Interview With Mark Humphrey, “When Calls the Heart”

By Ruth on March 18, 2018 in Interview, movie, television
17
1

For an updated interview with Mark, please see this post.

Devoted Hearties will probably remember the sad day that Mark Humphrey sent out the tweet stating the fact that he would not be involved in season five of When Calls the Heart. From that moment on, Hearties (led principally by Lori Loughlin herself) began to flood Hallmark with requests for Mark Humphrey be reinstated for season five. Interestingly enough, since that announcement, the interview I posted last year with this actor who portrays Pastor Frank has often been amongst the top posts on my blog. Thankfully, Pastor Frank will be back in these next two episodes of When Calls the Heart, and I was quite honored to have the opportunity to chat with this charming and compassionate man yet again.

Mark Humphrey Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Ricardo Hubbs

RH: Thank you so much for making the time for this interview, Mark.

MH: Ruth, thank you for reaching out. I really appreciate it.

It is amazing to me just how popular your interview from last year has become. 

Wow. I wonder how that happened.

Well, I do remember the Hearties response when you posted you would be unable to return to When Calls the Heart season five. In fact, I remember how Lori Loughlin went to bat for you and asked Hearties to make their voices heard since it didn’t seem like you would be returning.

I cannot thank the Hearties enough for their support. I have felt so embraced by them. And as you see, I am now back for two episodes. That was a nice surprise for me. At least this way, Pastor Frank can tie up a few things before he moves on.

We are all sad to see you go, Mark. Your presence in Hope Valley will be missed.

As the old saying goes, that’s show business. Sometimes characters do have to move on just like they do in real life.

At least you are back for two episodes. I was so happy when I found that out. I’m sure you were too.

I am very happy I got to come back. I really do enjoy the camaraderie of the cast and crew. I’ve had the opportunity to bond with some of them. I understand I am a supporting cast member, so Pastor Frank’s storylines don’t always get as much attention, but I’m happy to have made the connections that I have with the cast, crew, and Hearties. In my working routine, I always do my best to lead with love, and I believe that policy has served me well. I always try to focus on how I can be of service to someone else so that the focus is off of me. I always try to keep the right perspective in this business, and even though it’s time for Pastor Frank to leave, I am leaving on good terms. We are all professionals, and with shows, these things do happen. And you just have to be flexible and leave with a positive attitude. I really loved my time on the show. Shooting on that location was wonderful, and any time I got to jump on a horse was just great. I will always appreciate my time with the other actors, and getting to know the other guys was such a blast. When I was working with them, it was like we were all growing up together and challenging each other to continue to get better in our roles. It was a journey that I will never regret and will always look back on fondly.

The other thing I really enjoyed was working with Lori and having this feeling that our characters were falling in love. Frank being in love was one of the most wonderful feelings in the world, and had we gotten to examine our relationship more, I was prepared to go deeper. I had plans for Frank to be more demonstrative in the future and play it that way more this season if I had the chance. I planned to really take care of Abigail more this season and show her bolder affection. It was time for Frank to stop holding back. Even though it’s not to be at this time, I am glad I had the opportunity to play Frank for three seasons.  And at least I got to play him a bit more this season.

When we spoke last year, I think I mentioned then how the best part of Frank for me was watching his character grow from the one that was potentially a bad guy whom you didn’t trust to one who was a good guy and very trustworthy. Your character definitely became a solid part of Hope Valley, and I liked seeing your character grow that way.

I loved exploring that too. It was wonderful when Abigail went to bat for me. That moved me a lot and solidified our relationship. That was such an enjoyable character arc for me. I am glad that Dr. Carson and I got things worked out last season. That was an unusual part of the story when Frank was trying to investigate this newcomer and broke into Carson’s room. Thankfully, they tied the issues up last season because I know that story arc was a bit unusual for some people to grasp. If you remember, there was that scene between Carson and Frank when everything was worked out very simply last season. I was glad there was some closure in that.

Another thing I really enjoyed was Frank’s time with Cody. I really enjoy working with kids. I raised my son into the wonderful young man he is today, and I enjoy sharing scenes with the kids. I’m really good with them, I think. I also enjoy doing sports, so I could see Cody and Frank doing a lot of that kind of stuff together.

So what can we expect from Pastor Frank in these final two episodes for him?

Well, of course, the one on tonight, I come back to perform the wedding ceremony between Jack and Elizabeth. This is what the Hearties have been waiting for, of course, for so long it seems. Abigail and Frank discuss a few things about their relationship as well. And then next week, that is the episode where I actually leave. You’ll see it. I won’t say exactly what happens, but Lori’s comment to me after we were done filming was, “Well if we have a sixth season, you’re only in the next town over.” So I guess there’s always hope that the show would bring Frank back. And if they wanted me to come back, I would be willing to come back unless another job conflicted with the show.

Lori Loughlin, Mark Humphrey Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Ricardo Hubbs

I think I speak for all Hearties. We would love to see you come back to Hope Valley, so fingers crossed that a season six happens and Pastor Frank makes his way back. I know that the Hearties were quite adamant in the fact that they wanted your character back, and they were not happy that you wouldn’t be coming back. So hope is certainly not dead. I think the Hearties will keep it alive. 

I was quite happy that they let Frank come back so we could tie up the loose ends and I could make a proper goodbye. It was nice to get the chance to say a goodbye to everyone and work with them again. At least it is a fairly decent goodbye, and while it was difficult since I was the one leaving, I was still personable and did my best to be as professional as possible and realize this is just the way things sometimes happen. And maybe they will ask me back if there’s a season six. I certainly would love that.

I’m glad Hearties will get to see Frank in two more episodes, and who knows what will happen if a season six occurs? But at least we get to see you again, Mark. 

I know I’m not always as active on social media, and I just don’t think about updating stuff on Twitter or Instagram. It’s just not my thing. Now, my son loves that kind of stuff, and he posts regularly on Instagram. But for me, I suppose it’s something I should do, but I just don’t even think about it. I’m happy to live tweet when the show is on. But it works better for me to concentrate on my job. I’ve got auditions, and I need to focus on those and do quality auditions. That is the priority in my career now.

I understand what you’re saying, Mark, and you’re not alone. I tend to think that Instagram and other social media is more a tool for the young. While older people do get involved, many actors your age don’t post often on social media, and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. 

Sometimes I do take a look on Instagram, and I see these kids with thousands of pictures of themselves. Every day they’re posting what they’re wearing–

–and what they’re eating too! {laughs}

{laughs} That is true. It’s kind of mind-boggling sometimes. I’m not that good at doing all that. My first foray into social media was with Twitter, and it was to support the show. And I’m happy to do that whenever I can.

The way I look at it, everybody is different in the way they handle social media, so I think what you’re doing is just fine. It’s more important to focus on auditions and booking jobs, in my opinion. 

I don’t think I really would want to focus that much on myself. I think it could be a little bit damaging to post thousands of selfies like that. I want to focus on others, not just myself.

I know everyone appreciates it when you tweet out something nice and positive, and even if you don’t respond, it lets us know what’s going on with you. Personally, I think that is perfect for you. Now, of course, the Hearties would like to know what you’re up to next. Any upcoming projects you can mention?

I will definitely keep everyone posted. Nothing definite right now, but I ‘ve had some great auditions that might lead to a booking of a feature film or a show. I’ll keep everyone updated for sure. It is pilot season down here in LA, and there’s a flurry of activity.

I do have a film company that I put together when I was in Vancouver with some friends of mine. Our plan was to put together a few short films. We are just finishing up the second short film now. All our cuts are done, and it’s with the composer now. That will be on the website when it’s done. And basically, these short films are just to firm up the people that are involved in the company and see how we work together. They’re not big, serious projects. And then we plan to produce collectively a feature film. That is something I’m really looking forward to. So when I’m auditioning, I’m also working on these short films and thinking about the potential feature film.

Recently, I also did some volunteer work for an elderly widow lady. It’s been raining a lot in LA, and my friend’s neighbor’s fence fell down. So I was able to go up there and help her rebuild her fence. This woman is worried that her cat will get out of the property, so that’s why the fence needed to be repaired. And I do like to get my tools out and do that sort of thing. In that way, I stay busy and I’m being productive. It’s an actor’s life, one day at a time. I try to stay hopeful and optimistic.

Recently, I saw an interview that I thought was interesting of Nicole Kidman. They asked her what she was working on, and she responded, “What I’m working on is trying to reconnect with the passion I had as an actor when I was first starting out.” And that is the kind of thing I’m doing right now too. I’m getting reconnected with that drive because this business can be so taxing. It can pull a lot of your passion away, so you have to fortify that passion and get reconnected with what it is about this craft that you love. There was a reason why I started doing it in the first place. That was fun to hear from an actress like her, and I feel like I’m getting reconnected with that passion for my work.

With his son, Luke

I remember we talked about your son last year.

Yes, Luke {Humphrey}, he’s a great actor. He’s out in Toronto and has been on some great shows. He was born in California and got a degree at NYU. He was an honor student, and he’s really doing well. He’s had all sorts of fun acting jobs out there.

It sounds like you’re a very proud dad, as you should be. I want to sincerely thank you, Mark, for taking the time to chat with me today. Hearties will miss you on When Calls the Heart, but we’ll follow you wherever the next part of your journey goes.

Ruth, I thank you and the Hearties for the awesome support. I am happy to have connected with the fans, and I look forward to continuing on to the next part of our journey together, wherever that may be.

I doubt there’s much I need to add to what has already been affirmed in this refreshing chat with Mark, but I will state the following: Mark’s attitude is decidedly one of the best I have encountered when conducting these interviews. While he was disappointed to be leaving the show, he never permitted those feelings to embitter him against anyone connected with the show. At all times, he was a consummate professional who handled himself with class, decorum, and understanding. Instead of viewing this as a final conclusion to a magical chapter in his life, he sees this as an opportunity to rediscover the beauty of life, the simplicity of philanthropy, and the exhilaration of reigniting the relentless drive that burns within his soul concerning his chosen profession. His optimistic outlook and benevolent nature have continued to sustain him through the ups and downs the life of an actor provides, and I have no doubt that this resilient artist will continue to sharpen his skills and ascertain new pathways in a business that requires one’s creativity, resolve, and fortitude to be tested sometimes, even beyond the breaking point. Thankfully, it would seem that Mark is up for the challenge, and he is ready and willing to tackle whatever is on the horizon for him.

So please tune in to the Hallmark Channel for the next two episodes of When Calls the Heart (March 18th and 25th), and be sure to watch out for the faithful and rugged Pastor Frank, as portrayed by this divinely talented actor, whose effortless characterization of this suave, but stalwart clergyman has resonated with so many fans over the past three seasons. There are a wide variety of topics covered in this show, and it is nice to know that sponsors like Christian home decor shops regularly promote such a wonderful family-friendly show. Furthermore, I implore you to consider following Mark via the links below as we eagerly await his next project (whether Hallmark or elsewhere). While the sincere aspiration of every Hearties’ heart is that Pastor Frank ultimately returns to Hope Valley next season, no matter what, we fans are enthusiastic enough about this man and his noteworthy talents to follow him wherever his path leads. Moreover, we will support him as long as he doesn’t grow weary of our efforts (and even then, I doubt he’d be rid of us; we Hearties are a fiercely loyal group!).

FOLLOW MARK

Website

Twitter

IMDB

 

 

 

FOLLOW ME
Spread the love
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Subscribe To My Daily Newsletter

Receive the latest interviews and reviews from the film, TV, and writing community!

Invalid email address
You can unsubscribe at any time.

About the Author

RuthView all posts by Ruth
“Don’t bend; don’t water it down; don’t try to make it logical; don’t edit your own soul according to the fashion. Rather, follow your most intense obsessions mercilessly.” — Franz Kafka Ruth is an inspirational entertainment journalist who instinctively sees the best in all and seeks to share universal beauty, love and positivity. She is an artist who leads with her heart and gives readers a glimpse of the best of this world through the masterful use of the written word. Ruth was born in Tacoma, Washington but now calls Yelm, Washington her home. She lives on five acres with her parents, a dog, two miniature goats, cats and a teenage daughter who is a dynamic visual artist herself. Ruth interviews fellow artists both inside and outside of the film/television industry. At the core of all she does is the strength of her faith.

17 Comments

  1. Karen Singleterry July 24, 2020 Reply

    This is such an unusual show. The actors and actresses are top notch!

  2. Doris Walling January 18, 2019 Reply

    Mark was very good in the Pastors role. All towns need a Pastor to minister to their people. As a
    Christian, I think it would be a missing link in this story to not have a Pastor fo HopeValley. Will there be
    A Actor for this role?

    • Author
      Ruth January 18, 2019 Reply

      Doris, I met the man who will be the new pastor in town. I do not recall his name (sorry), but do not despair. There will be a pastor coming in at the end of the season to fill the vacant role in Hope Valley.

  3. Robina November 18, 2018 Reply

    Thank you Ruth. I will watch the 5th season when it airs in Netflix and perhaps by that time Pastor Frank (MH) will be back…..and maybe even Jack ( DL) will return. Fingers crossed.

  4. Robina November 18, 2018 Reply

    GM Ruth! Thank you for your prompt response. Wow! You just dropped another bomb on me!! DL has left the show??? As I mentioned in my previous msg, I watched the show on Netflix and as of yet, there are only 4 seasons there. I only knew about the Pastor Frank character leaving from your blog here and that was a huge let down for me. If the actor (MH ) left on his own accord, then of course, that’s his preogarotive, but from the interview and the above posts, I gleaned that the writers, producers, etc wrote him out of the script? Correct me if I’ve misunderstood. So, another bomb! If DL has left the show, I can’t see where it can go from there, TBH, but to each his own. Perhaps WCTH has run its course.

    • Author
      Ruth November 18, 2018 Reply

      I don’t know all the details about Mark leaving the show, but he’s in a Christmas movie on Hallmark that I am very much looking forward to this year, and I’ve just chatted with him again and he’s moving on from WCTH. And no, WCTH has not run its course. Far from it. There’s new blood for the sixth season, and I am totally stoked. Sorry to drop the bomb on you, but this is common knowledge about Daniel leaving the show. It was his decision, and now there’s two new hot guys (whom I have met and are incredible), and I can hardly wait for season six. So of course, it’s your choice to no longer watch the show, but you’ve not heard the last of WCTH from me. 😍

  5. Robina Anstey November 17, 2018 Reply

    I’m a newbie fan of the show ” When calls the Heart”. I saw it on Netflix a few times but skipped past it thinking it wasn’t my type of story, but after seeing Daniel Lissing in a couple other things, I remembered he was the lead male in WCTH, so I started watching the show and I can honestly tell you that the first season was a bit of a yawn, but the main characters were stating to take shape somewhat so that kept my interest to watch the second season. It wasn’t until this mysterious hunky pastor showed up that I was hooked, line and sinker into the plot and the characters. Mark Humphrey’s smile melted me, so I needed to see more of him, and I was delighted to see that his character Pastor Frank and Abigail was beginning to shape into a love connection. They’re an adorable couple! And now I read this news? Netflix only has 4 seasons, but a friend told me that there’s a 5th season, so I’m anxious to see that one, but will be greatly disappointed that Pastor Frank will only be in 2 episodes?!! No, that’s a shame! As the viewers, we should be able to enjoy the characters that we identify with and not with stray cast members here and there. When Season 5 airs on Netflix I will watch it up to the point of Pastor Frank’s leaving, then I will switch off as I’m sure many of the show’s fans have already. Tossing aside a good, and valuable role model such as Pastor Frank like that is just wrong – disappointed in TN

    • Author
      Ruth November 17, 2018 Reply

      Robina,
      Well, I love the fact that you shared so openly. One of the things we don’t often know is the reasons behind why actors leave. There is so much that goes into all of this, and while I know it was sad that Pastor Frank left, the bigger bombshell was at the end of season 5 when Daniel Lissing left. However, many of the fans are still around. In fact, the show continues to smash records, and I can hardly wait for season six at this point. In this case, the reasons for Mark Humphrey leaving are mysterious, but we as the fans are not entitled to anything. In fact, Hallmark does listen to its fans, and while it can be sad to bid a favorite character “goodbye,” very often, the show does go on!

  6. Sue Jones April 23, 2018 Reply

    Martin Cummins is great in the role of the town’s bad guy. At the end of season 5, he is showing some of his better self. Yes, the town needs his role to balance out Hope Valley.

  7. Beverly Henderson March 28, 2018 Reply

    I loved both of your interviews with Mark Humphrey. What a great guy. I loved him as Pastor Frank. He and Abigail should have their relationship develop. The producers/writers are making a big mistake writing him out of the show. They need to bring him back next season. I have been a fan of his for a long time and always enjoy him. I do think Henry needs to go. I just do not like his character.

    • Author
      Ruth March 28, 2018 Reply

      Beverly, thank you so much. I agree about Frank. And as far as Gowen goes, I used to feel that way, but without him, we don’t have a bad guy, and you have to have a bad guy. Furthermore, I just love Martin Cummins, and if that is how we have to get him, as a bad guy, so be it!

  8. Gianna March 23, 2018 Reply

    I loved Frank and Abigail together. I am so sad that Mark will be leaving, but I hope he will come back in season 6. When I saw the preview of this coming episode, I though, “NOOO please don’t get rid of Frank!”
    I know people want Henry Gowan with Abigail, but I hope that doesn’t happen. And especially if there is even the slightest chance Frank (Mark) could return.
    Great interview!! I enjoyed it very much.
    My hopes for Season 6:
    Rosemary and Elizabeth become mothers. (At least one of them!)
    Frank (Mark) return, maybe for good…?
    Carson Shepard and Faith get together.
    New “main”ish characters, since Jack and Elizabeth are married!! <3
    Henry Gowan find love, but not with Abigail.
    Haha, my list could go on and on! Even all of my "wishes" don't come true I will still watch WCTH.

  9. Net March 19, 2018 Reply

    Wonderful interview, Ruth, with Mark Humphrey! It was so nice to have Pastor Frank return to “When Calls the Heart” for the wedding! Hope Valley most definitely needs a regular, full time Pastor, to lead them through these uncertain times, and Mark, as Frank, is truly wonderful in that role. It was bittersweet to see him return, knowing he would be leaving us so soon. Mark’s character added so much depth to the series… what an incredible journey, from outlaw to town Pastor, and Abigail’s love interest. It may only be a TV show to some, but I think it has a deeper impact. The change in Frank, Mark’s character, developed because of his deep faith, and I hope that has inspired others, who were possibly going down the wrong path in life, to seek the Lord, and begin anew!

    Thank you, again, for this remarkable interview! Blessings to you, both! Net
    Net recently posted…The gift I chose for Jack and Elizabeth’s “When Calls the Heart” Wedding + “The Sweetest Heart” Premieres on the Hallmark Channel this Weekend! #Hearties @hallmarkchannelMy Profile

    • Author
      Ruth March 19, 2018 Reply

      Net you are always so supportive & insightful. I heartily agree!

  10. Julie March 19, 2018 Reply

    I am truly saddened to hear that Mark only has one more episode before he’s no longer on the show😭 I’ve been wondering what had happened to him. He was as important to the show as the other main characters. This show has touched the hearts of the people who watch it. It has family values/morals/ & so much positiveness that it teaches how to handle things in everyday life without realizing it!! One of the”BEST”shows I’ve ever watched & is now”MY” Favorite!!! It’s a Great Mistake to not keep this man with this WCTH as he helps make this show what it has become since he’s been on it!! Mark-I was soo happy seeing you on tonight’s episode 🤗❤️😂,you would’ve thought I was there with all of you the way I got so excited & tear’n up watching- yet sooo heartbroken knowing you’re not here to stay.😢💔 I have to add one more thing-what happen to Rip & Codys dog??? They are a part of the show too🤷‍♀️ Don’t leave us hanging!! We love you Mark (Pastor Frank Hogan) & will miss what you’ve brought to WCTH just by being a part of it!!!! Will always wish you were back on the show every time I watch it!

    • Author
      Ruth March 19, 2018 Reply

      Julie be sure to let Hallmark know your thoughts. And Rip–the dog who played that role passed away in real life. I don’t think they will address that on the show. Thank you for your sentiments

  11. denise March 18, 2018 Reply

    I enjoyed watching him on tonight’s episode. Will miss him in the role and look forward to seeing him in other acting projects in the future.

Add comment

Leave a Reply

Please know that comment moderation is in effect on this site. Comments may not appear immediately. Also, please note that any negative attacks on people, networks, or other comments that are deemed "inappropriate" or "overtly negative" may be removed and/or edited by the administrator.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

CommentLuv badge