Donna Paulsen and Harvey Specter’s relationship has been the beating heart of Suits since the very beginning. The simmering tension, the unspoken feelings, and the moments of near-misses kept viewers hooked. So, when did that tension finally erupt into a kiss in Season 7? Donna kisses Harvey in Season 7, Episode 10, titled “Donna.” This monumental moment marked a significant shift in their dynamic, leaving fans clamoring for more.
The Kiss: A Moment Years in the Making
The kiss in “Donna” wasn’t just a random act; it was the culmination of years of shared history, unwavering loyalty, and deep, albeit often suppressed, affection. The episode itself centers around Donna’s personal struggles and her contemplation of what she wants from her life. She’s wrestling with feelings of unfulfillment and the realization that despite her professional success, something essential is missing.
The Lead-Up to the Kiss
Throughout the episode, Donna grapples with these emotions, leading to a powerful and vulnerable conversation with Harvey. He, in turn, shows a level of emotional openness rarely seen before, acknowledging her importance in his life and career. This vulnerability creates a charged atmosphere, paving the way for the impulsive, passionate kiss. It wasn’t a planned event, but rather a spontaneous expression of their deep connection.
The Immediate Aftermath
The immediate fallout from the kiss is complicated, as both Donna and Harvey struggle to process what happened. It throws their established dynamic into disarray, forcing them to confront the potential implications of their actions. The rest of the season explores the fallout, the awkwardness, and ultimately, the path towards understanding what the kiss truly meant.
Understanding the Significance
The kiss in “Donna” is more than just a romantic moment. It’s a critical turning point for both characters and the series as a whole. It forces them to confront their feelings for each other and consider the possibility of a romantic relationship, something that had always been hinted at but never explicitly explored.
Impact on Donna’s Character Arc
For Donna, the kiss represents a breakthrough in her journey toward self-discovery. It allows her to acknowledge her own desires and needs, moving beyond her role as Harvey’s indispensable support system. She starts to prioritize her own happiness and consider what a relationship with Harvey would truly entail.
Impact on Harvey’s Character Arc
For Harvey, the kiss is a catalyst for growth. It forces him to confront his own emotional unavailability and consider the possibility of opening himself up to a deeper, more vulnerable connection with Donna. He starts to grapple with the fear of commitment and the risks involved in pursuing a romantic relationship with someone he values so deeply.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Donna and Harvey’s Relationship
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the complexities of Donna and Harvey’s relationship and the significance of that pivotal kiss in Season 7.
FAQ 1: What were the fan reactions to the kiss in “Donna?”
Fan reactions were overwhelmingly positive, though also filled with anxiety about the potential fallout. Many viewers had been rooting for Donna and Harvey (“Darvey”) to get together since the show’s beginning. The kiss was seen as a validation of their hopes and desires, but also a source of concern about how the writers would handle the aftermath. Social media exploded with discussions and theories about what would happen next.
FAQ 2: Did the actors, Gabriel Macht and Sarah Rafferty, have any input into the Donna/Harvey storyline?
Yes, both Gabriel Macht and Sarah Rafferty had significant input. They understood the complexities of their characters and advocated for a nuanced and realistic portrayal of their relationship. They collaborated with the writers to ensure the storyline felt authentic and true to the characters’ established personalities.
FAQ 3: What were Donna’s feelings for Harvey before the kiss?
Donna’s feelings for Harvey were deeply ingrained and multifaceted. She clearly cared for him on a personal level, going above and beyond to support him in his career and personal life. Her loyalty and devotion stemmed from a deep-seated affection that bordered on romantic love, though she often suppressed these feelings due to professional boundaries and the fear of jeopardizing their working relationship.
FAQ 4: What were Harvey’s feelings for Donna before the kiss?
Harvey’s feelings for Donna were less explicit but equally profound. He relied on her implicitly, valuing her intelligence, intuition, and unwavering loyalty. While he often struggled to express his emotions, his actions spoke volumes. He trusted Donna implicitly and consistently sought her advice and support, demonstrating a deep-seated respect and affection that hinted at a deeper, romantic connection.
FAQ 5: Was the kiss planned from the beginning of the series?
No, the kiss wasn’t necessarily planned from the beginning. The writers intentionally built the tension and ambiguity between Donna and Harvey, allowing their relationship to evolve organically over time. The kiss emerged as a natural progression of their dynamic, rather than a predetermined plot point.
FAQ 6: How did the kiss impact Donna’s relationship with Paula Agard (Harvey’s therapist girlfriend)?
The kiss created significant tension and awkwardness between Donna and Paula. Donna felt conflicted about her actions, recognizing the potential harm she had caused to Paula. While Donna tried to maintain a professional distance, the underlying tension remained palpable.
FAQ 7: How did the kiss affect Harvey’s performance at work?
The kiss initially distracted Harvey, affecting his focus and decision-making. He struggled to reconcile his personal feelings with his professional responsibilities, leading to some uncharacteristic mistakes. He eventually learned to compartmentalize his emotions and regain his composure.
FAQ 8: Did other characters in Suits know about Donna and Harvey’s feelings for each other?
Yes, many characters, including Mike Ross, Louis Litt, and Rachel Zane, were aware of the underlying tension between Donna and Harvey. They often made comments and observations that alluded to their feelings, adding to the overall dynamic and anticipation surrounding their relationship.
FAQ 9: What other significant moments foreshadowed the kiss in Season 7?
Several moments foreshadowed the kiss, including heartfelt conversations where Donna and Harvey expressed their gratitude and appreciation for each other. Harvey’s increasing reliance on Donna for emotional support, and his growing defensiveness when others questioned her, further hinted at his deeper feelings.
FAQ 10: Why did it take so long for Donna and Harvey to finally kiss?
The delay in Donna and Harvey’s romantic relationship was intentional, serving to build suspense and create a more compelling narrative. The writers wanted to explore the complexities of their friendship and professional partnership before delving into the challenges of a romantic relationship. The slow burn allowed viewers to become invested in their characters and appreciate the depth of their connection.
FAQ 11: What other episodes in Season 7 are crucial to understanding the Donna and Harvey dynamic?
Besides Episode 10 (“Donna”), Episode 7 (“Hard Truths”) where Harvey admits to Paula that he cares about Donna, and Episode 14 (“Pulling the Goalie”) which showcases Harvey actively trying to move forward romantically with Paula, are important for understanding the complexities and ramifications of the kiss. These episodes provide insight into their individual struggles and the evolving nature of their relationship.
FAQ 12: What happens to Donna and Harvey’s relationship after Season 7?
Following the kiss in Season 7, Donna and Harvey’s relationship continues to evolve, facing numerous challenges and obstacles. They navigate the complexities of exploring their romantic feelings while maintaining their professional partnership. Their journey ultimately culminates in a significant and satisfying resolution by the end of the series.
Conclusion: The Kiss That Changed Everything
The kiss between Donna and Harvey in Season 7, Episode 10, “Donna,” is a pivotal moment in Suits. It was the explosive release of years of pent-up emotion and a catalyst for significant character development. While the aftermath was complex and challenging, the kiss marked a turning point in their relationship, setting the stage for their eventual romantic union and solidifying their place as one of television’s most beloved will-they-won’t-they couples. The moment will forever be etched in the minds of Suits fans as the beginning of a new chapter for Darvey.