While Mel and Jack may be the beating heart of Virgin River, the soul of the show lies in the rich tapestry of its supporting characters—the friends, neighbors, and quiet heroes who keep the town running (and the drama flowing). From doctors to diner owners, these characters bring warmth, tension, and depth to the beloved Netflix series.
Here are the 7 most important supporting characters who help make Virgin River feel like home.
👨⚕️ 1. Doc Mullins (Tim Matheson)
The gruff yet lovable town doctor may have resisted Mel at first, but he’s become one of the show’s emotional pillars.
Why he matters: His old-school ways contrast beautifully with Mel’s modern approach, and his personal journey—especially with health challenges and Hope—brings real gravitas to the story.
💇 2. Hope McCrea (Annette O’Toole)
The outspoken mayor of Virgin River and Doc’s off-and-on love interest is equal parts meddler and matriarch.
What she brings: Hope is the glue that holds the town together—sometimes literally organizing everything from festivals to crises. She’s fierce, funny, and surprisingly vulnerable.
🧁 3. Preacher (Colin Lawrence)
Jack’s loyal best friend and the firehouse chef with a quiet strength and moral compass.
Why he’s key: Preacher’s storyline with Paige and her son Christopher adds suspense and showcases his deep sense of justice and compassion.
☕ 4. Connie (Nicola Cavendish)
The gossip-loving general store owner who knows everyone’s secrets before they know them themselves.
Hidden depths: Behind the tough-talking exterior is a woman with a strong moral core, especially in her protective instincts over Lizzie and her late daughter.
🎸 5. Brie Sheridan (Zibby Allen)
Jack’s sister, a brilliant lawyer with a traumatic past, brings a blend of city smarts and emotional vulnerability to Virgin River.
Why she shines: Brie’s relationship with Brady and her personal healing journey give the show a raw edge that elevates the emotional stakes.
🏍️ 6. Dan Brady (Ben Hollingsworth)
The brooding bad boy trying to turn his life around, Brady adds complexity and danger to the sleepy town.
What he adds: He’s the perfect foil—torn between past mistakes and present redemption, especially with Brie’s love and trust on the line.
💖 7. Lizzie (Sarah Dugdale)
The rebellious niece of Connie who brings youthful energy—and plenty of drama—to town.
Why she’s essential: Her evolving relationship with Ricky and later with Denny reflects the growing pains of young love, self-discovery, and forgiveness.
Final Word
Virgin River is more than a love story between two people—it’s a community tale, and these supporting characters help weave the emotional, sometimes messy, always beautiful threads of life in a small town.
They may not be on every poster, but without them, Virgin River wouldn’t feel like home.
