The Virgin River Netflix series often diverges from the original books, especially when it comes to character arcs—but some of those changes have led to golden storytelling moments. One standout? The heartfelt, authentic friendship between Mel Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge) and Brie Sheridan (Zibby Allen).
Brie’s character, including her romance with Dan Brady (Benjamin Hollingsworth), is mostly original to the show. But by stepping away from the books, Virgin River gave her more freedom to grow—and part of that growth has come through her connection with Mel. Intelligent, loyal, and kind like her brother Jack (Martin Henderson), Brie fits naturally into Mel’s world, and the two instantly clicked when they met in Season 3.
Viewers were quick to fall in love with their dynamic. “Anyone else glad that Mel and Brie are getting to be good friends? I loved all their scenes together this season,” one fan wrote on Reddit, with others echoing the sentiment. Another user added, “Mel needed a friend closer to her age. She and Brie balance each other out well.”
What sets their friendship apart is how refreshingly real it feels. In a show filled with dramatic twists, Mel and Brie offer moments of grounded connection—no wild arguments, no melodrama, just honest conversations, mutual support, and shared laughter. From helping each other through emotional struggles to poking fun at Charmaine’s over-the-top baby shower, these two keep things relatable and fun.
One fan recalled, “I really liked when Brie went to see Mel’s ring and reassured her about Cameron. They give each other good advice.” Another noted, “They have a good relationship from the get—one of the storylines that actually stayed true to the books.”
Now that Mel is expecting and Brie is becoming her sister-in-law, fans are hoping for even more of this beloved duo in Season 5. As one Reddit user perfectly put it: “Hopefully more scenes with them!”
Mel and Brie’s friendship may not be the most dramatic plotline in Virgin River, but it’s certainly one of the most rewarding—and one that fans hope the writers continue to nurture.
