Virgin River has gained a loyal fanbase thanks to its rich mix of drama, romance, and compelling characters. Over the seasons, many of the show’s characters have won our hearts, while others have made us shake our heads in disbelief. Below is a ranking of the 10 best Virgin River characters, based on their likability, personality, and their impact on the story.
1. Mel Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge)
Undoubtedly at the top of the list, Mel Monroe is the heart and soul of Virgin River. Played by Alexandra Breckenridge, Mel is a kind-hearted, strong, and compassionate nurse who relocates to Virgin River to heal after personal tragedy. Her ability to overcome adversity, her dedication to helping others, and the depth of her emotional vulnerability make her incredibly likable. Fans have followed her journey through love, loss, and healing with her enduring optimism and integrity.
2. Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson)
Jack Sheridan, portrayed by Martin Henderson, is the quintessential good guy with a past. As the town’s lovable bar owner and a former Marine, Jack is strong, caring, and devoted to those he loves. His relationship with Mel has captivated fans, and his protective, yet gentle nature makes him an easy character to root for. His growth as a person and his journey with Mel make him one of the most likable and beloved characters in the series.
3. Doc Mullins (Tim Matheson)
Doc Mullins, played by Tim Matheson, may have started off as a gruff, no-nonsense doctor, but as the series progresses, we see his softer side. He’s a man of integrity, always willing to help the people of Virgin River even when it’s not easy. His relationship with Hope and his deep care for the community make him one of the most likable, well-rounded characters. Fans appreciate his wisdom, humor, and unwavering sense of responsibility.
4. Hope McCrea (Annette O’Toole)
Hope McCrea, portrayed by Annette O’Toole, is the fiery and compassionate mayor of Virgin River. Despite her tough exterior, Hope’s love for her community and family is undeniable. She’s strong-willed, protective, and sometimes stubborn, but her ability to balance humor with deep emotional moments makes her a fan favorite. Her relationship with Doc is one of the most heartwarming aspects of the show, and viewers admire her tenacity and loyalty.
5. Preacher (Colin Lawrence)
Preacher, played by Colin Lawrence, is a fan favorite for his calm demeanor and his deep love for his friends and the community. Preacher’s loyalty, kindness, and his ability to always be there for others—whether it’s helping Jack at the bar or offering advice to the people around him—make him an incredibly likable character. His emotional depth and his complicated love life also add an interesting layer to his character.
6. Ricky (Grayson Gurnsey)
Ricky, portrayed by Grayson Gurnsey, is a young character with a lot of heart. Working a
t Jack’s bar and trying to figure out his future, Ricky has grown a lot over the course of the show. His relationship with Lizzie brings a sense of innocence and youth to the series. Ricky’s efforts to grow as a person, his loyalty to his friends, and his sweet nature make him one of the most likable characters on the show.
7. Joey Barnes (Jenny Cooper)
Joey Barnes, played by Jenny Cooper, is Mel’s sister, and although she doesn’t appear in every episode, she brings a refreshing energy when she’s on screen. Joey is confident, strong-willed, and always there to support Mel through thick and thin. Her no-nonsense attitude and her ability to offer tough love make her a likable, relatable character who fans enjoy seeing interact with Mel.
8. Lizzie (Pauline Egan)
Lizzie, portrayed by Pauline Egan, has gone through quite a transformation since her first appearance. Initially seen as a more immature character, Lizzie has grown into a strong and independent woman. Her relationship with Ricky is at the heart of her character development, and her ability to learn from her mistakes and stand up for what she believes in has made her increasingly likable. Fans enjoy watching her navigate life and love in Virgin River.
9. Charmaine Roberts (Lauren Hammersley)
Charmaine Roberts, played by Lauren Hammersley, is a character that often divides fans. While she is not always the most likable character, there are moments when her vulnerability shines through, and viewers see her struggle with her feelings and her relationships. Despite her flaws, Charmaine’s journey is an important part of the show, and she does have her redeeming qualities, especially when she shows concern for her children.
10. Brady (Benjamin Hollingsworth)
Brady, portrayed by Benjamin Hollingsworth, starts as a troubled character who’s grapp
ling with his past and his relationship with Jack. While Brady has made some questionable decisions, he is a character who undergoes significant growth, and there are moments when viewers see his redeeming qualities. His complicated journey, especially as he tries to move forward and reconcile his actions, adds depth to his character and makes him a more likable figure over time.
Honorable Mentions:
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Tara (Tricia Helfer): Tara plays an essential role in helping Preacher, and her quiet strength and loyalty make her a character we can’t help but admire.
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Vernon (Steve Bacic): Although Vernon isn’t around much, his role in the series has left a lasting impression, particularly with his ties to Doc and his impact on the town.
