Shocking Heartland Facts Fans Have No Idea About! It will shock you
Heartland: Behind-the-Scenes Secrets, Scandals, and Fun Facts From Nearly Two Decades
Hey, Heartland fans! Amber Marshall here, sharing a beautiful day in the foothills. Today, I want to take you behind the scenes of Heartland—a show that has been a part of our lives for nearly two decades. Over this time, the series has become a cultural phenomenon, but it’s also had its fair share of secrets, fun facts, and hidden drama. Let’s dive into some behind-the-scenes tidbits that will surprise you and make you appreciate Heartland even more. Ready for the ride? Let’s go!
The Iconic Filming Locations
Heartland’s stunning scenery is one of the reasons fans adore the show. The iconic barn and ranch house? They’re part of a working cattle ranch in Millarville, Alberta. Yes, that’s right—the Heartland Ranch is a real-life, active ranch with nearly 100 years of history. Roy Foster’s parents began raising white-faced Hereford cattle there in 1928. While the ranch is privately owned and not open to the public, you can still visit other filming locations.
High River, Alberta, stands in for the fictional town of Hudson. Places like Maggie’s Diner (though not a real diner) are fan-favorite spots. While you can’t eat at Maggie’s, you can peek through the windows and see the iconic setting. Meanwhile, indoor scenes, such as those at the ranch house or the vet clinic, are filmed on a Calgary soundstage.
Brokeback Mountain Connection
Did you know Heartland’s Alberta setting was inspired by the iconic queer film Brokeback Mountain? Originally, Heartland was planned to be filmed in Quebec. However, after meeting with the co-producers of Brokeback Mountain, CBC executives chose Alberta. Since then, Heartland has contributed significantly to Alberta’s economy, becoming a source of pride for the region.
Heartland’s Real Horses
Horses are at the heart of the show, and the care that goes into filming these scenes is remarkable. John Scott, the head wrangler, coordinates all horse scenes and provides horses, cattle, tack, and even filming locations. Most fans are curious about Spartan—Amy’s loyal companion. The answer? Yes, Spartan is played by the same horse throughout the series! A black Quarter Horse gelding named Stormy has been with the show since he was five years old.
Cast Members Turned Directors
Heartland’s talented cast isn’t just in front of the camera—they’ve also stepped behind it. Michelle Morgan (Lou Fleming) and Chris Potter (Tim Fleming) have both directed episodes of the show. Michelle made her directorial debut with Season 14, Episode 9: Find Me in the Dark, and she continues to direct periodically. Chris Potter, however, has directed an impressive 23 episodes, many of which have become fan favorites.
Amber Marshall: A True Canadian Icon
Amber Marshall (Amy Fleming) may not have directed episodes, but she’s just as multi-talented. Alongside acting, she volunteers at a local vet clinic, helping animals—a passion that mirrors her character’s life. Amber also runs her own magazine, Amber Marshall Life and Style, where she serves as the main writer. When she’s not working, she loves fishing, trail riding, camping, and snowmobiling.
The Chemistry Between Amber and Graham Wardle
Amy and Ty’s on-screen chemistry was so compelling that fans wondered if there was something more between Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle (Ty Borden) in real life. The answer? No. The two decided to focus on their friendship, which remains strong even though Graham is no longer part of the series. In fact, Amber is a frequent guest on Graham’s spiritual podcast, Time Has Come.
Shaun Johnston’s Journey to Grandpa Jack
Did you know that Shaun Johnston (Jack Bartlett) originally auditioned for the role of Tim Fleming? At the time, he felt Grandpa Jack was too old a role for him. However, after reading the script, he connected deeply with the character. Fun fact: Johnston was actually too young for the role when he first auditioned, as he was only in his 40s! Today, at 65, Shaun is perfect as Jack.
Outside of TV, Shaun also runs a theater in Canada, acting in plays and further cementing his legacy as a Canadian acting legend.
Final Thoughts
Heartland has been more than just a show; it’s a beloved part of fans’ lives worldwide. From the breathtaking Alberta landscapes to the tight-knit relationships between cast and crew, the series continues to inspire and entertain. Whether it’s Spartan’s loyalty, the heartfelt performances, or the behind-the-scenes stories, Heartland remains a timeless treasure.
Have you learned something new about Heartland today? Let us know your favorite behind-the-scenes fact in the comments below!
