
Netflix’s Virgin River is packed with heart, twists, and unforgettable characters—and few are as iconic as Hope McCrea, the fiery, no-nonsense former mayor who knows everyone’s business. But who is the woman behind the beloved character?
Let’s take a closer look at Annette O’Toole, the seasoned star who brings Hope to life.
A Lifelong Performer with Texas Roots
Annette O’Toole is far more than just Hope. The Texas-born actress, dancer, and singer-songwriter has been gracing screens since her teens. After relocating to Los Angeles at age 13, O’Toole quickly began landing roles in classic TV shows like My Three Sons, The Virginian, Gunsmoke, and The Partridge Family.
Her personal life is just as storied as her career. She married actor Bill Geisslinger, with whom she shares two children, before later tying the knot with actor Michael McKean in 1999. The two met while filming Final Justice and have been creative and romantic partners ever since.
Hope McCrea: Gossip Queen with a Heart
On Virgin River, O’Toole plays Hope McCrea, the outspoken, well-meaning town busybody and wife to Doc Mullins (played by Tim Matheson). Though she’s retired as mayor, her influence in the town is far from over.
In Season 4, Hope is recovering from a serious car accident, and the effects of her brain injury leave her forgetful, emotionally vulnerable, and at times, deeply confused. In one heartbreaking moment, she forgets her best friend Lilly has died, forcing her to relive the grief all over again. The season also explores new tension in her marriage, as Hope hides details about her medical appointments from Doc.
Despite the emotional depth and difficulty of the role, O’Toole thrives in it. And the good news? She confirmed filming for Season 5 was already underway. “I’m actually leaving tomorrow to go to Canada to film season five,” she told PureWow.
Her Career Beyond Virgin River
O’Toole’s résumé is a rich blend of television, film, and stage. She starred in Bridge to Terabithia, Stephen King’s It (the original 1990 version), The Kennedys of Massachusetts, Imaginary Crimes, A Futile and Stupid Gesture, and the indie hit Blow the Man Down.
One of her most beloved roles remains Martha Kent on Smallville, where she portrayed Superman’s adoptive mother for six seasons. In film, she’s taken on memorable parts in Cat People, Foolin’ Around, and Cross My Heart.
Fun fact: She first met co-star Tim Matheson through her then-boyfriend Bruno Kirby when Matheson worked on Almost Summer. Later, the two played a young married couple in the TV adaptation What Really Happened to the Class of ’65?—a preview of the chemistry fans now love on Virgin River.
Whether you know her as Clark Kent’s mom, a 1970s sitcom sweetheart, or the indomitable Hope McCrea, Annette O’Toole remains a dynamic, enduring force in Hollywood. And with Virgin River showing no signs of slowing down, we’re thrilled to see what Hope—and Annette—will do next.