If you’re feeling a little lost after finishing the latest season of Virgin River, you’re not alone. The series, which follows the journey of nurse practitioner Mel Monroe (played by the talented Alexandra Breckenridge), has captured hearts since its debut in December 2019. Her romantic entanglements with the enigmatic bar owner Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson) and the picturesque backdrop of Northern California have made it a must-watch. As fans eagerly search for similar shows to fill the void, we’ve curated a list of series that offer the same heartwarming vibes and compelling narratives.
When curating this list, we considered what makes Virgin River so special. The show is brimming with emotional depth and features a strong sense of place, with its charming town almost acting as a character in its own right. Moreover, a fierce female lead and a sprinkle of romantic tension are essential ingredients for these recommendations.
So, if you’ve devoured Virgin River and are now in need of a new binge-worthy series, here are some great options to get you started.
Heartfelt TV Shows to Watch Next
- Firefly Lane
This Netflix hit centers on best friends Tully Hart (Katherine Heigl) and Kate Mularkey (Sarah Chalke) as they navigate life in the breathtaking Pacific Northwest. Like Mel, they balance their pasts with their present while experiencing love and friendship. - Sweet Magnolias
If Virgin River inspired you to relocate to Northern California, then Sweet Magnolias will have you longing for the South. Set in Serenity, South Carolina, this series follows lifelong friends Helen (Heather Headley), Dana Sue (Brooke Elliott), and Maddie (Joanna Garcia Swisher) as they face life’s ups and downs together. - Dawson’s Creek
This nostalgic classic features a close-knit group of friends navigating the trials of adolescence. Watching it will make you want to explore Capeside, Massachusetts, though it was filmed in Wilmington, North Carolina. - Big Sky
While it might seem like a departure with its crime thriller elements, Big Sky shares the small-town charm that Virgin River fans love. This series follows private investigators as they tackle a complex kidnapping case. - Spinning Out
Focusing on competitive figure skater Kate Baker, this series deals with personal struggles and new beginnings, much like Mel’s journey of self-discovery and love. - Hart of Dixie
This charming dramedy features Rachel Bilson as a New York doctor who moves to the small town of Bluebell, Alabama, where she learns to navigate small-town life and romance. - Cedar Cove
Based on Debbie Macomber’s novels, this series explores life in a picturesque town where everyone knows each other’s secrets. Judge Olivia Lockhart (Andie MacDowell) finds herself entangled in the drama of her community. - Gilmore Girls
Set in the quirky town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut, this series follows the witty Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham) and her daughter Rory (Alexis Bledel) as they navigate life, love, and coffee. - Outlander
This historical drama follows Claire (Caitriona Balfe), who time-travels to 1743 and meets a dashing Scottish warrior, Jamie (Sam Heughan). Their passionate connection is reminiscent of Mel and Jack’s intense romance. - Chesapeake Shores
When Abby O’Brien Winters (Meghan Ory) returns to her hometown to help her sister, she must confront her past and rekindle a romance with her high school sweetheart. - Northern Rescue
This poignant drama about a family moving to a small Canadian town after a loss offers a heartfelt exploration of grief and healing. - When Calls the Heart
Set in a small Canadian frontier town, this Hallmark favorite features Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a passionate teacher who navigates challenges much like Mel. - This Is Us
This emotional series chronicles the Pearson family across decades, diving deep into love, loss, and the complexities of familial relationships. - Jane the Virgin
Combining telenovela flair with heartfelt storytelling, this series follows Jane, a young woman whose life takes unexpected turns with humor and drama. - Little Fires Everywhere
This thought-provoking series explores motherhood, race relations, and the complexities of life in a suburban setting, starring Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington.
More Shows to Consider
Don’t stop here! Check out these additional titles that capture the spirit of Virgin River:
- What If
- Dead to Me
- Everwood
- Heartland
- The Ranch
- Mare of Easttown
- A Million Little Things
- Offspring
- Good Witch
- Council of Dads
- Chasing Life
- One Tree Hill
- Ozark
- Broadchurch
- Call the Midwife
- Northern Exposure
- Schitt’s Creek (more comedic but rich in charm!)
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In summary, if you’re yearning for more heartfelt stories akin to Virgin River, this list offers a perfect blend of drama, romance, and memorable settings. Dive into these shows and fill that Mel-shaped void in your heart!