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Virgin River star confirms major character exit in season five - and fans will be gutted

Ricky won't be back for the new series

martin ricky vr
Nicky Morris
TV and film writer
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Virgin River star Grayson Maxwell Gurnsey, who plays lovable teenager Ricky in the popular Netflix series, has revealed that his character won't be returning for season five. 

MORE: Alexandra Breckenridge shares setback with fans as she films new season of Virgin River

At the end of series four, fans watched as Ricky bid an emotional farewell to his friend and employer Jack, played by Martin Henderson, having decided to leave the small Californian town to join the Army.

WATCH: Have you caught up on season four? 

Chatting about the character's future in the show, the 21-year-old actor said: "I'm not coming back for season five, I don't think that means he's not coming back ever.

"I think these things will...depending on how they play out he has this semi-important role in the books.

MORE: Virgin River star teases 'unexpected' twist in season five

MORE: Virgin River star shares glimpse at season five – and fans are thrilled

"It can really vary but he needs to move out of the way so other plot lines can develop," he told Express.co.uk. "At the pace the show has moved he would be away for a little while, at least a season." 

vr ricky© Photo: Netflix

Ricky will not be returning for season five

Fans need not worry too much as Grayson expressed his hopes for Ricky's return in a later season. "So he won't be in season five but maybe season six or seven, who knows. I'm always happy to come back," he said. 

ricky lizzie© Photo: Netflix

Grayson alongside Sarah Dugdale, who plays Lizzie

"I love the show, I love the people." 

Fans of the show were left emotional following Ricky's departure and were left wondering about his future on the show. Many took to Twitter to express their sadness. One person wrote: "Jack sending Ricky off has me sobbing," while another added: "Awwwww I want Ricky to come back. It's sad cos you can see he truly didn't want to leave his home and his family."

One viewer made their predictions about Ricky's return, tweeting: "PREDICTION: Ricky is gonna come back from basics a super ripped marine and Lizzie is gonna be all over it!" while another feared for his safety while away from the town, adding: "Swear to god, if anything happens to Ricky on #VirginRiver I am coming for those writers."

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