‘When Calls the Heart’: Daniel Lissing Is ‘A Man of Action … Mostly’

Last updated on: April 8, 2016 at 7:26 pm by Kate O'Hare

‘When Calls the Heart’: Daniel Lissing Is ‘A Man of Action … Mostly’ 2016-04-08T19:26:56-08:00 Kate O'Hare

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This Sunday, April 10, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, Hallmark Channel’s wholesome Western (Canada, that is) drama “When Calls the Heart” closes out its third season.

Inspired by the book of the same name by Janette Oke, and developed by Michael Landon Jr., the Canadian-American production — shot in Vancouver, British Columbia — stars Erin Krakow as Elizabeth Thatcher, a young teacher from a high-society background who is put in charge of a school in a small coal-mining town in Western Canada. She charms everyone — except Mountie Constable Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing), who thought at first that being assigned to protect Elizabeth by her wealthy father would doom his career.

But, over the fullness of time — otherwise known as two-plus seasons — his feelings did a 180-degree turn.

Also starring are Lori Loughlin as mining widow Abigail Stanton, and Jack Wagner as mystery man Bill Avery. The third-season finale also features an appearance by Brooke Shields as Thornton’s free-spirited mother, Charlotte.

The show has a devoted fan base, who call themselves “Hearties,” who appreciate its strong values and family friendly tone.

I recently sent off some email questions to Lissing, whom I met a few years ago in Hawaii on the set of the short-lived 2012 post-apocalyptic ABC drama “Last Resort,” in which he played a Navy SEAL. Here’s what the Australian native had to say:

What is it about the show that touches fans so deeply?

There’s nothing like this show on TV. It’s a nice family show with heart that connects with a conservative audience. It’s easy watching with a nice moral undertone.

What do people say to you most often about Constable Jack, and what they’d like for him in the future?

People most often say “I love Jack! … Why can’t there be more men like him?”… My reply, “Because he’s not a real person.” Ha-ha!

They want to see Jack and Elizabeth together in the future! That’s the key to keeping the audience engaged — keeping Jack and Elizabeth apart, with little teasers that they’ll end up together.

What is it about this show that other networks should take note of and perhaps emulate?

That depends on their programming format and target audience. However, there’s now a gap in the marketplace for wholesome, family programming, which is why “When Calls The Heart” is doing so well for Hallmark Channel.

Did you know you’re probably the biggest Mountie on TV since “Due South”?

No. But I think that’s because I’m the only one, right?!

What are your fan encounters like?

Overwhelmingly positive!

Do you want more action, or more romance?

I’m a man of action … mostly.

What have you learned about Canada that surprised you?

I didn’t ever think I’d go that long without seeing the sun!! Hey, Hallmark?! Let’s shoot in the summertime!

What else are you doing?

Writing the feature-film version of my short film ‘The Answers” with my partner Mike Goode (genius). You can find the short on YouTube. I’m writing an album. I’ve had a lot to write about lately. I’m also starting the audition for other projects, although, I’ve become fairly picky.

Here’s a sneak peek:

Image: Courtesy Hallmark Channel

Don’t miss a thing: head over to my other homes at CatholicVote and the Faith & Family Media blog, and like my Facebook page; also like the Patheos Catholic FB page to see what my colleagues have to say.

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