The hit Netflix series ‘Virgin River‘ has captivated audiences since December 2019. The show’s protagonist, nurse and midwife Melinda Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge) crept into our hearts with her compelling story. Mel arrives in a small, close-knit community of Virgin River seeking a new beginning but her past remains a mystery for most of season 1, revealed gradually through dramatic flashbacks.
Mel starts to grow closer with the local bar owner Jack Sheridan (Mark Henderson), however just like in any small town, the rumor mill starts speculating about the wedding ring that she continues to wear. The audience is left to wonder about the mysterious fate of Mel’s husband, Mark. She eventually shares the truth about her husband’s untimely demise and why she still feels guilty about it.
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How Did Mark Die?
Prior to Mark’s death, Mel and Mark were excitedly anticipating the birth of their child, but unfortunately, their pregnancy ends in stillbirth. This is devastating for the couple and Mel ends up in depression which strains their marriage. They decide to try again, and start undergoing infertility treatments but are unable to conceive again.
Mark wanted to discontinue the treatments when he saw the toll it was taking on Mel and their marriage, however, Mel did not quite agree. One day, they get into a heated argument about this while they’re driving and Mark takes his eyes off the road which leads to a horrible accident. Mark is then rushed to the hospital where he succumbs to his injuries leaving Meg feeling guilty for the unfortunate turn of events.
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How Mark’s Death Changed Mel
Mark’s death leaves a significant scar on Mel, who not only finds it difficult to cope with his death but also blames herself for it. Mel grapples with this grief, throughout the entire series while adjusting to her new life in Virgin River. As season 2 begins, Mel struggles with her feelings for Jack as the one-year death anniversary of Mark nears. When Mark’s sister Stacie, shows up unexpectedly and asks for the family engagement ring back, Mel is forced to confront her demons.
Mark was absent from season 3 and season 4 but his presence in Mel’s life is palpable. Before Mark died, Mel had some embryos frozen and she undergoes fertility treatments in season 3 after her breakup with Jack. Mel and Jack get back together in season 4 and she discovers she is pregnant. Now the real question is whether the baby is Mark’s or Jack’s.
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