When it comes to Virgin River, one of Netflix’s most beloved small-town dramas, there’s always been a certain magic about the series that keeps fans hooked. Whether it’s the sweeping Northern California landscapes, the cozy town charm, or the undeniable chemistry between the characters, Virgin River offers the kind of heartfelt escapism that television viewers crave. But behind all the beauty and drama, myths and misconceptions about the show’s production have spread widely among fans. Now, Tim Matheson—who plays the gruff yet lovable Doc Mullins—has stepped forward to debunk some of the biggest myths about life on set, giving audiences a glimpse into the real world behind their favorite fictional town.
For many fans, one of the biggest myths has been about the filming location itself. Countless viewers believed that the series was shot in Northern California, given that the story takes place in a fictional town along the West Coast. However, Matheson has clarified that Virgin River is filmed almost entirely in British Columbia, Canada, particularly in and around Vancouver. The lush forests, mountains, and rivers of Canada stand in perfectly for Northern California, and thanks to skilled cinematography, most fans never realized the difference. This revelation often surprises new viewers who assumed the series showcased real California landscapes.
Another myth Tim addressed revolves around the seemingly endless small-town coziness of Virgin River. Many fans have wondered if the town square, Jack’s Bar, and Doc’s clinic were actual functioning buildings in a real town. The truth, according to Matheson, is that much of the set is a combination of real locations and detailed set design. Jack’s Bar, for example, is a real building in British Columbia that has been transformed into the central hangout spot for the show, though its interior is often recreated on a soundstage. Similarly, Doc’s clinic exists as a quaint building on location, but much of what fans see inside is filmed in constructed sets. The blending of these two methods helps create the immersive, authentic atmosphere that viewers have come to love.
One of the funniest myths that Matheson enjoys addressing is the assumption that the cast members spend their downtime together in the same close-knit way their characters do on screen. While the cast does have a warm bond and often shares meals or laughs between takes, the reality is that filming days can be long and exhausting. Actors spend much of their time preparing lines, working with directors, or simply resting before the next scene. While there are friendships that have developed naturally—Matheson himself has praised Alexandra Breckenridge (Mel) and Martin Henderson (Jack) for their professionalism and warmth—the cast is not literally living in a Virgin River-style community off-camera. In fact, Matheson points out that some days the schedule is so packed that the actors only have a few quick moments to catch up before diving back into work.
Another widespread belief among fans is that filming a show with such emotional depth must be emotionally draining for the cast. While Matheson admits that some storylines are heavy—Doc’s own battles with aging, eyesight, and pride have been particularly challenging—he also emphasizes that filming is often filled with laughter and lightheartedness. The cast and crew know how to balance serious moments with humor, and this helps keep morale high. Behind the camera, bloopers and inside jokes are a regular occurrence, which makes the intense storylines more manageable. Fans might be surprised to know that some of the most dramatic scenes were filmed after moments of hilarity between takes.
One myth that always resurfaces is about the show’s timeline. Fans often speculate about how quickly time passes in Virgin River, since pregnancies, relationships, and seasons sometimes feel condensed or stretched out unnaturally. Matheson has clarified that the slightly “elastic” timeline is intentional, allowing the writers flexibility to explore character arcs without being tied too rigidly to the calendar. In reality, a single season of the show may cover only a few weeks or months in the characters’ lives, which can feel disorienting to viewers but works within the narrative structure.
Matheson also enjoys debunking myths about Doc Mullins himself. Many viewers assume that his character’s gruffness mirrors his own personality, but he insists that he is far less cranky in real life. While he admits to occasionally enjoying a good sarcastic remark, Matheson describes himself as much more easygoing and playful off-camera. He views Doc as a complex character with layers of vulnerability hidden beneath his stern exterior, and he approaches the role with great care to ensure audiences see more than just a curmudgeonly doctor. This distinction between actor and character is one that many fans forget, especially because Matheson has embodied Doc so convincingly.
One of the more persistent myths is that the production of Virgin River is a glamorous Hollywood experience. In reality, filming in British Columbia comes with its challenges. The weather can be unpredictable, and rain is a constant factor the crew must work around. Shooting in natural locations means long days outdoors, sometimes in the cold, and the logistics of transporting equipment, cast, and crew can be grueling. Matheson has shared that while the end product looks seamless, the behind-the-scenes work is anything but easy. The dedication of the crew is what allows Virgin River to maintain its polished and picturesque look despite these obstacles.
Perhaps the most heartwarming truth that Tim Matheson has shared is about the impact of the fans. While some myths might paint the actors as detached from the audience, Matheson makes it clear that the cast is deeply aware of how much the show means to viewers. Letters, social media messages, and even chance encounters with fans highlight the emotional connection people feel to Virgin River’s characters and storylines. Matheson has expressed gratitude for this support, acknowledging that the fans are what keep the show thriving season after season.
In conclusion, Tim Matheson’s insights remind us that while Virgin River may feel like a magical, idyllic escape on screen, the reality behind the scenes is far more grounded. The myths—about filming locations, cast relationships, production glamour, and even Doc Mullins himself—paint an incomplete picture. By debunking these misconceptions, Matheson offers fans a deeper appreciation for the artistry and effort that goes into making the series. The truth, in many ways, is just as fascinating as the fiction. Virgin River thrives not because it is perfect or effortless, but because of the dedication, authenticity, and care that the cast and crew bring to every episode.
