A Busy Year for Alexandra Breckenridge
If you’ve followed Virgin River, you know how deeply fans connect with Mel Monroe — her resilience, warmth, and complicated journey through love and loss. But 2025 is shaping up to be Alexandra Breckenridge’s biggest year yet.
Not only is she returning as Mel for Virgin River Season 7, but she’s also headlining a brand-new Netflix holiday film, My Secret Santa. Two very different projects, two very different characters — and both promising to showcase Alexandra’s remarkable range.
In this feature, we’ll explore what she’s shared about Virgin River’s next chapter, what to expect from her holiday movie debut, how these roles reflect her evolving career, and why it’s an exciting year for fans.
What We Know About Virgin River Season 7
Mel’s Next Chapter
Alexandra recently confirmed that Season 7 is officially underway. The cast has begun table reads, production is back in full swing, and the energy on set feels “fresh and exciting,” according to her. Translation: Mel’s story isn’t wrapping up — it’s leveling up.
What’s Changing for Mel
While plot details are still under wraps, Alexandra hinted that Mel’s arc will enter new emotional territory. Expect deeper challenges, evolving relationships, and maybe even a few surprises that test everything she’s built in Virgin River.
Filming Location
Production remains in Vancouver, British Columbia — the show’s long-time stand-in for Northern California — but early signs suggest a slightly new tone this season. Think familiar scenery with renewed emotional depth.
Introducing My Secret Santa — A Whole New Side of Alexandra
The Premise
In My Secret Santa, Alexandra plays Taylor, a single mother who takes on an unconventional holiday job — disguising herself as an elderly male Santa at a luxury ski resort so she can afford her daughter’s snowboarding camp. It’s a heartfelt comedy with a nostalgic twist, blending disguise-fueled humor and emotional sincerity.
Cast & Crew
Directed by Mike Rohl and written by holiday-movie veterans Ron Oliver and Carley Smale, the film co-stars Ryan Eggold and Tia Mowry.
Filming & Release
Shot in Canada’s scenic Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops, the film captures cozy winter charm with sweeping snowy vistas. My Secret Santa premieres December 3, 2025, exclusively on Netflix.
Two Worlds, One Actress: Why Both Projects Matter
Same Star, Two Very Different Roles
On one hand, Alexandra is revisiting her beloved role as Mel — steady, empathetic, and grounded in small-town drama. On the other, she’s embracing the playful, comedic chaos of Taylor, a mom on a mission in My Secret Santa. Together, they show her range across drama, comedy, and heartwarming storytelling.
Career Strategy and Growth
While Virgin River continues to anchor her as a leading force in emotional television, My Secret Santa gives Alexandra room to stretch into new territory. The move is smart: it strengthens her existing fanbase while introducing her to holiday movie lovers around the world.
What Alexandra Has Shared So Far
On Virgin River
She’s teased that filming has begun and promised something “exciting and unexpected” this season — suggesting that Mel’s journey will continue to evolve in meaningful ways.
On My Secret Santa
Alexandra called the project “something people wouldn’t normally approach me for,” adding that the transformation process — prosthetics, Santa suit, full disguise — was intense but rewarding. “I loved the challenge,” she said.
What to Watch For
In Virgin River Season 7
-
Mel’s Growth: Expect personal and professional evolution as she faces new crossroads.
-
Evolving Relationships: Possible new characters or fresh dynamics that reshape the town’s fabric.
-
Tone Shifts: Slightly higher stakes and deeper realism — while keeping the show’s trademark heart.
In My Secret Santa
-
Heart and Humor: A balance of laughter and emotion — a mother’s love meets festive mischief.
-
Holiday Aesthetic: Snowy resort settings and cozy winter magic galore.
-
Themes of Resilience: Identity, love, and the courage to start over — wrapped in holiday warmth.
Why This Dual Year Is a Smart Move
For Alexandra
She’s reinforcing her foundation (Virgin River) while branching into new genres (My Secret Santa). It’s a strategic blend of stability and reinvention — the mark of a confident, versatile performer.
For Netflix
It’s a win-win: Virgin River remains one of its most reliable drama franchises, and My Secret Santa strengthens its ever-popular holiday lineup.
For Fans
You get the best of both worlds — more Mel Monroe and a whole new side of Alexandra to enjoy this holiday season.
Potential Challenges
-
Overexposure: Two major releases in one year can risk audience fatigue, but if balanced, it becomes a showcase of range rather than repetition.
-
Tone Differences: Moving from small-town drama to festive comedy may surprise fans — though the contrast could be part of the fun.
-
Audience Expectations: Virgin River fans expect heartfelt drama; holiday audiences want cheer. Success lies in meeting both.
Final Thoughts – Why 2025 Matters
This year marks a turning point for Alexandra Breckenridge. With Virgin River Season 7 deepening Mel’s emotional journey and My Secret Santa offering a completely fresh character and tone, she’s solidifying her place as one of Netflix’s most dynamic leading ladies.
For viewers, that means plenty to look forward to: a new season filled with heart and a holiday movie bursting with joy. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and surprise — just like the best holiday gifts and the most rewarding TV seasons.
FAQs
1. When does My Secret Santa release?
→ December 3, 2025 on Netflix worldwide.
2. Is Virgin River Season 7 filming?
→ Yes! Filming is underway in Vancouver, with Alexandra confirming it through behind-the-scenes updates.
3. Are Mel and Taylor similar characters?
→ Not at all. Mel is a small-town nurse practitioner; Taylor is a single mom posing as Santa in a holiday comedy. Totally different energy, same heart.
4. What’s the tone of My Secret Santa?
→ Warm, funny, and emotional — blending festive humor with family and romantic themes.
5. Why is this year so important for Alexandra’s career?
→ Because she’s mastering balance: anchoring a hit series while taking creative risks. It’s the kind of year that can redefine a career — and delight fans in the process.
