The show you can watch together — Michelle Morgan on keeping Heartland fresh after so many seasons

Heartland isn’t just Canada’s longest-running drama—it’s a show that feels like family. Now in its 18th season, the ranch series has found a rare balance: horses, drama, and heart, all wrapped in something you can watch with your kids, parents, and grandparents.

For Michelle Morgan, who’s played Lou since 2007, the magic lies in how deeply it connects to real life.

“It has helped people through illnesses. Through hard times. Through breakups,” she says. “It is very much appreciated by families who want to watch a good show that drives them in and has an exciting story that they can watch with the whole family.”

“We are all flawed. Everybody’s flawed. No one wants to watch a show about a bunch of perfect people.” — Michelle Morgan

Quick Background

Heartland first aired in 2007, based on the book series about the Fleming family and their ranch in Alberta. Since then, it’s broken records, streaming in more than 120 countries and earning billions of minutes watched. Fans call it their comfort show because it’s one of the few dramas that truly works for every age group.

Michelle says she’s still amazed at the global reach: from small-town Canada to living rooms around the world.

Why Heartland Lasts So Long
Michelle believes the show’s success comes down to three things: strong stories, cast chemistry, and Alberta’s breathtaking landscapes.

Even though they’ve been on air for nearly two decades, the team works to make every episode feel new. Michelle herself has stepped behind the camera to direct, finding joy in shaping stories from both sides.

Characters Who Feel Real
One of Michelle’s favorite parts of the show is how imperfect everyone is—especially Lou.

“Lou is super flawed,” she admits. “But that’s what makes her feel real. We are all flawed. Everybody’s flawed.”

This focus on authenticity is what keeps fans invested. Instead of perfect TV families, Heartland shows characters who argue, make mistakes, and grow. It mirrors the very families who watch together every week.

Beyond the Ranch
Away from Heartland, Michelle has been acting since she was a teen. But she’s also passionate about something bigger: supporting women.

For years, she’s volunteered at shelters and worked with organizations helping survivors of domestic violence. “It gives my life meaning beyond acting,” she says.

It’s this grounded perspective—balancing career with purpose—that makes Michelle as relatable off-screen as Lou is on-screen.

New Heartland episodes are dropping weekly on UP Faith & Family, with bonus content during the mid-season break. You can also find past seasons on Netflix and Hulu.

For Michelle Morgan, the show’s record-breaking run is less about numbers and more about family. “What matters most,” she says, “is that it’s a show people can enjoy together.”

👉 Do you think Lou’s flaws make her more relatable? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from fellow fans.