For years, Benjamin Hollingsworth has been the actor audiences couldn’t tear their eyes away from—the quintessential bad boy whose magnetism made rebellion irresistible. On Netflix’s Virgin River,

his portrayal of Dan Brady—the ex-Marine with a checkered past and a moral compass in constant flux—became one of the series’ most compelling and layered arcs. Fans were captivated not only

by Brady’s rugged exterior but also by the vulnerability Hollingsworth brought to the role, making the character more than a stereotype: a man trying to reconcile his past with a hope for redemption.

But now, Hollingsworth is ready to turn the page. The Canadian-born actor has announced that he is stepping away from his “bad boy” typecasting, trading dark leather jackets and morally gray storylines for roles that reflect a brighter, more authentic side of himself. “I want to explore characters that are more true to where I’m at now,” he says, hinting at a new chapter that promises growth, depth, and inspiration.

Brady: The Role That Defined a Generation of Fans

When Hollingsworth first assumed the role of Dan Brady, he embraced a classic archetype: the ex-Marine haunted by past choices, struggling to find his place in a town that both fears and admires him. Brady was complicated, charismatic, and undeniably magnetic—someone viewers loved to watch, even when his actions teetered on the edge of moral ambiguity.

Through the course of Virgin River, Brady evolved. From Jack’s rival and the town troublemaker to a man attempting to forge meaningful connections, Hollingsworth infused the character with grit, humanity, and heart. His romance with Brie (played by Zibby Allen) showcased Brady’s tender, vulnerable side, allowing fans to see a man capable of love, growth, and redemption.

“He wasn’t just a bad boy,” Hollingsworth reflects. “He was someone who had been broken and was fighting to put the pieces back together. That’s why fans connected with him.”

Breaking Free: The Need for Reinvention

Despite the acclaim and fan adoration, Hollingsworth acknowledges that playing the same type of character can be limiting. “I don’t want to spend my whole career playing the same kind of guy,” he explains. “The rebel archetype is fun, but at some point, you want to show versatility. You want to explore hope, resilience, leadership, and joy—things that aren’t necessarily born from darkness.”

Hollywood, of course, loves to typecast. Once an actor nails a particular persona, casting directors often see them as a “go-to” for similar roles. For Hollingsworth, Brady was both a blessing and a cage. Now, he’s determined to break free and carve out a path defined not by familiar archetypes but by emotional range and authenticity.

Redefining His Career Path

Hollingsworth has already demonstrated range beyond the “bad boy” persona, appearing in emotionally demanding projects like Code Black and other dramatic roles that require nuance and depth. Yet it’s Brady that fans remember most vividly—a character whose journey mirrors Hollingsworth’s own desire to be recognized for more than one archetype. Just as Brady sought redemption, Hollingsworth seeks the opportunity to explore roles that embody hope, inspiration, and meaningful connections.

“I want to play characters that inspire,” Hollingsworth emphasizes. “I want to explore stories that resonate with people on a deeper level—whether it’s love, family, or the challenges of becoming a better person.”

The Man Behind the Screen

Off-screen, Benjamin Hollingsworth is far removed from the troubled characters he portrays. A devoted husband and father of three, he shares glimpses of his family life through social media, revealing a playful, grounded, and tender side rarely seen on screen. This authenticity is exactly what Hollingsworth hopes to channel into future roles.

He has expressed an interest in producing, aiming to take creative control over the projects he chooses. “It’s about telling the stories that matter to me,” he says. “I want to shape characters that reflect real human experiences, not just archetypes created for dramatic effect.”

The Legacy of Dan Brady

Even as he moves on, Hollingsworth acknowledges that Brady will remain a defining role in his career. Fans will remember the redemption arc, the romance with Brie, and the constant tension between Brady’s past and his attempts at a better future.

“Without Brady, I wouldn’t be here,” Hollingsworth says. “And without the fans, Brady wouldn’t exist. I’m incredibly grateful for the journey we’ve had together.”

This deep connection explains why his announcement to pursue new directions resonated so strongly with fans. Many viewers will miss the intense edge Brady brought to Virgin River, but they also recognize that Hollingsworth’s next chapter promises fresh energy, depth, and inspiration.

Why This Shift Matters in Hollywood

In an industry that often rewards familiarity over evolution, Hollingsworth’s decision to reject typecasting is both bold and significant. It sends a clear message: actors are more than archetypes. Choosing to step away from the safety of a known persona is a gamble, but one that could redefine Hollingsworth’s career and inspire others to do the same.

Fans may feel nostalgia for Brady’s swagger and intensity, but the move toward characters who embody hope, leadership, and emotional depth could open doors to new storytelling possibilities—both for Hollingsworth and for the audiences who have followed him for years.

What’s Next for Benjamin Hollingsworth?

While specific projects have yet to be announced, Hollingsworth has hinted at pursuing roles that focus on light, connection, and humanity: romantic leads, family-centered dramas, and characters whose heroism comes from compassion rather than rebellion. His commitment to authenticity suggests that whatever comes next will be a reflection of his real-life values and experiences.

Conclusion: Embracing the Unknown

Dan Brady may always hold a special place in Virgin River and in the hearts of fans, but Benjamin Hollingsworth is stepping into a future unbound by typecasting. He’s closing a chapter defined by darkness and intensity, opening a new one filled with versatility, authenticity, and emotional resonance.

Sometimes, the bravest move in Hollywood isn’t taking on another safe role—it’s saying no to the familiar and yes to the unknown. For Hollingsworth, the horizon is bright, wide open, and full of promise. Fans may miss the bad boy, but they will undoubtedly be inspired by the actor embracing everything that comes next.