The long-running original show on Netflix, known as “Virgin River,” has been a massive success for the streaming service, with six seasons under its belt (and season 7 in production). A significant portion of this dedicated audience is due to the fact that many were already fans of Robyn Carr’s book series with the same title. It’s quite unexpected that the second series based on Robyn Carr’s books, titled “Sullivan’s Crossing,” doesn’t seem to generate the same excitement as “Virgin River,” despite sharing similar storylines.
In both TV series, ‘Sullivan’s Crossing’ and ‘Virgin River’, the leading ladies – Maggie and Mel respectively – abandon their demanding roles in healthcare and settle into peaceful countryside settings. Each encounters a rugged male counterpart who carries his own heart-wrenching past – Cal in ‘Sullivan’s Crossing’ and Jack in ‘Virgin River’. Although these shows have distinct elements, author Robyn Carr is recognized for repeating similar storylines and characters in her novels. Consequently, it’s reasonable to assume that ‘Sullivan’s Crossing’ will replicate the popularity of ‘Virgin River’. However, up until now, it hasn’t quite reached those peaks, and here are a few possible explanations for this discrepancy.
Sullivan’s Crossing Is Still Considered A Success – But It’s Less Stable Than Virgin River
Its Season 3 Ratings Have Dropped
To avoid giving a misleading impression, I must clarify that the TV series Sullivan’s Crossing has indeed been successful. Since it’s co-produced by Canadian CTV and U.S. CW, it’s proven to be a significant hit on CTV and a somewhat less spectacular success for CW. The fact that it’s been renewed for season 3 is evidence of this. Furthermore, as a joint production, the financial burden of producing a TV series isn’t entirely shouldered by either CTV or CW due to its budget-friendly nature. This is mainly because its star cast, led by Chad Michael Murray, doesn’t demand high salaries and it doesn’t require extravagant sets for on-location shoots, much like Virgin River on Netflix.
As a passionate film buff, I must admit that while I’m thoroughly enjoying “Sullivan’s Crossing,” it hasn’t quite scaled the heights of “Virgin River” just yet. For a spell in its fifth season, “Virgin River” reigned supreme on Netflix as their number one show, a position that “Sullivan’s Crossing” has yet to occupy on The CW. As “Virgin River” boldly marches into its seventh season, there are whispers of potential turbulence for the ongoing third season of “Sullivan’s Crossing,” leaving fans in a state of uncertainty about whether we can expect a fourth season.
It’s too early to definitively say that the third season of Sullivan’s Crossing will be less successful, as it hasn’t finished yet. However, according to TV Series Finale, the current average ratings for season 3 are a 0.043 rating in the 18-45 demographic and 0.419 million viewers. This represents a decrease of -19.75% and -4.98% compared to the previous season.
Comparing Netflix’s internal data (which they claim is accurate) to CW’s Nielsen ratings is like comparing apples to oranges, and Netflix isn’t included in the drop in ratings for this season. Despite having time to improve, Sullivan’s Crossing isn’t currently showing signs of a positive trend.
Netflix’s Binge Model & The CW’s Weekly Release Model Are Very Different
Modern Audiences Are Accustomed To The Binge
In today’s world, where immediate satisfaction is valued, it’s clear that many viewers have grown accustomed to the convenience offered by shows like Netflix’s Virgin River, which release all seasons at once. On the other hand, programs like Sullivan’s Crossing on the CW air their seasons weekly. While one approach isn’t inherently superior to the other, it’s worth noting that in our fast-paced era, the binge model, popularized by Netflix, offers a lower commitment level compared to tuning in every week for a series. It’s easier to watch an entire show over a weekend than to remember to set aside time each week for a new episode.
It’s worth noting that streaming services have taken over the majority of the romance show market. In contrast, there are scarce romantic dramas on both network and cable TV these days. Notably, Starz’ popular series, Outlander, is wrapping up with season 8 this year. Given the long-standing focus on supernatural, superhero shows, and interconnected universes, one might not initially consider The CW as a go-to place for romantic dramas.
That Maggie & Cal Lack Chemistry Is A Common Complaint From Sullivan’s Crossing Viewers
Their Slow-Burn Storyline Grew Repetitive
As a passionate movie lover, I must admit it’s a challenge when the main romance in a romantic drama doesn’t resonate with viewers. This might be one reason why season 3 of Sullivan’s Crossing saw a dip in audience numbers. Now, not every fan of Sullivan’s Crossing feels this way, but it’s undeniable that a significant portion of the fanbase has expressed doubts about the convincing chemistry between Maggie Sullivan (Morgan Kohan) and Cal Jones (Chad Michael Murray), the series’ central couple.
Part of the criticism stemmed from viewers finding Maggie’s character annoying during the first two seasons due to her perceived closed-off demeanor, emotional immaturity, and indecisiveness when expressing her feelings. Additionally, her continuous relationship with Andrew (Allan Hawco), who seemed unsuitable for her, became a recurring theme that extended for too long, adding to the negative feedback.
In the second season of Sullivan’s Crossing, Maggie overcame her self-absorbed and uncertain nature, eventually finding herself with Cal. This resolution of their romantic tension might be the reason for a drop in viewership this season. Since viewers who were invested in their relationship now have no more suspense to keep them hooked, some may choose to stop watching. Indeed, the drawback of a romance storyline is that it can’t sustain itself forever on a will-they/won’t-they dynamic alone; once the tension subsides, some viewers might lose interest.
Virgin River Offers More Characters For Audiences To Care About Than Sullivan’s Crossing
No One Story Or Couple Has To Carry The Show
The concentration on a single theme might have led to Sullivan’s Crossing‘s season 3 not being successful, as Virgin River boasts multiple storylines and characters, with the central couple still being Mel (Alexandra Breckinridge) and Jack (Martin Henderson). Not all characters in Virgin River are universally adored, with Lizzie (Sarah Dugdale) being one that many viewers dislike. However, having a show with various storylines can be an advantage because the quality of individual characters or plotlines doesn’t solely determine the show’s success if some aren’t well-received by audiences.
| Actor | Sullivan’s Crossing Role | |
|---|---|---|
| Morgan Kohan | Maggie Sullivan | |
| Scott Patterson | Harry “Sully” Sullivan | |
| Chad Michael Murray | Cal Jones | |
| Tom Jackson | Frank Cranebear | |
| Andrea Menard | Edna Cranebear | |
| Amalia Williamson | Lola Gunderson | |
| Lindura | Sydney Shandon | |
| Dakota Taylor | Rafe | |
| Reid Price | Rob Shandon | |
| Steve Lund | Chief Cooper | |
| Kate Vernon | Helen Culver | |
| Joel Oulette | Jacob Cranebear | |
| Torri Higginson | Marissa Jones | |
| John Ralston | Jed Jones |
Initially, the show Sullivan’s Crossing heavily emphasized the romance between Maggie and Cal in the first two seasons, leaving little room for other characters or potential love stories to grow. Now that Maggie and Cal have become an official couple in season 3, the series is attempting to explore other relationships and new romantic interests. However, it seems that viewers aren’t as captivated – this much can be gathered from comments on social media and discussions on Reddit. In a romantic drama, it’s crucial for audiences to connect with the characters, unlike in some other genres where this isn’t always necessary for success.
Although it may not seem likely at the moment, there is still ample opportunity for Sullivan’s Crossing to emulate the success of Virgin River. The series is only halfway through its run on CTV in Canada, and we’ve reached season 3, episode 3 of Sullivan’s Crossing on the CW in the U.S. With all the essential components in place, there’s potential for more character development, leading to fresh storylines that could draw viewers back in, and perhaps even more deeply than Maggie and Cal’s narrative. If a fourth season does materialize, it might benefit from studying Virgin River as a model for enduring popularity.
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2025-06-01 02:39