Production for the upcoming season of Netflix’s Virgin River has expanded to Mexico. Following the wrap of principal photography in Vancouver, a small crew filmed scenes in Tulum for the honeymoon of characters Mel Monroe and Jack Sheridan. Showrunner Patrick Sean Smith confirmed the location shoot for Episode 8, titled "La Luna De Miel," noting the Yucatán Peninsula’s scenery provides a stark contrast to the series’ usual British Columbia setting.
Key Takeaways:
- Cast and crew filmed honeymoon scenes in Tulum, Mexico, after completing Vancouver production.
- Episode 8, "La Luna De Miel," will feature the Mexican setting for Mel and Jack’s post-wedding getaway.
- Showrunner Patrick Sean Smith stated the production utilized a combination of traveling crew and local Mexican crew members.
- The Yucatán Peninsula’s beaches and waters were selected to visually distinguish the honeymoon from the show’s Pacific Northwest aesthetic.
Production Travels to Tulum for Key Episode
The decision to film on location in Mexico marks a significant logistical step for the series, which is primarily filmed in Canada. The move underscores the narrative importance of Mel and Jack’s honeymoon within the seventh season. The two-day shoot in Tulum aimed to capture authentic scenery, moving beyond the use of soundstages or local Canadian stand-ins for the tropical destination long debated by the characters.
Honeymoon Arc Follows Season 6 Cliffhangers
The honeymoon plotline follows the major developments of Season 6, which culminated in Mel and Jack’s wedding. Their marriage and subsequent trip represent a central storyline for the new season, offering characters a respite from the dramatic events of Virgin River. The behind-the-scenes shift to a real Mexican location signals the show’s investment in this character milestone.
Conclusion:
The on-location filming in Mexico highlights the expanding scale of Virgin River‘s production as it enters its seventh season. This move provides a tangible new setting for a key character moment, aiming to deliver the visual payoff fans expect for Mel and Jack’s long-anticipated honeymoon. The episode is slated for release as part of the full season drop on Netflix.
