One Tree Hill alum brings new mystery and charm to Netflix’s beloved small-town drama.
Heads up, Virgin River — a familiar TV heartbreaker is rolling into town.
Netflix’s hit romantic drama Virgin River is spicing things up in Season 7 with the addition of Austin Nichols, best known for his swoon-worthy role as Julian Baker on One Tree Hill. While Netflix is keeping tight-lipped about his character for now, one thing is certain: romance and drama are about to get even more complicated.
🎬 From Tree Hill to Virgin River
Nichols teased the news himself in a playful Instagram post, writing:
“Hey guys, I just landed in Virgin Riv… I mean, Vancouver. I’m starting a new job and I can’t wait for you guys to see it.”
Vancouver, of course, is where Virgin River films its scenic, swoon-filled episodes — and Nichols’ cryptic tease was enough to send fans into full speculation mode.
🔎 Who Could He Be Playing?
Netflix hasn’t released any official details about Nichols’ role, so naturally, fan theories are running wild. Here are a few of the top possibilities circulating in the Virgin Riververse:
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A Handsome Stranger: Could he be another visitor who falls in love with the town — and maybe someone in it?
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A Surprise Relative: Given Virgin River’s love for long-lost family bombshells (looking at you, Doc and Mel), maybe he’s tied to a major character’s past.
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A New Doctor? A New Rival? A New Love Interest? The options are as endless as the town’s scenic backroads.
Whatever his role, Nichols’ addition is sure to shake things up in the best possible way.
🌲 Season 7 Is Coming — And So Is Season 8!
Though Netflix hasn’t confirmed a release date for Season 7 just yet, filming is well underway, and the streamer has already renewed the show for Season 8 — making Virgin River its longest-running live-action scripted original to date.
Even more exciting? A prequel spinoff centered on Mel’s parents’ 1960s love story is also in the works, expanding the universe of Virgin River beyond the present-day drama.
📺 Where You’ve Seen Austin Nichols Before
Nichols isn’t new to emotionally rich TV roles. In addition to One Tree Hill, his resume includes:
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AMC’s The Walking Dead
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Showtime’s Ray Donovan
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A&E’s Bates Motel
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The CW’s Walker
Now, he’s bringing his trademark intensity — and charm — to Virgin River, and fans can’t wait.
💬 What Fans Are Saying
Social media lit up after news of Nichols’ casting broke, with many praising the unexpected but exciting addition to the ensemble. As one fan tweeted:
“Julian Baker is heading to Virgin River? Say less — I’m watching every second.”
Are you excited to see Austin Nichols in Virgin River?
Get ready, because this new season promises even more small-town secrets, swoon-worthy moments, and storylines that will tug at your heartstrings.
Season 7 is coming soon to Netflix. Stay tuned — love (and drama) is in the air.
