Fans of Netflix’s Virgin River might be clutching their coffee mugs right now because one of the show’s most beloved characters could be spending time away from the picturesque small town. Tim Matheson, who has played the sharp yet warmhearted Vernon “Doc” Mullins since Season 1, has officially joined the cast of ABC’s upcoming spinoff 9-1-1: Nashville, according to a report from Deadline.
The big question: Does this mean we’re losing Doc? Not so fast.
What We Know About Matheson’s New Role
In 9-1-1: Nashville, Matheson will play Edward, a character described as “Southern old money and utterly ruthless.” That phrase alone suggests he’ll be trading in Virgin River’s cozy clinic for something far more glamorous—and dangerous.
The highly anticipated spinoff stars NCIS: Los Angeles alum Chris O’Donnell and is being billed as “a high-octane procedural about heroic first responders, as well as their family saga of power and glamour set in one of America’s most diverse and dynamic cities.” Joining O’Donnell and Matheson are familiar names like Jessica Capshaw (Grey’s Anatomy), Kimberly Williams-Paisley (Nashville), and even country music icon LeAnn Rimes.
While Matheson’s new gig is making waves, here’s the good news for Virgin River fans: his role on 9-1-1: Nashville is recurring, not full-time. That gives him plenty of flexibility to continue as Doc.
Will This Impact Virgin River?
According to reports, Virgin River Season 7 wrapped filming months ago and has yet to announce a premiere date. Netflix already renewed the series for Season 8, but production for those episodes hasn’t started—and likely won’t for a while. This means Matheson can comfortably shoot his 9-1-1 scenes during his hiatus from the Netflix drama without scheduling conflicts.
Bottom line: Doc Mullins isn’t leaving Virgin River anytime soon.
What’s Next for Doc in Season 7?
When Virgin River returns for Season 7, Doc will have plenty on his plate—professionally and personally. The beloved doctor, who’s already facing vision challenges, will find his medical practice under scrutiny. The twist? Sara Canning (The Vampire Diaries) joins the cast as Victoria, an ex-cop who now works for the state medical board. Her arrival in town sparks an investigation that could put Doc’s career in jeopardy.
Add in his ongoing relationship with Hope (Annette O’Toole), the responsibilities of running a clinic in a growing town, and the unpredictable drama that always seems to find Virgin River, and Doc’s storylines are far from over.
Why This Move Makes Sense for Tim Matheson
Matheson has built a career on playing layered, complex men—roles that often balance authority, charisma, and vulnerability. Taking on Edward in 9-1-1: Nashville feels like a natural next step. Unlike the good-natured Doc, Edward is set to be “utterly ruthless,” signaling a sharp departure from the warm familiarity of Virgin River.
This contrast will not only challenge Matheson as an actor but also excite fans eager to see him flex his range on two very different shows.
Our Take
Virgin River devotees can breathe a sigh of relief: Doc isn’t packing his bags just yet. If anything, this move proves Tim Matheson is still one of the most versatile actors in television, able to move seamlessly between cozy drama and high-stakes procedural. With Season 7 promising big challenges for Doc and the intrigue of Edward on 9-1-1: Nashville, fans are in for a double dose of Matheson magic.
