Melissa Gilbert Joins Hallmark’s When Calls the Heart This February

HOPE VALLEY, Feb. 7, 2025 — Actress Melissa Gilbert, best known for her role in “Little House on the Prairie,” joins Hallmark Channel‘s popular series “When Calls the Heart” for a two-episode arc beginning Saturday, Feb. 8. Gilbert portrays Georgie McGill, a forensic accounting investigator from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, whose investigation brings her back to her hometown, sparking old memories.

In an interview, Gilbert explained her character’s connection to Bill Avery, played by Jack Wagner. The pair, who had a history in school, navigate a potential romantic relationship as they work on a case together. “I had a pretty intense crush on him, and I assumed he didn’t even know I existed — but the feeling was mutual,” Gilbert shared with Entertainment Weekly. “The question now is, in this investigation and working together, are we going to fall in love?”

Gilbert is enthusiastic about the romantic cliffhanger her character leaves behind. “I would love to see what happens with Bill and Georgie going forward, because it is left as a romantic cliffhanger — will-they, won’t-they?” she said. “Just because you’re over 60 doesn’t mean you’re dead.” This sentiment reflects the show’s approach to depicting love and romance among older characters.

While Gilbert has only signed on for two episodes, she expressed an openness to return in the future if invited. “I think it’s really great to portray the beginning of a romantic relationship with two people our age,” she added. “It’s refreshing to show that love can flourish at any age.”

In addition to her work on “When Calls the Heart,” Gilbert is also starring in an Off-Broadway play where she and co-star Mark Moses portray former lovers reconnecting after decades apart. “It took me a minute to find the courage to actually do it,” Gilbert remarked about her role, which requires her to embrace a more revealing performance than she is accustomed to.

She continues to find fulfilment in her career and personal life, stating, “My life is good right now.” “When Calls the Heart” airs Saturday, Feb. 8, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Hallmark Channel.