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As someone who stuck it out through seasons 8, 9, and 10, there is no doubt in my mind that Season 9 truly was the worst season of the series. And yes, it is worse than Season 2. I came to that conclusion, not because of Lucas and Elizabeth's relationship. In fact, their scenes and storyline were the only ones that some fans got enjoyment out of.

For me, the reason why Season 9 is at the bottom of my ranking is because EVERY character apart from Henry, Lucas, and Elizabeth was given meaningless, boring storylines that went nowhere or were completely out of character. Hardly any character development took place. And in some cases (I’m looking at you, Lee) the opposite happened.

When you really think about it, Season 9 existed to bring about three things: Lucas and Elizabeth's engagement, Lee and Rosemary's pregnancy, and Henry's redemption (again). That's it. That's all the season accomplished over 12 episodes. And all three of those things came about in the finale.

In other words, nothing else that took place during the other 11 episodes was of any consequence, because none of it got resolved or affected the overarching story. There was no clear purpose for anything that happened, apart from the three things that I listed above.

My point is this: Season 9 is the worst season of When Calls the Heart because it is the poorest use of 12 episodes that I have ever seen. 12 episodes of any TV Series is a gift and an opportunity to tell a deep, well-developed, well-thought-out story for all of the characters. 12 episodes is not a curse that forces the writer to create "filler" content until plot progression is allowed to happen in the final few episodes.

Season 9 was a bad season, and not because Lucas and Elizabeth were the leading couple. I may not have liked them together, but I was not the target audience of their story. Season 9 was bad because it was a waste of time. The progress that was made over the entire season could have happened within the span of 2-3 episodes. Instead, the wafer-thin plot was spread out for 12 episodes "like butter over too much bread."

Some enjoyed it, mainly Lucas and Elizabeth fans who only watched for their favorite couple. And I don't blame them. Lucas and Elizabeth were the only characters who were given romance, progression, and satisfaction in their storyline. Not even favorites Lee and Rosemary were given that grace.

Ultimately, the reason why I hate Season 9 and cannot bring myself to rewatch it again is because it is shallow, boring, and bears little weight to the overarching story of the entire series. And given how Season 10 ended, I would dare to say that it has been rendered completely obsolete, apart from Rosemary’s pregnancy. Even Seasons 2 and 8, which I do not like, have something important to offer. Despite their flaws, they each have enough drama, intrigue, and development to hold my interest.

Season 9 however, does not. It is utterly boring and meaningless compared to the rest of the series, and it almost caused me to walk away from the show forever. Thankfully, When Calls the Heart is on the verge of a much-needed rebirth, which will hopefully make better use of its 12-episode runtime and give its characters the stories and scenes that they deserve.

I have a lot of faith in the direction the show is now taking, and for the first time (ever) I am heading into the upcoming season with only excitement and anticipation. I can’t wait to talk about it with all of you!

What are your thoughts about Season 9? Share them in the comments below!

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