Actor Martin Cummins, widely recognized for his role as businessman Henry Gowen on the Hallmark Channel series “When Calls the Heart,” built his villainous acting resume years earlier by playing a secretive antagonist on the sci-fi cult classic “Kyle XY.”
Martin Cummins Played a Sci-Fi Antagonist in “Kyle XY”
Years before stepping onto the Hope Valley set, Martin Cummins joined the cast of “Kyle XY” in Season 2 as Brian Taylor. The series centered on a teenage boy who woke up in a forest with no memories or a belly button, embarking on a journey to uncover his past. Cummins’ character belonged to a secretive scientific society with sinister plans for the protagonist. After clashing with one of Kyle’s allies in the penultimate episode of Season 2, Cummins left the show permanently. Despite starting as one of ABC Family’s most-watched programs, ratings for “Kyle XY” declined during Season 2, leading ABC to officially cancel the series in 2009 after three seasons.
Transitioning to Henry Gowen on “When Calls the Heart”
Most of Cummins’ career roles prior to “When Calls the Heart” were antagonistic in nature, giving him the ideal background to portray the callous businessman Henry Gowen. In a 2015 interview with Sonoma Christian Home, Cummins noted that playing villains was necessary to move stories forward. However, Gowen’s subsequent redemption arc provided a refreshing shift. “Henry Gowen, my character, is more than a hard-hearted business guy,” Cummins told Sonoma Christian Home, adding that the character “longs for relationships.” Cummins stated that viewers likely grow more sympathetic as they learn about the character’s past hurts and bitterness. Alongside his Hallmark work, Cummins played Sheriff Keller across all seven seasons of “Riverdale.”
What Is Next for Martin Cummins in Season 14
Cummins is expected to reprise his role as Henry Gowen for the upcoming Season 14 of “When Calls the Heart.” The upcoming season will also feature the return of his former business partner, Abigail Stanton, played by Lori Loughlin. Although “Kyle XY” has never received a reboot following its abrupt cancellation, the original cast reunited for a 20th-anniversary celebration of the pilot last June.
Did you know?
Martin Cummins portrayed Sheriff Keller for all seven seasons of “Riverdale,” balancing both heroic and villainous archetypes across his extensive television career.
Frequently Asked Questions
What character did Martin Cummins play in “Kyle XY”?
Martin Cummins played Brian Taylor, a member of a secretive scientific society with sinister plans for the main character, during Season 2 of “Kyle XY.”
Who does Martin Cummins play on “When Calls the Heart”?
He plays the complicated businessman Henry Gowen, a role he is expected to reprise in the upcoming Season 14.
Did “Kyle XY” ever get a reboot?
No, “Kyle XY” has never been rebooted following its cancellation in 2009, though the original cast reunited last June for a 20th-anniversary celebration of the pilot.
Who else is returning for “When Calls the Heart” Season 14?
Lori Loughlin is set to return as Abigail Stanton alongside Martin Cummins.
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