Despite the fervent hopes and passionate investment of “Olitz” shippers, Olivia Pope and President Fitzgerald Grant III never officially get married in the television series Scandal. While the relationship dominated much of the show’s seven seasons, their connection remained a turbulent, complicated, and ultimately unresolved affair of the heart, never culminating in a legally binding union.
The Elusive Nuptials: Why No Wedding Bells for Olitz?
The enduring question surrounding Olivia and Fitz’s potential marriage stems from the intense chemistry and deeply flawed but undeniably powerful bond they shared. Their relationship was a constant push and pull between their personal desires and the demands of their respective careers – her as a formidable fixer in Washington D.C., and him as the President of the United States. This inherent conflict proved insurmountable, preventing them from ever truly finding a stable and conventional romantic foundation.
The narrative continuously teased the possibility of a future together, even depicting glimpses of their idyllic life after Fitz’s presidency. However, these were presented as potential futures, not definitive outcomes. The constant threat of scandal, political intrigue, and personal baggage always loomed large, ultimately keeping them from crossing the aisle to marital bliss. The very nature of Scandal thrived on dramatic tension and unresolved conflicts, and an official marriage between Olivia and Fitz would arguably have diminished the core of their story.
The Power Dynamics at Play
A significant factor preventing the marriage was the inherent power imbalance within their relationship. Fitz, as President, held immense authority, and Olivia, despite her independent spirit, often found herself navigating his world and influence. A marriage would have further cemented this power dynamic, potentially diminishing Olivia’s agency and compromising her fiercely independent nature. The show consistently highlighted this struggle, making it clear that a marriage wouldn’t necessarily solve their core issues.
The Unseen Futures
While the series finale offered a glimpse of a hopeful future for Olivia, it strategically avoided explicitly confirming a marriage to Fitz. Instead, it emphasized her continued independence and her dedication to fighting for justice. The ambiguity allowed viewers to interpret their future as they wished, leaving the question of marriage open to individual interpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Olivia and Fitz’s Relationship
Here’s a deeper dive into the intricacies of the Olitz romance, addressing some common questions that fans continue to ponder:
1. What was the biggest obstacle in Olivia and Fitz’s relationship?
The biggest obstacle was the constant conflict between their professional obligations and their personal desires. Fitz’s presidency demanded sacrifices and compromises that often clashed with Olivia’s career and personal life. The constant scandals and political maneuvering further complicated their relationship.
2. Did Fitz ever leave Mellie for Olivia?
While Fitz expressed his desire to be with Olivia numerous times and even contemplated divorce, he never legally left Mellie during his presidency. The political ramifications and the potential damage to his legacy prevented him from taking that step.
3. Was Olivia ever pregnant with Fitz’s child?
The show explored the possibility of Olivia becoming pregnant but never confirmed it. There were suspicions and anxieties surrounding the issue, adding another layer of complexity to their relationship. Ultimately, Olivia never had a child with Fitz or anyone else on the show.
4. What happened to Jake Ballard in relation to Olivia and Fitz?
Jake Ballard served as a constant point of triangulation in the Olitz dynamic. He was both a romantic rival to Fitz and a trusted confidante of Olivia. Their complex relationship often fueled jealousy and conflict within the Olitz dynamic. Jake’s intense devotion and complicated backstory added another layer of complexity to Olivia’s romantic choices.
5. Why were so many fans invested in the Olitz relationship?
The allure of the Olitz relationship stemmed from its intense passion, the power dynamics involved, and the inherent drama of a love affair between the President and a powerful fixer. The forbidden nature of their romance and the actors’ undeniable chemistry resonated deeply with viewers.
6. Did the show ever portray a realistic view of relationships?
Scandal, by design, leaned heavily into dramatic and often unrealistic portrayals of relationships. While the core emotions and struggles were relatable, the context of political intrigue and high-stakes scenarios often overshadowed realistic relationship dynamics.
7. How did Mellie Grant factor into the Olitz dynamic?
Mellie Grant served as a constant reminder of the sacrifices and compromises inherent in Fitz’s political life. Her unwavering ambition and political savvy often clashed with Olivia’s desire for a simple, personal connection with Fitz. Mellie became a force to be reckoned with in her own right, adding another layer of complication to the love triangle.
8. What was the significance of the Vermont scenes?
The “Vermont” scenes represented the idyllic, idealized future that Fitz and Olivia longed for – a life away from the political spotlight, filled with simple pleasures and genuine connection. However, these scenes often served as a reminder of the unattainable nature of their desires.
9. Did Fitz and Olivia ever truly understand each other?
While they shared a deep connection and understood each other on a certain level, their fundamentally different perspectives and ambitions often created misunderstandings and conflicts. The power imbalance between them also hindered true, equal understanding.
10. What was the long-term impact of the Olitz relationship on Olivia?
The Olitz relationship profoundly shaped Olivia’s character, challenging her moral compass and forcing her to confront her own vulnerabilities. It transformed her from a detached fixer into a more complex and emotionally vulnerable individual. The experience led to significant personal growth and a deeper understanding of her own desires.
11. How did the ending of Scandal address the Olitz relationship?
The ending of Scandal left the future of the Olitz relationship open to interpretation. While it suggested a potential reconciliation, it avoided definitively confirming a romantic reunion. The focus shifted towards Olivia’s continued dedication to fighting for justice, suggesting a path of independence and purpose.
12. If they didn’t marry, what was the ultimate message of their relationship?
The ultimate message of the Olitz relationship is that love doesn’t always conquer all. Sometimes, personal desires must yield to higher callings and individual ambitions. Their relationship explored the complexities of power, ambition, and personal fulfillment, ultimately suggesting that true happiness may lie in pursuing one’s own path, even if it means sacrificing a romantic ideal. Their story serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of balancing love and career within the treacherous landscape of power and politics, a reminder that not all love stories have a fairytale ending, and perhaps some are better left unresolved.