Analyzing Virgin River Season 5's Festive Installments: Mel's Paternal Reunion, Jack's Turmoil, and Beyond

‘Virgin River’ Season 5 Courtesy of Netflix

It’s time to celebrate the holidays in Virgin River — and while things may be happier, there’s still plenty of drama to go around.

Warning: Spoilers below for Virgin River season 5 part 2. 

In 2019, Virgin River debuted and tells the story of nurse practitioner Mel Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge) as she looks for a new beginning following her husband’s passing. Making a spontaneous move from Los Angeles to a secluded Northern California town, she encounters unexpected surprises in the form of both people and experiences.

In September, Netflix released the first part of season 5, with the second half premiering on Wednesday, November 29. This addition includes two more Christmas-themed episodes, drawing viewers back into the beloved romantic drama.

In the second part of season 5, fans can anticipate a more uplifting tone, but not all characters find the holidays to be easy. Specifically, Martin Henderson's character, Jack, experiences a lighter load as he assists Mel in search of her biological father and attempts to bring his estranged parents together for the holidays.

Elsewhere, there are new births, surprising pregnancies, ongoing relationships, and rekindled romances. As is typical in Virgin River, joy is fleeting and challenges are never far off.

Keep scrolling for all the twists, turns and cliffhangers on Virgin River season 5 part 2:

‘Virgin River’ Season 5 Courtesy of Netflix

Mel Meets Her Dad

After connecting the dots with Jack, Mel locates her father, Everett Reid, at his cabin in Virgin River. However, things take a turn when he denies being the man she's looking for, despite owning the same trophy seen in an old photograph. By the end of episode 12, he shows up at Mel's home to confess his true identity.

Charmaine Finally Gives Birth

Charmaine (Lauren Hammersly) arrives at the clinic experiencing contractions. As her water breaks, Mel assists in delivering her twins — only to also uncover that Calvin (David Cubitt) is their biological father.

‘Virgin River’ Season 5 Courtesy of Netflix

Brie and Dan Still Have Sparks

When Mike (played by Marco Grazzini) has to go to work, Brie (played by Zibby Allen) unexpectedly encounters her ex-boyfriend Dan (played by Ben Hollingsworth) at the town's holiday talent show. The two of them engage in a heartfelt conversation about their current relationships, as well as the uncomfortable aspects of their past breakup.

The former partners reunite a few days later and admit the difficulty of seeing each other move on. Just as they realize they are standing under mistletoe, their moment is interrupted by Jack, but the longing looks they exchange suggest that their romantic story may not be over yet.

Lizzie’s Mom Finds Discovers Her Daughter Is Pregnant

Lizzie's mother Deidre, portrayed by Debbie Podowski, accidentally overhears that Lizzie, played by Sarah Dugdale, and Denny, played by Kai Bradbury, are expecting a child together. Although hesitant at first, Deidre agrees to support Lizzie becoming a mother — on the condition that she doesn't have to be referred to as "grandma." Later, Lizzie and Denny reveal the gender of their baby: a girl.

‘Virgin River’ Season 5 Courtesy of Netflix

Cameron’s Ex Is Back

Jack’s Family Drama

Mark Ghanime's character, Cameron, is faced with a surprise visit from his ex-fiancée, Michelle, in Virgin River. She expresses remorse for their breakup and reveals that she has been sober for six months. Despite her desire to rekindle their relationship and start anew, Cameron makes it clear that his heart now belongs to Muriel, played by Teryl Rothery.

Jack's dad is refusing to spend Christmas with Mel's family because he is uncomfortable with the idea of Mel moving on with her new boyfriend, Javier. After Jack and Brie make a plea for a happy holiday, they all agree to spend Christmas together.

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Preacher Hits a Relationship Milestone

Preacher (Colin Lawrence) inadvertently confesses his love for Kaia (Kandyse McClure) after braving an ice-cold plunge in the lake. Although she doesn't reciprocate the sentiment, she does accept the position as Virgin River's new fire chief, ensuring she will remain in town permanently.

Things may not be blissful for long, however, as Mike calls Preacher to let him know that the truth about Wes’ (Steve Bacic) body is about to come to light.