Virgin River star joins cast of new Karen Kingsbury Christmas movie

Virgin River. Benjamin Hollingsworth as Brady in episode 512 of Virgin River
Virgin River. Benjamin Hollingsworth as Brady in episode 512 of Virgin River | Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2023

While we're waiting for Virgin River season 7, which recently wrapped filming in June 2025, we're keeping up to date with the cast for any new updates. Whether it's sharing behind the scenes snaps from the set or landing new roles, anything that keeps us connected with Virgin River is welcome!

Even though the hit Netflix original romantic drama series was renewed for season 8, which makes Virgin River the longest-running scripted drama on the streamer, there's some news that's just as exciting to share with fans of the show. One of its fan-favorite stars just landed a starring role in an upcoming Christmas movie based on a new Karen Kingsbury book!

Benjamin Hollingsworth, who plays Brady in Virgin River, is no stranger to making Christmas movies as a regular on the Hallmark Channel during Countdown to Christmas season. But his latest role will take him to the big screen. Hollingsworth will star in The Christmas Ring alongside One Tree Hill alum Jana Kramer and Frasier icon Kelsey Grammer.

Virgin River. Benjamin Hollingsworth as Brady in episode 511 of Virgin River
Virgin River. Benjamin Hollingsworth as Brady in episode 511 of Virgin River | Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2023

Based on the book of the same name by Karen Kingsbury, who has written a number of best-selling novels that have been turned into television movies, theatrical movies, and series, The Christmas Ring centers on a widow (played by Kramer) looking for a missing family ring. She comes across a charming antiques dealer (played by Hollingsworth), whose father somehow might have ended up with the heirloom. Grammer will most likely the father of Hollingsworth's character.

The Christmas Ring sounds like the perfect holiday movie for Virgin River fans to watch while waiting for season 7 to make its premiere. While part of the story takes place in modern day Columbus, Georgia, the film also travels back in time to World War II. But beneath it all, there's a touching love story, and based on Kingsbury's past works, there will probably be a twist that will not just pull but tug on our heartstrings. Yeah, this one's definitely going to make us cry!

The book upon which the movie is based hits shelves on Oct. 21, giving viewers plenty of time to dive into the story on the page before it hits the screen. But not too much time! The movie will be release theatrically by Fathom Entertainment on Nov. 6.

We're still waiting to hear if Netflix will release Virgin River season 7 in 2025 or if it will be pushed until early 2026. There's a chance the new episodes could premiere before the end of the year, which could possibly even coincide with the release of The Christmas Ring, or at least be in close proximity. Stay tuned for more news and updates on all things Virgin River.


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