Alexandra Breckenridge, the beloved actress behind Mel Monroe on Virgin River, is giving fans a double dose of excitement this year. Not only has she opened up about what viewers can expect from Season 7 of the popular Netflix drama, but she is also set to star in a brand-new holiday movie for the streamer titled My Secret Santa. For fans of Breckenridge, it’s the perfect combination of small-town romance and festive magic, all wrapped up in the actress’s signature warmth and charisma.

In interviews, Breckenridge has reflected on just how special Virgin River has become to her. The series, which first premiered in 2019, has built a loyal audience thanks to its mix of heartfelt storytelling, scenic backdrops, and relatable characters. For Breckenridge, portraying Mel Monroe—a nurse practitioner whose journey of love, loss, and renewal has touched millions—has been a career-defining experience. As Season 7 approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation, eager to know how Mel and Jack’s lives will continue to unfold after the dramatic events of the previous season.

According to Breckenridge, Season 7 promises to lean even deeper into the themes of healing, family, and new beginnings. At the end of Season 6, Mel and Jack faced several challenges that threatened to shake the foundation of their relationship. Between the lingering trauma of past losses and the pressures of their expanding family, the couple’s story remains both romantic and emotionally complex. Breckenridge notes that Season 7 will not shy away from exploring those difficulties, but will also bring moments of joy, humor, and hope.

What makes Virgin River so enduring, Breckenridge explains, is its balance between heartwarming intimacy and dramatic tension. While the show often focuses on the sweeping romance between Mel and Jack, it also makes space for secondary characters who add texture and depth to the narrative. Season 7 will reportedly expand on those storylines, giving more attention to fan-favorite characters while introducing new faces that may shake things up. Breckenridge hints that viewers can expect surprises, but emphasizes that at its core, Virgin River remains about community and connection.

Beyond the romantic drama, the actress highlights how Virgin River resonates with audiences because of its relatability. “People see themselves in these characters,” she explains. “Mel isn’t perfect—she’s strong, but she’s also vulnerable. I think that honesty is what people respond to.” It’s that same authenticity that Breckenridge brings to her other projects, including her upcoming holiday feature.

My Secret Santa, her new Netflix holiday film, represents a delightful shift in tone from the often emotionally heavy world of Virgin River. While still grounded in heartfelt storytelling, the movie promises a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer, comedic moments, and a touch of Christmas magic. Breckenridge plays a woman navigating love and family during the holidays, with the twist of a mysterious Secret Santa who helps her rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.

For Breckenridge, the opportunity to take on a holiday film felt like the perfect complement to her work on Virgin River. “I love the holidays, and there’s something so comforting about Christmas movies,” she shares. “They’re hopeful, uplifting, and they bring people together. I thought this story was really sweet and something audiences could enjoy with their families.”

Holiday movies, especially those on Netflix, have become a cultural phenomenon in recent years. Titles like The Christmas Chronicles and A Castle for Christmas have proven that audiences crave feel-good films during the holiday season. Breckenridge’s involvement in My Secret Santa brings star power and heartfelt authenticity to the project, ensuring it will resonate with fans of both Virgin River and holiday romance films.

The contrast between her two projects highlights Breckenridge’s versatility as an actress. While Virgin River challenges her to portray the emotional depths of grief, healing, and love, My Secret Santa allows her to explore lighter material filled with joy, laughter, and holiday wonder. For fans, it’s a treat to see her shine in both dramatic and heartwarming roles, proving her range and talent as a performer.

As she reflects on juggling the demands of both projects, Breckenridge emphasizes the importance of connecting with her audience. Whether through the small-town charm of Virgin River or the festive sparkle of a holiday movie, she sees storytelling as a way to bring comfort and meaning to viewers’ lives. “At the end of the day, people want stories that make them feel,” she says. “Whether it’s tears or laughter, I just want to be part of work that moves people.”

Her words resonate with why Virgin River has become such a cultural touchstone. Fans around the world tune in not just for the romance between Mel and Jack, but for the sense of belonging the series provides. Likewise, holiday films like My Secret Santa offer escapism and warmth during a season often associated with both joy and reflection. Together, the two projects highlight Breckenridge’s ability to capture the emotional heart of any story.

Looking forward, Breckenridge remains excited about where her career is headed. With Virgin River entering its seventh season and holiday films continuing to flourish on streaming platforms, she sees endless opportunities to keep exploring stories that matter. “I feel very lucky,” she says. “To be part of something like Virgin River, which has touched so many people, and then to also get to spread joy with a Christmas movie—it’s really special.”

For fans, Alexandra Breckenridge’s presence on screen continues to be a gift. Whether she’s guiding viewers through the highs and lows of Mel’s journey in Virgin River or spreading holiday cheer as the lead in My Secret Santa, she brings authenticity, warmth, and heart to every role. Season 7 promises to deliver more of the drama, romance, and healing that audiences love, while her holiday film adds a fresh dose of festive joy to her already impressive career.

In the end, 2025 is shaping up to be a standout year for Alexandra Breckenridge. With Virgin River solidifying its place as one of Netflix’s most beloved series and My Secret Santa bringing holiday magic to audiences everywhere, her star continues to shine brightly. For viewers who have followed her journey from the beginning, there is comfort in knowing that whether it’s in a quiet mountain town or under twinkling Christmas lights, Alexandra Breckenridge will continue to bring heartfelt stories to life.