Why Heartland Keeps Winning Hearts

The Enduring Magic of Heartland: An Interview with Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle

Heartland, the CBC's longest-running hour-long drama, has been charming viewers for an impressive number of seasons. Set in the breathtaking landscape of the Alberta Rocky Mountains, the show revolves around the Fleming family and their life on a horse ranch. What's the secret to its global success? The stars of the show, Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle, provided some insights in a recent interview.

Real-Life Magic on Set

One of the things that makes Heartland so special is the presence of animals and children. Working with them brings a delightful unpredictability to the set, as Amber Marshall explains. You never quite know what they'll do next, which keeps things fresh and exciting for everyone. Graham Wardle adds that because the kids and animals "don't know they're acting"1, their presence creates a uniquely authentic atmosphere.

More Than Just a Backdrop

The stunning Alberta landscape is another key ingredient in Heartland's winning formula. The vast open spaces and majestic mountain vistas offer viewers a visual escape from the often confined settings of other TV shows. Amber Marshall believes that the scenery has a powerful effect on people, transporting them to a place where they can breathe and relax2.

And it's not just Canadians who are captivated by the show's beauty. Heartland has fans all over the world, many of whom have been inspired to visit Canada after seeing it depicted on screen34. Graham Wardle is particularly grateful to the CBC for showcasing the diverse cultures and landscapes of Canada to audiences both at home and abroad5.

A Real Sense of Family

Behind the scenes, Heartland boasts a talented team of animal handlers and wranglers who help to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Amber Marshall is full of praise for their professionalism and ability to maintain a calm atmosphere on set, which is especially important when working with children and animals6. She and Graham Wardle also make an effort to keep things fun for the young actors who play Lyndy, often playing with them between takes.

The show's storylines have also evolved over the years, branching out to address issues that resonate with a wider audience. Amber Marshall believes that the Heartland writers do a great job of keeping the show current by exploring topics that are relevant to different generations. This has helped to make Heartland a show that families can enjoy watching together.

Staying True to Themselves

Both Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle are aware of the importance of staying grounded amidst the demands of their careers. Amber finds solace in her connection with animals, both on set and in her personal life8. Graham prioritises gratitude and perspective, which he cultivates through spending time in nature8.

From Strangers to Partners

Interestingly, Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle didn't know each other before working on Heartland9. Their on-screen partnership has blossomed over the years, fostering a deep mutual respect and friendship. Graham is particularly appreciative of Amber's support, especially when it comes to navigating the world of horses, which was initially unfamiliar to him. He jokes that he "knew that people rode horses" but didn't realise "how many people still rode horses" before joining the show. Amber, in turn, is impressed by how much Graham has learned over the years.

Both actors agree that the casting of Heartland was spot on. The strong bond between the cast members translates to the screen, creating a sense of family that resonates with viewers11.

A Show With Heart

With its stunning setting, heartwarming stories, and relatable characters, it's no wonder that Heartland continues to win over viewers all over the world. The show offers a comforting glimpse into a world where family, community, and a connection to nature are paramount – values that have enduring appeal.