The small town of Virgin River may be quiet and picturesque, but its stars are anything but. As anticipation builds for the return of Netflix’s beloved romance drama, one of its leading men

has unexpectedly captivated audiences across the globe in a different love story. Ben Hollingsworth, adored by fans for his layered portrayal of troubled Marine Dan Brady, has found himself back

in the spotlight—not for new episodes of Virgin River just yet, but for the resurgence of his Hallmark romance Romance in Style. The 2022 film, once a quiet gem in Hallmark’s catalogue

has now exploded onto Netflix’s global stage. Two years after its release, the heartfelt movie is climbing the platform’s streaming charts, proving that Hollingsworth’s charisma and versatility resonate far beyond the cozy borders of Virgin River.

A Surprise Streaming Hit

Romance in Style, originally released on August 13, 2022, has rocketed into Netflix’s Top 10 movies worldwide, where it currently sits at #7. In some territories, it has soared even higher, breaking into the Top 5 and rubbing shoulders with blockbuster heavyweights.

As of this writing, the movie has accumulated an impressive 136 points on the streamer’s popularity index, just behind Adam Sandler’s comedy sequel Happy Gilmore 2 at 164 points. Leading the global charts is Vanessa Kirby’s gritty thriller Night Always Comes, while other chart residents include 2005’s action-packed Elektra, the hangover-inducing comedy classic The Hangover from 2009, and the 2023 animated family adventure Migration.

For a modest Hallmark romance to hold its own among such box office giants speaks to the timeless appeal of well-executed love stories—and to Hollingsworth’s undeniable screen presence.

The Story Behind Romance in Style

At the heart of Romance in Style is Ella, portrayed with warmth and confidence by Jaicy Elliot. Ella is a plus-size aspiring fashion designer whose creativity and bold designs challenge the outdated standards of the fashion industry. When fate places her in the path of Derek, a wealthy and influential publishing mogul played by Hollingsworth, sparks begin to fly in ways neither expects.

Initially, Derek sees Ella’s talents as an opportunity to expand his magazine’s brand by embracing plus-size fashion. But as the story unfolds, Derek realizes Ella offers far more than a business opportunity. She inspires him to question his own assumptions, confront his blind spots, and embrace a broader vision of success that is not just about profit—but about authenticity, acceptance, and heart.

Candice Huffine, the celebrated model and body positivity advocate, also brings gravitas to the film, reinforcing its empowering message about representation and inclusivity.

While Romance in Style received modest critical attention upon its release—with an audience score of 61% on Rotten Tomatoes and no official Tomatometer rating—its emotional themes have struck a chord with Netflix audiences worldwide. At a time when viewers are hungry for stories that combine romance with deeper cultural resonance, this Hallmark sleeper hit has found a second life.

Ben Hollingsworth: From Derek to Dan Brady

For Virgin River fans, Hollingsworth’s turn as Derek in Romance in Style is a fascinating contrast to his role as Dan Brady. Where Derek is polished, powerful, and at times emotionally guarded, Brady is raw, vulnerable, and haunted by his past as a Marine.

Introduced early in Virgin River, Brady shares a complicated bond with Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson), his former commanding officer. Their relationship oscillates between camaraderie, resentment, and loyalty, mirroring Brady’s own struggles to reintegrate into civilian life. Haunted by poor decisions and temptations that come with his restless spirit, Brady often finds himself teetering on the edge of redemption and relapse.

Hollingsworth has infused Brady with a complexity that keeps viewers invested, even when the character makes questionable choices. His ability to move seamlessly between the stern businessman of Romance in Style and the conflicted veteran of Virgin River underscores his versatility as an actor—and explains why audiences are now flocking to see more of his work.