Virgin River star breaks silence on sudden exit: 'Excited for this new chapter'

There's going to be some space to fill at the Virgin River police department in season 8, as Mike Valenzuela has officially solved his last crime in the cozy small town. Following season 7's release, showrunner Patrick Sean Smith confirmed that after playing the handsome cop for six seasons, Marco Grazzini has left the show and will not return next season.

Grazzini exclusively shared a statement with Entertainment Weekly regarding his departure from Virgin River, expressing "nothing but love for the cast, crew, and especially the phenomenal fans who make the show so special." However, the actor didn't explain what went into his leaving the show and whether it was a mutual decision, his choice, or a creative one from the writers.

"Character departures are very common in this business — especially on a long-running and beloved series likeVirgin River. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to play Mike for six seasons," he said to Entertainment Weekly. Without revealing further details, Grazzini's exit seems a bit more like a creative one, considering he celebrated the show's season 8 renewal last summer.

Marco Grazzini addresses Virgin River exit in new statement

Still, he concluded his statement looking toward the future: "I’m excited for this new chapter in my career." There's no doubt that even though Grazzini won't appear in Virgin River season 8, we will continue to see him on our screens. (Allow me to not-so-subtly pitch him for the role of Eric Bennett in Heated Rivalry season 2. If you know, you know!)

Virgin River season 7 managed to naturally complete Mike's arc, and while his story could have continued in season 8, it's understandable why the writers let him ride off into the sunset. We're going to get into some spoilers, so if you haven't finished season 7, look away now! Brie finally made a decision between Brady and Mike, and let's just say that she didn't choose Mike.

By the end of the season, Mike seemingly started a new relationship with Victoria (guest star Sara Canning), the medical investigator dropping in from Los Angeles, and Mike's final scene in the season 7 finale involves the pair talking about him visiting her in LA. Arguably, Victoria could have moved to Virgin River, but the scene definitely sets up an exit plan for Mike to leave the town for the city.

Grazzini isn't the only long-time Virgin River star departing the series after season 7. Lauren Hammersley also won't appear in season 8, marking the first season without Charmaine. Because of the way the character had been used as both a plot device and a villain, Charmaine wasn't really a fan-favorite. But it's unfortunate that her time on the show ended with such a dark story.

There aren't any further casting shakeups expected for Virgin River season 8, as Smith confirmed that the rest of the main cast will remain unchanged without any other additions or exits. As of this writing, Hammersley hasn't addressed her exit from the series, but we're sure she will have some parting word for a character as iconic as Charmaine.