The Netflix hit Virgin River has captivated audiences worldwide with its blend of small-town charm, heartfelt drama, and cliffhanger endings. But while fans have enjoyed the slow-burn storytelling and emotional arcs, actress Zibby Allen, who plays Brie Sheridan, has recently shared her thoughts on the show’s pacing. In a new interview, Allen stated that it might be time to “speed up the timeline,” sparking debates across the fandom about what this could mean for the future of the beloved series.
Why Fans Feel the Timeline Moves Too Slowly
One of the most frequent critiques of Virgin River is its timeline. The series has aired six full seasons, yet in the show’s world, less than a year has passed. Key events, such as Mel’s pregnancy, Jack’s recovery from being shot, and Charmaine’s seemingly endless twin pregnancy, have stretched across multiple seasons.
This unusual pacing has led some fans to frustration. Online forums and social media threads often include jokes about how Virgin River’s residents live in “a time bubble” where weeks feel like years. Many argue that while the slow pace allows for detailed exploration of character emotions, it also risks dragging out storylines and preventing the show from progressing naturally.
Allen appears to share this concern. By calling for the writers to speed things up, she echoes the sentiment of many viewers who want to see more forward momentum in both character development and plot.
What Zibby Allen’s Comment Suggests
Allen’s statement may not just be a personal opinion but a hint at behind-the-scenes conversations about the direction of Virgin River. Netflix has invested heavily in the series, which remains one of its most-watched dramas, and producers are likely aware of fan feedback.
If the show’s timeline does accelerate, audiences could see:
Resolution to long-standing storylines: Charmaine’s pregnancy, which has been a running plot since Season 1, could finally reach its conclusion.
Faster progression for Mel and Jack: Instead of dragging out every milestone, fans could see the couple move through marriage, raising children, and new challenges more quickly.
Brie’s legal battles and romance: Allen’s own character might experience more dramatic growth without months of screen time stretched over just a few in-universe weeks.
Why Some Fans Resist the Idea
Not everyone is thrilled by the idea of rushing the show’s storytelling. Part of Virgin River’s appeal lies in its cozy, small-town rhythm. The slow pacing mirrors real life in a rural community where things don’t always happen quickly. Fans who appreciate this aspect worry that accelerating the timeline could undermine the show’s unique charm.
In addition, Virgin River often focuses on healing, emotional growth, and relationships. Rushing these developments might cause the series to feel less authentic. Some viewers on fan pages argue that the “slow burn” is exactly what keeps them coming back, and they fear that speeding things up would make the show feel like every other fast-paced drama.
Possible Impact on Future Seasons
If producers decide to adopt a faster timeline, the upcoming seventh season could look very different from previous ones. Instead of stretching a pregnancy or custody battle across multiple seasons, these arcs could be resolved in a matter of episodes. This change could open the door for new storylines, fresh conflicts, and additional characters.
For actors, a quicker timeline might also mean more opportunities to explore different sides of their roles. For example: