A Comprehensive Look at Wesley and Angela’s Relationship in The Rookie
Since their initial meeting in Season 1 of ABC’s The Rookie, Wesley Evers (played by Shawn Ashmore) and Angela Lopez (played by Alyssa Diaz) have experienced significant growth, both personally and professionally. Although their relationship began with intense disagreements, these conflicts only served to underline the strong chemistry that exists between them. Wesley’s transition from a defense attorney to an assistant district attorney has opened new avenues for collaboration and understanding in their partnership.
The Evolution of Wopez: From Conflict to Collaboration
The artistic tension in Wesley and Angela’s early relationship added depth to the show’s narrative. As Ashmore mentioned in a recent interview with ScreenRant regarding the show’s “April Fools”episode, the contrasting perspectives that Wesley brought as a defense lawyer versus Angela’s role in law enforcement contributed valuable social commentary to the series. This dynamic, while intriguing, required evolution to remain engaging as the series progressed into its seventh season.
ScreenRant: When Wesley was a defense attorney, he and Angela would butt heads on a professional level. Do you prefer that relationship dynamic or do you enjoy that they’re able to work together?
I think it gave the show a nice balance, and I think that Alexi and the writers have done a good job with challenging some of the things that are happening in the world and that officers and policing have to deal with. I think Wesley was that character that was pushing back sometimes, as James is asking the questions with Nyla and challenging some of those views.
I think that’s very healthy, and I think that’s an important part of the show. However, characters have to continue to grow to be interesting. And obviously, we’re on season 7, and hopefully we get to continue doing it. And I think that if Wesley had stayed defense attorney, that conflict between them might’ve started to feel old.
I like the transition that he’s made to be like, “I want to try to affect the change that I wanted to do from inside the system.”And I think that’s what makes him a great district attorney, is that he’s been on the outside, so he’s not just trying to climb the ladder and become a powerful member of the law enforcement team there. He legitimately has a perspective of what it was like to defend criminals. So I think that’s a cool storyline for him.
Their First Encounter: “Wopez”Meet in Season 1, Episode 7 (“The Ride Along”)
Wesley and Angela’s intriguing journey begins in The Rookie Season 1, Episode 7, titled “The Ride Along.”Their argument sparks as Wesley’s briefcase is stolen, leading to a heated exchange when Angela intervenes, not realizing he’s the victim. With the help of Jackson, who convinces his training officer to assist Wesley, they ultimately track down the culprit.
Despite their disputes throughout this predicament, an obvious attraction blooms between the characters. By the episode’s conclusion, Wesley musters the courage to ask Angela out, formally igniting their romantic journey. Throughout various challenges and life-threatening situations, their bond solidifies, culminating in Wesley’s heartfelt proposal to Angela in Season 2. Today, “Wopez”is happily married and raising two children.
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Catch new episodes of The Rookie Season 7 every Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET on ABC.