Why Oliver Should Have Ended Up With Laurel Lance In Arrow

The CW's Arrow, a cornerstone of the Arrowverse, captivated audiences for eight seasons with its thrilling blend of superhero action, intricate storylines, and compelling characters. At the heart of the show was Oliver Queen, the Emerald Archer, and his complex relationships. While the series ultimately paired Oliver with Felicity Smoak, a brilliant IT expert, a significant portion of the fanbase passionately believes that Oliver's true love was, and should have always been, Laurel Lance. This article delves into the compelling reasons why Oliver and Laurel's connection was not only more profound but also more fitting for the overall narrative arc of both characters. We will explore the history they shared, the emotional depth of their bond, and how their pairing would have resonated more powerfully with the core themes of the show. Let's face it, guys, the chemistry between Stephen Amell and Katie Cassidy was undeniable, and the narrative potential of their relationship was vast. This isn't just about shipping a couple; it's about understanding the characters and the story they were meant to tell. So, buckle up as we dive deep into the reasons why Oliver and Laurel deserved a different ending, an ending where they found their way back to each other, an ending that honored the history and the potential of their epic love story.

The Foundation of a Relationship: Childhood Sweethearts and Shared History

To truly understand why Oliver and Laurel's relationship held so much promise, we need to rewind to the beginning, to their shared history as childhood sweethearts. Their connection wasn't built on fleeting attraction or shared professional interests; it was forged in the fires of genuine affection, deep-rooted friendship, and a shared understanding that transcended the surface level. They grew up together, shared secrets, dreams, and hopes for the future. This shared history provided a solid foundation for a relationship that could weather the storms of Oliver's transformation and the challenges of his double life as the Green Arrow. Think about it, guys, they knew each other inside and out, flaws and all. This level of intimacy and understanding is rare, and it's the kind of foundation that lasting love stories are built upon. The writers missed a golden opportunity to explore the complexities of rekindling a childhood romance amidst the chaos of superheroics. Imagine the emotional depth and richness that could have been mined from this dynamic. The flashbacks throughout the series offered glimpses into their past, showcasing the innocence and purity of their early love. These moments served as a constant reminder of what they had lost and what could have been. It's this shared history, this deep well of memories and emotions, that makes their connection so compelling and makes the argument for their ultimate pairing so persuasive. It's a testament to the power of first love and the enduring bonds of shared experiences.

Emotional Depth and Unresolved Feelings: A Love That Transcended Circumstances

Beyond their shared history, Oliver and Laurel's relationship was marked by a profound emotional depth and a lingering sense of unresolved feelings. Even after Oliver's betrayal and presumed death, Laurel never truly stopped loving him, and Oliver, despite his relationships with other women, always held a special place in his heart for her. Their interactions were often charged with unspoken emotions, a palpable tension that hinted at the deep connection that still existed beneath the surface. This wasn't just a fleeting attraction; it was a deep, abiding love that transcended circumstances. The writers masterfully portrayed the complexities of their emotions, showcasing the pain, the regret, and the enduring affection that defined their relationship. Guys, the scene where Laurel confronts Oliver about his infidelity? Heart-wrenching. The scene where Oliver mourns Laurel's death? Devastating. These moments highlight the depth of their connection and the profound impact they had on each other's lives. The unresolved feelings between them added a layer of complexity to the narrative, creating a compelling will-they-won't-they dynamic that captivated audiences. This emotional depth is what makes their relationship so resonant and why so many fans believe they were destined to be together. It's a story of second chances, of overcoming obstacles, and of the enduring power of love.

Laurel's Transformation into Black Canary: A Shared Journey and Parallel Development

Laurel's transformation into the Black Canary was not just a personal journey; it was intrinsically linked to Oliver's development as a hero. She was inspired by his commitment to justice and driven by a desire to honor his legacy, as well as Tommy's. This shared journey and parallel development further solidified their bond and made them ideal partners, both in and out of costume. Think about it, guys, they were fighting the same fight, facing the same dangers, and striving for the same goals. This shared purpose created a unique connection between them, a bond forged in the crucible of heroism. Laurel's evolution from a district attorney to a skilled vigilante mirrored Oliver's own transformation, highlighting their shared resilience and determination. Their training sequences, their strategic discussions, their shared victories and defeats – these moments showcased their compatibility and their ability to work together seamlessly. This wasn't just a romantic relationship; it was a partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and a deep understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses. The writers missed a significant opportunity to explore the complexities of a romantic relationship between two superheroes who were fighting side-by-side to save their city. Imagine the dynamic, the challenges, and the ultimate rewards of such a partnership. Laurel's journey to becoming the Black Canary was inextricably linked to Oliver's path as the Green Arrow, making their potential romantic pairing all the more compelling and satisfying.

Narrative Symmetry and Thematic Resonance: A More Fitting Ending for Both Characters

From a narrative perspective, Oliver ending up with Laurel would have provided a more fitting and thematically resonant conclusion to their individual arcs and the overall story of Arrow. Their relationship represented the core themes of the show: redemption, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love. Oliver's journey from a playboy billionaire to a selfless hero was intertwined with his relationship with Laurel. She was his moral compass, his anchor, and the embodiment of the values he ultimately came to embrace. Their reunion would have symbolized his complete transformation and his commitment to a better future. Think about it, guys, Oliver started his journey trying to right the wrongs of his father, and Laurel, as a lawyer dedicated to justice, represented the very principles he was fighting for. Their relationship was a constant reminder of his past mistakes and his potential for redemption. The series finale could have showcased their partnership, both personal and professional, as they worked together to protect Star City and build a better future for their family. This ending would have resonated more powerfully with the core themes of the show, providing a sense of closure and satisfaction for the audience. The writers had the opportunity to create a truly epic love story, one that spanned years, overcame obstacles, and ultimately triumphed over adversity. Instead, they chose a different path, one that left many fans feeling that a significant part of Oliver and Laurel's story remained untold. The narrative symmetry of their relationship, the thematic resonance of their pairing, and the potential for a truly satisfying conclusion all point to the fact that Oliver should have ended up with Laurel.

The Fans Speak: Why the Olicity Ship Sailed and the Olicity vs. Lauriver Debate

The debate over whether Oliver should have ended up with Felicity (Olicity) or Laurel (Lauriver) has raged within the Arrow fandom for years. While Olicity had its passionate supporters, many fans felt that Oliver and Laurel's relationship was ultimately more compelling and deserving of a resolution. The chemistry between Stephen Amell and Katie Cassidy was undeniable, and their characters' shared history and emotional depth resonated deeply with viewers. These fans argued that the show sacrificed a more meaningful and organic storyline in favor of a relationship that felt forced and often overshadowed the core themes of the series. Guys, the Lauriver fans are a dedicated bunch, and their arguments are compelling. They point to the inconsistencies in the Olicity relationship, the lack of shared history, and the ways in which Felicity's character often overshadowed Oliver's journey. They felt that the writers prioritized the romantic relationship over the superhero narrative, ultimately detracting from the show's overall quality. The Olicity ship sailed, but for many, it never felt like the right destination. The Lauriver debate highlights the complexities of fan engagement and the power of shared storytelling. It's a reminder that characters and their relationships can have a profound impact on viewers, sparking passionate debates and shaping the overall reception of a series. While the writers made their choice, the Lauriver fans continue to champion the love story that they believe should have been, a love story that honored the history, the emotional depth, and the narrative potential of Oliver and Laurel's relationship.

In conclusion, while Arrow ultimately charted a different course for Oliver Queen's romantic life, the arguments for why he should have ended up with Laurel Lance remain compelling. Their shared history, emotional depth, parallel development, narrative symmetry, and the passionate support of a significant portion of the fanbase all point to a love story that deserved a different ending. The connection between Oliver and Laurel was more than just a fleeting romance; it was a bond forged in shared experiences, mutual respect, and an enduring love that transcended circumstances. While the final chapter may have been written, the debate over Oliver and Laurel's relationship will likely continue to resonate within the Arrow fandom for years to come. Let's face it, guys, some love stories are just too epic to be forgotten, and Oliver and Laurel's is definitely one of them.