Is Mel the Most Irritating Character in Virgin River?
In Virgin River, fans have been buzzing about the character Mel and whether she deserves the title of the most annoying character Join the discussion as we delve into the reasons behind this debate and explore the complexities of Mel's role in the beloved series
Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who's the most "annoying" of them all? In the world of Virgin River, some fans claim that Mel easily holds the title. Unfortunately for Virgin River fans, new episodes are not coming to TV screens anytime soon. While Season 6 has been confirmed, there is no set release date yet after Season 5 recently wrapped up.
Given that, numerous fans have resorted to marathon-watching Seasons 1-5, leading to new insights being discovered.
Many have pondered on the notion of which character in Virgin River is deemed the "most irritating," and a popular response has emerged.
Is Mel the most “annoying” character in Virgin River?
For some Reddit users, the most “annoying” character in Virgin River is an accolade that can only fall to one person – Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge).
Netflix
The series centers around Mel, the protagonist who initiates the adventure in Virgin River by relocating from Los Angeles to a secluded Northern California town, and is taken aback by the unexpected discoveries and encounters.
"I need to get this off my chest! I feel like Mel is always talking down to others and seems self-absorbed at times," wrote Redditor dariamorgendorferr in a post. "In s5e9, Jack tries to discuss giving their relationship another shot, but she completely dismisses him. And when he suggests going for a hike instead of her usual run, she just rolls her eyes at him. It really bothers me, but I can't stop watching the show."
"I didn't even read your whole comment, but I agree that Mel is so irritating," added another user, while a third commented, "She annoys me too. It's not just in those instances, but her attitude in general comes off as cold and condescending to me. Even when she's trying to be friendly, it doesn't seem genuine."
Some fans argue that Mel deserves understanding, considering the traumas she has experienced while falling in love with Jack. One Redditor pointed out that Mel had been through a miscarriage and a stillborn, and needed time alone to cope, finding Jack to be overstepping and in need of giving her space.
"Let's give Jack a break. He's just following Mel's lead," another person said. "She confided in him that she was so determined to keep trying for a baby that she felt guilty when an argument with Mark resulted in the fatal car crash. It was actually her idea to pursue having a baby first. She was the one who made the decision to go to the clinic, showing Jack that she was serious about it.
"The conversation where he offers to go to the follow-up appointment was after she had the d&c, so it seems like they had already discussed it with the doctor. He's doing his best to be supportive, but he's not used to Mel not talking everything out right away like she usually does."
Many viewers find Mel's portrayal in the Virgin River show to be "annoying," sparking a discussion about her character in the books. "I agree, she is nothing like that in the books," pointed out one user. "I stopped watching halfway through season 2. She’s miserable. I’ve read all the books and I recommend them, they’re great. The main character changes with each book," the user continued, "but the cool thing is, all of the past characters and their storylines continue in the background. So you really love the community and everyone individually. She was never meant to be the main character."
Virgin River Season 5 is available to stream on Netflix now, and you can check out our other coverage below:
Editor's P/S
As a hard fan of Virgin River, I have mixed feelings about Mel. On the one hand, I understand her struggles and the trauma she has experienced. She lost her husband and unborn child, and she is trying to rebuild her life in a new town. On the other hand, I find her to be self-absorbed and condescending at times. She often dismisses Jack's feelings and seems to think that she is always right.
I think the writers of the show have done a good job of creating a complex and flawed character. Mel is not always likable, but she is always interesting to watch. I am curious to see how her character develops in future seasons. I hope that she will learn to be more open and honest with Jack and that she will find a way to heal from her past trauma.
