Fans of Virgin River can breathe a renewed sigh of relief: Netflix has officially greenlit Season 8 of the long-running romantic drama. The announcement came on July 10, 2025, ahead of the release of Season 7, confirming that the show will continue and adding to its already impressive legacy. Netflix+2The Express Tribune+2

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What we know so far

• Virgin River was renewed for Season 8, making it Netflix’s longest-running original scripted English-language drama. Netflix+1

• Season 8 will consist of 10 new episodes, consistent with recent seasons. What’s on Netflix+2Netflix+2

• Filming for Season 7 has already wrapped (locations included Vancouver/British Columbia and some scenes in Mexico) during the first half of 2025. Netflix+2Hubnews+2

• The showrunner, Patrick Sean Smith, expressed gratitude to Netflix and fans for allowing the series to continue. Netflix

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What to expect storyline-wise

While Netflix has not released full plot details for Season 8 yet, there are strong hints and expectations based on what was shared when it was renewed, and how the show has been evolving:

• The story will continue following Mel and Jack — now married — and their attempts at building a life together, possibly expanding their family. Netflix+1

• There will also be focus on the town’s other residents. For example, Doc and Hope are expected to work to protect the clinic and face threats from outsiders. Netflix+1

• New characters are already joining in or have joined for future seasons, which could bring fresh conflicts and dynamics. In Season 7, Sara Canning as Victoria and Cody Kearsley as Clay are among the additions. What’s on Netflix+1

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Timing and release

• There is no confirmed release date yet for Season 8, though reports suggest it will likely arrive in 2026, after Season 7’s release. What’s on Netflix+2TechRadar+2

• Season 7 is expected to drop toward the end of 2025 or very early 2026. Once Season 7 ends, fans won’t have to wait long before Season 8 begins. The Economic Times+1

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Why this matters & what makes it historic

• This renewal sets Virgin River apart: it’s now the longest-running scripted original series on Netflix in English. That’s a significant milestone. The Express Tribune+1

• The early renewal (Season 8 coming even before Season 7 is released) shows the confidence Netflix has in the show’s continued popularity. Netflix+1

• For the fans, it’s reassurance that the story of Mel, Jack, and the community in Virgin River will continue. There’s more romance, more small-town drama, and more character arcs still to unfold.

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What we don’t yet know

• The precise release date for Season 8 is unannounced.

• Full cast list or all new characters are not fully confirmed.

• Exact plot details remain vague; we know some arcs, but surprises are likely.

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In short: Virgin River Season 8 is confirmed. It will have 10 episodes. Season 7 filming has wrapped, and Season 8 is expected sometime in 2026. Fans can look forward to seeing Mel and Jack navigating marriage, possibly family life, and seeing the small town and its residents face new challenges.

If you like, I can pull together a timeline of all the release and filming dates, plus some fan theories about what might happen in Season 8?