Is Angela on When Calls the Heart blind? Explained

Angela Canfield is a character introduced in When Calls the Heart season 8. Arriving in Hope Valley in 1918 at the age of 14, Angela is the daughter of Joseph and Minnie Canfield and sister to Cooper Canfield.

Angela is blind and is initially home-schooled by her mother, Minnie. Vienna Leacock, who portrays the character, revealed in a 2021 interview with ET that she learned Braille in preparation for the role. She said:

"It's really important to me. It's a big role. You do have to know how to act and it's important to know all the little things that you have to do and how a blind person sees the world. You have to learn how to become that character."

Viv Leacock, who portrays Joseph and is Vienna Leacock's real-life father, revealed in the same interview that his daughter initially declined to audition for the role. However, she was persuaded by director/producer Peter DeLuise and subsequently won the part.

Vienna's real-life brother and Viv's son, Elias Leacock, portrays Cooper in the show.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Hallmark television series When Calls the Heart.

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Angela's storyline in When Calls the Heart

Vienna Leacock portrays Angela Canfield (Image via Instagram/@wcth_tv)

Angela Canfield's story in When Calls the Heart begins in 1918, when she moves to Hope Valley with her family. Being blind, she relies on her family for her daily tasks. Angela has been home-schooled by her mother, Minnie, who is initially protective and cautious about integrating Angela into the public school system.

Elizabeth, the town's dedicated schoolteacher, recognizes Angela's potential and gifts her a copy of Anne of Green Gables, sparking excitement in Angela. Elizabeth extends an invitation for Angela to join the school, which is initially met with resistance from Minnie, who is concerned about her daughter's special needs. However, Angela expresses a strong desire to be among children her age and attend school like her brother Cooper.

Angela's musical talent is soon revealed when she discovers a piano among the family's belongings and plays it beautifully. Elizabeth and the community are deeply moved by her ability to play by ear after hearing a tune only once. This talent plays a significant role in breaking down barriers and gaining Minnie's trust.

Elizabeth eventually convinces Minnie to allow Angela to attend school, promising to work closely with her. They embark on learning Braille together, and Elizabeth provides Angela with Braille books to facilitate her education. Angela's first day of school becomes a significant milestone, filled with nervousness and excitement. Minnie reassures her daughter, encouraging her to trust that the parents and students will accept her.

In season 9, Angela encounters various challenges. Mr. Lantis, a school official, initially threatens to invalidate Elizabeth's teaching certificate, which could potentially force Angela out of school. However, after a heartfelt dinner at Angela's home, where she impresses Mr. Lantis with her piano skills, he reveals his background as a music teacher and begins to support her education.

Angela's journey in When Calls the Heart is also marked by her growing friendships. She bonds with Allie, Nathan's niece, during a camping trip, where they write and sing a song about their beloved town. Angela's presence enriches the community, and her story highlights themes of inclusion, perseverance, and the transformative power of education and music.

Angela continues to be a recurring character in the show's eleventh season, which is currently airing on the Hallmark Channel.

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All seasons of When Calls the Hearts are available to watch on Hallmark Movies Now.