In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter, showrunner Patrick Sean Smith
provides insights into the recent holiday episodes and what fans can expect in the upcoming Virgin River Season 6.
After the intense and emotional first part of Virgin River Season 5, which featured a wildfire, a drug business showdown,
a sexual assault court trial, and a heartbreaking miscarriage, Smith expressed his desire for the holiday episodes to feel lighter. The recent THR interview unveiled Smith’s approach to balancing the weight of Season 5 with a “feeling of family and warmth” in the holiday episodes.
In the interview, Smith discussed key plotlines, including Mel’s search for her biological father during the Christmas tree decorating contest and the decision to make her father, Everett Reid (played by John Allen Nelson), a resident of Virgin River Season 6. Smith explained that this choice felt like a great reveal, tying Mel’s past to the small town’s history.
Addressing the impactful storyline of Mel’s miscarriage in Virgin River Season 5 part one, Smith shared his intention to deepen Mel and Jack’s relationship. He highlighted the importance of portraying real struggles accurately and praised lead actress Alexandra Breckenridge for her collaborative and authentic approach to the character’s fertility journey and miscarriage.
The interview delved into Jack’s struggles with PTSD, emphasizing the significance of displaying such real and ongoing challenges authentically in Virgin River Season 6. Smith expressed the importance of authenticity in depicting medical and psychological issues, particularly when dealing with veterans and PTSD.
Reflecting on the broader narrative, Smith acknowledged the challenge of balancing excitement with maintaining a sense of realism in Virgin River Season 6. He discussed the delicate blend of romance, drama, and procedural elements in Virgin River Season 6, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between soapiness and emotional grounding.
When asked about following Robyn Carr’s book series, Smith acknowledged the influence of the source material but highlighted the show’s flexibility in adapting and evolving storylines for Virgin River Season 6. He mentioned staying aware of Carr’s books and incorporating elements that align organically with the show’s narrative.
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As fans eagerly await Virgin River Season 6, it seems the upcoming season is set to offer a mix of lighter moments, new challenges, and the continued exploration of the characters’ complex lives.
