If you’ve been nursing a Virgin River–shaped hole in your heart since that jaw-dropping Season 6 finale, you’re not alone. Viewers across the globe have been missing the warm glow of small-town life, the soft hum of community gossip, and the kind of romance that feels like a slow burn under a blanket of stars.
But in true TV magic fashion, along comes a series that feels like the comforting embrace you didn’t know you needed—crafted by the very same creative voice that gave us Virgin River. It’s called Sullivan’s Crossing, and fans are calling it the perfect replacement to tide them over until Virgin River returns. The best part? You can start watching right now—for free.
From the Pages of Robyn Carr to the Screen Again
If the name Robyn Carr rings a bell, it’s because she’s the storytelling powerhouse behind Virgin River’s addictive blend of romance, drama, and picturesque scenery. In Sullivan’s Crossing, Carr trades Northern California for the rugged beauty of Nova Scotia—but keeps that same heartstring-tugging magic.
The story follows Maggie Sullivan, a successful neurosurgeon who’s forced to step back from her high-powered city life after a personal and professional crisis. She returns to her quaint hometown, only to find herself caught between rekindling her relationship with her estranged father (played by Gilmore Girls’ Scott Patterson) and navigating a new, unexpected romance with Cal Jones—brought to life by none other than Chad Michael Murray.
Why It Feels Like Virgin River’s “Sister Show”
Fans aren’t just comparing Sullivan’s Crossing to Virgin River—they’re calling it family. Here’s why:
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Cozy, Familiar Vibes – Every scene radiates warmth, from foggy morning coffees to impromptu community gatherings.
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Picturesque Small-Town Setting – Nova Scotia serves as a character in its own right, with sweeping coastal views and charming streets.
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Romance with Depth – Love triangles, emotional backstories, and slow-burn relationships make it as swoon-worthy as its Netflix cousin.
What Viewers Are Saying
“I started watching Sullivan’s Crossing and it gives me the same cozy, comforting feeling as Virgin River,” one fan wrote on Reddit. Another chimed in, “It’s got the heart of Virgin River, the humor of Hart of Dixie, and a cast that feels like old friends.”
There’s also plenty of crossover appeal for those who loved other comfort TV staples like Sweet Magnolias, Chesapeake Shores, and Gilmore Girls.
What Makes Sullivan’s Crossing Stand on Its Own
While Virgin River often dances into dramatic territory, Sullivan’s Crossing leans into gentle realism—focusing on family bonds, personal redemption, and life’s quieter but no less poignant challenges.
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Grounded Tone – Less soapy cliffhangers, more heartfelt conversations.
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Powerful Father-Daughter Storyline – Scott Patterson brings gravitas and warmth to his role, making every scene with Maggie layered and meaningful.
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Critical Praise – With over 90% on Rotten Tomatoes for its first two seasons, this isn’t just comfort TV—it’s quality storytelling.
How to Watch for Free
No subscriptions, no trials—just instant streaming. Sullivan’s Crossing is currently available for free on The CW app. As one fan put it:
“It’s the perfect show to curl up with on a rainy afternoon—and you don’t have to pay a cent.”
Other Shows to Add to Your Cozy Watchlist
If you’re in the mood to build your own small-town TV universe, here are more gems that fans swear by:
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Hart of Dixie – Big-city doctor meets quirky small town (featuring the same Doc as Virgin River).
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Chesapeake Shores – Family drama with stunning coastal backdrops.
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Sweet Magnolias – Southern charm meets lifelong friendship.
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Heartland – Horses, heart, and healing in rural Canada.
The Bottom Line
If Virgin River is your TV comfort food, Sullivan’s Crossing is the warm slice of homemade pie that keeps you coming back for seconds. With the same literary roots, a fresh but familiar cast, and a backdrop so pretty it feels like a painting, it’s no wonder fans are calling it a “gem.” And with free streaming available right now, the only question is—how fast can you hit play?
