ComScore

'One Tree Hill' & 'Gilmore Girls' Stars Team Up for New CW Series—& It Has a 'Virgin River' Connection

We're feeling all the nostalgia right now, because two of our favorite CW alums from Gilmore Girls are returning to The CW for an epic new series. Even better? The show has a special connection to Netflix's Virgin River.

According to TV Insider, Luke Danes and Tristin Dugray Scott Patterson and Chad Michael Murray (also known for playing Lucas Scott on One Tree Hill) are teaming up and returning to The CW in the new series, Sullivan's Crossing. And the feel-good drama, which already made its debut in Canada in March, is based on the book series by Robyn Carr, who also authored the Virgin River books. So, if you're craving another comfort show that feels almost exactly like the Netflix hit, you'll want to add this one to your queue.

The show revolves around Maggie Sullivan, a neurosurgeon whose life is turned upside down when her business partner gets arrested for fraud. Eager to get a fresh start and escape the drama, she moves back to her childhood home, Sullivan's Crossing. But aside from reconnecting with family and old friends, Maggie also has to deal with her complicated past.

Fortunately for fans of the books, Carr is deeply involved in the process. She said in a statement, “It’s a pleasure to be working once again with executive producer and showrunner Roma Roth to bring yet another one of my novel series to life on the small screen. Scott Patterson is the ideal actor to play Sully Sullivan and both Morgan Kohan and Chad Michael Murray are the perfect fit as Maggie Sullivan and Cal Jones.”

As for what fans can expect, the series will definitely touch on deep themes and feature stellar performances, according to Brad Schwartz, President of Entertainment at The CW Network. He said in his statement, “Sullivan’s Crossing is an emotionally rich, authentic family drama that will immediately resonate with audiences, thanks to an incredible cast and relatable themes of self-reflection, second chances and the power of community. Alongside a breakout performance from Morgan Kohan, it is incredibly special to bring Chad and Scott back home to The CW.”

Lisa Honig, EVP Distribution North America, Fremantle, also referred to the new series as a "strong, character-driven family drama." She said, “We are thrilled to continue a strong partnership with them, especially around a series as genuine, compassionate and entertaining as this.”

The show's cast includes Lynda Boyd, Andrea Menard, Tom Jackson and Allan Hawco. A U.S. release date hasn't been confirmed just yet, but we do know that Sullivan’s Crossing will hit The CW in Fall 2023. As soon as we hear more details, you'll be the first to know.

Want all the latest entertainment news sent right to your inbox? Click here.



nakeisha campbell bio

Associate Editor, News and Entertainment

  • Writes celebrity news, TV/movie reviews and SEO-focused entertainment articles
  • Interviews celebrities and covers red carpet events
  • Has 8+ years of experience covering entertainment topics