Lori Loughlin makes a comeback to Hallmark after being fired in college admissions scandal

Lori Loughlin is set to make a notable comeback on the Hallmark Channel following her dismissal linked to the college admissions controversy. The 61-year-old actress, best known for her role as Abigail Stanton in the first six seasons of the romantic period drama When Calls the Heart, was charged in March 2019, alongside her husband Mossimo Giannulli, for allegedly paying $500,000 in bribes to secure their daughters' admission to the University of Southern California as purported athletic recruits.

Shortly after the charges, Hallmark severed ties with Loughlin, and her character was removed from the series. Now, the network has announced her return as Abigail Stanton for six episodes in the upcoming 14th season of the show. Season 13 is scheduled to premiere in January.

Abigail Stanton has been a beloved character since the series began in 2014, said Michelle Vicary, Head of Programming at Hallmark Media. Hallmark centers on hope, positivity, and connection, which aligns perfectly with the themes of When Calls the Heart. Season 14 felt like the ideal moment to continue Abigails story.

Loughlin will reunite with original cast members Erin Krakow, Pascale Hutton, and Jack Wagner. Production for the 14th season is expected to start next year, with a planned release in 2027. Other returning actors include Kavan Smith, Chris McNally, and Kevin McGarry. The show centers on a young high-society teacher, portrayed by Krakow, adjusting to life in the fictional mining town of Hope Valley.

Loughlin last appeared in the third episode of season six, with her character temporarily leaving to care for her ailing mother. At that time, Hallmark re-edited several episodes and arranged reshoots to remove her from the storyline, even cutting an entire episode to accommodate the changes.

In May 2020, Loughlin and Giannulli pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud. Loughlin served two months in prison, paid a $150,000 fine, and completed 100 hours of community service. Giannulli served five months, paid a $250,000 fine, and completed 250 hours of community service.

Recently, the couple, parents of Isabella Rose and Olivia Jade, announced they are living separately after 28 years of marriage, though no legal proceedings have been initiated at this time.

Author: Jackson Miller