As New Girl is on their seventh and final season, I’ve definitely been rewatching old episodes out of nostalgia.
I remember starting the show when I was sixteen, and finding the quirky and wholesome Jessica Day so relatable. At first, it was simply because of how fun she was—she wasn’t afraid to be herself, and considering I was in high school at the time, it was refreshing to see that in a main character on television.
Jess Day is dubbed as being “adorkable,” but after watching the show and falling in love with the character, you realize that Jess is so much more than that.
She is fun and smart, as opposed to the typical “goofy and stupid” archetype on a lot of other shows. Though she is definitely the optimist on the show, it would have been easy to make Jess into a two-dimensional constant happy face. Instead, she faces a lot of struggles and voices her frustration in the most wholesome way possible.
Over the course of six amazing seasons (and I’m sure with the final season, too), we see so much natural character development and growth in Jess. We have Elizabeth Meriwether and the writers to thank for that, and I’m sure a huge part of it also came from Zooey Deschanel. As Jess Day grew as a character, the viewers of the show have probably learned a lot from her—I can definitely say that I have.
Here are five reasons why Jess Day is the most lovable character ever.
- She is never afraid to be her true self.
At the start of the show, despite moving in with her new, male roommates, Jess doesn’t change anything about herself to fit in. She is unapologetically herself, and as the show goes on, she becomes more comfortable with calling people out on their bullshit, in the most assertive, yet “Jess Day” way possible.
- She reminds us that it’s OK to show emotion.
She allows herself to wallow and be scared. There have been so many times on the show where Jess has been in the least ideal situations, which is just part of life. At the end of the day, while she knows how strong she is, she understands the importance of emotions and gives herself time before taking life by the reins.
- She loves her friends so, so much.
It’s no secret that every character on this show is so different. Jess manages to love all her friends and show them that how much she cares about them in different ways, whether it be with a pep-talk, genuine advice, or a hug.
- She believes in goodness.
Jess constantly tries to see the good in everything and everybody.
- She believes in herself.
Jess is aware of how caring she is and how much love she has. She knows she can do anything if she sets her heart and mind to it. Thanks, Jess. We love you.
Featured image via New Girl
