Hallmark Movies Now Developing First Original Series, WHEN HOPE CALLS (W.T.), Spin-Off Of Beloved Series WHEN CALLS THE HEART

Crown Media Family Networks' first-ever streaming series, "When Hope Calls" (wt), is in development to premiere in 2019 on the company's SVOD subscription service, Hallmark Movies Now. The series is spawned from Hallmark Channel's longest running, most-watched primetime series to date, "When Calls the Heart," currently entering its sixth season on the network. The announcement was made today as part of Crown Media Family Networks' bi-annual Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour.

"'When Calls the Heart' has developed a passionate community of loyal viewers and we wanted to serve their increased appetite by developing a spin-off series that we know will evolve into another beloved classic," said Michelle Vicary, Executive Vice President, Programming and Network Publicity, Crown Media Family Networks. "'When Hope Calls' is a seamless fit to debut on our streaming service, Hallmark Movies Now, and speaks to our dedication to our loyal fans."

Hallmark Movies Now launched on October 3, 2017. Subscribers to the service have access to nearly 1,000 hours of family friendly content not available on Crown Media's linear channels, with new programming available every week. The SVOD service is available on iOS, Android, Roku and Amazon Fire, among other devices.