Kandyse McClure, who plays Kaia Bryant on Netflix’sVirgin River, opens up about the potential future of Kaia’s relationship with Preacher (Colin Lawrence). Based on Robyn Carr’s beloved books,Virgin Riverfollows the interwoven lives, romances, and secrets of the residents in the charming titular town. The romantic drama’s sixth season, which just recently dropped on the streamer, further explores Preacher’s romance with Kaia, a tough-willed firefighter who emerges as a significant figure in Preacher’s life after a string of failed relationships.
In an interview withScreen Rant’s Zak Wojnar,Battlestar Galacticaveteran McClure discussed the possible romantic horizons of Kaia and Preacherin the wake of his tumultuous murder trial involving a troublesome ex-flame. McClure was first confronted with Preacher’s string of failed relationships, declaring, “This is such a theme!” Reflecting on the chemistry between the two, and Preacher’s emotional evolution that’s led him to a fairly comfortable place among the denizens of the idyllic Virgin River, McClure shared the following:
Writers, if you’re listening, let me be the one! So, for his previous relationships… I mean, the Preacher is a hard nut to crack. Let’s not put it all on the women, although they also had some stuff going on, let’s be clear. But Preacher, for so long, I mean, he’s such a self-contained kind of character. He has an established place in the town. He’s such a recognizable feature with the bar and his close relationship with Jack… He’s so steadfast in many ways.
I think we get to kind of see where the cracks are, but I think because Kaia is so flawed in so many ways and kind of sticks her foot in it a lot, (laughs), that allows Preacher to not have to be so together and so perfect all the time, because that’s kind of how he is a lot of the time.So that relationship brings out the vulnerability in both of them.And I think that’s what’s different about this relationship. But I hear it, I hear the people arguing in my comment section!
What Preacher & Kaia’s Romantic Journey Means For Virgin River
Breaking Down Walls And Building Vulnerability
Preacher and Kaia’s evolving relationship inVirgin Riverunderscores the series' dedication to authentically portraying the complex and often gritty realities of love and connection. As both characters navigate their own personal baggage,Kaia proves to be a steadfast presence for Preacher, offering unwavering support during his trial for helping his ex, Paige, hide the body of her abusive husband.
McClure contends Kaia’s imperfections—her brashness, independence, and occasional missteps—allow Preacher to shed his “perfect” exterior and explore his own flaws. She’s been reluctant to fully embrace her love with Preacher after a recent divorce. Yet, a mutual decision to let their relationship develop without a ringoffers a refreshing break from typical romantic tropes. Instead of passively riding the relationship escalator, the two intend to focus on the strength of their bond and compatibilityforVirgin Riverseason 7, which has already been confirmed by Netflix.
Can Their Connection Survive Uneven Expectations?
While Preacher and Kaia’s relationship brings a refreshing dynamic tothe romance ofVirgin River,their future is far from certain. Preacher and Kaia’s bond was emboldened by a challenge, but this imbalance in readiness could mean future challenges for the two. Preacher’s patience is admirable, but it’s unclear how long he can set aside his desire for marriage as he waits for Kaia to fully embrace their connection. Her self-awareness may strengthen their foundation, but it also leaves questions about whether they’re truly on the same path to a lasting relationship. This makes theirVirgin Riverfuture very intriguing.
Virgin River
Cast
Virgin River is a romantic drama series released in 2019, centering on a recently divorced nurse who relocates from a big city to the redwood forests of California. There, she starts a new life and encounters an intriguing local man, setting the stage for a complex narrative of personal and community relationships.
