“it meant more than i ever expected—it changed everything for us.” — Benjamin Hollingsworth unexpectedly shared a personal message that quickly caught fans off guard, hinting at a deeply meaningful moment behind the scenes. The Virgin River star’s words subtly point to a “special honor” that carries more weight than it first appears, suggesting a turning point that reshaped his family’s journey and quietly stirred widespread curiosity.

Virgin River star Benjamin Hollingsworth has shared how being cast in the popular series transformed his life in meaningful ways—both professionally and personally.

Now 41, the actor appears in Season 7 of the hit Netflix show, which premiered on March 12, 2026. Since joining the series, he has gained widespread recognition and says he is approached by fans almost every day. However, beyond the fame, the most significant change has been how the show reshaped his family’s lifestyle.

Originally from Ontario, Canada, Benjamin had spent about 15 years working in Los Angeles, taking on various acting roles. He explained that landing a role in Virgin River marked the first time he had a steady, long-term project in his home country. This consistency eventually led to a major life decision.

After filming the third season, Benjamin and his wife chose to relocate permanently to Canada. They built a home in British Columbia, making it their family base. For him, this move carried deep personal meaning. As a father of three, he values raising his children in the same environment he grew up in, describing it as both an honor and a privilege.

Benjamin has been married to Nila Myers since 2012. The couple first met in 2010 and married two years later. Together, they have three children: Hemingway Nash, Gatsby Willem, and Juniper Bloom. Reflecting on their relationship, Nila once shared on social media how their life together exceeded her expectations, especially with the joy of raising their three children.

Although the family initially started their life together in Los Angeles, they now fully embrace their Canadian identity. Benjamin has expressed pride in raising his children there, noting that many Canadians may overlook how fortunate they are to live in such a supportive and beautiful environment.

He also pointed out that the fictional town in Virgin River feels more reflective of a Canadian community than an American one. Interestingly, his real-life surroundings closely mirror the show’s setting. Living in a small town in British Columbia, Benjamin says the environment is very similar to the one depicted in the series, making it an ideal place to raise a family.

The actor and his wife frequently share glimpses of their life in Canada on social media. Whether skiing in Whistler or enjoying the natural landscapes of British Columbia, the family appears to fully appreciate their surroundings and lifestyle.

On screen, Benjamin plays Dan Brady, often referred to simply as Brady. The character is a former Marine who served alongside Jack Sheridan, portrayed by Martin Henderson. Brady began as a troubled and somewhat antagonistic figure, but over time, his storyline evolved into a compelling redemption arc. This transformation has made him a fan favorite, adding depth to the series and further boosting Benjamin’s popularity.

Overall, while Virgin River brought Benjamin Hollingsworth professional success and recognition, its greatest impact has been the meaningful changes it inspired in his personal life, particularly the opportunity to raise his family in a place he truly values.