Tim Matheson is stepping away from the cozy streets of Virgin River and heading straight into the high-stakes world of 9-1-1: Nashville—and fans couldn’t be more thrilled.
ABC’s latest spinoff of the hit 9-1-1 franchise premieres Thursday, October 9, 2025, and the network just dropped a casting bombshell: Virgin River’s beloved “Doc” Mullins is joining the action in a recurring role.
Meet Edward: Southern Sophistication with a Sinister Edge
According to Deadline, Matheson will portray Edward, a man described as having “Southern old money” roots and an “utterly ruthless” streak. In other words, forget the gentle, wise doctor fans adore on Netflix—Edward brings intrigue, power, and a dash of danger to Nashville.
This move is a bold shift for Matheson, whose portrayal of Doc Mullins in Virgin River has made him a fan favorite for six seasons (and counting). But if his past roles in The West Wing and Hart of Dixie taught us anything, it’s that Matheson thrives in roles where charm meets authority—and Edward seems tailor-made for him.
Fans Lose It Over the News
As soon as the announcement dropped, social media lit up with excitement.
“Omg it’s Doc!!! Does Hope know about this?? ❤️❤️❤️,” gushed one Instagram user. Another fan wrote: “Congrats, Tim! I was already planning on watching, but now I’m even more excited!”
And they’re not alone. With Virgin River’s Season 7 premiere still months away (likely late 2025 or early 2026), viewers are thrilled to see Matheson back on their screens sooner rather than later.
The Spinoff Everyone’s Talking About
Set against the backdrop of Nashville’s vibrant music scene, 9-1-1: Nashville will follow a new team of first responders tackling emergencies that range from wild and unpredictable to deeply personal. The series already boasts a star-studded cast including Chris O’Donnell, Jessica Capshaw, LeAnn Rimes, and Kimberly Williams-Paisley, and now, with Matheson on board, expectations are sky-high.
To top it off, country superstar Kane Brown will make a guest appearance in the premiere episode—complete with a musical performance—adding an authentic Nashville flair.
What Does This Mean for Virgin River?
Matheson’s new role doesn’t signal an exit from Virgin River. He’ll continue to play Doc Mullins in Season 7 and the recently announced Season 8, ensuring fans don’t miss his small-town wisdom and heartwarming presence. However, this crossover into the 9-1-1 universe cements Matheson’s versatility and staying power in Hollywood.
Why This Casting Matters: With its mix of country charm, adrenaline-pumping emergencies, and now a dose of Virgin River nostalgia, 9-1-1: Nashville is shaping up to be one of fall TV’s biggest debuts. And with Tim Matheson bringing his A-game as the enigmatic Edward, this spinoff isn’t just riding the coattails of the original—it’s carving its own lane.
🔥 Mark your calendars: October 9, 2025. Nashville is calling, and Tim Matheson is answering.
