Annette O’Toole Discusses Season 6 of Virgin River, Hope’s Ex-Husband, and More
Annette O’Toole as Hope McCrea in ‘Virgin River.’ NETFLIX
Virgin River actress Annette O’Toole is sharing insights into her character Hope’s journey in season 6, particularly her experience filming the memorable stripper scene.
“Filming that scene was a bit challenging for me,” O’Toole, 72, told Us Weekly during the promotion of the sixth season, which premiered on Netflix on December 19.
In this particular scene from episode four, a stripper who is intended for Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge) and her friends at a bachelorette party mistakenly shows up for Hope McCrea (O’Toole) and her knitting circle at Jack’s Bar, leading to a series of comedic events.
Although the filming was “really fun,” O’Toole found it also had a “bittersweet” undertone, given that Hope’s friend Muriel (Teryl Rothery) was facing a breast cancer diagnosis. O’Toole expressed her happiness for Muriel — who received an unexpected lap dance from the performer, much to the delight of the other women — noting that the feelings of dread surrounding mortality are relatable.
“That’s something everyone can understand because you never know what’s in store for you. This is especially true for older individuals,” O’Toole elaborated. “You can’t predict what lies ahead, so it’s vital to seize every moment. That’s why I cherish that scene.”
Tim Matheson as Doc Mullins, Annette O’Toole as Hope in ‘Virgin River.’ Courtesy of Netflix
O’Toole enjoys exploring the “complex” relationships and character depth of the women in the knitting circle, stating that their lives are rich with experiences and challenges.
In addition to joyful moments with her circle, O’Toole also confronted deeper emotional scenes as Hope this season. Episode six introduces her ex-husband, Roland (John Ralston), and their tumultuous backstory unfolds when she visits him regarding a horse adoption. O’Toole admitted to Us that this was “odd” because she had previously created Hope’s backstory in her own mind, viewing her as a “widow twice over.”
Though she initially envisioned a different history for Hope, O’Toole recognized that bringing in an ex aligns well with the drama — potentially setting the stage for future storylines in season 7.
“I really don’t know what direction it will take,” she said to Us. “But leaving the door open is beneficial for storytelling. They have enough conflict to pave the way for engaging narratives next season.”
Tim Matheson as Doc Mullins, Annette O’Toole as Hope in ‘Virgin River.’ Courtesy Of Netflix
Hope, meanwhile, is enjoying her current romance with Doc (Tim Matheson). After experiencing numerous ups and downs, season 6 allowed the couple to explore their romantic connection, something O’Toole found delightful.
“We can just have fun with it,” she said of her chemistry with Matheson. “We genuinely enjoy that and often prepare in advance to fill in any gaps the script might leave.”
While season 6 offered Hope and Doc a well-deserved period of happiness, season 7 may bring new challenges. Firstly, the return of Roland complicates matters, along with revelations about Doc’s practice being jeopardized, which was hinted at in the finale.
No matter what the future holds for Hope, O’Toole expresses gratitude for the opportunity to portray someone like her, who she has grown to admire over the past five years.
Annette O’Toole as Hope McCrea, Gwynyth Walsh as Jo Ellen, Nicola Cavendish as Connie in ‘Virgin River.’ Courtesy of Netflix
“She possesses many characteristics I wish I could embody,” O’Toole shared with Us. “I’d love to be more assertive and she always knows just what to say. Hope is such a big person emotionally; everything matters to her, and she feels deeply about it all. Playing her is fascinating.”
O’Toole added that while some may view Hope as too “bossy” or “nosy,” she considers it a sign of the character’s depth, indicating that people are genuinely interested in her. The Smallville alum commended showrunner Smith for achieving a balance in Virgin River between authentic storytelling and escapism.
“It’s not merely a romantic series. Sure, it’s visually stunning with a cast of beautiful people. But it also holds real substance,” she said. “It reflects what people can aspire to — a community where individuals genuinely care for one another, always ready to lend a hand or share a comforting cup of coffee, asking, ‘How do you feel? What do you need?’”
Virgin River season 6 is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
With reporting by Kat Pettibone
