When executive producer Brian Bird was asked about Lori Loughlin's potential return to the fan-favorite series "When Calls the Heart," the showrunner expressed that he felt the show would be a good avenue for forgiveness. Despite conveying a personal desire to bring the actor back to the series, the producer did express some skepticism.
"Some of the fans have asked what will happen to Abigail's character, and shared their opinion that Hope Valley should be an example of forgiveness and grace," Bird told From the Desk in 2019. "As Lori's friend, I could not agree more, and Hope Valley will always be a place of second chances. However, in the real world, having a heart of forgiveness does not mean that justice can be ignored."
Though Loughlin has made her return to television since her release from prison in December 2020, Hallmark confirmed to People in October 2023 that the network had no plans to bring the actor back. "Hallmark Media is not in talks with Lori Loughlin about reprising her role as Abigail on When Calls the Heart," the network said in a statement.
