Jess and Nick finally share their highly anticipated first kiss in the New Girl episode “Cooler” (Season 2, Episode 15). This pivotal moment, driven by a potent combination of truth or dare and simmering attraction, marks a significant turning point in their complex relationship.
The Kiss Heard ‘Round the Loft: Breaking Down “Cooler”
The episode “Cooler” builds tension meticulously, utilizing the seemingly innocent game of True American as a catalyst. While the game itself is famously nonsensical and chaotic, the underlying truths and dares force the characters to confront feelings they’ve been suppressing. Jess, reeling from a date gone wrong and a subsequent conversation with Sam, is challenged to kiss Nick. The dare, initially meant to be lighthearted, quickly becomes loaded with years of unspoken affection.
The resulting kiss isn’t just a peck; it’s a passionate, prolonged moment that reveals the depth of their connection. Both Jess and Nick are clearly taken aback by the intensity of their feelings, setting the stage for the tumultuous yet endearing romance that defines much of the series. Before “Cooler,” their relationship was characterized by playful banter and undeniable chemistry. After “Cooler,” they had to navigate the complexities of being a couple while living as roommates with their closest friends. The ramifications of this single kiss ripple throughout the remainder of the show, impacting not only Jess and Nick but the entire loft dynamic.
Beyond the Kiss: The Impact on the Series
The kiss in “Cooler” is more than just a romantic milestone; it’s a narrative turning point. It elevates New Girl from a sitcom about quirky roommates to a show exploring the messy realities of love and relationships. It forced the writers, and the characters, to confront the established status quo of their living arrangement.
The Immediate Aftermath
Immediately following the kiss, both Jess and Nick struggle to process what happened. The awkwardness is palpable, leading to a series of hilarious and relatable scenarios as they try to avoid each other while still occupying the same shared space. They dance around the implications of their newfound romantic connection, hesitant to disrupt the comfort and stability they’ve found in their friendship.
Long-Term Consequences
The ramifications of their first kiss extend far beyond the immediate aftermath. They eventually enter into a committed relationship, experiencing the joys and challenges of being a couple while remaining roommates. The on-again, off-again nature of their relationship becomes a central theme of the show, providing both comedic and dramatic moments. It highlighted the challenges of transitioning from friendship to romance and the difficulties of maintaining a healthy relationship while navigating the complexities of shared living. Ultimately, their initial kiss, and the subsequent journey it launched, played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative arc of New Girl, culminating in their eventual marriage in the series finale.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Jess and Nick’s first kiss, providing deeper insights into the context and significance of this monumental moment.
1. What prompted the truth or dare game that led to the kiss?
The roommates were playing True American as a way to pass the time and entertain themselves. Jess had a particularly bad date which led her to feeling upset, and Nick was just there to be supportive. The game, with its inherent absurdity, allowed the characters to let their guard down and inadvertently reveal hidden feelings.
2. Was Jess dating someone else when she and Nick first kissed?
Prior to the kiss, Jess had been dating Sam, a doctor, but they had broken up due to Sam’s difficulty with Jess’s unconventional lifestyle. This recent heartbreak contributed to her vulnerability and openness to a potential relationship with Nick. She was also trying to rekindle that previous relationship during “Cooler,” as Sam came over to apologize.
3. How did the other roommates react to the kiss?
The roommates were initially surprised and somewhat awkward, especially Schmidt, who had his own complicated history with both Jess and Cece. However, they ultimately supported Jess and Nick, even if they provided unsolicited advice and commentary along the way. They understood the significance of the moment and the potential impact on their living dynamic.
4. What were Jess and Nick’s individual feelings about each other leading up to the kiss?
Both Jess and Nick had exhibited subtle signs of attraction and affection toward each other throughout the first two seasons. They were drawn to each other’s quirks and vulnerabilities, forming a deep emotional connection that transcended mere friendship. Their mutual support and understanding laid the groundwork for their eventual romantic relationship.
5. Did the actors, Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson, know that this kiss was coming?
Yes, the actors were aware of the storyline and the significance of the kiss. They collaborated with the writers and directors to ensure that the scene felt authentic and true to the characters. The kiss was a major plot point planned in advance.
6. What was the fan reaction to Jess and Nick’s first kiss?
The fan reaction was overwhelmingly positive. Viewers had been eagerly anticipating the moment and were thrilled to finally see Jess and Nick acknowledge their feelings for each other. The kiss sparked widespread discussion and analysis within the New Girl fandom.
7. How long did Jess and Nick remain a couple after their first kiss?
Their relationship was on-again, off-again for a considerable portion of the series, with various breakups and reconciliations. The writers explored the challenges of maintaining a relationship while navigating the complexities of shared living and individual growth. They ultimately got married in the final season.
8. What made the timing right for them to finally kiss in “Cooler”?
The timing was a combination of factors, including Jess’s recent heartbreak, the intimacy created by the game of True American, and their growing emotional connection. The writers carefully crafted the circumstances to maximize the impact and significance of the kiss. They also both weren’t seeing anyone else.
9. How did the kiss change the dynamics of the loft?
The kiss significantly altered the dynamics of the loft, introducing new levels of tension and awkwardness. The roommates had to adjust to the new relationship between Jess and Nick, navigating the complexities of living with a couple while maintaining their own individual friendships.
10. Were there any other notable moments in “Cooler” besides the kiss?
Yes, “Cooler” also featured other memorable moments, such as Schmidt’s attempts to win back Cece’s affection and Winston’s increasingly bizarre behavior. The episode was packed with humor and emotional depth, making it a standout in the series.
11. How does “Cooler” rank among the best New Girl episodes?
“Cooler” is widely regarded as one of the best episodes of New Girl. The kiss between Jess and Nick, combined with the episode’s overall comedic brilliance and emotional resonance, solidified its place as a fan favorite. Many consider it to be a turning point for the series.
12. Where can I watch the episode “Cooler”?
“Cooler” (Season 2, Episode 15) of New Girl is available for streaming on various platforms, including Hulu, Peacock, and Apple TV (where you can buy individual episodes). You may also be able to purchase the DVD box set of Season 2.
The first kiss between Jess and Nick in “Cooler” remains a pivotal and beloved moment in New Girl history, demonstrating the power of carefully crafted storytelling and the enduring appeal of authentic character development. It forever changed the trajectory of the show and solidified the place of Jess and Nick as one of television’s most endearing couples.