As filming for Virgin River Season 7 officially began, fans were thrilled to see their favorite small-town drama returning—but it wasn’t just the storylines making headlines.

Star Martin Henderson, who plays the ever-resilient and charming Jack Sheridan, opened up candidly about one thing he “hates” about working on Netflix dramas,

offering a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the pressures and pace of modern streaming productions. For years, Henderson has been the heart of Virgin River, anchoring the show

with his blend of vulnerability, quiet strength, and romantic chemistry with Alexandra Breckenridge’s Mel Monroe. But even for a seasoned actor like him, filming a hit series for a global streaming platform comes with its challenges.

The Challenge of Rapid-Fire Filming Schedules

In a recent interview, Henderson admitted that one aspect of working on Netflix dramas can be frustrating: the accelerated pace of shooting. Unlike traditional television productions, Netflix often requires fast turnarounds to meet the demand for bingeable content.

“Scenes are shot back-to-back, and you don’t always get time to reflect on what just happened emotionally,” Henderson explained. “Sometimes I feel like I want a little more space to live in a moment, to explore the subtle layers of a scene. But with the pace we keep, there’s very little room for that.”

This relentless schedule, while challenging, is a hallmark of streaming-era productions where episodes are often released close together, and post-production deadlines are tight. Henderson emphasized, however, that the dedication of the cast and crew makes it worthwhile.

“The people I work with—Alexandra, the rest of the cast, the crew—they make it all worth it. There’s an energy on set that’s hard to describe. It’s fast, it’s intense, but it’s also incredibly rewarding,” he added.

Why Jack Sheridan Remains a Joy to Play

Despite these filming pressures, Henderson’s connection to Jack remains as strong as ever. The character’s enduring appeal lies in his depth, resilience, and the emotional complexity he brings to Virgin River.

“Jack is someone who’s gone through so much—loss, PTSD, love, parenthood—but he’s still fundamentally hopeful. Playing him allows me to explore vulnerability and strength in a way that’s incredibly fulfilling,” Henderson said.

Much of this emotional grounding comes from his on-screen partnership with Alexandra Breckenridge. Their portrayals of Jack and Mel’s relationship have become the show’s emotional core, captivating audiences with a mix of tenderness, passion, and real-world struggles. Henderson hinted that Season 7 would continue to explore this dynamic with even more intensity.

“Jack and Mel’s relationship evolves in ways that are both romantic and dramatic. Viewers will see them facing new challenges, deepening their bond, and navigating conflicts that test their love and resilience,” he teased.

Behind the Scenes: Season 7 Filming Locations and Set Details

While Virgin River is usually associated with its British Columbia landscapes, Season 7 introduced some exciting new filming locations that promise to elevate the show visually. Henderson revealed that key scenes were shot at Hacienda Cenote Oxman on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. The location, with its lush tropical scenery and dramatic architecture, provides a stunning backdrop that feels both romantic and cinematic.

Fans were treated to glimpses of what appeared to be honeymoon scenes for Jack and Mel, suggesting that the couple’s love story will continue to take center stage while evolving into new territory. Henderson shared that filming these scenes allowed for a slightly different energy on set.

“There’s something magical about being in a new place with these characters,” he said. “It adds a layer of authenticity and excitement to the scenes—especially for Jack and Mel’s more intimate moments. You really feel the warmth and beauty of the surroundings influencing the performance.”

Season 7 filming wrapped on June 20, marking the transition to post-production, where editing, music scoring, and visual effects will bring these tropical escapades—and the small-town drama of Virgin River—to life.

What Henderson’s Comments Mean for Fans

While Henderson’s candid remarks about the fast-paced nature of Netflix filming may surprise some, they also underscore his commitment to the show and its storytelling. His honesty gives fans a rare peek into the realities behind producing a high-profile streaming drama.

For viewers, Season 7 promises a perfect blend of what makes Virgin River irresistible:

• Romance: Expect more intimate, heart-melting moments between Jack and Mel, deepening their relationship and emotional connection.
• Drama: New conflicts, surprising twists, and small-town intrigue will challenge characters old and new.
• Visual Splendor: Stunning on-location shots in Mexico, combined with familiar BC scenery, will elevate the series’ cinematic feel.

Henderson’s love for his character and the series reassures fans that the heart of Virgin River—the relationships, the emotional depth, and the sense of community—remains intact.

Looking Ahead: What Season 7 Could Deliver

While Netflix has kept specific plot details under wraps, the hints from Henderson and the production team suggest a season rich in personal growth, romantic developments, and small-town drama. Possible storylines include:

• Jack and Mel’s evolving family life: With honeymoon scenes already filmed, the couple may face new challenges as partners, parents, and community members.
• Expanded secondary story arcs: Characters like Doc, Hope, Preacher, Lizzie, and Brady are likely to see their storylines deepen, exploring themes like health struggles, emotional healing, and personal redemption.
• New characters and conflicts: Virgin River is known for introducing fresh faces that shake up the town’s dynamic, adding mystery, romance, and tension.

Fans can also expect the signature Virgin River mix of breathtaking scenery, relatable characters, and emotionally resonant storytelling.

Why Fans Can’t Wait

The combination of Henderson’s candid insights, the new filming locations, and the promise of intensified storylines has only fueled anticipation. Social media buzz around Season 7 is already electric, with fans speculating about everything from Jack’s next major life decision to potential new romantic entanglements in Virgin River.

Henderson’s comments also humanize the production, reminding audiences that even for beloved characters and celebrated actors, bringing a Netflix drama to life involves dedication, hard work, and occasional challenges.

Final Thoughts: Virgin River Season 7 Promises High Stakes and Heartfelt Drama

As filming wraps and post-production begins, one thing is clear: Season 7 of Virgin River is shaping up to deliver everything fans love—and more. Despite the fast-paced filming schedule that Martin Henderson candidly admits can be challenging, his passion for Jack Sheridan and the story remains unwavering.

Expect emotional intensity, sweeping romance, and jaw-dropping twists as the small town of Virgin River continues to reveal secrets, test relationships, and showcase the beauty of both British Columbia and the Yucatán. With Henderson and Breckenridge leading the charge, Season 7 is poised to be a visual and emotional feast for viewers worldwide.

For fans old and new, the message is clear: the story of Jack, Mel, and the town they call home is far from over. And while Henderson may “hate” the rapid pace of filming at times, his performance—and the show’s magic—will make it all worthwhile.