For Virgin River star Annette O’Toole, this year’s birthday came with both love and loss. On April 1, the beloved actress — known for portraying the strong-willed yet warm-hearted Hope McCrea — turned 73. But instead of a celebration filled with candles and laughter, O’Toole marked her first birthday without her mother, who passed away in January.
In a touching Instagram post, Annette shared two poignant photos — one of her mother as a young woman, and another taken later in life, smiling gently while holding a plant.
“Today is my first birthday without my mother. She died in January,”
the actress wrote.
“Today I did the Wordle and the word was one she always called me. I felt like she had just said ‘Happy Birthday Nette’ from beyond. I love you with all my heart, Mimmy.”
Fans were quick to fill her comments with love and condolences, sending support to the Virgin River matriarch who has brought so much warmth to the Netflix series.
“I understand your pain. What a beautiful birthday message she sent you!” one follower wrote.
Another added, “It’s so hard to lose our mothers, but thank heavens for sweet memories!”
Many also noted how strikingly Annette resembles her late mother, calling her “a true beauty” and saying “you favor her so much.”
A Message of Love That Transcends
Annette’s story resonated deeply — not just because of the heartbreak, but because of the comfort she found in what felt like a message from her mom. For fans who’ve watched Virgin River, this kind of emotional connection mirrors the spirit of the show itself — one that’s built on healing, family, and love that endures through loss.
The timing of her post also struck a chord with her followers, as Virgin River continues to film its highly anticipated Season 7, where O’Toole’s character Hope is expected to play a more grounded, introspective role following years of personal and emotional challenges on screen.
A Season of Sorrow for the Cast
Sadly, Annette isn’t the only Virgin River star experiencing personal tragedy.
Actor Callum Kerr, who played the younger version of Everett Reid, recently revealed the devastating news that both his parents were found deceased in their home in southwest France. Authorities suspect foul play, describing the case as “clearly a homicide.”
Callum’s statement on Instagram was brief but heartbreaking:
“At this time, our family is grieving the tragic loss of our mother and father, Dawn and Andrew Searle. We kindly request privacy during this difficult period.”
Strength, Spirit, and Connection
Both O’Toole and Kerr’s recent losses have reminded Virgin River fans of one of the show’s most powerful messages — that grief and love often walk hand in hand. Annette’s experience, in particular, became a moment of spiritual connection that transcended death — a reminder that even when loved ones are gone, their presence lingers in ways both mysterious and comforting.
As Annette O’Toole continues to bring life and wisdom to Hope McCrea, fans around the world are sending her strength, gratitude, and — as one follower put it perfectly — “hope, just like your name.”
✅ Virgin River Season 7 is currently in production and expected to premiere on Netflix in late 2025 or early 2026.
❤️ Follow Annette O’Toole on Instagram for updates and heartfelt glimpses into her off-screen journey.
