That ’90s Show, Black Mirror, and the 10 worst Netflix shows of 2023

Virgin River

This is a painful addition to the list of the worst Netflix shows of 2023. Virgin River, unfortunately, makes the list this year after a less-than-stellar fifth season of the series. Virgin River season 5 premiered on Netflix on Sept. 7, and for the first time, the series dropped two Christmas episodes on Nov. 30. The extended episode count of season 5 couldn’t make up for the show’s flaws, which were on display.

The thing is, I like Virgin River, too! This show, without a doubt, is one of the most popular on Netflix, and I get it. It brings me no joy to write about how Virgin River is bad, but there are so many examples of bad storytelling in season 5 that I can point out. Jack’s story and behavior this season dragged. The whole drug storyline was rough. How does time pass so slowly in this little town? Are they really going to keep torturing poor Mel over and over? And, the reveal about Mel’s father was truly an out-of-left-field soap-opera bust of a storyline and twist. There are so many characters with important storylines. It’s just a bit messy.

The whole season wasn’t bad. Alexandra Breckenridge is as good as ever. The supporting cast also delivers some good performances, but it’s still not enough to lift this series off the worst shows list this year. The good news is Virgin River season 6 is happening, and hopefully, they will be able to rectify some of the poor choices of season 5.

Written by Bryce Olin