Virgin River Season 6: Jack and Mel's Never-Ending Misery Has to Stop – Or Else

Summary

• Virgin River Season 5 was one of the few premieres this fall, but it was heartbreaking.
• The show has always been quite dramatic but the latest seasons are pure soap opera.
• In Season 5, Mel and Jack have experienced a lot of misery, but Season 6 has to be different.

When the writers' strike broke out in May, few people could have imagined the impact it would have on the industry. But when the actors' guild followed suit in July, the ramifications were clear. And indeed, when the fall season began two months later, our beloved shows like Bridgerton didn't return to the air, breaking the hearts of many fans.

In that light, the premiere of Virgin River's fifth season was a miracle. Needless to say, fans were most excited to be reunited with their beloved characters from Netflix's flagship drama. But as happy as some were to be able to watch the new installment of the show, many viewers were quite disappointed with how things were approached.

In other words, while Season 5 of Virgin River was a pleasure to watch, it left a bittersweet taste afterward. The reason is simple – Mel and Jack's arc is oversaturated with misery. And that has to stop if Netflix wants Season 6 to be well-received.

From Comfy to Sudsy

Although Virgin River has always had a somewhat somber premise – Mel moves to the titular town after her husband passes away, it's been a beacon of hope and joy to many viewers, attracted by the show's feel-good vibes. The first two seasons were especially enjoyable, capturing the quaintness and serenity of the town where the main character started her life afresh. Even the relationship drama between her and Jack didn't detract from the cozy atmosphere. But then things tumbled down.

With each new season, Virgin River grew more gruesome. The appearance and inadvertent killing of Wes, Doc's illness, Charmaine's manipulations, wildfires that devastated half the town – you name it. In turn, Mel and Jack's storyline has become more like a soap opera than the feel-good show that VR used to be.

Mel and Jack's Woes

In season 5 in particular, Melinda and Jack had too much on their plates. The investigation into the drug ring led to the seizure of Sheridan's land, where he planned to build a home for himself and Mel. Charmaine revealed that her unborn twins, which she had been using to manipulate Jack for the past few seasons, were not his. And most importantly, Mel's miscarriage put an end to her and Jack's idyllic happiness.

That's too much. So there's just one piece of advice: If Netflix wants to keep Virgin River going for more seasons, it needs to make amends in the sixth installment and make it lighter and more lighthearted. Otherwise, fans may abandon the show altogether.