When you think of Virgin River, you likely picture Dan Brady—the brooding, troubled ex-Marine who found himself tangled in love, loyalty, and redemption.

Played by Benjamin Hollingsworth, Brady has become a fan favorite, captivating viewers with his complex, layered portrayal of a man trying to escape his criminal past.

But what if I told you that before this rugged bad boy won hearts on Netflix, Hollingsworth was donning scrubs in a high-stakes hospital drama? That’s right,

the Canadian actor has a surprising medical drama past, which set the stage for his dynamic portrayal of Brady. Let’s take a deep dive into Benjamin Hollingsworth’s journey from medical drama star to small-town rebel in Virgin River.

Who is Benjamin Hollingsworth?

The Man Behind Brady

Born in Brockville, Ontario, Benjamin Hollingsworth had no idea that his future would lead him to the world of television. Growing up with a passion for acting, he honed his craft at the prestigious National Theatre School of Canada. The early years of his career saw him take on bit parts, making a name for himself with a blend of charm, wit, and intensity. But it wasn’t until his role on Code Black that Hollingsworth truly began to show his range as an actor.

Before Netflix stardom, Hollingsworth was no stranger to the limelight, appearing in a variety of TV shows and films. His breakthrough, however, came when he joined the medical drama Code Black, a show that would later become a pivotal chapter in his career. His ability to seamlessly blend intense emotional turmoil with physicality was a key factor that would later help him bring Brady to life on Virgin River.

The Big Break: Code Black

A Medical Drama with Heart

If you haven’t heard of Code Black, it’s time to catch up. The CBS medical drama, which aired from 2015 to 2018, is not your typical hospital show. Set in the hectic emergency room of Los Angeles’ Angels Memorial Hospital, Code Black offered viewers an unfiltered look at the high-pressure, life-or-death world of emergency medicine. The series was fast-paced, raw, and gripping, and it featured a diverse cast of doctors and nurses dealing with both personal and professional challenges.

Hollingsworth played Dr. Mario Savetti, a resident with a cocky attitude and a personal agenda. Savetti was ambitious, sometimes reckless, and always determined to prove himself—a character that could easily veer into stereotype. But Hollingsworth infused Savetti with a surprising depth, exploring themes of professional burnout, personal demons, and the weight of difficult decisions. It was here that Hollingsworth truly demonstrated his emotional range, learning to navigate heavy subject matter such as loss, trauma, and redemption.

A Doctor with Depth: Dr. Mario Savetti

The Inner Struggles of a Medical Professional

What made Dr. Savetti a standout character on Code Black wasn’t just his willingness to take risks in the operating room but the emotional baggage he carried with him. He was a man haunted by his past and desperately trying to prove himself, not only to his colleagues but also to himself. Hollingsworth brought this internal conflict to life, blending moments of cocky bravado with raw vulnerability. His emotional arc was a powerful one, and it prepared him for the challenging transition into Brady on Virgin River.

In a role that demanded he juggle life-or-death situations with personal stakes, Hollingsworth’s portrayal of Savetti was far more than just a “doctor in scrubs.” He was a man struggling with his own demons—someone who was fighting just as hard to keep his life together as he was to save his patients. This depth of character would become an asset when it came time to portray Brady, a man trying to outrun his troubled past and seek redemption in the peaceful town of Virgin River.

From Scrubs to Leather Jackets

How Code Black Prepared Hollingsworth for Virgin River

While Code Black was full of fast-paced action and high-stakes drama, Virgin River is a quieter, more introspective show. Set in a small town nestled among the redwoods, Virgin River has a slower, more emotional pace. But despite the difference in tempo, there are thematic overlaps between Hollingsworth’s roles. Both shows demand a deep emotional investment from their actors, particularly when exploring themes of trauma and healing.

Hollingsworth’s work on Code Black gave him the tools he needed to bring complexity to Brady. Just as Savetti dealt with personal trauma and professional failure, Brady wrestles with a haunted past, including his involvement in criminal activity and his struggles with PTSD. Whether it’s the tension in the emergency room or the emotional turmoil in Virgin River, Hollingsworth’s ability to tap into the heart of a character’s internal conflict has been a key asset in his career.

The Shift: Why Hollingsworth Left Medical Dramas Behind

A New Challenge in Virgin River

After several seasons of playing Dr. Savetti, Hollingsworth was ready for a fresh challenge. He had made his mark in the world of medical dramas, but he was eager to explore different aspects of his acting range. Enter Virgin River, a show that not only offered him the chance to play a very different kind of character but also one that demanded a new kind of emotional depth.

Brady is a man of few words, but his actions speak volumes. He’s a character defined by his complexity, his vulnerability, and his desire to change. Brady’s journey is about redemption, forgiveness, and finding a sense of peace after years of chaos. For Hollingsworth, stepping into this role allowed him to stretch his creative muscles and evolve as an actor, moving away from the world of hospital corridors and into a town filled with personal stakes and heartwarming drama.

Virgin River’s Success

From Netflix Binge to Global Phenomenon

It wasn’t long before Virgin River became a global phenomenon, thanks in no small part to its compelling characters and picturesque setting. Viewers flocked to the series for its escapism, but they stayed for the heartfelt drama and rich character development. Hollingsworth’s portrayal of Brady, a complicated and troubled figure, was a standout element that captivated audiences and turned him into a fan favorite.

The character’s arc of trying to escape his past and find solace in love and loyalty resonated with many viewers. Brady’s relationship with Brie, in particular, is one that highlights his softer, more vulnerable side, offering a stark contrast to his tough exterior. This juxtaposition is what makes Brady such a compelling character—he is both a symbol of redemption and a reminder that no one is beyond change.

What’s Next for Benjamin Hollingsworth?

The Future of His Career

With Virgin River continuing to dominate the streaming charts, Benjamin Hollingsworth’s career is set to soar even higher. Fans are eager to see where he’ll pop up next, whether in a new project on Netflix or in a major film role. Hollingsworth has expressed interest in exploring different genres, including action, thriller, and historical drama, and his versatility as an actor ensures that whatever project he chooses next will be as impactful as his previous roles.

Conclusion

Benjamin Hollingsworth’s journey from Code Black to Virgin River is one of reinvention and growth. While his past roles in medical dramas helped shape his acting career, it is his portrayal of Brady in Virgin River that has solidified him as one of Netflix’s most intriguing stars. As fans continue to follow his evolution, one thing is certain: Benjamin Hollingsworth is just getting started.