The close-knit town of Virgin River and its devoted fans are reeling from shocking news as Ben Hollingsworth, the beloved actor who brought the character of Dan Brady to life,

has tragically passed away. Hollingsworth’s sudden departure leaves a void not only in the hearts of his colleagues and friends but also across the global audience who have followed

Virgin River since its premiere in 2019. Known for his magnetic presence, Hollingsworth captured audiences with his charm, depth, and emotional authenticity,

making him one of the most recognizable and admired faces of the hit Netflix series.

Hollingsworth’s impact on Virgin River cannot be overstated. As Dan Brady, his character’s journey was a perfect mix of resilience, vulnerability, and romantic tension, weaving seamlessly into the town’s fabric and the lives of its residents. From navigating personal heartbreak to battling financial struggles and defending those he loved, Brady’s arc became a central thread that fans could not help but root for. Hollingsworth’s ability to breathe life into every scene made even the most dramatic storylines feel intensely personal and relatable, and his chemistry with co-stars brought countless unforgettable moments to the screen.

Ironically, Hollingsworth had recently been in the spotlight for another exciting update in the Virgin River universe. Amidst fans’ anticipation for Season 7, the actor appeared on Good Day New York promoting his new movie, Karen Kingsbury’s The Christmas Ring, and seemed to confirm a major release detail for the next season. As the anchors introduced him, they stated that Virgin River Season 7 would begin streaming on Netflix in March 2026—a significant piece of news that had fans buzzing. While such announcements are never official until Netflix confirms, Hollingsworth’s immediate and unequivocal response of “Yes!” was taken as a strong confirmation, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the heartbreak of losing him.

The news of Season 7’s expected release comes after Netflix confirmed a full-year delay for the series, marking the first time since its 2019 debut that fans would have to wait an entire year for a new season. While the delay was disappointing, the promise of a March 2026 return sparked excitement, particularly as it offered an opportunity to resolve some of the show’s most gripping cliffhangers. Fans are eager to see how Mel and Jack’s adoption storyline will unfold, what twists Charmaine will introduce next, and whether Brie will navigate her marriage proposal from Mike in a way that honors the drama’s heart. Hollingsworth’s character, Dan Brady, also promises significant developments, as viewers anticipate his pursuit of stolen money from Lark and his continued romantic entanglements with Brie.

Hollingsworth’s recent remarks extended beyond the immediate excitement of Season 7. He also celebrated Virgin River’s renewal for Season 8, which positions the romantic drama as the longest-running Netflix original series. Speaking candidly, Hollingsworth expressed his amazement: “That is still just hitting home for me. It’s surreal. Netflix is the largest streaming platform in the world, and to be the longest-running show is such a blessing. I love my character.” His words resonate even more profoundly now, underscoring the dedication, love, and joy he brought to his craft—a passion that left an indelible mark on both the series and its audience.

Beyond the screen, Hollingsworth’s warmth, professionalism, and kindness were celebrated by colleagues and fans alike. Behind the scenes, he was known as a team player, someone who lifted the spirits of cast and crew, and whose enthusiasm for storytelling was infectious. Many point to his portrayal of Dan Brady as a defining moment in his career—a role that not only showcased his acting prowess but also cemented his place in the hearts of millions.

The impact of Hollingsworth’s death is felt most acutely in Virgin River itself, where his character’s absence will leave a narrative and emotional void. While Netflix has yet to comment on how the show will address his departure, speculation is rampant among fans. Will the storyline be written to honor both the character and the actor? Could Dan Brady’s journey reach a poignant and fitting conclusion in the upcoming season? These questions loom large, as the production navigates the delicate task of continuing the beloved series without one of its central figures.

For fans of Virgin River, Hollingsworth’s death serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound connections formed through storytelling. Over the past six seasons, audiences grew attached not only to the drama and romance of Virgin River but to the people who brought it to life. Hollingsworth’s Dan Brady became more than a fictional character—he was a symbol of loyalty, courage, and the enduring power of love. His sudden absence will inevitably reshape the emotional landscape of the show and the experiences of those who cherished it.

The timing of this tragedy adds an additional layer of poignancy. Just months ago, fans were savoring the news of Season 7 and dreaming about the continuation of storylines they had followed for years. Hollingsworth’s confirmed participation and enthusiasm for the upcoming season made it clear that he was deeply committed to his role and the community around it. His recent interviews, full of excitement for both Virgin River and his personal projects, now read as bittersweet reminders of his dedication and talent.

Industry insiders have also expressed their shock and sadness, noting that Hollingsworth’s career trajectory had only continued to rise. His ability to move seamlessly between television and film, as seen with his work on Karen Kingsbury’s The Christmas Ring, exemplified his versatility and potential. Fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of an actor who not only entertained but inspired, reminding everyone of the power of dedication, heart, and authenticity in performance.

As Port Charles prepares for a new season, the void left by Ben Hollingsworth will be impossible to ignore. His absence will ripple through storylines, on-screen dynamics, and even the viewing experience itself. For a show built on interconnected lives, small-town relationships, and emotional realism, the loss of one of its brightest stars is a devastating blow. Fans may never fully see Dan Brady’s story the way it was intended, and the show’s creators face the difficult task of honoring both the character and the actor’s legacy.

Ultimately, Ben Hollingsworth’s legacy is one of extraordinary talent, warmth, and a profound ability to connect with audiences. Through Dan Brady, he brought joy, tension, romance, and humanity into living rooms around the world. His sudden passing is not just a loss to the Virgin River family—it is a loss to all who appreciated storytelling at its finest. While Season 7 promises to continue the saga of Virgin River, it will do so under the shadow of Hollingsworth’s absence, reminding viewers of the indelible mark he left on the series, the town, and the hearts of fans everywhere.

As the streaming world mourns, the question remains: how will Virgin River honor the actor who gave so much life to its story? Whatever the answer, one thing is certain—Ben Hollingsworth’s influence will resonate through the show, through the fans, and through the memories of a career that ended far too soon.