For fans eagerly awaiting the next season of Virgin River, the CW’s Sullivan’s Crossing offers a compelling alternative that captures similar themes and emotional depth. With Virgin River Season 6 having premiered in December 2024 and Season 7 not expected until 2026, viewers have a considerable wait ahead. In the meantime, Sullivan’s Crossing Season 3, currently airing on the CW, provides a narrative rich in romance, personal growth, and community bonds.
Shared Literary Roots
Both Sullivan’s Crossing and Virgin River are adaptations of bestselling novels by Robyn Carr. The television adaptations share the creative vision of executive producer Roma Roth, ensuring a consistent tone and storytelling style across both series. Roth is also developing Carr’s Thunder Point series for television, expanding the universe of Carr’s adaptations.
Parallel Protagonists
Maggie & Mel Have A Lot In Common
Image via CW
The central characters of both series share striking similarities. In Virgin River, Mel Monroe is a nurse from Los Angeles who relocates to a small town in Northern California after personal tragedy. Similarly, Sullivan’s Crossing follows Maggie Sullivan, a neurosurgeon from Boston who returns to her hometown in Nova Scotia after facing professional and personal upheaval. Both women seek solace and a fresh start in close-knit communities, navigating new relationships and personal healing.
Complex Male Leads
They Are Rugged But Have Tragic Backstories
The male leads in both series—Jack in Virgin River and Cal in Sullivan’s Crossing—are rugged, down-to-earth men with complex pasts. Their relationships with the protagonists develop slowly, marked by emotional depth and mutual healing. These narratives explore themes of grief, guilt, and the challenges of opening up to love again.
Themes of Healing and Growth
Both series delve into the process of healing from past traumas. Characters in Sullivan’s Crossing and Virgin River confront personal demons, experience setbacks, and gradually find paths to recovery. The shows emphasize that growth is non-linear, portraying characters who are flawed yet striving for betterment.
Rediscovery and Homecoming
While Mel’s journey in Virgin River is about discovering a new home, Maggie’s story in Sullivan’s Crossing is about rediscovering her roots. Returning to her childhood home, Maggie confronts her past and redefines her sense of belonging. Both narratives highlight the transformative power of community and the idea that home is not just a place but a feeling.
Scenic Small-Town Settings
The picturesque settings play a significant role in both series. Virgin River is set in the lush landscapes of Northern California, while Sullivan’s Crossing showcases the natural beauty of Nova Scotia. These backdrops enhance the storytelling, providing a serene environment that mirrors the characters’ internal journeys.
Interwoven Storylines
Intertwine
The Small Towns Have Many Secrets
Image via the CW
Beyond the main characters, both series feature ensemble casts with interrelated storylines. The small-town settings allow for interconnected narratives, where the lives of residents intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of relationships and community dynamics. This structure adds depth and realism to the storytelling, engaging viewers with multiple perspectives
Sullivan’s Crossing Season 3 airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on the CW, with episodes available for streaming the following day on the CW app. For those seeking a heartfelt drama to fill the void until Virgin River returns, Sullivan’s Crossing offers a resonant and emotionally satisfying experience.