Viv Leacock Hints at Potential Return of ‘Hailey Dean Mysteries’ Alongside Kellie Martin, Reflects on Their Special Connection (Exclusive)

Viv Leacock Teases Possible Hailey Dean Revival With Kellie Martin Recalls Their Instant Bond 694

Allister Foster

Viv Leacock has been part of the Hallmark family since the early 2010s. His role in the Hailey Dean Mysteries franchise has left a lasting impression on fans.

Leacock, 49, shared with We that his experience working with his friend Kellie Martin on Hailey Dean Mysteries was unforgettable. The two instantly connected over their shared love for Lethal Weapon, just five minutes into meeting each other.

He excitedly exclaimed, "Within just five minutes, I knew this person would be a lifelong friend. We instantly connected to the point where it seemed like Kellie and I had been close for much longer than we actually had, even just half an hour into working together."

Leacock described the quick connection he made with Martin, 48, as a fortunate coincidence while portraying Detective Fincher Garland and former prosecutor-turned-therapist Hailey Dean.

From 2016 to 2021, Leacock and Martin worked together in nine Hailey Dean Mysteries movies, where they solved crimes and uncovered the truth behind Hailey's fiancé's death. Despite staying active at Hallmark Channel, Leacock hopes to collaborate with Martin on more projects in the future.

Viv Leacock Teases Possible Hailey Dean Revival With Kellie Martin Recalls Their Instant Bond 695

Allister Foster

“If they want to go [tomorrow], let’s go,” Leacock told Us of a possible Hailey Dean revival, saying he’d reprise the role of Fincher “in a heartbeat.”

The actor expressed interest in revisiting Hailey Dean Mysteries, mentioning a strong desire to work with Kellie again due to their great friendship. Leacock also mentioned the chemistry they shared on camera, which was a result of their close bond off screen.

In my house, Kellie Martin is known as Auntie Kellie to my kids and my wife. When I visit LA, I become like an uncle to her kids. We've become like family now, so we would definitely love to do that again.

When asked about Fincher and Hailey in 2024, Leacock had some ideas. He hopes Fincher will start watching his health by eating less. Hailey is still getting into trouble, and Fincher is trying his best to keep her safe. That dynamic is likely to continue.

Viv Leacock Teases Possible Hailey Dean Revival With Kellie Martin Recalls Their Instant Bond 693

Kailey Schwerman

Leacock is excited about the possibility of a future collaboration with Martin, where Hailey from Martin's show could join the world of the Legend of the Lost Locket.

In the Legend of the Lost Locket, Leacock takes on the role of Sheriff Marcus, who helps a British antiques dealer named Amelia (played by Natasha Burnett) in her quest to locate a mystical locket believed to bring genuine love to its wearer.

Leacock and his co-star Burnett are already looking forward to another installment, even though the new film premieres on Saturday, April 13. "I'd be down. Let's go. I'm all about it," Leacock expressed his excitement about potentially introducing Hailey to his new character, Marcus, in a rom-com sequel.

On the other hand, Burnett revealed exclusively to Us that the film Legend of the Lost Locket was partly created to allow Leacock to reconnect with his Hailey Dean Mysteries roots. The duo, who have been portraying married couple Minnie and Joseph Canfield on When Calls the Heart since 2021, have a strong on-screen bond.

"We were eager to find a project where I could portray a British character," Burnett mentioned. "Viv also had a great time playing a detective on the Hailey Dean Mysteries, so he wanted to explore more of that role."

Hallmark s The Legend of the Lost Locket Is Based on Stars Viv Leacock and Natasha Burnett s Banter

She mentioned that they were looking for a way to combine the two cultures. As friends, they often noticed the differences between British English and American English. They thought it would add humor to the movie if they incorporated those differences.

Legend of the Lost Locket premieres on Hallmark Channel Saturday, April 13, at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can also stream it on Hallmark Movies Now.

Editor's P/S:

Viv Leacock and Kellie Martin's friendship and on-screen chemistry have captivated audiences in the Hailey Dean Mysteries franchise. Leacock's eagerness to reprise his role as Detective Fincher Garland alongside Martin highlights their enduring bond. The possibility of a revival or a crossover with Leacock's new role in Legend of the Lost Locket further excites fans.

Leacock and Burnett's desire to explore British and American cultural differences in Legend of the Lost Locket adds a unique comedic element to the film. Their shared experiences portraying a married couple on When Calls the Heart have undoubtedly strengthened their on-screen dynamic. The film promises a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and cross-cultural humor, making it a highly anticipated addition to Hallmark's programming.