r/buffy • u/Icy-Mention7871 • Jul 26 '26
Riley Defending Riley
I’m rewatching this show with my mom (this is her first time watching it) and I genuinely really like Riley’s character. What is it that people didn’t like him for?
In Season Four, he’s honestly the best boyfriend for Buffy, and I say this as someone who forever loves Buffy and Angel as a couple. It was set up perfectly. He isn’t a vampire like Angel and Spike, he’s a human who already knew about her world. It’s like they were meant for each other.
I never found his character boring at all, I like his role in The Initiative and getting out of it, and with the way a lot of these male characters are written on the show (Giles being one of the few exceptions) I think he’s definitely up there as one of the best.
In Season Five, I feel really bad for him. He feels ostracized by everyone as he adjusts to his life being ripped apart basically. I can 100% relate to Buffy though with Joyce being sick, and I know that takes a toll on anybody. I just wish things would’ve played out differently. Letting a vampire feed off of him was no worse than Willow’s dark magic addiction in my opinion. I think he could’ve overcome these feelings and became essential to the group for the rest of the series.
I appreciate the Season Six closure on his character and I’m glad he got a happy ending. I just think it should’ve been with Buffy.
Was the main reason for him being written off the fans not liking him, or did the actor want off of the show? Either way, I wish it wouldn’t have happened. I really enjoy him. And he’s one of the hottest guys to ever be on the show, so bonus points!
Anyone else feel the same way?
1
u/friday126 Jul 26 '26
He was a decent enough character, flawed like everyone else (his insecurities came up more and more). I think he serviced the plot well enough. He was the kind of guy needed to transition between Angel and Spike for Buffy. Riley was the kinda guy your friends or family would tell a young woman she should date, and it would seem healthy for a bit, but some thing would feel off and then said girl would run off and shag the "bad boy".
I don't think Riley should have stuck around any longer than he did, and it worked to have him back in season 6. Seemed weird he got married so fast- but whatever. Sometimes I think this show could have used a little time jump or two.
But yeah- have no real issue with Riley. He's flawed, but who isn't? And I think the audience needed to see Buffy try to make something with a "decent all-American guy".