Get ready, Virgin River fans — your favorite small-town drama is coming back, and this time, things are about to get a whole lot more complicated. Netflix’s beloved romantic saga

has officially started production on Season 7, and while longtime viewers are thrilled to revisit the cozy charm of this remote mountain town, the arrival of two intriguing new characters promises

to turn life in Virgin River upside down. Grab your favorite mug, pour yourself a cup of coffee from Jack’s Bar, and settle in — because the upcoming season isn’t just bringing more romance and tears.

It’s bringing mystery, secrets, and emotional revelations that will keep fans hooked from the very first episode.

Cameras Roll Again on the Scenic Set of Virgin River

Production for Virgin River Season 7 officially began in early 2025, with the cast and crew reuniting in the stunningly picturesque landscapes of Vancouver, Canada — the real-life setting that doubles as the show’s fictional Northern California town. The misty mornings, towering evergreens, and rustic charm that have come to define Virgin River are once again being transformed into the backdrop for love, heartbreak, and redemption.

According to insiders, Season 7 will pick up immediately after the shocking events of the Season 6 finale. Fans can expect answers to the cliffhangers that left them breathless — including unresolved romances, family revelations, and long-awaited payoffs that have been building for seasons.

But it’s the addition of two mysterious newcomers that has everyone talking.

Meet the Newcomers Stirring Up the Drama

Netflix has officially confirmed two new characters joining the cast — and both are set to bring fresh energy and a touch of intrigue to the tight-knit town.

Victoria – The Ex-Cop With a Hidden Agenda

Played by Sara Canning, Victoria is a former police officer who arrives in Virgin River looking for a quiet, new beginning — or so it seems. Behind her calm demeanor lies a woman shaped by trauma and loss, and she’s not the type to let secrets stay buried.

Rumors swirl that Victoria’s sudden appearance may be tied to unexplained incidents near Doc’s clinic — a place that’s seen its fair share of drama in recent years. Her sharp instincts and investigative mind could mean that someone in town is hiding something big.

Whether she’s there to uncover the truth or protect it remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Victoria’s presence will send ripples through the community, especially among those with secrets of their own.

Clay – The Brooding Drifter With a Purpose

Enter Cody Kearsley as Clay, a rugged, rodeo-seasoned wanderer with a mysterious past. He rides into Virgin River on a mission — searching for his long-lost sister. But as with every stranger who finds themselves in town, fate has other plans.

Clay’s quiet intensity and protective streak make him an instant enigma. Will he become an ally to the townsfolk, or will his search for answers uncover old wounds that some would rather forget?

His rugged charm may also catch the eye of someone unexpected — after all, Virgin River has never been short on complicated love stories.

Familiar Faces, New Challenges

While the new arrivals will undoubtedly stir things up, the heart of Virgin River remains with its beloved regulars — and this season, their journeys are set to reach new emotional depths.

Mel and Jack: The Honeymoon’s Over

After a whirlwind romance that finally led to a happy ending in Season 6, Mel Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge) and Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson) are now navigating married life. But happiness in Virgin River is rarely simple.

Between Mel’s professional ambitions and Jack’s lingering trauma, the couple faces a new wave of challenges that test their strength as partners and as individuals. Expect moments of joy, heartbreak, and those signature emotional twists that have become a hallmark of the series.

Doc and Hope: Holding On to Forever

For Doc Mullins (the late Tim Matheson) and Hope McCrea (Annette O’Toole), this season’s storylines will carry even greater emotional weight. As Doc continues to battle health complications, the couple’s love story becomes a poignant reflection on aging, legacy, and the power of enduring love.

Hope’s fiery determination to protect her husband will likely lead to some of the most moving scenes of the season — moments that remind fans why this couple remains the soul of Virgin River.

Preacher’s Moral Crossroads

Preacher (Colin Lawrence) continues to wrestle with his past while trying to carve out a future. With Kaia back in the picture and new threats emerging, Preacher’s loyalty and moral compass will once again be tested. Can he finally find peace — or will his protective nature drag him back into chaos?

The Possibility of Ricky’s Return

One question that’s been haunting fans since Season 5: Will Ricky (Grayson Gurnsey) ever return from the Marines?

Netflix hasn’t confirmed it yet, but fan theories are running wild. Some speculate that Clay’s storyline could be tied to Ricky’s — perhaps his missing sister has a connection to Ricky’s military past. It’s pure speculation for now, but Virgin River is known for surprising viewers when they least expect it.

The Big Themes of Season 7

At its heart, Virgin River has always been about more than romance. Season 7 dives deeper into forgiveness, identity, and second chances — themes that mirror the real-life struggles of its characters.

• Healing and Redemption: Each resident of Virgin River is grappling with their own form of healing, whether from loss, betrayal, or change. The new characters’ arrival forces everyone to confront their pasts in unexpected ways.
• Family — Both Found and Chosen: As always, the town’s sense of community remains the heartbeat of the show. From Jack’s Bar to Doc’s clinic, Virgin River reminds us that home isn’t a place — it’s the people who stand by you when life falls apart.
• Secrets and Truths: With an ex-cop in town and a drifter digging into the past, Season 7 may uncover more than anyone bargained for.

Behind the Scenes: The Magic of Virgin River

Filming in Vancouver remains an essential part of the show’s signature aesthetic. The lush forests, mist-covered rivers, and cozy cabins give Virgin River its cinematic warmth — the kind of setting that makes fans wish the town were real.

Cast members have described the on-set atmosphere as “peaceful, emotional, and deeply connected.” It’s that sense of authenticity that continues to make Virgin River a comfort show for millions around the globe.

When Will Season 7 Premiere?

While production is underway, fans may have to wait until early to mid-2026 for Virgin River Season 7 to hit Netflix. The long post-production process ensures the series maintains its trademark polish — from breathtaking scenery to emotional storytelling.

And if history is any indication, the wait will be worth it.

Why Season 7 Could Be the Most Emotional Yet

With new faces, evolving relationships, and long-buried secrets coming to light, Season 7 is shaping up to be Virgin River’s most transformative chapter yet.

The arrival of Victoria and Clay introduces fresh tension while allowing the series to explore new layers of mystery and connection. Meanwhile, our familiar favorites will continue to navigate the messy, beautiful chaos of life and love in the small town that feels like home.

Conclusion

As Virgin River gears up for its seventh season, the excitement is palpable. From the sweeping scenery to the emotional storytelling, the show continues to capture the essence of resilience, community, and unconditional love.

Whether you’re here for Mel and Jack’s enduring romance, Hope and Doc’s timeless devotion, or the tantalizing new mysteries that Victoria and Clay will unravel, one thing is certain — Season 7 promises to be a journey worth taking.

So, get ready to return to the river, where hearts are broken, healed, and forever changed. Because in Virgin River, even the quietest moments can shake a town to its core.