As fans eagerly await the drama-soaked return of Virgin River for its seventh season, one of the show’s most beloved stars is stirring emotions off-screen with a personal story that’s every bit as touching as the Netflix series itself.
Colin Lawrence, who has portrayed the loyal and resilient John “Preacher” Middleton since the show’s debut in 2019, took a break from filming the hit romantic drama to revisit his roots — and what he found on his journey left fans both surprised and deeply moved.
“I haven’t been back since I was a little boy,” Lawrence shared with his Instagram followers. “It was fun to play tourist and I even got an opportunity to visit the home I lived in as a child!”
From Virgin River to His Real Origins
Few fans knew that the Canadian actor was born across the pond in London, England — a detail that only adds to the richness of his recent return. Sharing radiant photos from the trip, including a heartwarming family selfie with his wife, actress Lucia Walters, and their two daughters, Lawrence opened a rare window into his personal life.
“Not gonna lie, that was something special,” he captioned a photo of his childhood home, sparking a wave of support and emotional responses from fans across the globe.
The deeply personal moment resonated with Virgin River’s devoted fanbase, who are used to seeing Preacher quietly anchor others through their crises. This time, it was the actor himself in the spotlight — and the vulnerability struck a chord.
“Wow, that must have been emotional!” a third chimed in. “And lovely that you could come back to visit.”
A Steady Presence in a Stormy Town
Lawrence’s on-screen counterpart has endured no shortage of turmoil, from violent showdowns and wrongful arrests to emotional entanglements. Most recently in Season 6, Preacher narrowly avoided prison after the accidental death of Wes, the abusive ex-husband of his love interest Paige. With that traumatic chapter behind him, Season 7 is set to explore Preacher’s deepening romance with newcomer firefighter Kaia Bryant (played by Battlestar Galactica alum Kandyse McClure).
And according to sources close to production, fans can expect “more growth and healing” from the steadfast chef-turned-hero as he steps into new territory — emotionally and professionally.
“Preacher has always been the emotional spine of the show,” says Virgin River co-producer Marilyn LaRose. “This season, we really start to see what happens when he is the one being supported instead of always doing the supporting.”
More to Come in Season 7 — And Beyond
With Season 7 already wrapped and expected to premiere later this year, Virgin River isn’t slowing down. Netflix has officially greenlit Season 8, which will likely arrive in late 2026. Lawrence is confirmed to return, and given the fan love surrounding his character, don’t expect Preacher to be hanging up his apron anytime soon.
A Legacy of Loyalty and Heart
In a series built on second chances, community, and the healing power of connection, it’s fitting that Colin Lawrence — both on and off screen — embodies those very themes.
Whether he’s comforting a friend on the banks of the Virgin River or reconnecting with his childhood self in the streets of London, one thing is certain: Preacher may be fictional, but the heart behind him is very real.
“It’s rare that a role fits an actor this perfectly,” says co-star Alexandra Breckenridge (Mel Monroe). “Colin brings so much quiet strength to Preacher. He’s not just playing the part — he is the part.”
As fans count down the days to Virgin River’s Season 7 premiere, they’ll be watching closely to see where Preacher’s story leads next. But for now, Lawrence’s real-life homecoming serves as a beautiful reminder of what makes the series so special — the places we come from, the journeys we take, and the family we choose along the way.
