Excitement is in the air for “Virgin River” fans as the release date for the sixth season

has finally been announced, coinciding with the holiday season. However, some viewers

have expressed concerns after glimpsing the first-look images shared on the show’s official

Instagram account. The teaser images reveal heartfelt moments, including a touching scene featuring Mel Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge) and Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson). Another highlight showcases Vernon “Doc” Mullins (Tim Matheson) and his wife, Hope McCrea (Annette O’Toole), tending to a horse together.

Fans also noticed significant developments for Lizzie (Sarah Dugdale), whose pregnancy appears to be well-advanced, and Preacher (Colin Lawrence), who continues to explore his romance with Kaia Bryant (Kandyse McClure). Returning cast members include Brie Sheridan (Zibby Allen), Mike Valenzuela (Marco Grazzini), Dan Brady (Ben Hollingsworth), Muriel (Teryl Rothery), and Dr. Cameron Hayek (Mark Ghanime).

In their Instagram post, the show remarked, “We’ve missed them so much! Get a first look at what’s ahead in season 6. Counting the days until Virgin River comes back December 19th.” The festive release date has fans thrilled, viewing it as a perfect Christmas gift.

Despite the excitement, some viewers have voiced their apprehensions regarding the storyline for Mel and Jack. One Reddit user expressed enthusiasm but added, “I’m a little concerned about the Mel and Jack storyline.” They noted an interview on the “I Like You Very Much” podcast where it seemed the couple would have fewer scenes together, suggesting they might be off dealing with individual issues before reuniting.

Another fan, while echoing the concern, mentioned a glimmer of hope for at least one steamy scene between Mel and Jack, but still felt conflicted by the hints of separation in the narrative.

This season is expected to center around the lead-up to Mel and Jack’s wedding, potentially creating distance between the characters until they come together for a romantic climax. However, some fans are wary, with one user stating, “If even one or two episodes are like last season’s, I’m not watching it. I hope the writers got it right this time.” Another lamented, “The last season was hard to watch. It was almost depressing.”

With these mixed feelings in mind, many fans are hoping for a more uplifting season to enjoy during the holiday festivities.