Virgin River Prequel Series, Focused On Mel's Parents, Eyed At Netflix

Netflix could be taking a closer look at Mel Monroe's family tree.

A Virgin River prequel series, focused on the young versions of Mel's (Alexandra Breckenridge) parents, is in development at the streamer, according to our sister site Deadline.

The potential series will reportedly explore the origin story between Mel's late mom, Sarah, and Everett Reid, who was revealed to be Mel's biological father in Virgin River's two-part Christmas special last November. Casting is currently underway for the roles of Young Sarah and Young Everett, who will first appear via flashbacks in Virgin River's upcoming sixth season, with the potential for them to then headline the prequel.

A Netflix rep declined to confirm the news.

SEPT. 23 UPDATE: As first reported by Deadline, Jessica Rothe (Happy Death Day) and Callum Kerr (Hollyoaks) have respectively been cast as Young Sarah and Young Everett for Virgin River Season 6 and the potential prequel series.

Production on the mothership's sixth season has officially begun in Vancouver, with a return date slated for 2025. As showrunner Patrick Sean Smith — who is reportedly writing the prequel — previously told TVLine, Season 6 will explore "sort of a paternal love triangle" between Mel, biological dad Everett and longtime father figure Doc.

"Doc has always been a surrogate father to Mel, so we'll see what happens when her actual biological father comes into her life and how that affects their relationship," Smith said.

How do you feel about a possible Virgin River prequel? And who would you cast as young Sarah and Everett?