Is Paul Greene Leaving 'When Calls the Heart?' The Season 8 Finale Left Fans With Many Questions

Throughout Season 8, Hearties (fans of When Calls the Heart) have been worried that they would have to say goodbye to one of their favorite characters. 

Rumors about Dr. Carson Shepherd's (Paul Greene) departure from Hope Valley emerged in the last week of March 2021. In Episode 6 of When Calls the Heart, the town doctor receives a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a fellowship at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md. 

In the same episode, Carson seemingly rejects the offer. So, what's going on? Is Carson leaving Hope Valley? In the Season 8 finale of When Calls the Heart, the doctor finally makes a major life-changing decision. Keep reading to find out more!

"Big decisions for Carson #hearties," actor Paul Greene mysteriously tweeted on March 22, 2021. 

Carson receives the exciting news about the much-enviable fellowship in Episode 6 of When Calls the Heart — and he seemingly rejects the offer in the same episode. Carson's significant other, Dr. Faith Carter (Andrea Brooks) isn't on board with his decision, however, and she tries to convince him to change his mind.

As die-hard Hearties will surely remember, Carson and Faith already spent a considerable chunk of time apart. In Season 7, for example, Faith moved to Chicago to attend medical school — which had a big impact on their relationship. In Season 8, Carson finds himself in an uncannily similar position, having to choose between spending time with his significant other and accepting the fellowship in Baltimore, Md. 

Reluctant to move to Baltimore at first, Carson starts to change his mind after his ambitious plans to expand the infirmary go bust. He struggles to envision a scenario in which he would be leaving Hope Valley without Faith, however. 

Faith agrees to move to Baltimore, Md. with him, only to backtrack later on. In the end, she has to tell Carson that she won't be able to accompany him on the journey — which leaves him with no choice but to set out alone. 

In the Season 8 finale, Carson decides to take the Baltimore offer and start a new life in the city. But, will he return in Season 9? Fans are holding out hope that he and Faith will reunite next season.

Before making the decision to take up the new job in Baltimore, Carson was contemplating proposing to Faith. However, Carson decides against it at the last minute. But fans are holding out hope that the two characters will eventually reconnect.

Some Hearties think that Carson's stay in Baltimore, Md. will help him and Faith look at their relationship with a fresh pair of eyes and gain a deeper understanding of what they mean for each other. Some suspect that they might decide to get married in Season 9 of When Calls the Heart.

What do you think?

When Calls the Heart airs every Sunday at 9 p.m. EST on Hallmark.