James Marsters on Spuffy or Bangel

[Hale Caesar]

Start around 45:02. James talks about if Buffy belongs with Angel or Spike.

http://www.wizardworld.com/james-ma...-buffy-and-more-from-wizard-world-austin.html

Thoughts? Opinions? Feelings?

**The video might be giving some problems so you might have to refresh the page a couple times**

 

[Aloverssoulz]

He's said this a few times in Q&A's that Buffy and Angel were made to be together, but Spike is who he'd like to be with her xD

Sarah is also a Bangel, though I think a part of it is because of her dislike for season 6 as a whole. She didn't like all the sex scenes etc. and said it was belittling or something.

 

[Vamp Jenny]

BAngel ftw!!!

Nah seriously, I agree with what he said. I like seeing Spike and Buffy together, but she was destined to be with Angel from the beginning.

I like the way he said it though, "Spike was a beautiful mistake" 🙂 <3

 

[WileyDairyGnome]

I sort of disagree... I personally don't think that Buffy and Angel were "destined to be together". I mean, sure they loved each other... But that's really it, you know? I think the fact that they couldn't even make love showed that their love wasn't meant to be... Ever since they were together there was always something getting in the way. If they were really "meant to be" then they would have "been".

Sorry to Bangel shippers. That's just my opinion. 🙂

 

[white avenger]

I like the way he said it though, "Spike was a beautiful mistake" 🙂 <3

Whereas Angel was just a mistake, no beauty whatsoever.

 

[WWGD]

I agree with him, always have and am surprised at those who refuse to see it. It was written in the script, just as he says. It was a gradual process where Buffy fell into this relationship that was just all bad for her. By the end of the series she loved Spike, but absolutely was not in love with him in a romantic sense. Given their circumstances and what kind of person she was, they never had a chance for a mutual true romantic love. The Bangel ship was on a whole different level.

 

[white avenger]

The Bangel ship was on a whole different level.

Yeah. The bottom of the ocean with all the other sunken ships.

James Marsters played the character of Spike. He didn't write the scripts or plan the plots or the ways that the characters and relationships developed. His statement that Buffy and Angel "were made for each other" is no more valid than Leonard Nimoy's similar statement that Captain Kirk and Yeoman Janice Rand would become more deeply involved. James can voice his opinion, and he has every right to do so, but it remains only that. An opinion.

In some far off future, Buffy and Angel MIGHT end up together, happily ever after. The exact same thing could be said for Clark Kent and Lana Lang. But my money is staying where it always has been. On William and Lois.

 

[zobothehobo]

You know... I've learned not to trust James. Because I could find you five conventions right now where he says that Buffy and Spike are perfect for each other. It really depends on how he's feeling that day. I know that sounds like I'm excusing an answer I don't like, but that's really not the case. There are some answers James is consistent with: "what's your favorite episode of Buffy and Angel" (OMWF, and Destiny because he was proud of the cast) "What was it like to kiss John Barrowman?" (Best on screen kiss I've ever had, tell story about blowing a gag and John getting a private doctor to help, tells story of his wife directing the kiss, explains that facial hair hurts when kissing) And then there are some things that he's never consistent on: "What would Spike say if he met Edward Cullen?" (will range from "let's party man" to "you are a pussy go away.") "Bangel or Spuffy" is the biggest question James is not consistent on.

So bottom line, I don't put much stalk in this. I'm more concerned with how he said "I love you baby" to the fan after he answered the question. Can we talk for a second about how ridiculously sexy that was/is/oh my god. DEATH TO ME

 

[Hale Caesar]

You know... I've learned not to trust James. Because I could find you five conventions right now where he says that Buffy and Spike are perfect for each other. It really depends on how he's feeling that day. I know that sounds like I'm excusing an answer I don't like, but that's really not the case. There are some answers James is consistent with: "what's your favorite episode of Buffy and Angel" (OMWF, and Destiny because he was proud of the cast) "What was it like to kiss John Barrowman?" (Best on screen kiss I've ever had, tell story about blowing a gag and John getting a private doctor to help, tells story of his wife directing the kiss, explains that facial hair hurts when kissing) And then there are some things that he's never consistent on: "What would Spike say if he met Edward Cullen?" (will range from "let's party man" to "you are a pussy go away.") "Bangel or Spuffy" is the biggest question James is not consistent on.

So bottom line, I don't put much stalk in this. I'm more concerned with how he said "I love you baby" to the fan after he answered the question. Can we talk for a second about how ridiculously sexy that was/is/oh my god. DEATH TO ME

Do you have the links to where he gives different answers? I've watched a couple and don't remember him giving any conflicting answers on Spuffy or Bangel

 

[mayfever]

I agree with him, Bangel is right there in the writing. Sexy and all that Spuffy were, they weren't built to last. I also agree with [MENTION=11495]WWGD[/MENTION], it does really surprise me how people just can't see it, because it's so obvious to me.

However, I've kind of come to the conclusion that Buffy isn't "destined" to be with anyone,or in any way that's not what the show is about. She simply works best when she's on her own. If it was up to her though, and there were no curses or other implications to consider, she would definitely pick Angel over Spike.

 

[Vamp Jenny]

Okay, maybe I went too far on the "destined" part. I'm just such a romantic...

But I agree with everyone who said BAngel is in the writing.

 

[brinkster130]

This doesn't surprise me much given the way both Bangel and Spuffy was written; it makes total sense that he would believe what the story told. It was sweet to see him refer to Spuffy as a beautiful mistake, because even if they aren't meant to be, being with Buffy did make Spike a better man.

As far as the changing answers goes, like Zobo said, I don't take this opinion too seriously. I'm sure JM gets asked about this all the time and I wouldn't be surprised it he changed his answer up everyone and then out of boredom.

 

[zobothehobo]

When I'm home and have time, I'll find you guys some pro Spuffy as endgame quotes from James

 

[white avenger]

Sexy and all that Spuffy were, they weren't built to last. .

However, I've kind of come to the conclusion that Buffy isn't "destined" to be with anyone,or in any way that's not what the show is about. She simply works best when she's on her own. If it was up to her though, and there were no curses or other implications to consider, she would definitely pick Angel over Spike.

If we get right down to the cold, hard truth, considering her calling, Buffy, herself, wasn't "built to last." The way that the whole Slayer dynamic was set up and maintained by the Shadow Men and Watchers, the Slayers were pretty much a disposable resource, easily replaceable when the time came. Remember, no Slayer in history has ever lived past age 25. granted, Buffy's chances are somewhat improved now, what with all of the other fresh young girls on the job now, but the fact remains that she is at the very best at very high risk now, where before she was at extremely high risk.

It's doubtful, despite what Buffy told Angel, she ever seriously allows herself to think "that far ahead," or she would end up more broody than Angel, himself. The best that Buffy can hope for, and I have no doubt that she is fully aware of the fact, is a few quiet moments when there will be someone there to "just hold her," or to let her share his bed, Angel breath or not. That doesn't HAVE to be Spike, but one thing is certain. Right now, it sure ain't Angel.

And right now is all that Buffy can be sure that she has, or ever will have.

If Buffy wants to play snuggle puppy with whoever is available, who, at the moment, happens to be Spike, then I for one am happy that she at least has someone to snuggle with. As for Buffy and Angel being "destined" to be together, well, so were Romeo and Juliette, Marc Antony and Cleopatra, Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker. Destiny isn't any guarantee of happiness.

 

[Gum Gnome33]

All of this makes me respect James as an artist even more. I mean if that guy truly believes at the end of the day that Spike isn't destined to be with Buffy, kudos to him. He played his character to the extent that come hell or high water nothing was ever going to convince him for a second that he shouldn't be living his life for her. He made a great lot of us feel that Spike's love was the best thing for Buffy. What a fantastic actor he is! And even if he hasn't truly made up his mind, as [MENTION=10363]zobothehobo[/MENTION] was saying, the fact that he could think that Bangel made a better couple on some level, considering how he played Spuffy, is truly impressive.

Not to knock anyone's personal opinion, but I think this notion of "destiny" is more a beautiful concept than something that is made frank in the storytelling. I mean, the last time there was even a clear discussion about whether or not they could end up together, Buffy came up with a big ol' "I don't know/I have feelings for Spike/I don't want to be with anyone." The idea of forever is there in the fandom, and there was this uber romantic notion that they should and could be together forever when they were indeed a couple, and it seems that James is taking that to the extreme.

I don't know if James is following the comics, but certainly the notion that Bangel is more conceivable or less of a "mistake" than Spuffy at this point in season 9

Spoiler

is something I don't quite follow.

I mean...if you've read it you know why!

 

[Hale Caesar]

I agree with most people here that Bangel is in the writing. Spuffy was great because it provided some very entertaining television, was a learning experience for the characters, and both became better from that relationship. But I didn't view Spuffy as romantic love, I always saw it as friends, who given their circumstances, needed each other and interpreted their friendship as love.

And even though i'm not a huge fan of Spuffy, I think Buffy and Spike separately are both amazing characters.That's my opinion anyways.

 

[Kairos]

This isn't an opinion that I need anyone to share, but if Buffy and Angel were written into the story, they're ipso facto destined. In a work of fiction, the characters' stories are their destiny.

 

[prophecygrrl]

Lol james

I like that he called Spike/Buffy a "beautiful mistake". Hehe. I totally understand that POV, and what a succinct way to put it. I do disagree with him in that just because certain relationships are explicitly described as "destined" or "fated" in the writing, it doesn't necessarily mean the show is saying those two characters are better together. In Bangel's case, there seems to be a lot more implicit commentary on how their relationship is ridiculously doomed. IMO, even one of the most beautiful and iconic depictions of Buffy/Angel (I Will Remember You) is basically all about how they could never work, even if all their dreams about being human, getting rid of the curse, being absolved, etc. came true. I mean, you can probably find similar supporting/detracting commentary for Spike/Buffy too. Seasons 6 & 7 are at once escapist and hurtful, necessary and gratuitous, abusive and empowering. What are you trying to say, show? 😛

I think I may have started rambling, but basically I think it's kinda hard to be definitive about what the writing is trying to communicate. In any case, i like hearing what the actors have to say about their characters and relationships. 😀

---------- Post added at 05:10 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:06 PM ----------

This isn't an opinion that I need anyone to share, but if Buffy and Angel were written into the story, they're ipso facto destined. In a work of fiction, the characters' stories are their destiny.

Interesting, I've never thought about destiny that way. I don't quite understand what you mean though? If you're willing to share more, I'd love to hear it. 🙂

 

[white avenger]

Just out of curiosity, for those who feel such vindication at Marsters' statement on this subject, would you be just as supportive if he had said that he had always believed that Angel had always been toying with Buffy's affections from the time when she was an overly romantic school girl right up to the present, and that Spike was the only man who had ever really loved her?

Put another way, do the Bangels support James Marsters' statement primarily because it is pro-Bangel?

 

[Aloverssoulz]

^ No, because Angel clearly wasn't written that way. Buffy & Angel being destined/true love etc. was. Most TV shows have the first love of the main character be the true love or have them written as if they were destined to be together no matter how many times they break up or fight. Ross and Rachel, JD and Elliot the two from Boy Meets World etc. It's simply because Angel was the first to come along. It has nothing to do with her being young.

I can't believe there's "Spuffy" fans in the first place. At least male "Spuffy" fans older than 20 and older women. Spike did the classic taking advantage of a emotionally broken or upset girl trick by saying he'll be there for her all while sneaking in some mean comments to lower her self esteem.

Spike be littled Buffy every chance he got alone with her to make her sleep with him. Constantly telling her she didn't belong and should be in the dark with him. Guys do it in bars on the "lonely hot girl" all the time. Older women and men should have seen through him right away.

PRE-THE BODY Buffy wouldn't have touched Spike in a million years. I'm not talking just sex. I'm talking kisses, hugs, hell even give the time of day. In fact I just looked up Buffy wiki to see the episode order and two episodes before "The Body" was "Crush" where Buffy found out about Spike's crush and then blocked him off and cut him off from her completely. Then BOOM! Two episodes later Joyce dies and the start of Buffy's deep depression starts, which was already starting to develop because of the big break up with Riley and finding out Dawn was never really her sister with the added stress of being trusted into the "mother figure" role even before Joyce died.

Since her mother's death Buffy was never the same happy person again and yet all Spike could get in season 5 was a thank you kiss.

Spike spent nearly every second he got with an EXTREMELY depressed back-from-the-dead-life-has-gone-to-Hell Buffy belittling her and telling her she didn't belong with her friends and the others. He manipulated constantly untill she was emotionally broken enough to sleep with him. Even after he finally got her in bed he continued to berate her and take advantage of her weakened mental state.

Then Buffy starts getting happy again, her life isn't so bad and things are starting to go well. She finds out Spike was the one with the demon eggs and came to her senses that they can't keep sleeping together so she dumps him. What does Spike do? He tries to rape her!

Season 7 comes along and a souled Spike comes back to Sunnydale where a happy(ish) Buffy has realized life can be good again even with the First trying to kill everyone Buffy was thinking positively until the end of the show where she got kicked out of the house and had to sleep somewhere else. To which Spike came to speak to her. Do I think souled Spike was up to the same dirty tricks he used in season 5 and season 6? I think Spike knew he had no chance to be with Buffy and was hoping he could at some point become her friend.

Which is what happened. The only TWO real "Spuffy" moments in season 7 are completely debatable. The scene where Buffy goes down to the basement to sleep with Spike and Buffy telling Spike she loved him.

With the scene in the basement "Spuffy" fans sometimes say they slept together. No, you don't have sex with someone and then put back on every item of clothing you had on before had. That's when excuses like "someone might have came down stairs etc." come in, but like I said. It's debatable because nothing is ever seen.

The next is the "I love you" which "Spuffies" cling to for dear life because they're constantly defending it from everyone into other relationships on the show. Do I believe Spike loved Buffy in season 7? I believe he wanted to be with her, but him sleeping with Harm as soon as he could feel again makes me think he just lusted after Buffy because he couldn't have her. People mistake love for lust a lot.

Buffy probably would have removed Spike from her life for good after the sex bot Buffybot thing, but it was two episodes since Joyce's death and one episode since "Forever" and Buffy's whole depression thing had started.

A mentally healthy pre-The Body Buffy would never (and never did outside of Willow's magic or Spike's dreams) do anything sexual or romantic with Spike.