Virgin River star Benjamin Hollingsworth is embracing the holiday season with warmth, gratitude, and a refreshingly wholesome approach that perfectly reflects the grounded charm fans love about him, while also sharing a nearly disastrous fondue story that adds humor to his festive plans. For Hollingsworth, Christmas is less about spectacle and more about presence, prioritizing time with family, simple traditions, and moments that feel genuine rather than staged. As the year winds down, he looks forward to slowing the pace, stepping away from demanding schedules, and reconnecting with the people who matter most, a sentiment that resonates deeply in an industry often defined by constant motion.

At the heart of his holiday plans is family togetherness. Hollingsworth values traditions that bring everyone into the same space, whether that means cooking together, sharing stories, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Rather than elaborate parties or extravagant travel, his ideal Christmas centers on familiar comforts, laughter, and shared routines that create a sense of stability and warmth. This grounded outlook mirrors the appeal of Virgin River itself, a show that celebrates community, connection, and emotional sincerity over excess.

One tradition he particularly cherishes is gathering around food, which naturally leads to his now-infamous fondue story. What was meant to be a cozy, festive meal quickly spiraled into chaos when a simple oversight nearly turned dinner into disaster. As Hollingsworth recounts it, the fondue pot overheated, sending melted cheese dangerously close to burning and filling the room with smoke and panic. In the moment, what should have been a relaxing holiday ritual became a scramble to save dinner, the kitchen, and everyone’s nerves. The story is told with humor and humility, a reminder that even the best intentions can go hilariously wrong.

The fondue mishap has since become a family legend, retold each holiday season as both a cautionary tale and a source of laughter. Hollingsworth embraces the irony of the situation, acknowledging that these imperfect moments often become the most memorable. Instead of dwelling on frustration, he views the incident as proof that the holidays are about adaptability and shared experience, not flawless execution. The ability to laugh at near-disasters, he believes, is what transforms stress into bonding.

Beyond the anecdotes, Hollingsworth’s Christmas plans reflect a deeper appreciation for balance. After years of navigating demanding roles and long production schedules, he sees the holidays as a chance to recharge emotionally. Stepping away from the spotlight allows him to be fully present as a partner, a parent, and a family member. This intentional pause helps him return to work with renewed perspective, grounded by the reminder that success is most meaningful when shared with loved ones.

Fans of Virgin River often note how Hollingsworth’s off-screen demeanor aligns with the heartfelt tone of the series. His approach to Christmas reinforces that connection, revealing someone who values kindness, patience, and authenticity. Whether he is enjoying a quiet morning, preparing a meal together, or laughing over a culinary mishap, his holiday mindset feels refreshingly relatable. It offers a counterpoint to the pressure many feel to create a “perfect” Christmas, instead encouraging acceptance of imperfection.

The nearly disastrous fondue story also highlights an important holiday lesson: togetherness often thrives in chaos. When plans go awry, the way people respond to stress can strengthen or strain relationships. Hollingsworth’s ability to turn a stressful moment into a shared joke reflects emotional maturity and a deep appreciation for the people around him. It is these moments, not the polished ones, that linger in memory long after decorations are packed away.

As the season unfolds, Hollingsworth’s Christmas plans remain rooted in simplicity and gratitude. He looks forward to slowing down, savoring familiar rituals, and creating new memories that will one day become stories of their own. The fondue mishap serves as a reminder that even when things nearly fall apart, the holidays still have a way of bringing people closer together. In the end, his approach captures the true spirit of Christmas: warmth over perfection, connection over control, and laughter over stress.