For a show built on warm firesides, breathtaking landscapes, and tender romance, Virgin River has always relied on its darker corners to keep viewers hooked. And few characters embody that tension more than Dan Brady, the rebellious Marine-turned-town troublemaker whose presence has fueled both heartbreak and redemption.

Now, with Virgin River Season 7 on the horizon, the man behind the role—Benjamin Hollingsworth—is opening up about a chilling possibility: Brady may not survive the next chapter. Fans are left asking the question no one wants to face: Is Virgin River about to lose its most complicated “villain”?

From Villain to Vulnerable: Brady’s Unlikely Journey

When audiences first met Brady, he was a hot-headed risk-taker entangled in Calvin’s drug empire, clashing with Jack, and walking a thin line between loyalty and betrayal. He was reckless, infuriating, and undeniably magnetic—the kind of character you love to hate.

But over time, Virgin River dared to give Brady something more: humanity. We saw his regret, his fight for redemption, and perhaps most poignantly, his romance with Brie Sheridan (Zibby Allen). Their relationship gave Brady a second chance—not only at love, but at life.

It’s this transformation that makes his possible exit sting even more.

Why Hollingsworth Is Nervous About Brady’s Future

In recent interviews, Hollingsworth admitted he’s anxious about what Season 7 holds. His concern is rooted in the reality of television writing: once a redemption arc reaches its peak, writers often struggle with what comes next.

“Characters like Brady walk a fine line,” he hinted. “You want them to grow, but when they’ve redeemed themselves, sometimes the story runs out of road.”

It’s a sobering thought: that Brady’s success as a reformed antihero could also be the very thing that seals his fate.

Fan Favorite or Expendable Piece?

Virgin River fans have proven their loyalty time and again, and Brady has become one of the show’s most debated figures. For some, he’ll always be the bad boy who nearly destroyed Jack’s world. For others, he’s the flawed romantic hero whose love for Brie redeems every past mistake.

That passion could play a critical role in his survival. In today’s TV landscape, fan outcry has the power to sway storylines—sometimes even saving characters who were destined for the chopping block. If Netflix and the writers see Brady as essential to Brie’s journey (and the audience’s investment), they may choose to keep him around.

What Could Happen to Brady in Season 7?

Several scenarios loom over Brady’s head:

• A Heroic Sacrifice: Brady could go out in a blaze of glory, laying down his life to protect those he loves—an ending that would cement his redemption forever.

• A Forced Exit: His troubled past may resurface, driving him out of Virgin River for good in a bittersweet departure.

• A New Chapter: The writers could surprise us with a fresh storyline—perhaps Brady taking on a leadership role, mentoring a new arrival, or deepening his roots with Brie.

Each path carries weight, but only one will define his legacy.

Why Losing Brady Would Hurt

Brady isn’t just another face in Virgin River; he’s a reminder that even in the coziest of towns, people carry scars. His presence adds grit, unpredictability, and emotional depth to the series. Without him, the show risks losing its delicate balance between comfort and chaos.

And then there’s Brie. Their relationship—messy, real, and earned—stands apart from the fairy-tale romance of Mel and Jack. Removing Brady would force Brie’s storyline into painful new territory, altering the heart of the show in ways fans may not forgive.

The Verdict: A Future Hanging in the Balance

As Hollingsworth himself admits, Brady’s fate remains uncertain. The writers may see him as a completed arc, or they may recognize his untapped potential. For now, all fans can do is speculate, hope, and perhaps make their voices heard.

Because one thing is clear: love him or hate him, Brady is essential to Virgin River’s DNA. And if Season 7 truly marks his last ride, it won’t just be the end of a character—it’ll be the end of an era.

 Virgin River Season 7 is set to premiere on Netflix in 2025.