Review | Sullivan’s Crossing (season 3) on Stan – Sullivan’s Crossing returns for Season 3 with a refreshing back-to-basics approach, and it’s exactly what the series needed. From the creators of Virgin River and starring Morgan Kohan (When Hope Calls) and Chad Michael Murray (One Tree Hill), the new season opens by stepping away from the chaos of Season 2 and leaning into what this show has always done best — heartfelt storytelling rooted in family, community, and emotional connection.
The first two episodes set the tone for a softer, more grounded season. The drama feels more personal again, with the focus returning to the relationships that make Sullivan’s Crossing feel like home. A highlight is the deepening connection between Maggie (Kohan) and Cal (Murray), whose romance finally begins to blossom in a more meaningful — and surprisingly steamy — way. The romantic tension is dialed up, bringing a level of intimacy not typically seen in this otherwise family-friendly series, and it actually works.
That said, the season premiere stumbles with how it handles the major cliffhanger from Season 2.
We left off with Sully’s fate uncertain as he was trapped in a fire — but instead of drawing out the suspense, the show unintentionally spoils the outcome. Before the story has a chance to address whether Sully survived, the theme song and opening titles run. If Scott Patterson appears, viewers immediately know he’s alive; if he doesn’t, well… that mystery’s solved. It’s a frustrating reveal that could have been handled with more subtlety.
The narrative pacing also feels a bit off. Episode 1 ends with another mini cliffhanger, and Episode 2 seems to ignore it entirely until it’s oddly addressed right at the end. It makes the scene blocking feel disjointed, as if the writers weren’t quite sure where to place key emotional beats.
Still, despite these hiccups, Sullivan’s Crossing is clearly making an effort to reset and reconnect with its core audience. Season 3 trades high drama for heart, and it pays off. While it might not compete for buzz alongside Stan’s more high-profile titles like Scrublands, Black Snow, or Poker Face, there’s something deeply comforting about this series getting back to what it does best. For longtime fans and casual viewers alike, this season feels like a fresh start — and one worth watching.
Sullivan’s Crossing – season 3 premieres 28 April on Stan
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Review | Sullivan’s Crossing (season 3) on Stan
