‘Virgin River’ Star Sends Message to Fans After Unexpected Exit

Warning: this article contains spoilers from Virgin River Season 7.

It’s been a couple of weeks since news broke that Virgin River was losing two long-time cast members ahead of Season 8 filming.

Marco Grazzini (Mike) and Lauren Hammersley (Charmaine) have wrapped their Virgin River run, for now, after Season 7. The good news is that the door is open for the characters to return.

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However, for the actors, it’s time to move on to the next chapter. Grazzini addressed his exit, admitting he plans to focus on family time while pursuing new acting roles.

The other day, Grazzini took to social media to send a special message to all of those involved with Virgin Rivers over the past few years.

“First of all, if you haven’t watched any of season seven or any of the previous seasons, you can go and do that on Netflix. Having said that, spoiler alert, Mike, AKA me, is not coming back for season eight. So, I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to Netflix. Thank you to everyone who’s ever been involved with Virgin River, both in front of and behind the camera. I’ll miss you and thank you,” he expressed.

Grazzini then took a moment to speak to fans directly, because if it weren’t for them, then Virgin Riverwould not have had the major success it has had.

“A huge, huge, huge thank you to the fan base across the world. You guys are so, so passionate and so loving and so kind, and are truly what makes the show so special. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you,” the actor stated.

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Some of Grazzini’s former Virgin River co-stars popped up in the comments to show him some love, including his former on-screen love, Zibby Allen (Brie).

“Love you ❤️,” she wrote, keeping it simple.

Related: Where Is ‘Virgin River’ Filmed?

Ben Hollingsworth (Brady) had more of a message for Grazzini. “Love you brotha’ – you’re such a class act and it was an absolute pleasure and a joy to work with you. It started 20 years ago 🤯 and it’s not anywhere close to being done yet. I’ll see u down the road on another one but I’ll always be a phone call away for you. Much love my man. #bdaypalsforlife.”

This isn’t the only time Hollingsworth had sweet words for his former co-star. Hollingsworth broke his silence on Grazzini’s Virgin River exit recently to give mad props to his pal.

Kai Bradbury (Denny) told Grazzini, “Until next time,” and Alexandra Breckenridge (Mel) left several emojis to show her love for the actor.

It’s the end of an era for Grazzini, but he’s grateful for those who’ve supported him along the way on his Virgin River journey.

Next: Is a ‘Virgin River’ and ‘Sullivan’s Crossing’ Crossover in the Works?