• A Melissa Gilbert joins 'When Calls the Heart' cast
  • This means a 'Little House on the Prairie' reunion
  • She will play "Georgie McGill"

In a move that's set the "Heartie" fandom ablaze, Hallmark Channel's Saturday reveal has everyone talking. Melissa Gilbert, the heart and soul of 'Little House on the Prairie' is making a grand entrance into the world of 'When Calls the Heart' in its upcoming twelfth season. Playing the intriguing "Georgie McGill," Gilbert's character is teased to have a "surprising past" with a familiar face in Hope Valley. Talk about a plot twist!

Also interesting:

'Little House' Meets 'Heartland'

Why Gilbert, and why now? It's all in the family! The actress shared at the "Hearties Family Reunion" in Vancouver that her connection to Michael Landon Jr., executive producer of 'When Calls the Heart' and son of 'Little House' star Michael Landon, paved the way for this epic crossover. The two reconnected at the 'Little House on the Prairie' 50th Anniversary Cast Reunion and Festival," setting the stage for Gilbert's Heartland debut.

Kelly Garrett, Hallmark Media Vice President of Programming, couldn't hide her excitement. She highlighted the parallels between 'Little House on the Prairie' and 'When Calls the Heart,' noting both series' focus on hope, human connection, and survival on the frontier. Garrett shared the big news with the "Hearties" first, acknowledging their unwavering support and passion for the series. According to her, the energy at the reunion was "electric," and the anticipation for Gilbert's character is sky-high.

More about Melissa Gilbert:

What's next for Hope Valley?

Season 12 of 'When Calls the Heart' promises to delve deeper into themes of family, community, and romance as the series ventures further into the 1920s. With Gilbert's addition to the cast, fans can expect an extra layer of nostalgia and warmth, reminiscent of her days on 'Little House on the Prairie.'