Whether it's for the rare romantic moments or the large amount of second-hand embarrassment, reality TV aficionados would be hard-pressed to say that 90 Day Fiancé: Before The 90 Days isn't entertaining. Not only do the Youtube clips make for a hearty bingeing session, but this spin-off created quite the prominent meme culture (especially from fan favorite, Big Ed).
It goes without saying that this show has many toxic moments as the couples learn unsavory secrets about the other and less-than-honest intentions are made known. However, there are a few success stories and romantic moments that beg the question, "Maybe love isn't dead after all?"
Toxic: Jennifer And Tim At The National Park
While Tim visits Jennifer in Colombia, the pair go for the day to a national park. However, things quickly turn sour. Jennifer suggests that they go on a canyon swing and Tim, who admits he is afraid of heights, automatically refuses. Jennifer then proceeds to call him a coward, while he laments that he can't meet her expectations.
The lack of communication and the lack of empathy for the other person's wishes is a clear factor that this relationship is not heading in the right direction.
Romantic: Angela And Michael's Engagement Party
Although Angela and Michael's relationship had a few bumps in the road, things seem to have taken a turn for the better, especially during their engagement party. Michael's Nigerian family organizes a beautiful ceremony, Angela shows up in their traditional clothes and the whole family seems to embrace Angela wholeheartedly.
It's a beautiful moment as you can see that Angela truly respects her partner'ss culture and tries to be as respectful as possible about adhering to it. It is a great start to their planned life together.
Toxic: Big Ed Asks Rose To Take An STD Test
Issues arise in Big Ed and Rose's relationship when she refuses to be upfront about her past relationships. Things come to a head when Big Ed asks Rose to take an STD test. Needless to say, she does not take this well.
Hurt, she questions him about his obsession with her past. It all ends with Rose in tears, leaving on her own. Big Ed's request seems reasonable, but Rose's defensiveness and lack of communication is not a healthy reaction.
Romantic: Stephanie And Erika Meet
Stephanie flies all the way from the United States to Australia to meet her girlfriend, Erika. Stephanie is nervous leading up to the moment (global pandemic notwithstanding). However, when the two finally spot each other from the airport escalators, it is instant laughing, excitement, and happiness.
It is a very wholesome moment, especially with Stephanie proudly proclaiming "It's my girlfriend!" and "I'm moving in slow motion!" as she mimics running down the escalator steps. All in all, a very positive first meeting.
Toxic: Tom Tries Reaching Out To Darcey
After ending things with Tom, Darcey is fully ready to move on and find someone new. However, Tom doesn't seem that keen. While on a drive, Darcey reveals that Tom attempted to reach out to her through a friend and then his mother.
Darcey and Tom's relationship ended less than amicably and he has apparently found a new person, so his actions come off as manipulative. But it's also a crossing of Darcey's boundaries, especially since she had blocked Tom.
Romantic: Angela And Michael Meet
The excitement between these two when they first meet is undeniable. Upon seeing Michael as she exits the airport in Nigeria, Angela drops her bags and runs to him. There is a lot of affection, smiles, and banter as the two leave the airport.
The pair instantly seem comfortable together as they joke around and Angela hopes that Michael will continue to love her, despite their different personalities. Their reunion is very touching and starts their relationship off on a positive note.
Toxic: Tom Shows Up At Darcey's House
After their breakup, Tom shows up at Darcey's home, wanting to apologize, and tries to give her a letter stating his feelings. Darcey is clearly rattled and attempting to keep her composure in check as she tells him that she wants nothing to do with him.
Not only is this crossing Darcey's boundaries further, but Tom paints himself as the victim after Darcey closes the door in his face and refuses to take the letter from him (even after stating that she wasn't comfortable).
Romantic: Stephanie Supports Erika In Coming Out
It is a nerve-wracking moment when Erika, with Stephanie sitting next to her, tells her parents that Stephanie is her girlfriend and that she is bisexual. Her father's response? "Do you want some more fried rice?"
It is a funny and touching moment as both the parents accept their daughter for who she is, as well as her new partner. While the moment is not solely focused on both Erika and Stephanie, it is still a testament to their relationship that Stephanie acts as emotional support during this declaration.
Toxic: Williams Is Not Clear About Where Yolanda Should Fly To
As Yolanda gets ready to book airplane tickets to go and meet her English boyfriend, Williams, red flags start to pop up. Despite living in Manchester, he tells her to fly to London. When pressed about this inconsistency, he changes his mind before giving her the name of a Manchester airport that doesn't seem to exist.
Not only is this frustrating for Yolanda (who is also trying to prove Williams' good intentions to her daughter, Karra) but it is also potentially dangerous and a waste of money.
Romantic: Avery and Ash's Goodbye
As Avery leaves to return to the United States, Ash reveals just how deep his feelings for her go. He reveals how difficult it is to leave her after connecting with her, but he lets her know that his priority is getting his passport in order so that he can come to visit her.
Their goodbye is emotional and the two struggle with the impending separation, but it brings a sense of hope that the two will work in tandem to be together again.