Production of most television shows have been delayed due to the current global health crisis. However, it looks like When Calls the Heart season 8 may start filming early. The upcoming installment is going to be in production in the coming weeks, which is earlier than when it started filming in the previous season.
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, series start Erin Krakow said that filming of When Calls the Heart season 8 starts early to take advantage of the summer weather in Vancouver. Because of that, fans will likely see fewer indoor scenes to follow the social distancing guidelines.
The series benefits from filming in Vancouver since much of British Columbia managed to contain the spread of the coronavirus. Yet, there are still other health guidelines that should be followed, including cast and crew undergoing a 14-day quarantine period.
On Wednesday, Krakow took to Instagram and posted a photo of herself on her flight to Canada. She is wearing a facemask that has a post-it note with a smiley face, with the actress noting the mask-wearing continues until she gets to set.
Krakow explained there would be a handful of new rules and protocols, as well as lots of physical distancing with shooting the upcoming When Calls the Heart season 8. She said that they'll be operating in pods and will try to avoid crossovers between teams as much as possible.
The actress also shared some of the new measures the production is taking to protect everyone from the COVID-19. Krakow said they're aiming to film scenes outdoors and mask for everyone but the actors in scenes. When it comes to the release dates, she said When Calls the Heart season 8 will be back on the small screen in early 2021.
Meanwhile, there are also some updates about the upcoming Christmas Special. Hallmark Channel previously confirmed via Twitter the arrival of the episodes, as well as the cast members set to appear in it. It looks like Andrea Brooks' Faith will return, who departed in the previous season. The episode could give viewers an update about her life, particularly what she's up to now.
The Christmas Special could deliver some interesting storylines leading into When Calls the Heart season 8. Some of these stories may include Elizabeth dealing with her complicated love story. Her love triangle with Lucas and Nathan will be further explored. The latter was almost shot in the previous season, and this incident could likely change where Elizabeth's heart lies.
