Virgin River fanatics have been left disgruntled by some controversial story arcs involving Mel Monroe, played by Alexandra Breckenridge, as they pinpoint an “awkward” subplot in the show’s sixth instalment.
The romantic drama triumphed with another season of 10 episodes last year, culminating in an endearing union between Mel and Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson).
Yet, fans were hit with unsettling cliffhangers setting the stage for season seven, including Charmaine’s (Lauren Hammersley) alarming disappearance.
A captivating plotline unfolded as Mel reconnected with her biological father Everett Reid (John Allen Nelson), who recovered from a cardiac event just in time to serenade the newlyweds at their ceremony.
While this reunion brought tears to many eyes, some viewers voiced dissatisfaction with the accelerated pace of their burgeoning rapport.
Virgin River fans ‘uncomfortable’ with ‘awkward’ storyline in season six (Image: NETFLIX)
Frustrations spilled onto , as one particularly critical viewer aired their grievances: “Mel rushing new dad is awkward. So I’ve been binge-watching over the last weeks, and I just started season six.”
They continued their critique, expressing discomfort with Mel’s hastened attempts to integrate her father: “While I’m enjoying the ‘newfound biological father’ for Mel, she’s pushing too hard to include him.
“I know this is the show making the storyline, but it makes me so sad for Doc (Tim Matheson).
“He was heartbroken when she told him about her ‘dad’. Then playing a song, walking her down the aisle, it made me uncomfortable.”
The plot twists in Virgin River have been nothing short of dramatic, with the entire saga unfolding over a mere year. Mel’s rapid acceptance of Everett as her biological father has left fans reeling, considering it all happened within just weeks.
Doc and Everett reignited their feud in season six (Image: NETFLIX)
This sudden shift has caused tension with her other paternal figure, Doc, culminating in a heated dispute during the show’s sixth season. Fortunately, Mel managed to reconcile with Doc in time for him to proudly escort her down the aisle, followed by a touching live performance from Everett.
Yet, some viewers are questioning the storyline’s credibility, with one fan commenting: “I think they’re pushing the narrative a little bit too hard with this new dad…
“In my eyes Doc had always been there so why was he suddenly booted because you share blood with this man that you don’t even know?”
Another chimed in, highlighting the awkwardness and lack of emotional depth: “Yes!!!! This! It is so awkward. And she didn’t seem remotely upset that the man she thought was her biological father, wasn’t.
“[Mel’s sister] Joey (Jenny Cooper) was more upset than she was – Mel was just like, cool – let’s go find my new dad!
Is Mel imposing too much on her new father? (Image: NETFLIX)
“No grieving at all, and honestly, don’t you think either sister would be a little disappointed in their mom for cheating on their dad and getting pregnant?”
A final viewer questioned the plausibility of Mel and Doc’s relationship, given the short timeframe: “But how long have Mel and Doc known each other? 14 months?
“I think their super close ‘bond’ and father daughter relationship is ridiculous.”
Will the seventh season of Virgin River address these problems?
has yet to announce a release date, so fans may have to wait a while to discover the answer.
Virgin River is available to stream on .