Virgin River enthusiasts have swiftly dubbed the new CBS series Fire Country as a “knock-off” of their cherished Netflix programme.
The plot of Virgin River revolves around Mel Monroe (portrayed by Alexandra Breckenridge) and Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson), who steer through their romance amidst various challenges in their idyllic village.
Conversely, Fire Country raises the stakes with Bode Donovan (Max Thieriot), an inmate turned wildfire fighter, tackling infernos and emergencies throughout Northern California.
Situated in the made-up town of Edgewater, some spectators reckon it’s uncannily similar to the scenic backdrop of Virgin River.
Further fuelling the comparisons, actor Ian Tracey, famed for his portrayal as Jimmy, featured in the Fire Country episode titled “Happy to Help.”
With both shows being filmed in Vancouver, there’s buzz about potential actor crossovers in future instalments. A fan fond of both shows shared on Reddit that Fire Country is a top pick during the hiatus from Virgin River.
“I just got into Fire Country and it’s sooooooooooo reminiscent of Virgin River,” they posted. “Even some of the actors (well one) [and] even the location reminds of Virgin River.”
This view is shared by numerous watchers who’ve seen both programmes, hinting that Fire Country could be the ideal series to devour while awaiting the comeback of Mel and Jack before the close of 2024.
“I’m watching it right now too,” one fan commented. “It’s definitely good to fill the void.”
Another viewer shared their opinion: “Tbh I think Fire Country is marginally better.”
A third fan expressed their enthusiasm: “I just finished another rewatch last night! Off to Sullivans Crossing for my first rewatch of the show.”
Interestingly, Sullivan’s Crossing, a drama from CTV and CW, comes from the same writer as Virgin River, Robyn Carr, suggesting it’s also a great choice to fill the gap during breaks.
Highlighting this connection, a fan mentioned a discussion thread they had started: “Just started Fire Country and it’s very similarly cheesy and should definitely exist in the same cinematic universe as Virgin River.”
Fire Country has been given the go-ahead for a third season, with an October release date in sight.
The third season will also bring an exciting addition to the cast, as Jared Padalecki, known for his role on Supernatural, joins the series playing a determined SoCal firefighter named Camden.
