Marco Grazzini reacts to his series exit in an exclusive statement to EW.

*Virgin River *actor addresses his departure from series for ‘new chapter’ in career (exclusive)

Marco Grazzini reacts to his series exit in an exclusive statement to EW.

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on March 12, 2026 9:52 p.m. ET

Marco Grazzini and Ben Hollingsworth on 'Virgin River'. Credit:

Courtesy of Netflix

- *Virgin River* actor Marco Grazzini reacts to his series exit in an exclusive statement to *Entertainmnet Weekly*.

- Grazzini played Mike across six seasons of the beloved Netflix drama.

- The actor tells EW he's ready for a "new chapter" in his career after the show.

Marco Grazzini has addressed his unexpected exit from the *Virgin River* cast after six seasons.

In an exclusive statement to* , *Grazzini — who first recurred on the Netflix drama on season 2 in 2020, before joining the main cast for seasons 3-7 — speaks on his exit, calling the series a meaningful part of his career so far.

"Character departures are very common in this business — especially on a long-running and beloved series like *Virgin River. *It’s been a wonderful opportunity to play Mike for six seasons," he says of playing the local officer, who eventually becomes involved in a love triangle with Zibby Allen's Brie and Ben Hollingsworth's Brady.

Marco Grazzini as Mike on 'Virgin River' season 7.

Courtesy of Netflix

Grazzini's statement continues, with the actor telling EW he has "nothing but love for the cast, crew, and especially the phenomenal fans who make the show so special."

"I’m excited for this new chapter in my career," he finishes.

Earlier Thursday (the same day season 7 premiered on Netflix), EW confirmed that Grazzini and Lauren Hammersley — the actress behind OG character Charmaine Roberts — would not return for the upcoming eighth season.

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EW has additionally reached out to a representative for Hammersley for comment.

*Virgin River *season 7 marks one of the twistiest in the series' history, with Mike and Charmaine at the center of a particularly harrowing subplot involving the latter's disappearance from the titular town.

Along the way, Mike and Brie's bond is tested, all while Brady re-enters the mix.

Adapted from Robyn Carr's novel series, *Virgin River* premiered in 2019 on Netflix, and follows the life of Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge), who travels to the secluded California hamlet to rebuild her life after the death of her husband.

Mike actor Marco Grazzini on 'Virgin River'.

Courtesy of Netflix

There, she meets an eclectic group of characters, including Jack Sheridan (Martin Henderson), a former Marine who falls for Mel — all while the new couple navigates the challenges of small-town life alongside an ever-expanding roster of locals.

In addition to *Virgin River*, Grazzini's work includes roles in films like* Good Sam *and* Anon, *as well as a major voice role in the animated *Total Drama World Tour *series.

He's also a regular actor on the Hallmark and Lifetime circuit, having filmed several television films for both networks.**

*Virgin River* season 7 is now streaming on Netflix.

Original Article on Source

Source: “EW Drama”