Virgin River’s Martin Henderson Spills on Jack’s Epic Season 6 Journey & Finale Shocker!

WARNING: This article contains spoilers from Season 6 of Netflix’s Virgin River.

Since Mel first entered Jack’s bar in the debut episode of Virgin River, Jack was certain she was his soulmate. However, his journey towards marital bliss was anything but smooth, frequently hindered by the shadows of his past, notably his time in the Marines. These issues resurfaced during the events leading up to their wedding in Season 6, climaxing during his bachelor party with old military comrades.

In Season 6, Jack truly stepped into the role of the romantic hero. He was seen riding a horse, sweeping his future bride off her feet when she was overwhelmed with doubt just before their wedding ceremony. In one of the series’ most heartwarming moments, Jack recited his vows flawlessly at the very spot where they had their first date.

In a recent chat with Deadline, Martin Henderson, who also directed episodes this season, discussed Jack’s quest for closure. This included resolving issues from his military service and his previous marriage as he readies for a new life phase. He expressed his concerns about Season 6 and adjustments he made to Jack’s speech by the river. Henderson also talked about his experience riding a horse and Jack’s potential future as a father. He teased what he discovered in the last moments of the finale when he entered the disheveled nursery at Charmaine’s house and hinted at when he might consider leaving the series.

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Henderson also discussed with Deadline whether he would consider returning to Grey’s Anatomy. To delve into all the pressing questions from Season 6 and expectations for Season 7, check out Deadline’s interview with showrunner Patrick Sean Smith.

DEADLINE: You’re among the few who know what actually happens in the finale’s cliffhanger, as we last see Jack’s reaction. Can you hint at what occurs in that nursery?

HENDERSON: It might disappoint some fans, but I genuinely don’t know what I was supposed to be looking at in that scene. It was scripted that Jack checks on Charmaine, who was absent from the wedding. So he goes to her house, and upon entering a room, finds signs of a disturbance. Something catches his attention, but it was never specified what he saw. During filming, I asked the director what my reaction should be focused on, and even she was unsure as the script didn’t specify, which was quite daunting as an actor.

As Jack’s wedding approaches, he faces his past once again, including at his bachelor party with his Marine buddies. It seems he finally comes to terms with his military past when he dons his uniform at the wedding. What are your thoughts on this?

HENDERSON: It’s powerful to see Jack and Mel openly declare their love in their vows. On the brink of such a profound commitment, Jack contemplates his life’s next chapter and the need to close the previous one. This reflection includes acknowledging his Marine identity, recognizing the honor but also the pain it brought. Throughout the season, Jack grapples with his past, facing his first marriage and dealing with old accolades, trying to reconcile the good and the bad within him.

Jack’s journey of self-reflection is evident when he revisits his relationship with his first wife, Mandy. Initially trivialized to Mel, his interactions with Mandy reveal deeper ties and necessary closures. This season, Jack strives to embrace the complexity of life, acknowledging both the darkness and the light within, which he beautifully encapsulates in his riverside vows to Mel.

DEADLINE: Discuss returning to the location where Mel and Jack first connected in Season 1 for that heartfelt speech that likely melted many hearts?

HENDERSON: That scene was particularly meaningful. I was initially concerned about the grandeur of the wedding overshadowing the intimacy of Jack and Mel’s bond. However, the script’s direction, which had Jack whisk Mel away on horseback to a private ceremony at their special spot, beautifully balanced the personal significance with romantic gestures, capturing the essence of their bond and Jack’s deep understanding and support for Mel.

DEADLINE: Did you have a hand in crafting any of Jack’s lines, or was it all scripted?

HENDERSON: While the core ideas were in the script, I collaborated with the writers to tweak and refine Jack’s dialogue, ensuring it conveyed the emotional depth and authenticity needed for those significant moments. The writers were incredibly open to my input, which helped shape the final heartfelt delivery.

DEADLINE: Tell us about your experience riding a horse in those dynamic scenes. Is this new for you?

HENDERSON: I’ve always enjoyed horseback riding. I rode a bit as a child and later for a Western project. It’s thrilling to incorporate that into Jack’s character, adding a layer of romance and freedom that complements the show’s aesthetic.

DEADLINE: With Jack potentially becoming a father soon, how do you feel about him stepping into this new role alongside Mel?

HENDERSON: The prospect of Jack and Mel starting a family is a natural progression in their story. Despite the rapid pace of their relationship in the show’s timeline, the audience has been eagerly awaiting this development. The blend of marriage and potential parenthood will likely be warmly embraced as it fulfills a long-held dream for both characters, adding a new layer to their shared narrative.

DEADLINE: What are your thoughts on Jack’s future on the show, and how long do you envision staying with the series?

HENDERSON: My commitment to the show depends on my ability to bring authenticity to Jack’s character and the writers’ capacity to keep the storylines resonant and true. As long as we continue to satisfy our audience and I feel engaged with Jack’s journey, I’m happy to stay on. Ultimately, the decision may hinge on the audience’s continued interest and engagement.