Nichols previously teased his involvement with the show in an Instagram post, telling fans, “Hey guys, I just landed in Virgin Riv… I mean, Vancouver. I’m starting a new job and I can’t wait for you guys to see it.”

With no concrete information to go on, this leaves us to wildly speculate about how Nichols’ mystery character could fit into the world of Virgin River — and wildly speculate we shall. Is he simply another attractive stranger who passes through the idyllic town, only to put down roots and make a home for himself? Could he be another surprise relative that someone didn’t know they had? After Doc and Mel, we just assume that every character has at least one. The possibilities, unlike the titular river, are endless.

So, when will we finally get to meet Nichols’ character? Netflix has not yet announced a release date for Virgin River Season 7, though it was recently renewed for Season 8, solidifying it as the streamer’s longest-running live-action scripted series. A prequel spinoff, telling Mel’s parents’ love story in 1960s Virgin River, also remains in development.

In addition to playing Julian Baker on One Tree Hill, Nichols’ TV credits include memorable roles on AMC’s The Walking Dead, A&E’s Bates Motel, Showtime’s Ray Donovan and The CW’s Walker, among other shows.

How do you feel about Nichols joining Virgin River? Drop a comment with your thoughts, including your wildest theories and predictions about his character, below.