Fans of Virgin River know Mel Monroe as more than just a character—they see her resilience, compassion, and the emotional depth that Alexandra Breckenridge brings to life

on-screen. In 2025, Breckenridge is poised to make a major impact in entertainment, with not one but two high-profile projects showcasing her versatility. She is reprising her beloved role

as Mel in Virgin River Season 7, while also headlining a brand-new Netflix holiday film, My Secret Santa. For viewers, this is a rare treat: two very different characters, two distinct tones,

and a chance to see one actress demonstrate the full range of her talent. We sat down with insights from the set and Breckenridge herself to explore what these projects mean for her career, her fans, and Netflix’s expanding content strategy.

Virgin River Season 7: Mel’s Next Chapter

After six seasons of navigating love, loss, and small-town drama, Mel Monroe’s story continues to resonate with fans. Alexandra Breckenridge has confirmed that Season 7 is officially underway, with table reads completed and production in full swing. According to the actress, the energy on set is “fresh and exciting,” signaling that Mel’s journey is far from over.

What’s Changing for Mel

While plot details remain tightly under wraps, Breckenridge has hinted at deeper emotional challenges this season. Fans can expect Mel to face pivotal personal and professional decisions, evolving relationships, and possibly a few dramatic surprises that test the life she’s built in Virgin River. Early insights suggest that Season 7 may bring a slightly darker and more emotionally complex tone while maintaining the heartwarming essence the series is known for.

Filming Location and Visuals

Production continues in Vancouver, British Columbia, which has long stood in for Northern California’s scenic backdrop. While the familiar small-town charm remains, there are indications that Season 7 will lean into a renewed emotional depth—more intimate storytelling moments, nuanced performances, and heightened stakes for key characters. Breckenridge describes the experience as “re-energizing,” noting that returning to Vancouver feels like coming home while still challenging her as an actress.

My Secret Santa: Alexandra’s Holiday Movie Debut

In stark contrast to the drama of Virgin River, My Secret Santa introduces Alexandra as Taylor, a single mother who takes on an unconventional holiday job: disguising herself as an elderly male Santa at a luxury ski resort to afford her daughter’s snowboarding camp. It’s a heartfelt holiday comedy blending humor, disguise-driven antics, and the emotional resonance of a mother’s love.

Cast and Crew

Directed by Mike Rohl and penned by holiday movie veterans Ron Oliver and Carley Smale, the film also stars Ryan Eggold and Tia Mowry. The ensemble is designed to bring warmth, laughter, and charm to a festive narrative that is both lighthearted and emotionally satisfying.

Filming & Release

Shot in Canada’s picturesque Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops, the movie captures the idyllic winter scenery that audiences crave during the holiday season. Sweeping snowy vistas, cozy interiors, and festive decor create an immersive backdrop for Alexandra’s playful yet heartfelt performance. My Secret Santa is set to premiere on Netflix on December 3, 2025, adding to the streamer’s ever-growing holiday catalog.

Two Worlds, One Star

Alexandra Breckenridge’s 2025 highlights an impressive duality: revisiting the grounded, emotionally rich role of Mel Monroe while exploring the comedic, lighthearted world of Taylor in My Secret Santa. The contrast between these roles underscores her versatility and highlights why she remains one of Netflix’s most compelling leading ladies.

Career Strategy and Growth

For Breckenridge, balancing a returning series with a holiday movie is both strategic and creatively fulfilling. Virgin River continues to anchor her as a powerhouse in emotional television, while My Secret Santa offers the freedom to explore comedy, transformation, and holiday storytelling. This dual-year strategy strengthens her existing fanbase while introducing her to new audiences, particularly those who delight in festive narratives.

Challenges and Opportunities

Tackling two major projects in one year carries inherent challenges: audience expectations, tonal shifts, and potential overexposure. However, Breckenridge and Netflix appear poised to turn these potential risks into strengths. Fans of Virgin River expect heartfelt drama and intricate character arcs, while holiday viewers crave joy, warmth, and seasonal charm. Alexandra’s ability to inhabit both worlds simultaneously demonstrates a rare capacity for range, adaptability, and consistency.

What Alexandra Has Shared So Far

On Virgin River

Breckenridge has teased that Season 7 will be “exciting and unexpected,” suggesting that Mel’s journey will explore new dimensions. From evolving relationships to personal growth, the show promises to deliver both the comfort fans love and the drama they crave.

On My Secret Santa

Describing her role as “something people wouldn’t normally approach me for,” Breckenridge shared that transforming into Taylor—and, in turn, into the disguised Santa—was both challenging and rewarding. Prosthetics, a full Santa suit, and intricate character work demanded creativity and commitment, resulting in a performance that balances humor and heart.

What to Watch For

Virgin River Season 7

• Mel’s Growth: Personal and professional evolution, with crossroads that challenge her identity and relationships.
• Evolving Relationships: Potential new characters and dynamics may reshape Virgin River’s narrative landscape.
• Tone Shifts: While keeping the series’ trademark warmth, Season 7 promises slightly higher stakes and deeper emotional realism.

My Secret Santa

• Heart and Humor: A blend of festive comedy and emotional storytelling, highlighting the lengths a parent will go for their child.
• Holiday Aesthetic: Snow-laden landscapes, cozy interiors, and a festive ambiance that captures the magic of the season.
• Themes of Resilience: Identity, love, and courage to start over, all wrapped in the joyful spirit of the holidays.

Why 2025 Matters

For Alexandra Breckenridge, 2025 is a landmark year. Returning to Mel Monroe solidifies her status as a beloved fixture in television drama, while My Secret Santa provides a fresh canvas for creativity, comedy, and audience expansion. For Netflix, it’s a dual win: the reliable success of Virgin River paired with a new holiday offering that promises to attract viewers of all ages.

For fans, it’s an opportunity to experience both comfort and surprise—revisiting Mel’s emotional journey while embracing Alexandra’s new, festive side as Taylor. The combination of drama and holiday cheer is rare, making this year particularly exciting for audiences eager to see the full spectrum of Breckenridge’s talent.

Final Thoughts

Two high-profile projects, two distinct characters, and one versatile actress—Alexandra Breckenridge is proving that 2025 is her year. Whether navigating the challenges of small-town drama in Virgin River or embracing the comedic, heartfelt chaos of My Secret Santa, she continues to captivate audiences with skill, warmth, and authenticity.

For viewers, the message is clear: expect emotional depth, holiday magic, and the satisfaction of seeing one of Netflix’s brightest stars thrive in dual roles. Alexandra Breckenridge is not just delivering performances—she’s redefining what it means to balance drama and joy, one compelling role at a time.