Tragedy Strikes as 'Virgin River' Star Passes Away at Home

Netflix hasn’t officially renewed Virgin River for Season 9 yet, but the latest casting update is giving fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic.

Nurses and SkyMed star Natasha Calis has signed on for a major recurring role in Season 8 as Dr. Astrid, a surgeon temporarily assigned to Doc’s clinic. However, industry reports indicate that her deal includes provisions for a potential promotion to series regular status in future seasons.

That’s significant because studios typically don’t include those options unless they’re considering a character for a longer-term future.

‘Virgin River’ star’s mother and stepfather ‘died violent deaths’ in South of France: report

Combined with the addition of EMT Eddie, played by Mitchell Slaggert, the series appears to be expanding its world and introducing fresh faces who could help carry the show into future chapters.