SPOILER ALERT: This article includes spoilers from “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet,” the Season 3 premiere of Hallmark’s “The Way Home,” available for streaming on Hallmark+.

“The Way Home” has returned to the Hallmark Channel after a winding journey. The Season 3 premiere reveals that Jacob (Spencer MacPherson) is back in Port Haven in the present day and has reunited with his biological mother, Del (Andie MacDowell). This long-awaited reunion, which fans have anticipated since Jacob’s fall into the pond at the end of Season 1, was emotionally charged, filled with tears and embraces as the Landrys welcomed Jacob home.

However, Jacob’s return necessitated an explanation of time travel to Del and a fabricated story for the public regarding his 20-year absence. They informed the media that Jacob had fallen off a cliff during the fall carnival and was rescued by a couple living off the grid. His amnesia from the fall prevented him from revealing his true origins, and the lack of internet left young Jacob unaware of his family’s desperate search for him in Port Haven. Kat (Chyler Leigh) shared that it wasn’t until Jacob’s parents were on their deathbeds that they disclosed his origins, allowing him to return home.

A nine-month time jump bypassed the immediate aftermath of these events, but the drama is just beginning. Del is receiving threatening letters accusing her of deceit. While viewers might assume these letters pertain to Jacob’s return, the show’s unpredictable nature keeps audiences guessing. As the school year approaches, Alice (Sadie Laflemme Snow) is determined to make the most of her senior year.

Yet, the pond’s allure remains. Despite Jacob’s return, there seems to be no reason for Alice or Kat to jump back into the water. However, after listening to an old demo of Colton’s from the 1970s, Kat realizes Alice’s voice is on the record. This revelation coincides with Alice being mysteriously pushed into the water, presumably to return to the time when Colton and Del first fell in love.

Variety spoke with the creators and showrunners of “The Way Home,” mother-daughter duo Heather Conkie and Alex Clarke, about the emotional reunion, the overall direction of Season 3, and the exploration of a new timeline. They also addressed the intriguing baby drop-off that opens the season.

Jacob’s Return: A Long-Awaited Moment

Heather Conkie: The anticipation for that moment was palpable on set, mirroring the fans’ excitement. It was incredibly cathartic to film and even more so to revisit the footage during editing. We had been waiting for two seasons to see this moment, and it was beautifully executed with outstanding performances.

Alex Clarke: The atmosphere on set during the reunion scene was electric. Everyone, even those from the office, gathered to witness it. The emotional weight of the moment was felt by all, leading to hugs and tears among the crew, who are deeply invested in the story.

Conkie: It’s wonderful to provide a fairy tale moment at the start of the season, but it’s equally exciting to explore what happens after that moment. We emphasize that the idea of a ‘happily ever after’ is complex; life continues with its challenges, and while we offer a happy moment, we also introduce elements of pain.

Del’s Evolving Relationship with Time Travel

Conkie: Initially, Del is overjoyed to have Jacob back, but as she reflects, the reality of the situation sets in. The time travel aspect has put her family through significant turmoil, raising questions about the risks it poses to her loved ones. For Del, accepting this reality is a challenging process.

Clarke: A pivotal moment occurs when Del tells Kat that a mother should have known the truth. This theme of regret and realization will resonate throughout the season as Alice begins to explore her own past and its implications for Del.

The Story Behind Jacob’s Disappearance

Clarke: The letters Del receives serve as a narrative thread throughout the season. After nine months, there are numerous letters questioning Jacob’s return. The characters attempt to craft a plausible story, but they haven’t fully considered the implications of their narrative.

They rely on the idea that the best lies are rooted in truth. Their explanation involves Jacob living in a primitive community without internet access, which aligns with his actual experience. The trauma from his fall caused him to forget his origins, and it wasn’t until his parents were on their deathbeds that he learned the truth. This narrative will be explored further as the season progresses.

A New Mystery: The Baby by the Pond

Clarke: Viewers will learn more about the baby by the end of this season.

Conkie: This mystery serves as a narrative driver, potentially leading into future seasons.

Exploring the 1970s Timeline

Clarke: The 1970s timeline presents unique challenges in creating an immersive experience. We focused on authentic costumes and vintage elements to transport viewers back to that era.

Conkie: The 1970s are crucial for developing the love story between Del and Colton, offering an outsider’s perspective on their relationship.

Clarke: Alice and Kat’s presence in the 1970s adds depth to the narrative, as they witness Del’s cherished memories from a new angle, particularly Alice’s evolving friendship with Evelyn.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

Person: Spencer MacPherson, Andie MacDowell, Chyler Leigh, Sadie Laflemme Snow, Heather Conkie, Alex Clarke, Brady

Company Names: Hallmark, Hallmark Channel, Hallmark+

Titles: The Way Home, You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet

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