Virgin River has become one of Netflix’s longest-running scripted dramas, and with Season 7 wrapped and Season 8 already confirmed, the series shows no sign of slowing down. But beyond the next chapter in Mel and Jack’s story, there’s a bigger question emerging: could Virgin River grow into its own universe?
Prequels That Could Reveal Untold Stories
One of the strongest rumors floating around is a prequel series centered on Mel’s parents. This could give fans a window into the past, showing how the choices and struggles of a previous generation shaped Mel’s life decades later. Another possibility is a prequel about Doc Mullins, focusing on his early years as a small-town physician, or Hope’s life when Virgin River was just beginning to form as a community.
Side Characters Who Deserve the Spotlight
Characters like Preacher, Brady, Charmaine, and Lizzie have already earned devoted fan followings. A spin-off focusing on Preacher’s life outside the bar, or a drama diving into Brady’s troubled past and path to redemption, could deepen the Virgin River universe while allowing the flagship series to maintain its focus on Mel and Jack.
Following the CBS Playbook
Other networks have paved the way for shared TV universes: CBS has turned NCIS and FBI into long-lasting franchises, and NBC has built a powerhouse with One Chicago. Virgin River already has the audience loyalty; all Netflix needs is the boldness to expand it. By developing spin-offs or interconnected stories, the streaming giant could transform Virgin River into a multi-show phenomenon that keeps fans invested for years to come.
If done right, the “Virgin River Universe” could move beyond the cozy romance and into an ambitious franchise built on love, legacy, and community.
