Missing Virgin River? Netflix viewers say this hidden romance drama might be the perfect replacement—and some fans are already calling it just as addictive.

Looking for a cosy romance drama to fill the Virgin River-shaped hole in your viewing schedule while you await season eight? Netflix might just have the answer.

Netflix's 'incredible' drama with 00's heartthrob Sullivan's Crossing is  perfect for Virgin River fans

The hit Canadian series Sullivan’s Crossing, which stars noughties heartthrob Chad Michael Murray and Morgan Kohan (When Hope Calls), recently returned to Netflix with its fourth season.

Chad Michael Murray and Morgan Kohan in Sullivan's Crossing
Chad Michael Murray and Morgan Kohan star in Sullivan’s Crossing

It follows neurosurgeon Maggie (Morgan Kohan) who leaves her high-flying career in Boston and returns to her quaint hometown in Nova Scotia.

The drama, which comes from the creators of Virgin River, has been hailed by viewers as “emotional rollercoaster” with “outstanding” performances, while critics have described it as a light, easy-to-watch Hallmark-style adventure.

WATCH: Have you caught up with Sullivan’s Crossing season 3?

With spectacular scenery, a slow-burn romance and a cast of lovable characters, Sullivan’s Crossing is a must-watch for fans of cosy, comforting dramas. Keep reading to find out more.

Alexandra Breckenridge as Melinda Monroe and Martin Henderson as Jack Sheridan in Episode #703 of Virgin River S7.© Courtesy of Netflix
The show comes from the creators of Virgin River

What is Sullivan’s Crossing about?

Based on the book series of the same name by Robyn Carr, the drama follows Maggie, a talented neurosurgeon in Boston who is forced to leave her high-flying career behind after being sued for negligence. With her reputation at stake, Maggie decides to retreat to her idyllic, rural hometown in Nova Scotia.

Upon arrival, Maggie confronts her messy past, including her relationship with her estranged dad, and also strikes up a connection with hard-working handyman Cal.

Morgan Kohan and Scott Patterson in Sullivan's Crossing
Season four recently arrived on Netflix

Season four follows on from the cliffhanger finale of season three, which saw the unexpected arrival of Maggie’s ex-husband Liam, who claims he needs a copy of his and Magie’s annulment before his moves to Europe.

The synopsis continues: “Meanwhile, Edna tries to convince an overprotective Frank that she’s ready to return to work as he focuses on figuring out how to turn the land Glenn gave them into a conservation area. Sydney and Rafe’s relationship issues come to a head as Rob receives confusing news from Toronto.”

Who stars in Sullivan’s Crossing?

Morgan Kohan (When Hope Calls) leads the drama as Maggie Sullivan. She’s joined by

Morgan Kohan and Scott Patterson at The 29th Critics' Choice Awards held at The Barker Hangar on January 14, 2024 in Santa Monica, California© Getty Images
Morgan Kohan and Scott Patterson star in the series

Chad Michael Murray (Freaky Friday) as Cal Jones, Marcus Rosner (Supernatural) as Liam and Scott Patterson (Gilmore Girls) as Sully.

Other cast members include Tom Jackson (Outlander) as Frank Cranebear, Andrea Menard (The Switch) as Edna Cranebear, Amalia Williamson (Letterkenny) as Lola Gunderson, Reid Price (From) as Rob Shandon, Lindura (Dangerous Rumors) as Sydney Shandon and Dakota Taylor (Fear Street: Prom Queen) as Rafe Vadas.

What have audiences said about the show?

The series has amassed a legion of dedicated fans since it first premiered in 2023.

Heaping praise on the show in a post to social media, one viewer wrote: “If you like #VirginRiver you will LOVE LOVE #SullivansCrossing on the CW. Great drama w/character development, funny bits. Plus our favorite actors / actresses!! So invested in these characters,” while another hailed the drama as “incredible”.

Chad Michael Murray as Cal Jones, Morgan as Maggie Sullivan and Scott Patterson as Harry Sullivan © Michael Tompkins
Chad Michael Murray as Cal Jones, Morgan as Maggie Sullivan and Scott Patterson as Harry Sullivan

A second fan penned: “It is a heartwarming, comfort show that TV needs more of. Top notch cast, beautiful scenery, phenomenal storytelling.”

Sullivan’s Crossing is available to stream on Netflix now. 

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