What Is Cal Doing in Sullivan’s Crossing? More of His Mysterious Backstory Is Revealed in Tonight’s Episode

In a romantic scene that’s sure to delight Cal and Maggie shippers, we find out where our resident heartthrob is from.

We’re almost three episodes into Sullivan’s Crossing and all we really know about Cal (Chad Michael Murray) so far—aside from the fact that he has an incredible head of hair—is that he’s running away from something. But what?

In a clip from this week’s episode, which sees Cal and Maggie rightfully marveling at Frank and Edna’s love story, fans are treated to a few things.

1. Proof that Frank and Edna are indeed couple goals.

2. Signs that Cal and Maggie are quickly falling for one another.

3. Confirmation that Cal is from New York, a fact Maggie picked up on by looking at his license place. (Doctor, or detective?)

See for yourself:

The reveal doesn’t tell us too much more about Cal (although if TV tropes are to be believed, he was probably an artist in the big city), but it’s a start!

In an interview with Parade, Murray teased a little more about what we can expect from his character. “Cal is very much the rock, I believe, in Maggie’s life to a certain degree,” he said. “He’s going to be the one who’s going to be there and be consistent throughout. He doesn’t waver. He knows who he is.”

His past, however, was as tough as viewers might imagine. “It’s a very rocky past and there’s a lot that he has to put behind him and heal from before he can ever move forward,” Murray said. “And so you’re gonna see a lot of details that I think are gonna surprise you.” So long as none of those details involve Cal cutting his hair, we’re ready.

In the unfolding drama of Sullivan’s Crossing, Cal (played by Chad Michael Murray) remains enigmatic, his allure matched only by his mysterious past. Three episodes deep, viewers have caught glimpses of his charm, yet the details of his tumultuous backstory remain shrouded in intrigue.

Amidst moments that showcase the enduring love story of Frank and Edna—truly couple goals—fans witness Cal and Maggie’s burgeoning affection for each other. The revelation that Cal hails from New York, deduced by Maggie from his license plate, hints at a past intertwined with urban mysteries. Is he a doctor, or perhaps a detective, leaving breadcrumbs of his former life in the bustling city?

In an interview with Parade, Chad Michael Murray hinted at Cal’s pivotal role in Maggie’s life as a steadfast anchor. “Cal is the rock in Maggie’s life,” Murray revealed. “He embodies consistency and unwavering support, qualities that define his character.”

However, beneath Cal’s composed exterior lies a turbulent history, as Murray disclosed. “His past is marked by profound challenges and unresolved wounds,” he explained. “There are layers of his story that will surprise and intrigue viewers.”

As Sullivan’s Crossing unfolds each week on The CW at 8 p.m. ET, viewers are invited to unravel Cal’s enigma alongside Maggie, discovering the complexities that shape his journey towards healing and new beginnings. And amidst the revelations, one thing remains certain: Cal’s luscious locks may be the least mysterious aspect of this captivating tale.

Sullivan’s Crossing is on at 8 p.m. ET on The CW.