Does Vernon Mullins Die in the Virgin Books? Here's What Happens to Doc in Canon
Is it time to start worrying?
With the recent release of Virgin River Season 5 Part 1 on Netflix, the period of comfort watching has officially begun. Many viewers would agree that it's challenging to find a show as escapist, lighthearted, and addictive as Virgin River. However, the idyllic Northern California town is not immune to tragic events.
To heighten the show's appeal, the writers occasionally introduce a dramatic 'fly in the ointment' storyline, manifesting as a disturbing development, such as the miscarriage in the current season.
One storyline that viewers have been dreading is the potential death of an older Virgin River character, Dr. Vernon 'Doc' Mullins.
Doc was the first character to meet the protagonist, Mel Monroe, in Virgin River. Their relationship was tumultuous from the outset, eventually evolving into a close bond and genuine friendship. This narrative, among others, endeared Doc to viewers.
Let's delve into the show's source material, Robyn Carr's book series, to determine if Doc's fans have cause for concern.
Doc's Fate in the Books
Regrettably, Doc does meet his end in the novel series. His death occurs in Book 6, apparently due to a heart attack. According to the plot, Mel discovers Doc on the clinic floor, attempts CPR, and uses a defibrillator, but to no avail.
‘You are such a pain in the ass. How dare you leave me like this?’ Mel then says, kissing Doc on the forehead.
However, don't go crying your eyes out just yet. There is a significant difference between the books and the show.
Breaking with Canon
In Netflix's Virgin River, time progresses much more slowly than in the book series. Therefore, even if the showrunners decide to adhere to Doc's fate from the books, it's unlikely to happen for many more seasons.
Currently, with Hope still recuperating from her car accident and Denny on the cusp of starting a family, Doc has a lot on his plate. It would be illogical for the show to write him off. Moreover, most fans speculate that Doc is, in fact, Mel’s mysterious father.
So, don't go unpacking those tissues. Doc probably still has a long and thrilling journey ahead of him, and he certainly won't be dropping dead in the holiday specials scheduled to drop on Netflix on November 30.