Relationship Boxes Checked in Nobody Wants This

TV series aren’t real life. However, they sometimes hit close to home because they have slices of reality in them. Sometimes, they even hit too close, and you find yourself stumped and speechless.

Realizations come flooding in, and clarity hits. The feelings they evoke are all too familiar.

For some of us, watching Nobody Wants This was that surprise, albeit in the form of a romantic comedy.

The show has struck a chord with many worldwide, especially hopeless romantic millennials (like this writer). Despite its fictional nature, its takeaways offer nuggets of wisdom people will want to apply in their relationships.

What Is Nobody Wants This About?

The 2024 Netflix hit stars Kristen Bell and Adam Brody—actors of iconic 2000s teen dramas (Veronica Mars and The O.C., respectively).

In the show, Bell plays Joanne, an atheist and podcaster, while Brody plays Noah, a rabbi (move over, Fleabag’s hot priest!). Joanne’s podcast, which she hosts with her sister Morgan (Justin Lupe), talks openly about relationships. She’s a free spirit who refuses to bow down to traditions.

Meanwhile, Noah is fresh off a breakup from his long-term relationship. He’s also working to become the head rabbi of his temple—a long-time dream of his. His family isn’t taking his breakup well, especially his mother, Bina (Tovah Feldshuh), and sister-in-law, Esther (Jackie Tohn), who happens to be his ex’s best friend.

You’d think Joanne and Noah would just clash when in the same room, right? To their surprise, fate had other plans when they met at a dinner party.

Realizations We All Should Apply in Our Relationships

As suggested in the introduction, many viewers have found themselves relating to the show. Joanne and Noah may not have the perfect relationship (newsflash: no one does, and that’s okay!), but no one can deny it’s healthy.

And with that, these are the green flags checked by the couple that you would want for yourselves, too.

Vulnerability is welcome

Episode 4, in particular, emphasized this. When Noah asked Joanne about her biggest fear, she initially didn’t want to admit it. But because he always kept it 100 with her, she returned the favor.

With her back turned around, Joanne says this while trying to hold back tears:

I think I’m realizing an even bigger fear. It is this: that I will become emotionally dependent on a guy who will, one day, realize that I’m too much and break my heart.

When she asks Noah if that confession was the “most unattractive” thing he’s seen, he says no. Instead, he says it’s the opposite. He adds that he wants all of Joanne—flaws and all.

The point is that vulnerability shouldn’t be an issue. Relationships wouldn’t be what they are if it weren’t around.

Healthy communication is sexy

One of the great things about the show is its emphasis on healthy communication. Whenever Joahnne or Noah have a concern, they won’t hesitate to speak up. Their honesty and transparency are clear, even from their first meeting. Fortunately, they maintained this all the way to the season finale.

Not only is healthy communication a must, but it’s also undeniably attractive. Who wouldn’t be charmed by someone who knows when and how to say their piece clearly?

Life’s too short not to laugh at yourselves

At first glance, Joanne and Noah seem like a mismatch. She’s outgoing and outspoken, while he’s reserved. However, their friendly banter more than made up for their contrasting natures. The first episode best showcases this, especially the bottle-opening scene.

Humor isn’t the be-all and end-all, but it is important. Both parties recognize that, sharing a laugh whenever they can. Episode 3 also shows this, with Noah finding Joanne’s quip regarding their first kiss hilarious.

It’s never too late to find love

Some people in Joanne’s shoes may feel mortified at the thought of being single in their 30s (especially in the middle and late stages). If you’re one of them, trust me; you’re not alone!

However, as the show depicts, finding love doesn’t have an age requirement. Sure, the bad dates along the way suck, but that journey will feel sweeter than it is when you finally find the right person.

Nobody Wants This is fictional, but that doesn’t mean the takeaways you can get from it aren’t real. Take a few cues from Joanne and Noah and go for a relationship that’ll genuinely make you happy. Also, here’s some good news for fans who may be reading this: a second season has been confirmed!