October 13th, 2023

Inside CBC's Heartland: A Closer Look at the Longest Running Canadian Family Drama

This scene is reminiscent of the locations in Heartland

I’m going to guess that quite a few of my readers are also Heartland fans. Since the show has run since 2007, and is shown in 119 countries it feels like a safe bet. And, while many of my readers were probably first attracted to Heartland for the horses, there are lots of other reasons people keep viewing:

1. It’ll make you laugh, and make you cry (always a winning combination).
2. It’s suitable to watch with all-ages (a perfect Sunday-night show – which is when it airs here in Canada).
3. It looks great. For those who have been to Alberta, it’s a great reminder of the province’s beauty, and for those who haven’t, it gives a great teaser.

That last point leads to a question lots of people ask, which is where, exactly, is Heartland filmed anyway?

The Heart of Canada: Where is Heartland Filmed?

While the show's storyline is set in the fictional town of Hudson, Heartland is primarily filmed in the real-life town of High River, Alberta, and its surrounding areas. The iconic Heartland Ranch, where so much of the series' action takes place, lies just outside of Calgary.
In addition to High River, the show's crew often ventures into other parts of Alberta, ensuring viewers get a diverse taste of the province's vast landscapes – from the expansive prairies to the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Not only is the show filmed in Alberta, Amber Marshall, Heartland’s star character, lives on a ranch in Alberta, surrounded by an array of animals, from horses to chickens, echoing the diverse cast of animals featured on Heartland. If you want to know more about Amber Marshall’s ranch life (and her animals) you can visit her website (Amber Marshall) and sign up for her regular newsletter.
And if you find yourself in Alberta, you can visit Amber’s store and shop her favourite merchandise (MarshallsCountryStore).

A record-breaking series

​In a world where shows compete aggressively for viewer attention. Heartland is the longest-running one-hour scripted drama in the history of Canadian television. This longevity is a testament to its compelling narratives, relatable characters, and – most importantly – its dedicated fan base.

The real deal: Why does Heartland have such wide appeal?

• A true equestrian: The series places a significant emphasis on horse training and riding, so it helps that Amber Marshall is an accomplished who uses and rides her own horses in the show.
• Natural sets: Many interior shots of the series, like the ones inside the Heartland home, are filmed on location in real houses rather than constructed sets. This gives the series an authentic, homely feel.
• Something for every animal lover: While horses play a primary role, Heartland has featured over 30 different species of animals throughout its seasons. From dogs and cats to elk and eagles, the show has it all.
• Fan interactions: The cast and crew are known for engaging with fans on social media platforms, sharing tidbits and behind-the-scenes shots. They often acknowledge the role the fans play in keeping the show alive and thriving.

Awards and recognition

​Over the years, Heartland has clinched several awards, including Director's Guild of Canada awards and Canadian Screen Awards. Its portrayal of family dynamics, rural life, and the deep bond between humans and animals has resonated with audiences worldwide

Get watching

​Heartland on CBC isn't just a show; it's a legacy. It has effectively showcased Canadian landscapes, culture, and the universal theme of family. If you've never watched it, with Season 17 now airing in Canada, now might be the perfect time to immerse yourself in the world of the Heartland Ranch. And for those elsewhere in the world … you might have to wait a little longer but the next season is coming!