Calling all Chessies! Hallmark Channel fans laughed, cried and loved alongside the cast of Chesapeake ribs since 2016 — and off-screen, fans have become equally intrigued by the stars’ friendships and love lives.
When Chesapeake ribs debuted, viewers were introduced to the adorable O’Brien clan after older sister Abby O’Brien (Megane Ory) returned home after her divorce. Accompanied by her two children, Abby reunited with her sisters Bree (Emilie Ullerup) and Jesse (Laci J Mailey), as well as the brothers Kevin (Brendan Penny) and Connor (Andre Francois).
The family wouldn’t be complete without mom Megan (Barbara Niven) and dad Mick (Treat Williams), who often led by example what true love looks like. The romantic ups and downs of all the O’Brien children have hooked fans season after season, with Abby’s love life being a focal point.
In May 2021, Jesse Metcalfe, which played Abby’s high school sweetheart Trace Riley, surprised viewers when it announced its exit after five seasons. “I tailor-made this role for me,” Metcalfe said exclusively. We Weekly in October 2020, before his final arc. “I mean, the show is based on a book series, where the character is an architect. So I was given the freedom to completely change the character and the kind of make [him] just like, [me].”
New love Evan Kincaid (played by Robert Buckley) was quick to fill the void but left many fans wondering if Abby would find her happily ever after. In August 2022, Chessies got its answer at the start of the beloved series’ sixth and final season.
The 10-episode finale, however, wasn’t the last time fans would see the O’Brien clan – as the actors are great friends off the show. In fact, many stars have already gushed about their bond after wrapping filming for the series.
“Well it’s over on #chesapeakeshores after 6 seasons! I started this season with #hyperemesisgravidarum and ended it with #covid – it’s been quite a race!” Ory wrote via Instagram in July 2022. “Thank you so much to our amazing cast and crew for having so much patience with me while I tried not to vomit on anyone.”
THE Once upon a time alum also gave her “incredible” hubby John Redon a cry to “hold the fort and be my rock”. She added, “And our two, yes two Nannie for all their support. With mom and dad both on the TV shows, two Nannie’s were a must! #ittakesavillage. I hope everyone watching enjoys the final season! Xo. »
Ory’s TV sister Ullerup also got sentimental after saying goodbye to her work family the same month. “For six years I got to play daughter, sister and brother to these wonderful lunatics. This is the longest job of my career,” she wrote alongside a group snap. “So much has happened in our fantasy world and also in our personal lives. It was a wonderful cushion to have a whole second family to share the ups and downs with.
THE Love & Glamping actress – whose actual spouse Kyle Cassie appeared in several episodes of the show as Martin Demming – concluded, “I know they’re all going to go on to great things because they’re really talented people. I will always be grateful for all that #chesapeakeshores has given me. What a great race, fam.
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Scroll down for a full guide to the cast’s real-life romances: