‘Love Comes Softly’ Series Adaptation Casts Ethan Rich in Major Recurring Role

It’s time to welcome a new face to Rock Springs! TV Insider can exclusively reveal that Ethan Rich has joined the cast of UP Faith & Family’s upcoming original series Love Comes Softly series in a major recurring role.

Rich will play Reverend Peter Hastings, a charming, boyishly handsome young minister with a quick wit, an open heart, and an unwavering belief in people’s capacity for change. The period Western drama, based on the bestselling novels by When Calls the Heart author Janette Oke, will premiere in 2027. Production is currently underway in Los Angeles.

Prior to Love Comes Softly, Rich had recurring roles on Rescue: HI-Surf, American Born Chinese, and Sistas. He was also cast as series regular Kade Gardner in John Wells‘ HBO Max pilot Ke Nui Road and guest-starred on The Good Doctor. His film credits include Black Diamond, The Advocate, Last of the Grads, Soulmates, and Hawaiian Vacation.

Photographer: Kathlyn Almeida

Set in the American West of the 1880s, Love Comes Softly follows newly appointed sheriff A.J. Davis (Zak Steiner) and his daughter, Emily (Sophia Paras), as they relocate to Rock Springs following the death of his wife. The series also stars Seeking Persephone star Ryann Bailey as Sarah Chandler, as well as Maya Herzog as Jessie Davis, Leo Howard as Richard Bain, Aason Nadjiwon as Clay Stoval, Natalie Ceballos as Rosa Lopez, Josh Cooke as Mayor Wiggins, and Pooch Hall, as Louis Stoval.

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Libby Beers and Jennifer Jenkins are co-executive producers of Love Comes Softly, and Ali Calamari is head writer. The series is produced by LCS Productions in association with Larry Levinson Productions, with Larry Levinson executive producing. Russell Mulcahy and Bradford May direct. Rich is repped by CESD, 22Talent, Impact Artists Group, and Skrzyniarz & Mallean.

“The heartfelt storytelling and timeless values embodied in Love Comes Softly make it a perfect fit for UP Faith & Family,” said Angela Cannon, EVP, Networks & Content Strategy at UP Entertainment. “The franchise already has a loyal and dedicated fan base through the best-selling books and beloved films, and we’re honored to bring this cherished story to life as an all-new series. With stunning production values and rich details woven into every scene, the creative team has built an immersive world that captures the beauty, resilience and hope of the American frontier.”

Love Comes Softly, Series Premiere, 2027, UP Faith & Family