Hope McCrea and Vernon “Doc” Mullins have faced numerous challenges in the popular Netflix series, Virgin River. However, in Season 7, their marriage is once again put to the test, leaving fans on edge about what the future holds for the couple.
As the season concludes, Doc regains his medical license and agrees to work with Grace Valley Hospital following a medical crisis involving a pregnant patient named Marley. However, he makes this decision without informing Hope, causing a strain in their relationship.
Hope’s driving force throughout the season has been to help Doc regain his license and dealing with Dr. Hayes’ attempts to take over the clinic. In an exclusive interview with Parade, Annette O’Toole, who plays Hope, expressed that the root of their past issues, including Doc’s infidelity, lies in his lack of honesty and communication with her.
The silence surrounding Doc’s decisions weighs heavily on Hope, who believed that in their relationship, it was always “you and me against the world.” O’Toole explained that if Doc had communicated his actions with her, she may not have agreed with them, but she could have understood and processed them.
Despite the tension in Hope and Doc’s relationship, the introduction of Hope’s ex-husband, Roland, does not create a romantic triangle, according to O’Toole. Instead, he serves as a familiar figure from her past, offering support as she navigates the challenges in her marriage.
At its core, Virgin River remains an ensemble story centered around various characters, including Mel, Jack, Hope, Doc, Lizzie, Denny, and their circle of family and friends spanning three generations in the close-knit town.
Looking ahead to Season 8, O’Toole hopes to see Hope emerge stronger after facing the fallout of Doc’s actions. She envisions a season focused on Hope letting go of old wounds and guilt, embracing a fresh start, and truly stepping into her authentic self.
As for the future of Hope and Doc’s relationship, O’Toole remains open-minded, much like a therapist observing their journey. With Season 8 currently in production, fans can anticipate more emotional twists and turns as the series continues to explore the complexities of love, forgiveness, and growth.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.