The Bold Type
The Bold Type – We’ll Always Have Paris (2×10)
Everything is better in Paris, even break-ups.
Kat might not feel that way, per say, but I can guarantee you, a break-up while you’re in Paris with your best friends and throwing a lavish and successful party for your company trumps a cold day in New York.
The Bold Type ended it’s season two run on a rather odd note.
Even though Sutton was the only one getting a happy ending and Jacqueline was virtually fired from Scarlet, everything had a rather peppy, “all’s well that ends well” tone.
Maybe it was just because of Sutton’s fairytale (and predictable) moment with Richard.
I’m not going to sit here and say that I didn’t “aww” and turn to mush when he offered to take the picture for her and Jane, revealing that he had left Jessica and followed his heart just as she was going to make the leap of faith, but seeing as that’s the unrealistic, predictable outcome, it did fall a little flat.
I was more moved by Sutton nailing her wardrobe styling session much to Oliver’s surprise proving that she was really good at her job and also, her breaking down and having a true heart-to-heart with the boss.
He may be demanding but Oliver is a good person deep down inside who wanted Sutton to follow her heart. It was a beautiful and unexpected moment. I think that’s the key here.
The Bold Type has spent most of season two addressing controversial topics that had the power to divide all the besties at one point. From gun ownership to owning your blackness to fertility treatments, it’s covered it all.
Am I really to believe that in this same world, a happy ending circa Cinderella just happens to exist? It was, dare I say, almost too cheesy.
As was Jane dropping everything to join her gal pals in Paris. If it was that easy, why didn’t she just think of it before they all departed?
It must be nice to just fly to Paris on a whim to get away from major life decisions that involve freezing your eggs and choosing which boy you prefer.
Jane’s been teeter-tottering between Pinstripe and Ben for a few episodes now.
I’ve always been into Pinstripe, but him bluntly saying that he didn’t care if Jane had a boyfriend and then kissing her, rubbed me the wrong way.
So often we don’t realize what we have till someone else has it but that doesn’t mean Ben, a really good guy, has to suffer because of it.
Ben has been by Jane’s side this whole time and surprisingly, wasn’t scared off by her bringing up having children at the beginning of their relationship.
Plus, he didn’t downright offer Jane money, he offered to get her into a program. Yes, they’d have to lie and say they lived together, but it came with fewer strings attached.
My fear, if I were Jane, would be that Pinstripe would somehow feel like any children I had in the future were his because he contributed.
Jane may have been the epitome of annoyance this whole season but I’m impressed with her decision to be her own Prince Charming.
There is definitely a problem with the world telling us that we as women cannot make fertility decisions for ourselves without the aide of a man because we cannot afford them.
And as far as topics that the series raises awareness on, insurance covering Viagra and vasectomies but not reproductive rights is one that needs to be underlined in red.
If insurance companies don’t deem women as valuable as men’s erections, how can we survive and thrive on our own?
That’s why, I loved that Jacqueline went ahead and published Jane’s piece.
Sure, Jane’s topic was personally motivated but it was important and related to many women.
If the ship is sinking, why not use this platform, a platform for women, to raise awareness that matters?
And shame on this whole board for being insulted that someone called them out on their bullshit.
They are aware that they are on a board for a feminist, groundbreaking, inspiring, women-leaning magazine?
Women need women that are supportive and will fight for them. Women need women like Jacqueline.
I hope that the board doesn’t replace her, but I fear for the sake of the story, come spring 2019, Jacqueline will no longer be sitting at the head of Scarlet.
And then, I fear what will happen to the thought-provoking magazine. Do men think they really have a better grasp on issues than she does?
If she can’t do it, who can?
And if the only measurement of success is how successful this Paris party was, well, I think Kat nailed it.
Despite going through her own personal drama, she figured out a way to make the Scarlet event something buzzy worthy by saying no phones allowed.
It goes back to the “you only want what you can’t have” mentality that I mentioned earlier.
Really the only way things are ever popular is if they are exclusive. Scarlet has to find a way to be attainable and exclusive at the same time.
Personally, I think Kat made a mistake by bringing Adena to Paris because it distracted her from the work.
Truthfully, all the girls brought their personal drama to a place that was supposed to be all about fashion week. Why not just let it go for a little bit? Why not enjoy the perks the job has to offer?
This, in itself, was proof that Kat’s just a little too clingy to Adena.
The worst part is that Kat wasn’t able to give Adena the space she needed to fuel her creativity.
Adena was more than accommodating when Kat needed to branch out and have experiences with women. Why couldn’t Kat?
Eventually, when Adena failed to show up for the party, it dawned on Kat that she needed to loosen her grip a little, but is that too late?
It also kind of seems like the writers are looking for any reason to create tension between Adena and Kat. Has there been a moment where these two just vibed without anything else messing it up?
Adena had so many chances to bring up how suffocated she felt in New York, but she never did. Maybe she was just in that honeymoon phase? But I fail to believe someone like Adena wouldn’t speak up about feeling trapped or unlike herself.
She’s too outspoken to be silenced and there have been other opportunities. Instead, she acted like getting her visa and coming to New York was the only thing she wanted. And then, only when Kat inquired about her art, did she actually confess to something more happening.
And realistically, Kat is probably working 9-5 so that gives her plenty of time to be working on her stuff. I just don’t think I understand the issue.
But maybe it’s about the old adage — if you love something, set it free, if it comes back it was meant to be.
I have no doubt in my mind that we’ll see Adena again because this didn’t feel like a permanent break-up. Though with all these issues arising every other day, I wonder if they are even in the right headspace to be in a relationship.
Do you think people will judge Sutton for dating a board member? People were surprisingly cool with an assistant dating a superior? Will she get a promotion in the fashion department? She was the one that needed to catch a break.
Will Kat and Adena figure things out? Will Jacqueline get replaced? Which guy did Jane decide was the one she wanted to share all her important moments with?
Are you hoping for less cliche moments next season?
I look forward to catching up with you Bold Typers in the spring!
2021 was a strange year in TV. The production of so many shows was sidetracked by the pandemic, but we still somehow made it to the finale. So with the end of the year coming up in a couple of weeks, it seems only fitting to give a proper send-off to 9 TV shows that we’re sad to leave behind in 2021. Some ended too early, while others ended at the perfect time, but all will be greatly missed.
1. Younger (Paramount+)
This past summer we said a tearful goodbye to the cast of Younger. Originally, its producer, Darren Star had unofficially ideated Season 7 as its final season, and then it came true. Thankfully, it’s available to stream, so you can repeatedly enjoy this show in its full glory. Younger is about Liza Miller, a 40-year-old woman who resorts to lying about her age in order to return to the workforce after raising her daughter. It’s an entertaining rom-com that highlights ageism and sexism in the workplace, while also beautifully capturing the importance of friendship.
2. Insecure (HBO Max)
Insecure is a dramedy that focuses on the Black narrative, particularly Black women and the unrealistic expectation of confidence. Issa Dee’s just trying to survive and thrive in her personal and professional life. However, in order to get there, she must learn to overcome her insecurities and flaws. With the help of her best friend Molly, the two take on life in Los Angeles together all while overcoming a period of liminality.
3. Dickinson (Apple TV+)
A fantastic comedy that puts a modern twist on the mid-1800s, Dickinson, is not what you’d expect. Hailee Steinfeld leads the series as the outspoken feminist Emily Dickinson, as she strives to become the infamous poet we know and praise today. You don’t have to be an English major to enjoy this one. As long as you love a good romance, fight against the patriarchy, and maybe a little Wiz Kalifa, you’re sure to find this 3 season show, delightful.
4. Feel Good (Netflix)
Mae Martin’s original comedy, Feel Good on Netflix is a much-needed LGBTQ+ representative show. The show is a short two seasons but they sure pack quite the punch. It centers on Mae, a standup comedian who swaps her drug addiction for love. During her time in England, Mae meets and falls in love with George, a baby queer. The show dissects the qualms of their relationship, all of course, with a healthy dose of humor.
5. Shrill (Hulu)
A young journalist struggles to jumpstart her career until she begins to write about her greatest insecurity–weight. Shrill shares the life of Annie Eaton as she learns to find confidence in being unapologetically herself. Navigating the world of romance and privilege, she runs into problems and makes countless mistakes. Its three-season run feels short, but once you make it to the end, you’ll feel appreciative of the journey.
6. Kim’s Convenience (Netflix)
Kim’s Convenience is a Canadian show about a Korean-Canadian family and their acclimation to both the Canadian culture and the evolving generation. An endearing comedy about the pressures and tension between the children of immigrants and their parents. Its five-season run was the perfect length, but we will surely miss this cast.
7. The Bold Type (Freeform)
The Bold Type is a show about three fearless friends who bond over their careers at Scarlet Magazine. It has hints of Sex and the City, but with a more diverse and feminist perspective. It’s a bit more drama than comedy and includes the typical search for love, self-identity, and everything in between. The show’s fluidity was affected by the pandemic but still managed to end on a sweet note in its fifth season.
8. Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (NBC)
This NBC show was cut way too short, but thankfully Roku picked it up for a movie to tie up some loose ends. Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist centers on a unique premise. Following a CT scan, Zoey starts hearing people’s inner song-alogues. The power initially seems useless and annoying, but she later learns to use it for the better.
9. Atypical (Netflix)
Atypical is a sweet family comedy about Sam, a teenager who falls on the autism spectrum. The show follows his quest to find independence, love, and the meaning of life. And while his family plays a large role in his life, his newfound autonomy especially puts his mother on a new life journey–one without the constant supervision of her son. It’s a family affair, and you’ll be sure to invest in every character and the family dynamic by the end.
The moment we’ve all not been waiting for has finally come. We were forced to say a tearful farewell to our favorite Scarlet women in The Bold Type series finale. The good thing is we can say a bold goodbye knowing they’re all in good hands and in good places.
There were so many parallels and full circle moments in this episode, I could tell the writers were trying to make it feel finished despite the extremely limited final season.
After an evening of fun, Kat, Sutton, and Jane reunited at the apartment. This special moment was an ode to their first Scarlet gala–even the colors they wore if you remember the red, blue, and gold–when they left to scream in the subway. Except for this time they didn’t need the noise of the subway to cover up their screams. They walked up to the curb for all of New York to hear.
They’ve all come into their own, and it’s crystal clear in this final episode.
Sutton
Sutton and Richard on The Bold Type Series Finale. (Freeform/Jonathan Wenk)
When we first met Sutton she was a hardworking assistant to a difficult boss. Her career seemed to plateau and she felt stuck in her assistantship while her real dream was to be a stylist.
And then she met Richard. Their relationship, although fast, was wholesome and real. However, having them end up together was unrealistic, and should not have happened. The difference in desire to have children is a common issue among couples, but it’s always a breaking point.
Richard might say in a heartfelt speech that Sutton is enough, but in the end, it’s never enough. It’s a fundamental difference and the writers should have kept it that way.
But alas, the two lovebirds are un-divorced.
Kat
Kat and Adena hold hands, The Bold Type Series Finale. (Freeform/Jonathan Wenk)
Oh Kat, her real character development revolved around her sexual identity journey and her ability to finally commit to “her person.”
With a few hiccups here and there in her career trajectory, there was absolutely no doubt she was going to do great things. And considering she’s now the editor-in-chief of Scarlett, I’d say she’s peaked.
After Jane turned down the opportunity, Kat was the second choice. With her management skills, she should’ve been the first choice. Also with her unwavering determination to fight the good fight, Scarlet’s in good hands.
While her career path was back on track, her relationship with Adena went through a few ups and downs. Initially, it seemed like Adena was going to stick to her, no, but it didn’t take long for Kat to use her persuasiveness to win her back.
Kat learned that in the past she’d used her non-committal tendencies as a barrier to real connection. But, as she came to realize, no matter how hard she tried to brush it off, Adena was always going to be the one she could never let go of. And when you find that person you don’t run away.
Jane
Jane on The Bold Type Series Finale. (Freeform/Jonathan Wenk)
Jane’s surprise run-in to Pinstripe guy, aka Ryan, her first big relationship was nostalgic and slightly out of place. That was until his words made her rethink the future as editor-in-chief. She had to be reminded of her real passion, and taking the position would leave no opportunity for her to do what she loves–write.
While going through old mementos, she found an old photo of her mother traveling in Paris, igniting a new passion to expand her failing feminist column.
It’s the first time we’ve seen her mother and the first time Jane, the rule follower, broke her own rules. No longer does she need to stay in the confines of her safety net and the first real job she’s had, but she’s ready to spread her wings and let her talents take her wherever they may.
And maybe that means she’ll travel around with Zach! Either way, I’m happy they chose to make her love life ambiguous. Or at least kept her open-minded to the idea of finally dating again without the pressure to find the perfect guy.
Jane’s electric all on her own and she’s ready to continue learning more about herself.
The End
Kat, Sutton, and Jane hug one last time on The Bold Type Series Finale. (Freeform/Jonathan Wenk)
Although unrealistic at times, The Bold Type shared the truth about female empowerment, friendship, and family. It provided realistic and relatable challenges that women of all ages could relate to.
Without being too cheesy, we watched the friendship between the three women grow deep. The real relationship winner of the show was easily this threesome.
And we’ll certainly miss them without fail. But, who knows, maybe in a few years there will be a reunion or reboot order. Until then, we’ll cheers with our nonalcoholic champaign (in solidarity with Sutton) wiping away our puddles of tears.
Final Musings:
- Jane’s handcuff necklace was a statement! It felt more like a necklace Kat would wear, but nonetheless a cool find.
- Yikes, you don’t realize the glow-up of each character until there’s a cringey slideshow to prove it. Sorry Jacqueline, but what did they do to your hair in Season 1?
- Whose fighting speech was the winner? Richard’s or Kat’s? We’re going to go with Kat!
- Jacqueline was #StyledBySutton, and should’ve been this whole time. Talk about not aging!
The penultimate episode of The Bold Type Season 5 Episode 5 left big wins for all, some personal and some professional. Yet successful all the same.
Jane’s left to run Scarlett by herself as Jacqueline enjoys the vacation time she most certainly deserves. She’s put her entire life into building up an incredibly successful company and now she gets to watch her star employee take control.
Although a difficult decision, Jacqueline’s ready to begin writing the next chapter in her life: retirement. No matter how unrealistic Jane’s promotion to editor-in-chief after only four years at the company is, it’s also empowering.
The show’s focus on female leadership is a breath of fresh air and important in mainstream media to portray women at the top. Especially in media, where it’s totally overrun by men, young women need to see themselves represented on screen.
Jacqueline and Jane on The Bold Type Season 5 Episode 5. (Freeform/Jonathan Wenk)
Of course, with its flaws. Jane’s rudely awoken to the reality of the number of meetings the editor-in-chief is required to sit through. But, she’s aspired to uphold Jacqueline’s legacy for so long, so she welcomes the challenge with open arms.
Meanwhile, Sutton started therapy and admits that the reason she drinks is to numb the pain.
Just as she’s making a breakthrough, the one and only Richard calls asking to meet to sign the divorce papers.
First of all, a fancy meal to sign divorce papers? Ouch.
Initially, seeing Richard made me angry for Sutton. All the pain he’s put her through, and then he has the audacity to casually sit across her smiling like nothing’s hurting him.
Richard on the phone on The Bold Type. (Freeform/Jonathan Wenk)
But, once he opens up about his choice to adopt as a single man, the anger went away. Just like that, Sutton’s reminded of the biggest reason they didn’t work out and it looks like she’ll be able to walk away from him knowing that she means just as much to him as he means to her.
I’m happy they finalized the divorce on paper before they enjoyed one last rendezvous together. It was good to see Richard because it would’ve been a cheap blow for them not to bring him back one last time.
While Richard and Sutton are hopefully not getting back together, Kat and Adena very much looked like they’re going to get back together!!
Yes, I squealed. But how could I not! Even Jacqueline said she was happy to see them back together. They had the proper break required for exes to forge their own path separately and to mature apart.
Kat and Adena stand together in the lobby on The Bold Type. (Freeform/Jonathan Wenk)
The way Adena looked so longingly at Kat every time they were together was true love. And I agree Kat’s a better version of herself when she’s with Adena. She just needed some time apart to realize that.
Also, a round of applause for Kat’s new venture. She’s rehired! It wouldn’t feel right for Kat to not work her way back to Scarlet. It’s true, the trio will one day run the company. However, for now, Kat will run her very own mini-company.
With the women set up for success, this episode set the groundwork for next week’s final episode. I’m not ready. Please don’t make me! I’ll just be crying in the corner. So, why don’t you leave your thoughts in the comments below.
Stray Musings:
- Can I just say, the classic slow pull away that Kat and Adena exhibited really showed the chemistry between Nikohl and Aisha. That’s one thing I’d like to give props to this show for, its chemistry. The three leads have a beautiful friendship on-screen, it’d be hard to believe it wasn’t the same off-screen.
- Jacqueline’s hair this episode–flawless, not a single strand was out of place. Whoever does her hair and costuming, please come to my house?
- Poor Andrew, left in the dust. His jealousy of Jane is so apparent. Maybe he’ll get promoted, Jane already relies on him as much as Jacqueline does!
- Richard’s aged beautifully, there I said it. He’s a silver fox, giving me soft Grey’s Anatomy McSteamy vibes.
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