show, there’s more important things after all.
11 20
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A
May i ask what inconsistencies are you referring to? I have noticed the "heck" word said by E & RM. I have seen hallmark marketing Lucas as mischievous! I have seen BB give 2.30m vs the real stats 2.27m. I have seen Lucas holding a teacup that made him look feminine. Last year Hickam had a bow tie on which is gay friendly. Mei sou is really married going after Nathan. Lucas is not a regularly church goer. I am watching just not live to see where this show is going. It looks like more worldly. Hope i am wrong!
2 3
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S
Thank you AnnaM for your comments. I totally agree with you. I understand that Team Nathan fans were disappointed, but IMO, a true fan would continue to watch out of loyalty for the actors they love. Kevin said he liked the script he was given for Season 9, so maybe time is needed to continue his storyline. It's ok to voice an opinion, but some are being a bit mean. If you really don't like a show, then find something else to watch.
2 6
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O
Yay lucas
5 16
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C
Lucas and Elizabeth look wonderful together. They are in love so let them be happy. Lucas is good with little Jack. Enjoy the show.
8 19
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C
I love the show. I hated that it took five seasons for Jack and E to get married, and that he died right afterwards. I was happy to see her and Lucas get together. Nathan just wasn’t right for her. She and Lucas have so much in common. But then again, it took way too long for her to make a decision between the two, making her look like a schoolgirl in love with two guys. When she was really a grown woman married, widowed, with a child. Totally unrealistic.
7 19
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B
I love the Elizabeth and Lucas story!!! Best ever! Beautiful testament to the theme of “Love is Patient, Love is kind”. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
8 21
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O
That was JACK & Elizabeth's theme. Lucas is anything but patient. 🙄 RUSHED E into dates before she agreed. RUSHED to send her manuscript before she agreed. RUSHED E into holding his hand in public before she was ready.
14 2
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P
I am a Lucas & Elizabeth fan. I loved their chemistry! Hallmark you made a decision, please don’t make this a soap opera & destroy it by changing it to Nathan, STICK with your decision and show us another beautiful love story!! Bring Nathan a new woman that sparkles & make 2 wonderful love stories.
5 18
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B
I loved it Lucas and Elizabeth are perfect
28 41
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C
They really are perfect for each other. Love little Jack with them as well. what a cutie patootie.
12 18
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G
I loved the season 8 finale. It was the most romantic scene ever on Hallmark. I have always thought there was great chemistry between Lucas and Elizabeth and have rooted for them to get together ever since they met.
8 22
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O
I love Elizabeth and Lucas together. Its adorable how he called Jack buddy.
13 28
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G
Im happy Lucas and Elizabeth are together very cute and complimentary to one another. Cant wait to see them married! Hope it doesn't get too dramatic or awkward save it for the others lol!
24 39
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B
If Elisabeth goes back to Nathan I’ll never watch it again
3 19
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C
I absolutely would never watch it again if she went back to Nathan. They are just totally miss matched. And after being married to a Mountie that was killed, being pregnant, having a baby and being single, to hook up with another around you being totally insane. Lucas is perfect for her. They are very much alike they have much in common.
6 15
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O
You keep saying how much they have in common... like WHAT exactly? Mother Goose?!? That's the only book we know they've both read. 😆
8
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O
LOL... doesn't TL criticize TN for comments exactly like this? 😂 Guess you're not a 'True Heartie'. (Sarcastic use of that term... I can't stand it.)
12
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O
Elizabeth made the best choice for her and little Jack. Lucas and her are perfect together! Can’t wait to see their love grow. Excited for Nathan’s new love interest and how he will grow in his character. Rosemary and Lee are my next favorites after Elizabeth and Lucas!
6 23
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R
Absolutely adore E&L… we need to move past the unnecessary drama (like this poll) and celebrate the show. Unhappy people need to get a grip & either watch the show or don’t. We’ve been riddle by some bitter people for MONTHS now. Please stop the insane rants. Let’s support Hope Valley. 💙
15 33
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R
I can really see chemistry between Lucas and Elizabeth It is diffently there. And love the other characters in this show. Rosemary being one of my favorites also. Her and Lee are precious. Yep am a die hard WCTH fan
8 27
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C
Loved it, missed Rosemary being so bubbly and look how happy and smiley E finally is again. Jack and Lucas are so cute together can't wait for the bonding moments. Def good start into the season, can't wait for more
24 45
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O
I agree I liked the old Rosemary. She’s too subdued.
-
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R
I am so happy that she chose lucas, I was team lucas from the beginning, but I still love nathan's character, I am excited to see who nathan will be with!
11 35
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P
I think Lucas and Elizabeth were meant to be together and perfect together. Her choice was the best one for her and Jack.
26 50
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O
I'm not sure a saloon owner is the "best" choice for her son. lol
18 9
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C
It is much better than someone who lied to her for three years.
6 14
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R
Nathan never lied to her - stop drinking that koolaid!
10
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-
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O
It was good. I’m glad Lucas and Elizabeth are together and just enjoying together. And being cute. Lucas putting her and Lil Jack first.
Nathan last season was told (and seen with his own eyes) that Elizabeth was happy around Lucas. He sadly just didn’t get it through his head until the end - he let go finally. Forcefully holding on.
Me and driver instructor is not spending time together so let’s word it differently. Just have a less which is what Elizabeth and N would do.
21 45
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