‘WCTH’ Stars Mourn Death of Beloved Hallmark Director Neill Fearnley

When Calls The Heart stars and crew, as well as devoted fans known as Hearties, are mourning the loss of cherished Hallmark director Neill Fearnley, who was the longtime director of the beloved series. The emotional bonds formed over the years are evident in the heartfelt tributes pouring in.

The official Hallmark Instagram announced Neill Fearnley’s passing on Tuesday. They shared, “Hearties, it’s with profound heavy hearts today that we bid farewell to When Calls The Heart director Neill Fearnley, who passed away on July 13 after a long fight with ALS. Neill was vital to making When Calls The Heart the beloved show it is today, and he will be sorely missed by the entire Heartie community and everyone who had the honor of knowing him.”

Born on April 21, 1953, in Liverpool, England, Neill Fearnley was 71 at the time of his death. His impressive list of directing credits includes numerous Hallmark movies and series such as Garage Sale Mysteries and Cedar Cove. Perhaps most famously, he directed 47 episodes of When Calls The Heart. His final directorial work for the series was the Season 10 episode, “The Heart Of The Problem.” His contribution to the series has left an indelible mark.

Stars and fans alike have shared moving tributes to celebrate Neill’s life and career. WCTH star Erin Krakow wrote a heartfelt tribute, “Neill loved directing. He loved being on set. And he loved When Calls The Heart. He cared so deeply for all of us. He was always so protective of Elizabeth – and of the girl playing her. In fact, his very first text message to me encouraged me not to wear a corset for a stunt scene. There he was, quietly looking out for me.”

She continued, “Neill helped mold When Calls The Heart from the beginning. I’m so thankful for the 11 beautiful seasons we had together. And I’m grateful to be back in Hope Valley where we’ll all continue to feel his presence – in the characters he helped us create, the sets he brought to life, and the crew who carry his memory through their artistry. I wish we had more time together. It doesn’t feel right that he’s gone. But Neill’s memory will remain in my heart. And I’ll care twice as big in his honor.”

Ben Rosenbaum shared his own memories, writing, “Remembering Neill, taken too soon and sorely missed. This photo was taken by Erin Krakow from her POV as we filmed the first scene I ever did on When Calls The Heart in Season 1. He was my first director on the show, and I will always be grateful for the supportive way he welcomed me into Hope Valley: with a spirit of fun and great care for the work.”

Other stars also paid tribute to Fearnley. Andrea Brooks shared a selfie with Fearnley on Instagram along with the message, “Thank you for the many years of collaboration and guidance. We’ll miss you, Neill. Rest in peace.”

Hyland Goodrich’s mother commented, “Neill was kind and personable. He had immense patience and a great sense of humor, and it was a treat to work with him. He made Hyland feel instantly comfortable on set and seemed to delight in working with children, sharing stories of his own childhood and effortlessly relating to Hyland’s curious mind and boyhood antics. Rest well, Neill. Sending love, light, and comfort to your family and friends during this difficult time.”

Cecilia Deacon wrote, “A man of such kindness and warm humor. Deepest condolences to his loved ones and community.” Loretta Walsh also commented, “Such a wonderful man – a heartbreaking loss for so many of us. To work with him and get to know him for over a decade on When Calls The Heart has been an incredible gift. What a gem of a human! Neill, you are already deeply missed.”

Holly Robinson Peete shared, “He directed me in 21 Jump Street. He was just starting out. That makes me so sad.”

When Calls The Heart star Kevin McGarry posted a tribute video from the cast, who have just started filming Season 12. On Instagram, Kevin wrote, “Neill ❤️” alongside a video memorial with the cast and crew.

Karen Kruper, a longtime Hallmark actress, added, “OMGoodness Kevin. I didn’t know Neill had passed and didn’t know he had ALS. I first met him in 1989 when The Beachcombers was winding down. We were producing documentaries and were thrilled that someone who was such a storyteller might be available to work with us. Alas, he was snapped up, but I never stopped watching his work unfold and stay so close to so many people I knew. I’m so truly sorry, as you must all be as well. Thank you for posting this.”

As the When Calls The Heart community reflects on Neill Fearnley’s impact, the love and admiration for him resonate strongly. Hearties, do you have any favorite episodes of When Calls The Heart that Neill directed? Please share your favorites in the comments.