For fans of Virgin River, the suspense surrounding Season 7 has been almost unbearable. After the emotional highs and heartbreaks of Season 6 — capped by Mel Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge)

and Jack Sheridan’s (Martin Henderson) long-awaited wedding — viewers are desperate to know: when will the next chapter of life in Virgin River finally hit Netflix?

Recent confirmations point to March 2026 as the target, giving fans plenty of time to speculate, anticipate, and rewatch past episodes to decode potential storylines.

Although Netflix has yet to announce an exact release date, insiders close to the production, including Benjamin Hollingsworth (who plays Brady), have hinted that March 2026 is when the show is expected to premiere. Historically, Netflix releases scripted series on Thursdays, which has led fans to speculate that the drop could occur on March 5, 12, 19, or 26 — although nothing is official.

Why We Won’t See Season 7 Before 2026

Unlike previous seasons, Season 7 didn’t follow a fast-track production schedule. Filming began later than usual, on March 12, 2025, likely due to Vancouver’s harsh winter weather. This season’s shoot wrapped up on June 26, 2025, leaving ample time for post-production, editing, and all the intricate details that ensure Virgin River maintains its polished, cinematic look.

Given these logistics, a late-2025 release was never realistic. Fans should instead brace themselves for the early 2026 premiere, giving the show the breathing room to craft a narrative that builds on the drama, romance, and intrigue Season 6 left behind.

Filming Timeline and Locations

Season 7 returned to Vancouver, Canada — the series’ primary filming location since the beginning. But this time, the production took things further. Rumors suggest that certain scenes were shot in Mexico, potentially tying into a storyline for Mel and Jack’s honeymoon getaway. This expansion in filming locations hints at a broader narrative scope, suggesting that Virgin River’s familiar cozy streets might soon feel a little bigger, more cinematic, and more adventurous.

Season 7 is expected to continue the show’s successful format of ten episodes, providing plenty of room for the multiple storylines, romantic entanglements, and dramatic twists that have become synonymous with the series.

Meet the New Faces

Every new season of Virgin River brings fresh characters designed to shake up the town’s delicate dynamics. Season 7 introduces at least two new recurring actors: Sara Canning, known for her compelling work on other popular series, and Cody Kearsley, stepping into a role expected to bring energy, tension, and intrigue.

Producers have hinted that these newcomers will not merely serve as background additions. Their presence is intended to challenge established relationships, stir emotional arcs, and introduce conflicts that will reverberate through the community — ensuring that Virgin River continues to surprise viewers with both personal and small-town drama.

Expected Storylines: Mel and Jack’s New Chapter

Season 6 ended on a high note for Mel and Jack, with the couple finally tying the knot after years of romantic tension. Season 7 picks up immediately after this milestone, promising an exploration of newlywed life filled with both joy and challenges.

Viewers can anticipate:

• A honeymoon storyline, likely featuring both romance and unexpected complications
• Mel and Jack adjusting to married life while exploring potential “farm life” and home improvements
• Possible developments regarding parenthood, including hints from past adoption conversations

Mel and Jack’s journey remains central to the show’s emotional core, and Season 7 is poised to push their bond to new heights, exploring love, resilience, and personal growth.

Drama for the Rest of Virgin River

Of course, Virgin River is never just about one couple. Season 7 promises new twists and ongoing challenges for other town residents:

• Doc Mullins faces potential threats to his medical license, adding suspense to the town’s ongoing medical storylines
• Brady (Ben Hollingsworth) will navigate the aftermath of heartbreak and betrayal, with romantic tension involving Brie and another character, Mike
• Small-town secrets and conflicts continue to simmer, ensuring that Virgin River maintains its signature slow-burn drama

These storylines are expected to intertwine with the larger community narrative, creating a rich tapestry of tension, romance, and emotional depth.

Behind the Camera: Directors and Filming Style

Season 7 combines veteran expertise with fresh perspectives. Andy Mikita, a longtime director for the series, is returning to helm the first two episodes. His direction has long captured the essence of Virgin River’s intimate, small-town charm.

Joining him is Audrey Cummings, a new director bringing modern sensibilities and dynamic visual storytelling to the series. This combination suggests that Season 7 will retain the cozy, familiar atmosphere fans love while incorporating sharper, more cinematic storytelling techniques.

Why Season 7 Is Already a Must-Watch

With Season 6’s emotional crescendo, including Mel and Jack’s wedding and unresolved subplots, Season 7 starts with strong momentum. The addition of new cast members and directors hints at surprises, while the dual filming locations — Canada and Mexico — promise an expanded scope and possibly more adventurous narratives.

Moreover, Netflix has already confirmed Season 8, signaling confidence in the show’s continued popularity and longevity. Season 7, therefore, isn’t just another installment; it’s a pivotal season that will shape Virgin River’s trajectory for the foreseeable future.

What Remains a Mystery

Despite the insights, several key questions remain:

• The exact release date in March 2026
• Details about the new characters’ roles and how they will affect existing relationships
• Resolution of major cliffhangers from Season 6, particularly around adoption, romantic entanglements, and Doc’s medical challenges
• Side plots for secondary characters, which often provide the emotional heartbeat of the series

These unknowns ensure that fan speculation will continue to run rampant in the coming months.

Final Thoughts: Patience Will Pay Off

While the wait for Season 7 may feel long, it is designed to serve the show’s storytelling and production quality. The carefully planned filming schedule allows for fully polished episodes, with attention to character development, emotional resonance, and narrative depth.

With beloved characters, new faces, and dramatic storylines on the horizon, Season 7 is shaping up to be a high point for Virgin River. March 2026 could be the perfect moment for fans to return to the town’s picturesque streets, experience heartwarming romance, shocking twists, and witness life-changing events for characters we’ve followed for years.

Conclusion

Season 7 of Virgin River represents more than just the next chapter — it is a turning point for the series. With production wrapped in mid-2025, new cast members poised to shake up the town, and a likely March 2026 release, fans have plenty to anticipate.

Whether eager to see how Mel and Jack adjust to married life, curious about new sparks and tensions in town, or hoping for heartfelt drama from longtime characters, the next season promises to deliver. The wait may be long, but if past seasons are any indication, the payoff will be more than worth it. Virgin River is back — and Season 7 is shaping up to be unforgettable.