Here’s Why ‘Virgin River’ Star Jenny Cooper (Who Plays Mel’s Sister) Looks So Familiar
We already know everything—OK, fine, nearly everything—about Virgin River star Alexandra Breckenridge. However, the same can’t be said about Jenny Cooper, the actress who plays Breckenridge’s on-screen sister, Joey Barnes.

In honor of the season 4 premiere, here’s everything we know about Jenny Cooper (including what else she’s been in).

1. Who Is Jenny Cooper?

Jenny Cooper is an up-and-coming actress, who stars in Virgin River. Although she was born in Toronto, Canada, she spent most of her childhood in Miami, Florida. Cooper currently resides in Encino, California, with her husband and their three children.

2. Does She Play Mel’s Sister In ‘virgin River’?

Absolutely. Mel’s sister, Joey Barnes, was first introduced in season one and has played a prominent role ever since. Although she’s not a pivotal part of the plot, Joey is her sister’s go-to person for advice.

The show’s story line focuses on Joey’s sister, Mel (Breckenridge), who moves to the remote California town in search of a fresh start. Along the way, she meets a handsome bar owner, Jack (Martin Henderson), while getting to know the locals. The fourth season picks up right where the previous installment ends, with Mel navigating the first stages of pregnancy.

3. What Happens To Joey In ‘virgin River’ Season 4?

In season 4, Joey doubles as Mel’s therapist by lending an ear and offering advice, even though most of her cameos take place via phone calls. Although Mel tries to keep the pregnancy a secret, it doesn’t take long for Joey to become suspicious enough for Mel to spill the beans.

4. What Else Has She Starred In?
In addition to Virgin River, Cooper has made several appearances on our television screens, but they weren’t major roles. This includes Wendy in Fast Track, Molly in Jake and the Kid, Sarah in Strange Days at Blake Holsey High, Valerie in 24, Dr. Jane Blake in Open Heart and Susan in Exposed. She also had bit parts in Monk, The One, Mutant X, Ghost Whisperer, CSI: Miami, Scandal, NCIS, Grey’s Anatomy and Rizzoli & Isles. Oh, and how could we forget about Law & Order True Crime, where she played Megan Lang?