Natasha Burnett Embraces Role as a 'Fun Aunt' to Viv Leacock's Kids and 'When Calls the Heart' Co-Stars (Exclusive)

Natasha Burnett Calls Herself a Fun Aunt to Viv Leacock s Kids and When Calls the Heart Costars 725

Courtesy of Elias Leacock/Instagram ; Ricardo Hubbs/Hallmark Media

Natasha Burnett and Viv Leacock hit it off right away while playing a married couple on When Calls the Heart, and her relationship with their on-screen children has also become very meaningful.

"When we first started, my main goal was to make sure they felt at ease," Burnett shared exclusively with We while discussing her and Leacock's latest Hallmark film, Legend of the Lost Locket.

Burnett, who portrays Minnie Canfield on the Hallmark Channel show, shared her experience of working closely with Angela Canfield (played by Vienna Leacock) when she joined the series in season 8, which aired in 2021.

She expressed her desire to support Leacock by being available for any questions or help needed on set. Burnett wanted to ensure that Leacock felt comfortable approaching her, even if she had to go back to her trailer.

In the series, Minnie and Joseph Canfield (played by Viv) are the parents of Angela (played by Vienna) and Cooper (played by Elias Leacock). Even though Burnett and Viv are not married in real life, Viv is the father of both Vienna and Elias behind the scenes. (Viv, who is 49 years old, has a daughter and son with his wife Divina Leacock, as well as a second son named Lennox.)

“I think because Viv was so comfortable with me, they got quite comfortable with me,” Burnett shared with Us about her onscreen family. “I feel like the fun aunt. I dunno if it’s fun, but I feel like the aunt.”

Viv is described as a "protective father" who frequently asks about Elias' whereabouts. Burnett, on the other hand, plays the role of the "fun aunt" and reassures Viv by saying, "Don't worry, he's just having fun rolling around in the grass."

Natasha Burnett Calls Herself a Fun Aunt to Viv Leacock s Kids and When Calls the Heart Costars 722

Viv Leacock shared with Us that he wholeheartedly agrees that Burnett has been fully embraced by his family. He expressed that both his wife, Davina, and his children, Vienna, Elias, and Lennox, all have a special place in their hearts for Natasha. He mentioned, "She’s another member of the family now. We’ve adopted her."

Viv shared that his relationship with Vienna and Elias on set has improved significantly since their season 8 "learning curve." He mentioned that they have now become professionals and interact like a family. Viv expressed admiration for his daughter, referring to her as a "rock solid" actress.

He went on to praise Vienna for always being focused and providing helpful advice. According to Viv, Vienna reminds him to review his lines and script to ensure he doesn't forget any dialogue. He appreciates her guidance and feels grateful for her support on set.

Family is a key element for the Canfields on WCTH, as season 11 kicked off earlier this month.

Natasha shared some insights into her character Minnie's journey this season. She mentioned that Minnie will be involved in more projects and have plenty of new ideas. Additionally, family matters will play a significant role in the storyline, starting with the kids and extending to Joseph's family members.

Minnie’s role is to help heal old wounds, according to Burnett. Viv shared with Us that Minnie and Joseph will meet some new family this season.

“We’ve had some new folks join the show and they did an amazing job,” Burnett revealed. He also mentioned that there will be changes in the characters' storylines due to the new cast members. That's all he could say for now.

Fans can also catch Burnett and Viv portraying love interests in Legend of the Lost Locket. The movie originally debuted on Saturday, April 13, and is currently available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now.

In the film, Burnett takes on the role of Amelia, an antique dealer in search of a mysterious locket believed to bring true love to its wearer. Along her journey, she crosses paths with Marcus, a sheriff in the local area, who offers to help her in her quest.

When Calls the Heart airs on Hallmark Channel Sundays at 9 p.m. ET.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the close bond that has formed between Natasha Burnett and her on-screen family, particularly Viv Leacock and his children, Vienna and Elias. Burnett's warm and supportive approach towards Vienna, who joined the show in season 8, has created a familial atmosphere on set. Viv, the protective father in real life, has expressed his appreciation for Burnett's role as the "fun aunt" who provides reassurance and support. The article also sheds light on the Canfields' family dynamics in season 11 of "When Calls the Heart," with Minnie becoming more involved in projects and focusing on healing old wounds. The addition of new cast members will bring about changes in the characters' storylines, while Burnett and Viv also star as love interests in the Hallmark film "Legend of the Lost Locket."