The river is flowing once more. After months of speculation and eager anticipation from fans around the world, Virgin River season seven is officially in production—

and it was none other than series leading man Martin Henderson who delivered the news fans have been waiting for. Henderson, who has portrayed fan-favorite

Jack Sheridan since the show’s debut, marked the milestone with a behind-the-scenes Instagram video that instantly ignited excitement across the fandom.

Standing outside his trailer on the very first day of filming, the actor described the moment as “auspicious,” signaling not just the start of another season, but the continuation of a story that has become deeply meaningful to viewers and cast alike.

The announcement arrives at a pivotal moment for the Netflix drama, following season six’s emotional high point: the long-awaited wedding of Jack Sheridan and Mel Monroe. With that chapter finally complete, season seven promises to usher the beloved couple—and the town of Virgin River—into an entirely new era.

A Meaningful Return to Set

In his candid video, Henderson offered fans a rare glimpse into the early hours of production day one, capturing the quiet excitement that comes before cameras start rolling. It was a simple moment, but one layered with significance. After six seasons of heartbreak, healing, and hard-earned happiness, Virgin River is stepping into uncharted territory—and Henderson made it clear the cast feels the weight of that responsibility.

The actor also shared a thoughtful welcome-back gift from Netflix, unpacking a sleek black box filled with carefully curated essentials designed to make long days on set a little warmer and more comfortable. Inside were rechargeable hand warmers, luxury Aesop skincare products, and a compact mini suitcase to keep everything organized—a small but meaningful gesture that underscored how valued the series remains to the streaming giant.

Clearly touched, Henderson took a moment to thank fans directly, acknowledging the unwavering support that has carried Virgin River through multiple seasons. He emphasized that the cast and crew are more motivated than ever, promising that everyone involved is determined to make season seven “the best yet.”

Life After “I Do”: A New Chapter for Mel and Jack

Season six concluded with one of the most emotionally satisfying moments in the show’s history: Mel and Jack finally tying the knot after years of personal loss, romantic setbacks, and near-misses. Their wedding was not just a celebration of love, but a reward for viewers who have followed their journey from the very beginning.

Now, season seven will pick up in the immediate aftermath, shifting focus from anticipation to reality.

Showrunner Patrick Sean Smith has teased that the upcoming episodes will explore the “honeymoon phase” of Mel and Jack’s relationship—a time filled with tenderness, optimism, and the joy of finally being on the same page. But true to Virgin River’s storytelling style, this bliss won’t come without its challenges.

The couple will begin building their future together on the farm, navigating the complexities of married life while balancing careers, community responsibilities, and unresolved emotional baggage. For Jack, that means continuing to manage the bar and his lingering trauma. For Mel, it involves reconciling her desire for stability with her instinct to help everyone around her—sometimes at the expense of her own happiness.

Marriage Doesn’t Mean the End of Conflict

One of Virgin River’s greatest strengths has always been its commitment to emotional realism, and season seven appears poised to continue that tradition. While fans can expect plenty of warm, romantic moments between Mel and Jack, the show is not shying away from the idea that marriage is not a finish line—it’s a beginning.

Patrick Sean Smith has hinted that the series will delve into how Mel and Jack learn to function as a united front when new obstacles arise. Decisions about family, work-life balance, and long-term dreams are expected to take center stage, testing their communication and forcing them to grow not just as individuals, but as partners.

This evolution is especially significant for Jack, whose journey has been defined by loss, survivor’s guilt, and a deep fear of letting happiness slip away. Marriage offers him something he has rarely allowed himself to fully embrace: permanence.

The Town of Virgin River Evolves

While Mel and Jack remain the heart of the series, season seven will also continue exploring the interconnected lives of Virgin River’s residents. The town has always functioned as more than a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing character in its own right.

As Mel and Jack settle into married life, their happiness is likely to ripple outward, affecting friendships, rivalries, and long-standing tensions throughout the community. New dynamics are expected to emerge as characters respond to this shift, with some finding inspiration in the couple’s stability and others confronting their own unresolved issues.

The show’s creators have consistently emphasized that Virgin River is a place where healing is possible—but never easy. Season seven is expected to continue tackling themes of grief, forgiveness, and second chances, all while maintaining the cozy, emotional tone that has made the series a standout in Netflix’s drama lineup.

A Testament to Fan Loyalty

The fact that Virgin River has reached a seventh season is no small feat in today’s television landscape, and Henderson’s announcement serves as a reminder of how deeply fan support has shaped the show’s longevity. From social media campaigns to streaming milestones, viewers have played a crucial role in keeping the story alive.

Henderson’s decision to share such a personal, behind-the-scenes moment speaks to the close relationship between the cast and the audience. Rather than a polished press release, fans were invited into the experience—standing alongside Jack Sheridan himself as he prepared to step back into the world of Virgin River.

That authenticity has always been part of the show’s appeal, and it’s something season seven seems eager to preserve.

When Will Season Seven Premiere?

While production is now officially underway, Netflix has not yet announced a release date for season seven. Given the show’s typical production timeline, fans can likely expect new episodes sometime next year, though no official confirmation has been made.

In the meantime, Henderson’s announcement has accomplished exactly what it was meant to do: reignite excitement, reassure fans that the story they love is in good hands, and set the stage for what could be one of the most emotionally resonant seasons yet.

As Virgin River embarks on this new chapter, one thing is clear—Mel and Jack’s journey is far from over. And if season seven delivers on its promise, the river will continue to carry its characters—and its audience—toward hope, healing, and the enduring power of love.