If you’re among the millions captivated by Virgin River—with its heartfelt storytelling, emotional slow-burn romance, and that ever-enchanting small-town charm—then you’ve likely stumbled across

a heated debate online. Netflix has just released a new series that fans are calling “a carbon copy” of Virgin River. But instead of celebrating the addition of more cozy drama to binge,

loyal viewers are up in arms, passionately warning: “Do NOT watch it.”

That’s a strong reaction, especially from a fanbase known for embracing comfort TV. So what’s really happening here? Why is there such intense backlash against this new series? And perhaps most importantly: is it truly worth skipping, or is this controversy masking a hidden gem?

Let’s unravel the drama behind the drama.

Netflix’s Newest Drama Sparks Controversy
Netflix’s latest comfort-viewing offering seemingly delivers everything Virgin River fans adore: a female protagonist starting over, a tight-knit rural community teeming with secrets, a rugged yet tender male lead, and just the right amount of romantic tension. The new show in question? Sweet Magnolias.

From the outset, Sweet Magnolias checks all the familiar boxes. It follows Maddie Townsend, a woman picking up the pieces after her marriage crumbles. Like Mel Monroe in Virgin River, Maddie flees emotional turmoil, finding solace in a charming small town filled with unexpected friendships and new beginnings. There’s also the requisite love interest—Coach Cal—who seems to channel that same brooding charm fans fell in love with in Jack Sheridan.

Yet despite the surface-level similarities, the reaction among Virgin River loyalists has been anything but welcoming.