Alexandra Breckenridge of Virgin River Discusses Jack and Mel’s Plans for a Baby

A surprising cliffhanger in “Virgin River” has captivated Netflix viewers, leaving them to wonder if Mel Monroe’s aspirations of motherhood may soon be realized.

Throughout the series, Mel (portrayed by Alexandra Breckenridge) has expressed her desire to have a child, yet her journey towards parenthood has faced numerous challenges.

Following a stillbirth and several miscarriages during her first marriage, Mel faced another setback in Season 5 when she miscarried while expecting a child with her boyfriend Jack (Martin Henderson).

As Mel and Jack planned their wedding in Season 5, they both agreed that starting a family was part of their future and considered the possibility of adopting a child someday.

In the finale of Season 6, Mel encounters a young woman named Marley (Rachel Drance), who is contemplating placing her unborn child for adoption with a local couple in Virgin River. Mel had first crossed paths with Marley at the nurse’s new birthing center.

On the morning after her wedding, Mel receives a call from Marley, who reveals her concerns that the other couple might be withdrawing from the adoption. Marley expresses her wish for Mel and Jack to adopt her unborn child.

Will Mel and Jack finally achieve their dream of a happy ending? In an interview with TODAY.com, Breckenridge confirms, “Yes, but there’s a catch.”

“Mel and Jack will definitely have a child eventually. When that will happen is uncertain. They are headed in that direction, but it may not be an easy journey,” she shares with TODAY.com.

The Season 6 finale is packed with dramatic moments that have left fans eagerly awaiting Season 7. From the uncertain future of Doc’s (Tim Matheson) clinic to Mike’s (Marco Grazzini) unexpected proposal to Brie (Zibby Allen) and the mystery surrounding Charmaine’s (Lauren Hammersley) disappearance, there are many unanswered questions for the next season.

Curious about Breckenridge’s thoughts on her character’s journey to motherhood and the storylines that keep her engaged? We spoke with the “Virgin River” star ahead of Season 6’s launch to discuss.

Mel’s path to motherhood

Mel has long envisioned herself as a mother. In the finale, she receives a call from Marley, who wishes to place her unborn child with Mel and Jack. What are your hopes for that storyline and how do you think Mel will react?

If Marley’s situation resolves in their favor, it would be a miraculous turn for their family. For many families facing fertility challenges and considering adoption, the road can be lengthy and painful.

It’s important for our show to authentically portray that experience and reflect it for our audience. I don’t know exactly what will happen next, but I have a general sense that may change, as storylines often do throughout “Virgin River.”

I anticipate that Mel and Jack’s journey toward building a family will be a significant focus in Season 7.

What type of mother do you think Mel will become when the time comes?

I often say, “She’ll be a better mom than I am.” Not that I am a bad mom — I actually consider myself quite a good one. I am caring, but Mel tends to be more organized than I am.

I lean more toward the artistic side; I’m an actress and a creative individual, so I’m not as regimented with schedules and extracurricular activities for my children. Mel, on the other hand, will likely take on that more structured approach.

Mel and Jack’s nuptials

At the beginning of the finale, we see Mel and Jack riding off on horseback after their wedding. What was Mel thinking at that moment, and why did she feel the need to escape?

I believe Mel wanted to transition into her marriage without the weight of her past. She probably felt overwhelmed by unexpected emotions and events from the previous night and needed a breather.

Jack is very attuned to her feelings and offers support. Although Mel may not have intended to ride a horse at that moment, it provided them a chance to reconnect and ground each other.

It’s been a tumultuous journey to the altar for Mel and Jack. How did it feel to witness your character marry the love of her life?

I knew this was a moment fans had been eagerly anticipating. Seeing it unfold was simply beautiful. It’s a touching and heartfelt scene, not contrived at all; it’s genuinely sweet.

The entire community coming together to celebrate their love was truly heartwarming. Filming it was lovely, despite the chilly weather — it was a stunning experience.

Mel shares an emotional moment at the wedding with her biological father Everett (John Allen Nelson), who surprises her with a song he composed for her mother. What did that moment signify for them both?

For Everett, this moment was crucial as he had been stuck in his grief for a long time. Reconnecting with Mel allowed him to open up, find a way to move forward, and complete the beautiful song he had written for her mother.

Now, Mel gains a new family member as she navigates her journey, and I’m intrigued to see how their relationship evolves in Season 7.

Cliffhangers and highlights from Season 6

The end of Season 6 left us with several cliffhangers, including Charmaine (Lauren Hammersley) going missing, Mike proposing to Brie while also revealing knowledge about her affair with Brady, and Marley offering her child to Mel. Which storyline excites you the most for Season 7?

I’m particularly eager to see what unfolds with Mike and Brie. Honestly, that cliffhanger has me most intrigued. I hope Charmaine is safe wherever she is.

The decision Mike made is fascinating; it adds a layer to his character. I’m captivated by the complexity behind his choice, making it a compelling scene.

What other storylines are you excited to see develop in Season 7?

Doc’s cliffhanger raises significant concern. The impending threat to the clinic is alarming, and I’m uncertain how it will evolve. I wonder if the birthing center will be impacted; Mel could potentially still operate it since she’s a midwife, but the clinic’s closure is a significant issue.

I’m also looking forward to seeing how Lizzie (Sarah Dugdale) and Denny (Kai Bradbury) handle the challenges of early parenthood. Living in the South, I often see young couples marry and have children in their early twenties. Personally, I waited until I was 34 to start a family, but I admire those young mothers who navigate this path successfully.

What was the most challenging scene to film in the finale?

The scene between Mel and Doc at the hospital following Everett’s heart attack was particularly emotional and challenging to portray.

Season 7 of ‘Virgin River’

What are your hopes for Mel and Jack in Season 7 and beyond?

I hope to see them navigate their journey towards parenthood and the challenges that come with it. Personally, I found my own journey into parenthood fascinating. I’d love for Mel to explore cooking more and perhaps delve into farming; a little garden, some chickens, and a playful child running about could be lovely.

Achieving seven seasons on a Netflix series is a remarkable accomplishment. What do you think accounts for the success of ‘Virgin River’?

The complexities of Jack and Mel’s storyline truly captivate audiences. I feel that Martin and I discovered a remarkable chemistry in our roles, which contributed greatly; we were fortunate that it was there from the start without any initial chemistry tests or workshops.

There are many factors that have helped “Virgin River” thrive, but it’s undoubtedly a beautiful, comforting story that resonates with viewers on a personal level. It tackles relatable themes and inspires people, as I’ve learned from the stories shared by fans that approach me.

I’m a huge sci-fi fan and often dream of starring in a sci-fi series. Currently, I’m enjoying “Silo” and eagerly anticipating “Dune.” While “Dune” doesn’t inspire me creatively, people find inspiration in our show, and that feels incredibly special.