The romance between Dr. Temperance Brennan (Bones) and Special Agent Tim “Sully” Sullivan reached its definitive end in the Season 2 episode “The Killer in the Concrete.” Despite the initial promise and undeniable chemistry, differing priorities and ultimately, Brennan’s deep-seated commitment to her work, led to the dissolving of their relationship.
The Sully Arc: A Brief Overview
Sully’s introduction in Season 2 provided a fascinating glimpse into a side of Brennan rarely seen – one susceptible to genuine romantic interest. He offered her an escape, a chance to experience life outside the confines of the Jeffersonian and her intellectual pursuits. However, the contrasting lifestyles and perspectives proved insurmountable. Their connection, while intense, was ultimately short-lived.
Sully’s Charm and Appeal
Sully, played by Eddie McClintock, was presented as a charismatic FBI agent with a passion for sailing and a more relaxed approach to life than Booth. He served as a foil to Booth, forcing Brennan (and the audience) to consider what she truly valued in a partner. His adventurous spirit and desire to sail the world with her sparked a brief, but significant, internal conflict for Brennan.
The Turning Point: A Clash of Priorities
The core reason for the breakup stemmed from Sully’s plan to sail to the Caribbean. He invited Brennan to join him, envisioning a life of adventure and freedom on the open sea. Brennan, deeply rooted in her scientific career and responsibility at the Jeffersonian, ultimately declined. This decision, while painful for both, highlighted their fundamental incompatibility and cemented their fate.
FAQ: Delving Deeper into the Bones and Sully Relationship
Here are some frequently asked questions designed to shed further light on this particular relationship within the broader Bones narrative:
FAQ 1: Was Sully a serious contender for Brennan’s affections compared to Booth?
While Sully presented a genuine romantic alternative, he was never a true long-term contender compared to Booth. The show’s narrative consistently hinted at the deep, underlying connection between Brennan and Booth. Sully served as a catalyst, forcing Brennan to confront her feelings and eventually leading her closer to realizing the depth of her bond with Booth. Sully was a detour, not the destination.
FAQ 2: Why did Brennan reject Sully’s offer to sail to the Caribbean?
Brennan rejected Sully’s offer primarily due to her unwavering commitment to her work. She felt a strong sense of responsibility to her profession and the people she worked with at the Jeffersonian. The idea of abandoning her career, even for a life of adventure, was simply not an option for her at that time. Her dedication to science and her intellectual pursuits were integral to her identity.
FAQ 3: How did Booth react to Brennan’s relationship with Sully?
Booth’s reaction was initially one of professional detachment, though subtle hints of jealousy were present. He maintained a supportive demeanor, respecting Brennan’s choices. However, it was clear that he was affected by their relationship, subtly revealing his own suppressed feelings for her. His concern for her safety and well-being was consistently evident, regardless of her romantic choices.
FAQ 4: Did the breakup with Sully influence Brennan’s relationship with Booth in any way?
Yes, the breakup with Sully significantly influenced Brennan’s relationship with Booth. It highlighted the importance of shared values and compatible lifestyles. Brennan began to recognize that a strong intellectual connection, while important, wasn’t enough for a lasting relationship. She saw that Booth, despite their initial disagreements, shared a fundamental understanding of her and her priorities, something Sully lacked.
FAQ 5: What were some of the positive aspects of the Bones and Sully relationship?
The relationship brought out a more relaxed and adventurous side of Brennan. She was more willing to step outside her comfort zone and explore new experiences. Sully helped her to see the world beyond the lab and to appreciate the value of spontaneity. He demonstrated that life could be more than just logic and science.
FAQ 6: Did Sully ever reappear in later seasons of Bones?
Yes, Sully reappears in Season 12, in the episode “The Jewel in the Crown.” He is no longer with the FBI and is now a full-time sailor. His return provides a moment of reflection for Brennan and Booth, allowing them to acknowledge their past experiences and appreciate the strength of their current relationship. His reappearance is more about closure than rekindling any old flame.
FAQ 7: Was Sully a good match for Brennan, considering her personality?
Objectively, Sully wasn’t a good long-term match for Brennan. Their fundamental differences in priorities and lifestyles were too significant to overcome. While he brought out a different side of her, he didn’t understand her core values and motivations in the same way that Booth did.
FAQ 8: How does the Bones and Sully breakup compare to other relationships in the show?
The Bones and Sully breakup is distinct from other relationships in the show because it highlights the importance of long-term compatibility over initial attraction. Other relationships, such as those involving secondary characters, often focused on personality clashes or specific plot devices. The Sully relationship, however, was more about exploring the fundamental needs and desires in a long-term partnership.
FAQ 9: What can viewers learn from the Bones and Sully relationship arc?
Viewers can learn that initial attraction and chemistry are not always sufficient for a lasting relationship. Shared values, compatible lifestyles, and a deep understanding of each other’s priorities are crucial for long-term success. The arc also reinforces the idea that sometimes, the most unexpected person can be the best match.
FAQ 10: Did the actors who played Bones and Sully have any personal input into the storyline?
There’s no publicly available information to suggest that David Boreanaz or Eddie McClintock significantly influenced the storyline beyond their performance of the script. The writers and showrunners dictated the overarching narrative and character arcs.
FAQ 11: What was the overall fan reaction to the Bones and Sully relationship?
Fan reaction to the Bones and Sully relationship was mixed. Some viewers appreciated the refreshing change of pace and the vulnerability it revealed in Brennan. However, many were firmly rooted in their support for the Brennan and Booth relationship, viewing Sully as an obstacle to their eventual union. The Bones and Booth “shippers” largely saw Sully as an unwelcome distraction.
FAQ 12: Is the Bones and Sully storyline considered a memorable or significant arc in the overall series?
While not as iconic as the central Bones and Booth relationship, the Bones and Sully storyline is considered a significant arc because it served as a crucial turning point in Brennan’s character development. It forced her to confront her feelings and to recognize the importance of shared values in a lasting relationship, ultimately paving the way for her relationship with Booth. It serves as a compelling example of a “wrong turn” that ultimately leads to the right path.