Sophia Michaels
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This article contains discussions about drug addiction.
The Hallmark Channel’s “When Calls the Heart” has captivated audiences with its touching narratives and varied characters. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, the show immerses viewers in a historical setting adorned with period costumes. Amidst the love and joy depicted, the series also incorporates moments of heartache, such as Elizabeth Thatcher, played by Erin Krakow, suffering the loss of her husband in a tragic landslide shortly after their wedding in Season 5.
Sadly, the actors of “WCTH” have faced real-life tragedies that mirror those in the series. In 2021, Krakow announced via Facebook the heartbreaking news that Jo Kinchella, a valued crew member, had passed away. She described Kinchella as a talented makeup artist with a loving spirit. Thankfully, Krakow and fellow cast member Pascale Hutton had the opportunity to say goodbye, but the loss of their dear friend has been just one of many heartbreaking events for the “WCTH” team over the years.
Mamie Laverock experienced a life-threatening fall
In May 2024, actress Mamie Laverock, known for her role as Rosaleen Sullivan in “WCTH,” was hospitalized in Winnipeg when she fell from a five-story balcony. Her family later set up a GoFundMe to assist with her medical expenses, detailing her transfer to a Vancouver hospital for urgent surgeries while in critical condition. Fortunately, she survived and her family expressed gratitude for the miracles of each day, noting her strong will to recover.
Three months after the fall, Laverock’s family shared an inspiring video of her return home, where she was joyfully welcomed. By October, her recovery was significant enough for her to reunite with her fellow cast members at a red carpet event, where she expressed her love for the show on Facebook.
Jack Wagner faced a tragic loss
In June 2022, Jack Wagner and his wife Kristina experienced the unimaginable loss of their son, Harrison, who was discovered deceased at just 27 years old, as reported by Today. It was later determined that he had succumbed to an overdose involving Fentanyl and Alprazolam, according to reports from People. In memory of Harrison, Jack and Kristina established a scholarship in his name aimed at supporting those struggling with addiction.
A year later, Jack shared a nostalgic post on Instagram, commemorating his son with a heartfelt message that resonated with other grieving parents, emphasizing the pain of such a loss.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, resources are available. Please visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or reach out to SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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Paul Greene Remembers His Father Who Died from ALS
Paul Greene has shared his journey of coping with the loss of his father, who succumbed to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2013. Since then, he has made it his mission to advocate for greater awareness of the disease. In a 2016 interview with Hallmark, he expressed admiration for his father, recalling, “He was an amazing man who never complained during his illness and remained a hero until the end.”
After his father’s passing, Greene founded Art for ALS and told Parade, “I’m motivated to raise funds for a cure.” He organized live auctions with support from his Hallmark colleagues, successfully raising $100,000 at a charity event, followed by an additional $60,000 in 2018. He passionately believes, “ALS can be cured if given ample funding. Let’s work together to make this happen!”
