Rachel Berry and Finn Hudson, the star-crossed, powerhouse vocalists of William McKinley High School’s New Directions, embarked on a tumultuous romantic journey throughout Glee. Their on-again, off-again relationship captivated audiences, making the pivotal moment they officially became a couple a highly anticipated event. That moment arrives in Season 1, Episode 9, “Wheels.”
The Long and Winding Road to “Wheels”: A Look Back
Before “Wheels,” Rachel’s infatuation with Finn was blatant, and he, initially entangled with Quinn Fabray, slowly began to reciprocate her feelings. The budding romance was fraught with obstacles – Quinn’s unexpected pregnancy, Finn’s commitment to being a popular jock, and the ever-present social hierarchy of high school. These hurdles made the eventual union of “Finchel,” as fans affectionately dubbed them, all the more rewarding (and heartbreaking in retrospect).
“Wheels” itself is a significant episode, not only for Finn and Rachel’s relationship but also for its exploration of disability and inclusion through Artie Abrams. The episode’s title references the wheelchair Artie uses and the emotional “wheels” that turn within each character as they grapple with various challenges. It’s against this backdrop of vulnerability and acceptance that Finn makes his pivotal decision.
Why “Wheels” is the Turning Point
Finn’s journey to choosing Rachel in “Wheels” is complex. He initially uses Rachel to make Quinn jealous, participating in a staged make-out session during their practice for the handicapable showcase. However, the guilt and realization of his genuine feelings for Rachel ultimately lead him to break things off with Quinn.
The moment of reconciliation and genuine connection occurs after Finn witnesses Rachel’s dedication to the Glee club and recognizes her inherent talent and passion. He sees past the superficial aspects of their initial interactions and acknowledges a deeper connection. He tells Rachel that he wants to be with her, cementing their relationship and kicking off their rollercoaster romance that would define much of the series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Finn and Rachel
Here are some commonly asked questions about Rachel and Finn’s relationship, offering greater context and insight into their dynamic on Glee:
FAQ 1: Was Finn Actually In Love With Quinn Initially?
While Finn cared for Quinn, especially given her pregnancy, it’s debatable whether his feelings reached the level of true love. Initially, he was attracted to her popularity and status. His growing feelings for Rachel highlighted the superficiality of his relationship with Quinn, revealing that his connection with Rachel was far more profound and based on shared passions and understanding.
FAQ 2: What Songs Are Associated With Finn and Rachel’s Relationship?
Numerous songs mark significant moments in Finn and Rachel’s relationship. Some of the most iconic include:
- “Don’t Stop Believin'”: A staple of the series and a song that represents their shared dreams and aspirations.
- “Faithfully”: Sung in “Journey to Regionals,” it highlights their commitment to each other despite their differences.
- “Last Christmas”: A poignant duet that foreshadows their eventual breakup during the Christmas episode.
- “To Make You Feel My Love”: Finn’s heart-wrenching performance after their breakup, demonstrating the depth of his feelings for Rachel.
- “Make You Feel My Love” (Performed by Rachel in the Cory Monteith Tribute): A powerful and emotional tribute to Finn after Cory Monteith’s passing.
FAQ 3: What Were the Major Obstacles in Finn and Rachel’s Relationship?
Their relationship faced several challenges, including:
- Quinn’s Pregnancy: A major initial obstacle that created a moral dilemma for Finn.
- Social Status: Finn’s popularity as a football player clashed with Rachel’s position as an outsider.
- Their Individual Aspirations: Rachel’s ambitions for Broadway sometimes conflicted with Finn’s simpler desires.
- Other Romantic Interests: Sam Evans and Brody Weston both presented temptations and caused friction.
- Long-Distance: The physical separation when Rachel attended NYADA in New York strained their relationship.
FAQ 4: Why Did Finn and Rachel Break Up Initially?
They broke up multiple times. The most significant initial breakup occurred due to Finn’s perceived lack of ambition and Rachel’s acceptance into NYADA. Finn felt insecure about his future and his ability to support Rachel’s dreams, leading him to call off their wedding.
FAQ 5: Did Rachel and Finn Ever Get Married?
While they were engaged on multiple occasions, Finn and Rachel never officially tied the knot on the show. Their planned wedding was ultimately called off, and Finn’s untimely death prevented them from ever realizing their dream of marriage.
FAQ 6: How Did Finn’s Death Impact Rachel’s Character?
Finn’s death had a profound and lasting impact on Rachel. She struggled with grief and immense sadness, but ultimately channeled her pain into her art. His memory served as a constant source of inspiration and motivation for her throughout the remainder of the series.
FAQ 7: What Was Finn’s Role in Rachel’s Success?
Finn was Rachel’s biggest supporter and often the voice of reason. He encouraged her to pursue her dreams, even when it meant facing difficult choices. He provided her with unwavering support and love, which helped her navigate the challenges of adolescence and pursue her ambitions. He offered her a sense of normalcy and groundedness that balanced her driven personality.
FAQ 8: What Were the Fans’ Reactions to Finn and Rachel’s Relationship?
“Finchel” was one of the most popular and polarizing couples on Glee. Many viewers were invested in their relationship and rooted for them to succeed, while others found their dynamic frustrating or believed they were not a good match. The strong reactions demonstrated the impact of their storyline on the show’s audience.
FAQ 9: Did Rachel Ever Move On From Finn?
While Rachel eventually pursued other romantic relationships after Finn’s death, his memory remained a significant part of her life. In the series finale, it’s revealed that she becomes pregnant through surrogacy with Finn’s child, signifying his continued presence in her life and legacy. She named the child Finn, further solidifying his eternal place in her heart.
FAQ 10: How Realistic Was Finn and Rachel’s Relationship?
Like many high school relationships depicted in television, Finn and Rachel’s relationship contained elements of both realism and heightened drama. The challenges they faced – social pressures, personal insecurities, and conflicting ambitions – resonated with many viewers. However, the intensity and melodrama often associated with teen dramas amplified certain aspects of their relationship.
FAQ 11: Were Cory Monteith and Lea Michele Dating in Real Life?
Yes, Cory Monteith (Finn) and Lea Michele (Rachel) were in a romantic relationship off-screen. Their real-life romance added another layer of depth and emotional resonance to their on-screen dynamic. The genuine affection they shared was evident in their performances, making their relationship even more captivating for viewers.
FAQ 12: What Made Finchel So Special?
Despite their flaws and imperfections, Finn and Rachel’s relationship resonated with audiences due to their shared dreams, unwavering support for each other, and genuine love. They represented the quintessential high school romance – a messy, complicated, but ultimately hopeful journey of self-discovery and finding love amidst the chaos of adolescence. Their imperfections made them relatable, and their triumphs provided a sense of hope and inspiration to viewers who were invested in their story. The connection between the actors only amplified the intensity and made the characters’ arc even more endearing to fans.