Amber Marshall Joins Murdoch Mysteries for Calgary Stampede Special

Amber Marshall, the lead of the long-running drama Heartland, will guest star in an upcoming episode of Murdoch Mysteries. Marshall portrays historical sharpshooter Annie Oakley in a story set during the inaugural 1912 Calgary Stampede.

The episode, titled "Devil in the Saddle," follows Detective William Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) and Chief Constable Brackenreid as they attend the first Stampede. The duo eventually teams up with Oakley to investigate a murder. Production took place in Turner Valley in July.

Marshall, who has starred in Heartland since 2007, noted the shift from her contemporary role to a historical figure. She practiced stunts specific to the era, including mounting a horse while wearing a dress. While historical records do not place Oakley at the 1912 Stampede, the production uses the character to highlight the era's wild west shows. Oakley previously starred in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show from 1885 to 1901.

The episode marks a significant moment for Canadian television. Both Murdoch Mysteries and Heartland are currently in their 19th seasons. They remain the longest-running hour-long scripted programs in the country. Both Bisson and Marshall expressed surprise at the longevity of their respective series, which have exceeded initial expectations since their debuts.

Other historical figures appearing in the episode include Stampede founder Guy Weadick and rodeo champion Tom Three Persons. The production utilized 80 local IATSE union workers and dozens of background actors and wranglers. Marshall credited the positive atmosphere on both sets for the smooth production, noting that both crews operate like a family.

“Devil in the Saddle” aired Jan. 5, 2026 on CBC as part of Murdoch Mysteries’ Calgary Stampede storyline.