WHEN CALLS THE HEART, AcTING, HALLMARK
Miranda MacDougall has brought Edie Martell to life in When Calls the Heart Season 12, portraying a strong, independent woman navigating both personal and professional challenges in Hope Valley. From her sharp legal mind to her budding connection with Lucas, Edie’s journey has quickly become one to watch.
In this Q&A, Miranda shares what drew her to the role, how Edie and Lucas challenge each other, and what it’s been like joining the WCTH family. Plus, she teases what’s ahead for Edie—including some big decisions on the horizon!
Q: You’ve played a variety of roles in your career. What was it about Edie Martell that drew you in?
A: I think I was initially attracted to Edie’s independence and agency. She’s a really well-rounded character – steadfast and direct but willing – as time goes on – to be vulnerable with those she trusts. I love when characters present a hardened facade only to later reveal their humble humanity, so Edie’s journey from quick-witted legal-jargon to more honest outpourings of the heart was really fun to discover over the duration of the season.
Q: Both Lucas and Edie have been engaged before. How do you think that shared experience shapes their connection?
A: I think that the history of love lost is hard to shake. I’m sure that Lucas will always have love and respect for Elizabeth, and Edie likely feels the same for her ex-fiancé. These previous relationships painted their respective lives in ways that I think made them each better people, perhaps more fuller versions of themselves. And still…heartbreak is no joke! I think they each know what is at stake, and perhaps this shapes how quickly they are each willing to enter into something new. They are both fiercely independent, and certainly have their guards up with regard to any feelings they may have for one another.
Q: When do you think Edie first noticed Lucas the person, rather than just the governor?
A: Great question! I guess the calf/ring scene comes to mind, but to be honest – I think it was earlier than that. Edie levels with Lucas upon meeting him in episode 2, speaking quite frankly to the Park/Pasture dilemma being “about people, about families.” And she means it, being that family is so important to Edie. After her speil, Edie feels truly seen by Lucas. She feels understood. As a woman in a male dominated field, she is used to powerful men brushing her off, and working twice as hard to have her voice heard. But Lucas shows her a level of respect that surprises her, and shapes the way she views him going forward…Regardless of the quips and pokes that follow, I think this moment laid a foundation of respect, person to person.
Q: Is it fair to say that Lucas may have met his match, but Edie may have met hers too?
A: I think it is! Edie is both disarmed and intrigued by this person that seems to match her energy at every level: hard working, dedicated, loyal, hurt, proud, intelligent…they really do measure up. Lucas represents someone that could tear down Edie’s walls – perhaps for the first time in a long time. I think the comfort she is beginning to feel around Lucas is for her both scary and exciting; when you have worked so hard for your independence, there’s a lot at stake and a lot to loose.
Q: When Calls the Heart has such a passionate fanbase. What has it been like stepping into this world?
A: Gosh. It has felt like the biggest, warmest hug! Like being introduced to a super tight-knit family and immediately being set a place at the table. Hearties are unlike any fanbase I have known, and the love they have for this show and these characters is palpable. I’m honoured to take on a role in a world that means so much to so many.
Q: Was there anything about working on the show that surprised you or took some getting used to?
A: This didn’t really surprise me since I had heard such wonderful things – but man…this cast and crew is something special. I know that’s easy to say, and I’ve had the privilege of working with many lovely crews here in Vancouver. But this felt different! There is a relaxed and familial vibe on set that makes for such a genuinely welcoming environment. We hear a lot in this industry that the tone is set from the top down, and that rings especially true for WCTH – Erin (Krakow) leads by example, and the respect that is shown to each individual in every department is something to admire.
Q: We’ve seen fun behind-the-scenes moments of you playing with the kids. What has it been like working and hanging out with them?
A: Let’s just say you don’t want to catch me mid-Anomia game with the kids of Hope Valley. The glasses come off and the claws come out ;)
I’m kidding.
In all honesty, they’re wonderful. Such pros! Regarding our card games …I think they beat me 9 times out of 10. I guess art imitates life for both Miranda and Edie…
Q: Edie left quickly when Lucas wanted to discuss an idea for the land in Episode 7—and even passed on dinner. What made her retreat, only to seek him out later that night?
A: I think it was a few things. Edie finds herself in a tricky position, needing and wanting to balance and respect the interests of her clients, her family and the budding feelings she might be experiencing for a certain Governor. I think she needed a moment to collect herself, and – no pun intended – play her cards right.
Q: Where would you say Lucas and Edie stand, both professionally and personally?
A: Edie and Lucas – where do they stand? Aside from getting smoked in that game of gin rummy, I think Edie is equally intrigued and conflicted. We can see these characters beginning to trust each other, but for Edie’s part…let’s just say there are still a few things left unsaid. The professional and personal lives of these characters are intrinsically linked, which I actually quite enjoy – its really reflective of a modern friendship/relationship, and I’m excited to see how they continue to find that work-life balance as their friendship blossoms and/or is put to the test.
There were certainly a few ups and downs for Lucas and Edie this week, but ultimately, we’ve landed in a place of trust. I think they needed this catharsis, and can now focus on moving forward together for the both the sake of the park and the good of Edie’s family legacy. Honesty…I tell ya! Works every time.
Q: So far, Edie has mostly interacted with Lucas and Minnie and now Nathan and Bill. Will she connect with anyone else in Hope Valley as the season progresses?
A: I think it is safe to say she will. She does!
Q: Will we see Edie lose the glasses and let down her hair at some point?
A: Ha! I don’t know! There is something super charming about the Edie glasses – as an actor, I love a prop or costume that really helps me assume and embody the persona of whomever I am portraying. The glasses feel so…her! Logistically, I’m not sure if contact lenses are landing in Hope Valley any time soon… a storyline, perhaps!?
Q: We hear there’s a lot of dancing in Hope Valley this season, including for Lucas. Can we assume that he and Edie will share a dance?
A: I mean who can resist the Charleston?
Q: We’ve heard you have a lovely singing voice—could Edie have a reason to sing this season?
A: That’s very kind! I do love to sing. From what I hear, this cast is overflowing with musical talent! I loved Elizabeth and Nathan’s impromptu duet – always so cool to see your fellow actors flex their skills like that. I don’t know if Edie herself is much of a songbird, but never say never.
Q: Do you have a word or two to describe what might be ahead for Edie? Or, is there an Easter egg we should be watching for?
A: Hmmm. What lies ahead for Edie…yesterday’s episode saw her challenged from several angles. She has some big decisions to make! She has so much on her plate – her parents have passed, her dear uncle has passed, she inherited a ranch, is new to a close-knit community – all the while balancing the immense responsibility of being a lawyer, and representing the interests of those whose values might not always align with her own. This last episode saw Edie at a crossroads, and it will take continued honesty and vulnerability to see her to the other side.
Edie Martell has certainly made an impression in Hope Valley, and it sounds like there’s much more of her story yet to unfold! A big thank you to Miranda MacDougall for sharing her insights and experiences with us.
What are your thoughts on Edie’s journey so far? And what do you think her next move will be? Let’s chat in the comments and be sure to follow along on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephanie_heartnmotion/.
Heart In Motion Media 
Leave a comment