When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere ending explained: What happened to Nathan after Jack's death in the previous season?

A still of Nathan from When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere (Image via Hallmark Channel / YouTube)
A still of Nathan from When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere (Image via YouTube/Hallmark Channel)

When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere episode was released on January 5, 2025 via the Hallmark Channel at 9 pm ET. The new season started after the cliffhanger at the end of the previous season and took the story ahead from there.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere.

The episode mainly focused on Nathan and Elizabeth and their time as a couple. However, it was clear that Jack's death from season 11 was weighing down on the character. The episode ended with Nathan trying to emerge from the feeling of living in Jack's shadow and trying to be a better role model for Little Jack.


Who is the new recruit in the When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere?

A still from When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere (Image via YouTube/Hallmark Channel)
A still from When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere (Image via YouTube/Hallmark Channel)

A new recruit named Oliver Garrett joined the ranks of the show's characters in this season. Superintendent Hargraves stated that Oliver was at the bottom of his class. Yet, he had been recruited, developing an aura of mystery around the new character and how he made it this far.

Oliver seems to respect the Mounties and expresses admiration for the greats Jack and Bill. He was also polite and charming to the ladies he met, making audiences revise their impressions of him as a wayward cadet. However, the character still seems to have a secret up his sleeve, and it remains to be seen how Oliver's journey will shape up for the episodes ahead.

Also read: What is Hallmark+'s Small Time Setup all about? Everything to know


What was the story with the children of Hope Valley in the When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere?

In the premiere episode of the series, it was revealed that Emily and Angela will be graduating at the end of the year during this season. The Canfields expressed their pride in Angela for attending school and finally graduating. But there was a slight conflict palpable.

Minnie seemed very afraid to let her daughter move away from the family, worrying for her safety. Meanwhile, Angela craved freedom and aspired to attend a college for the blind in Hamilton. She wanted to be in an environment meant to support her growth.

Meanwhile, the younger children also achieved a milestone as Little Jack and Lily began their first year of school. Both of them acted as a source of comfort to each other, relieved that the other was just as scared to be stepping into an environment with so many older children.

Also read: What is Celebrations With Lacey Chabert all about? Release date, synopsis, and everything you need to know about the Hallmark+ series


Was Edwin reintroduced to the plot in the season premiere?

Yes, Edwin made an appearance during the When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere episode. He met Lucas, who, though indirectly, stood in the way of his and Lee's dream to create a National Park for future generations.

Meanwhile, Rosemary faced a dilemma of her own concerning Lucas and Lee. Despite forgiving Lucas, she admitted that it was difficult for her to trust him again. However, she finally relented and let Lee go to the Capital City. Hopefully, for Rosemary, Edwin's involvement will not bring any damage to Lee on his journey.

Also read: When Calls the Heart season 11 recap: All to remember before season 12 arrives


What were Nathan's emotions in the When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere?

A still of Elizabeth from When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere (Image via YouTube/Hallmark Channel)
A still of Elizabeth from When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere (Image via YouTube/Hallmark Channel)

In the premiere episode, Superintendent Hargraves arrived with news honoring Jack's memory, which was a slightly unexpected move. During his appearance, the Superintendent also hinted that Nathan could not measure up to the hero that Jack was. This tapped into one of Nathan's insecurities, creating an opening foundation for the season ahead.

Nathan was also seen feeling responsible for Little Jack, fearing that the boy would find out that he had any part in Jack's death. This was especially difficult because Little Jack started asking him questions about his dad and his time as a Mountie.

Nathan and Elizabeth also started dating each other in the When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere. However, it seemed that it might be difficult for Nathan to date Elizabeth, knowing that she is Jack's widow. The fact that Jack was so revered all across town made it all the more complicated, even though Elizabeth insisted that she did not view Nathan as her second choice.

Also read: Will The Way Home air on the Hallmark channel? Streaming decision explained


Audiences can watch the When Calls the Heart season 12 premiere streaming on platforms like Hallmark+ and Peacock.

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Edited by Riya Peter
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