(L-R) Martin Henderson and Alexandra Breckenridge in 'Virgin River' Season 7Courtesy of Netflix
Season 8 of Virgin River will introduce a four-month time jump and a surprising new relationship when the romantic drama returns, showrunner Patrick Sean Smith said.
The upcoming season of the Netflix series is scheduled to begin production on April 22 in Vancouver and will run for 10 episodes.
Smith said the new season will reveal the outcome of the surgery involving Mel and Jack’s baby after the story previously picked up immediately following their wedding.
When Season 8 begins, Denny will be going through the process of applying to medical schools after receiving his MCAT scores.
The showrunner also teased developments involving Brady following the accident in the Season 7 finale, as well as the return of Mel’s former crush Eli. A complicated dynamic between Hope, her ex Roland and Doc will also unfold in the upcoming season.
Surprise Romance
Season 8 will introduce a new romantic storyline between recurring characters Muriel and Everett.
Muriel, played by Teryl Rothery, appeared to be happily involved with Walt while undergoing cancer treatment in Season 7. Everett, portrayed by John Allen Nelson, has not previously had a romantic storyline beyond flashbacks involving Mel’s late mother.
Smith confirmed the show will explore a new relationship for Muriel with someone closely connected to Mel.
Season Theme
According to Smith, the upcoming season will revolve around themes of sacrifice, healing and rebirth.
The storyline will continue to focus on Jack rebuilding the farm he purchased with Mel after it was destroyed in earlier fires.
Clay’s Storyline Continues
Actor Cody Kearsley will return as Clay, the rodeo star introduced in Season 7 as Jack’s new farmhand.
Clay will continue searching for his sister, with Brie helping him in the investigation. The sister will be a new character introduced in the upcoming season.
Smith said Clay’s mysterious past will be explored further, though he is not expected to become a villain.
Jack and Preacher’s Bond
Season 8 will also focus on the friendship between Jack and Preacher after tension emerged between them in the Season 7 finale.
Preacher, played by Colin Lawrence, was seen considering a buyout agreement for Jack’s Bar that could allow him to open his own place.
Smith said the strength of their friendship will remain central to the story regardless of how that situation develops.
The showrunner added there are currently no plans for a wedding storyline in the upcoming season, though the series may explore new settings if the story calls for it.
