The relationship between Buffy and Angel in Buffy the Vampire Slayer is fraught with complications, starting with their substantial age difference. Not only is there the inherent challenge of a vampire and a mortal being romantically involved — especially since Buffy’s purpose as a Slayer is to eliminate creatures like Angel — but this dynamic takes a darker turn given the complexities of their lives. Giles aptly captures the tragic essence of their connection, marking it as one of the most ill-fated romances in the series.
This story of forbidden love centers on Angel, who is cursed with a soul. While this grants him the capacity to love Buffy genuinely, it also comes at a steep price: any intimacy can result in him losing his soul and reverting to his malevolent persona, Angelus. Even decades after the show concluded, the Buffy-Angel romance continues to be analyzed through modern perspectives, with many critics citing various elements as toxic, age gap included.
Age Differences: Angel Is 270 while Buffy Is 16 at the Beginning of BTVS
Historical Roots: Angel’s Background
At the time Buffy the Vampire Slayer begins, Angel is a remarkable 270 years old. Although he speaks with an American accent, his origins trace back to Galway, Ireland, where he was born in 1727 — long before Buffy Summers’ arrival in Los Angeles on January 19, 1981. The significant age disparity raises eyebrows, especially in light of contemporary critiques of such romance tropes, which often point to potential grooming behaviors by older partners.
Nevertheless, in the realm of fantasy, where the supernatural reigns, audiences can sometimes suspend disbelief. Here, the allure of forbidden love remains intact, whether it be witnessed in the partnership of Buffy and Angel or the iconic pairing of Bella and Edward from Twilight. However, it’s vital to note that the tension in Buffy and Angel’s dynamic stems more from their differing natures than from their age difference.
Buffy and Angel may have appeared to be similar in age while they were dating, but as highlighted by the Mayor, Buffy’s mortality poses a unique challenge. While she will age, Angel will remain eternally youthful. Although their relationship never progressed enough to address this issue in-depth, it creates a disconcerting layer to their romance.
The Complexity of Their Age Gap: Angel Was 26 at His Siring
The Uncomfortable Start: Angel’s First Encounter with 15-Year-Old Buffy
Angel’s vampire status at nearly three centuries old is paralleled by his transformation into a vampire at the tender age of 26. When he was turned by Darla in 1753, he was already considered an adult, thus making his infatuation with 16-year-old Buffy all the more troubling. To make matters worse, when Angel first lays eyes on Buffy, she is just 15 — eagerly discovering her new role as Slayer amid her teenage exclamations about a school dance.
This moment, crafted to evoke a romantic sentiment, raises eyebrows especially given Buffy’s innocent demeanor, complete with a lollipop in hand — a rather unsettling visual that some say echoes similar themes to the controversial novel, Lolita.
While Buffy later engages in a tumultuous relationship with Spike, the difference lies in her age; by then, she is in her early 20s, a significant contrast to her minor status when associating with Angel. Living on a Hellmouth might make dating supernatural beings somewhat normal, but the disparity in ages and the context makes the relationship an unnerving foray into youth and power dynamics.
Ultimately, despite these troubling aspects, the age gap in Buffy and Angel’s story does not detract from the show’s enjoyment during rewatches; however, it certainly provokes thought and reflection on the complexities of their relationship.