If you’re a fan of Virgin River, then get ready to fall in love with Sullivan’s Crossing — a new show that has quickly gained a following for its charming small-town setting, compelling characters, and heartfelt storytelling. For those who can’t get enough of the magic of Virgin River, Sullivan’s Crossing offers a similar vibe with its deep emotional connections, slow-burning romance, and small-town drama.

While each show has its unique flavor, there are striking similarities between the two that will make Sullivan’s Crossing a must-watch for Virgin River fans. From the picturesque landscapes to the troubled yet lovable characters, here are seven ways that Sullivan’s Crossing feels like Virgin River’s natural companion.

1. A Picturesque Small-Town Setting

One of the main draws of Virgin River is its idyllic setting in the small, picturesque town nestled among the mountains. Sullivan’s Crossing offers a similar setting — a town tucked away by a beautiful river, surrounded by lush forests and scenic views. The show captures the serene, peaceful atmosphere that small-town life offers while also highlighting the undercurrents of personal struggles and growth that take place in close-knit communities.

Fans of Virgin River will find themselves transported into a world just as breathtaking in Sullivan’s Crossing, with sweeping aerial shots of the river, forests, and cozy town streets that mirror the beauty of Virgin River’s own landscape.

2. A Tight-Knit Community

One of the most enduring aspects of Virgin River is the tight-knit community that comes together to support one another during both joyful and difficult times. Sullivan’s Crossing follows in these footsteps, showcasing a town where everyone knows each other and offers support in times of need. The small-town feel in Sullivan’s Crossing is filled with familiar faces, each with their own stories, struggles, and sense of belonging.

The town’s central figures, including Sullivan (played by Scott Patterson) and Maggie (played by Morgan Kohan), become pillars of the community, helping others navigate their personal challenges and relationships, just like the characters in Virgin River.

3. Troubled Yet Lovable Main Characters

Both shows feature main characters who come from troubled pasts and seek to build new lives in a small, welcoming community. In Virgin River, Mel Monroe (played by Alexandra Breckenridge) is a nurse who moves to the remote town to escape the grief of losing her husband. Similarly, in Sullivan’s Crossing, Maggie is a psychiatrist dealing with her own emotional baggage, finding solace in the small town after a devastating loss.

Like Mel, Maggie must come to terms with her past while attempting to heal and open herself up to new relationships. These emotional journeys are what make both shows so relatable and grounded, as viewers watch characters learn to heal, love, and find a sense of peace in the midst of pain.

4. Slow-Burning Romance with Complex Relationships

Romantic relationships play a huge role in both Virgin River and Sullivan’s Crossing. Fans of Mel and Jack’s rollercoaster romance in Virgin River will appreciate the slow-burn nature of the love stories in Sullivan’s Crossing. The relationships in Sullivan’s Crossing unfold naturally, with characters navigating their feelings, facing personal hurdles, and coming to terms with their emotional baggage.

The show explores second chances at love, just like Virgin River does. Whether it’s Maggie and Sullivan, or other characters finding new paths to love, Sullivan’s Crossing offers the same slow-burning chemistry and emotional depth that has made Virgin River so captivating.

5. Strong Female Lead Characters

Both shows feature strong female characters who are at the center of the storylines. Mel Monroe from Virgin River and Maggie from Sullivan’s Crossing are both highly skilled and independent women who navigate the challenges life throws at them while maintaining their resilience and compassion. Maggie in particular is a psychiatrist who plays an integral role in helping the people around her deal with their emotional and psychological issues, making her a central figure in the town’s dynamic.

In addition to their professional strengths, both women experience personal trials, but through it all, they manage to inspire others with their strength, vulnerability, and empathy.

6. Healing and Personal Growth

At the core of both shows is the theme of healing. Much like Mel, who sought healing from her grief in Virgin River, Maggie in Sullivan’s Crossing embarks on a personal journey of healing from loss and self-discovery. Both shows focus on the idea that while the pain of the past never truly goes away, it can be managed, and characters can still find joy, love, and purpose moving forward.

This focus on personal growth and healing is what makes both Virgin River and Sullivan’s Crossing resonate so strongly with viewers. The idea that one can rebuild after tragedy is a comforting and uplifting message, offering hope to viewers in similar situations.

7. The Comfort of Small-Town Life

Ultimately, Virgin River and Sullivan’s Crossing both tap into the comfort of small-town life. In a world that can feel overwhelming and chaotic, these shows offer an escape into communities where everyone knows each other, and support is always just around the corner. The tight-knit bonds between characters provide a sense of comfort and stability — a safe haven from the trials and tribulations of the outside world.

The slow pace of small-town life also allows for quiet moments of introspection, healing, and connection, giving both shows a peaceful, therapeutic quality that resonates with fans seeking solace and a sense of belonging.

Conclusion: A Perfect Show for Virgin River Fans

If you love the emotional depth, stunning landscapes, and heartwarming moments of Virgin River, then Sullivan’s Crossing is a show you won’t want to miss. With its focus on healing, romance, personal growth, and tight-knit communities, it’s a perfect companion for fans who are looking for more of the same comforting yet dramatic storytelling.

So, if you’re ready for another round of small-town drama and heartfelt connections, grab a seat, tune into Sullivan’s Crossing, and get ready to fall in love all over again. Whether you’re new to the show or a long-time fan, Season 1 and beyond promises to deliver everything that made Virgin River a hit — and so much more.