Hallmark Channel in development on first two network series

Hallmark Channel is in active development on two original series for the first time in the network’s history, according to a news release.

The potential shows are based on concepts from authors whose books have been previously adapted into movies for the network and Hallmark Movie Channel.

Movie pilots for the two series, “Cedar Cove” and “When Calls the Heart,” will be produced in 2012 and are scheduled to air during the 2012-13 season.

Summaries of the shows, provided by the Hallmark Channel, are as follows:

“Cedar Cove” is adapted from original literary works by famed bestselling author Debbie Macomber. Macomber’s books-to-film adaptations have been ratings gold for Hallmark Channel: Mrs. Miracle (2009), Call Me Mrs. Miracle (2010) and Trading Christmas (2011) were all #1 for the day and the week when they premiered.

“Cedar Cove” is about community and connection in the same way that “Glee” unfolds in the hallways of William McKinley High School or that “Grey’s Anatomy” plays out within the operating theater of Seattle Grace. The small town of Cedar Cove presents fertile ground for relatable stories, big and small. Executive Producers of “Cedar Cove” are Dan Wigutow and Michael Scott.