Spoiler warning: This post contains spoilers for “When Calls the Heart” Season 13 finale.
The Season 13 finale of Hallmark’s hit series “When Calls the Heart” gave Hearties a lot to celebrate, but it also left them with at least one big question. After everything that played out in the closing hour, fans want to know: is Lucas Bouchard leaving Hope Valley for good?
What Happened to Lucas in the Finale
HallmarkLucas, played by Chris McNally, announced to the citizens of Hope Valley that he would be stepping down as governor at the end of his term. He endorsed Benson Hills Mayor Hickam (the older sister of Hope Valley’s Mike Hickam) to take his place, according to TV Insider. But the bigger moment came right after.
Yahoo! reported that during his speech, Lucas called Edie his “North Star.” He praised her “brilliance, determination, sheer grit, and grace” for lighting the way. While he didn’t say her name outright in that moment, it was clear to everyone in Hope Valley who he meant.
Later, Edie revealed she was leaving the next day for New York. She planned to do legal aid work for a couple of months. Lucas, stepping out of his comfort zone, asked if they needed help in New York. Edie answered with a kiss. The season ended with the two of them seemingly headed out of Hope Valley
Will Chris McNally Return for Season 14?
HallmarkThe short answer is yes. Hallmark renewed “When Calls the Heart” for Season 14 back in December 2025. Reports confirm that Chris McNally is among the central cast members returning, according to The Cinemaholic.
How his story picks up is still an open question. Producers could use a time jump to bridge Lucas and Edie’s time in New York. The show could also follow the couple there briefly before bringing them back to Hope Valley, as reported by The Snake. Either way, fans do not need to panic.
Lucas has left Hope Valley before and remained a key part of the show. He and Edie first met outside of town, in Capital City, when he was still based there as governor.
What Fans Are Saying
Hearties have had plenty of feelings about the Lucas and Edie storyline all season. Many fans were thrilled to see Lucas step up with that speech and his declaration in the finale, with one viewer calling the Edie and Lucas scenes “phenomenal and amazing.” Others are simply relieved to know he is not gone for good.
“When Calls the Heart” Season 14 is expected to premiere on Hallmark Channel in 2027.
Love Lucas-love Lucas and Edie! Hallmark already upset Chris’s fans; please don’t do it again. Keep the Lucas -Edie story going! They really make an interesting and delightful couple.
Yes love them together. So sick of constant scenes of N&E. So boring. Wish they were the ones leaving town.
I am so happy he is staying on the show. Lucas is one of my favorites! I’m so happy he found someone.