How Schitt’s Creek broke stereotypes with Patrick and David’s very “normal” gay relationship

Schitt’s Creek belongs on the list of revolutionary sitcoms. Not only does it provide a much-needed break from the monotony of daily life with its hilarious comedy, but the show also tackles a taboo subject in a refreshing way. By showcasing Patrick and David’s relationship, Schitt’s Creek defies stereotypes and promotes acceptance of queer relationships.

David, who openly identifies as pansexual, as hinted at by his “wine analogy”in Schitt’s Creek, meets Patrick while searching for a rental property through a local real estate agent. While Patrick immediately shows interest in David, it takes some time for David to return those feelings. However, when he finally does, it feels like their relationship was meant to be. This whirlwind romance ultimately leads to a happy ending for the two of them.

How did Patrick and David’s relationship evolve?

Initially, the dynamic between Patrick and David in Schitt’s Creek was strictly business. During his pursuit to establish his apothecary, David enlisted the help of local real estate agent Ray Butani. It was during this encounter, in season 3 of the show, that he was introduced to Patrick for the first time.

Initially, it was evident that Patrick had a strong attraction towards David that went beyond their professional relationship. However, David was oblivious to Patrick’s subtle advances towards him. Similarly, Patrick was also unsure of the root of his interest in David. These unanswered questions were finally resolved in the third season’s finale, when David kissed Patrick and he responded with a smile and said:

“Thank you. I have never done that before, with a guy. Yeah, and uh, I was getting a little scared that I was gonna let you leave here without us having done that. So, um, thank you, for um, making that happen for us.”

Their relationship was initiated by the incident, and they were quickly labeled as “official.”Time flew by, and they were together for four months. However, things took a turn when Patrick’s high school sweetheart reappeared in their lives, causing some turbulence between David and Patrick. As a result, they decided to take a break from their relationship.

The break in their relationship was short-lived as they quickly reconciled and professed their love for each other for the first time. From then on, their relationship flourished and they practically lived together. During a hike up the mountains, Patrick proposed to David and in the final episode of the series, the couple exchanged vows and officially became married.

The Portrayal of Empowerment in the LGBTQIA+ Community in Schitt’s Creek

Despite being initially labeled as a cult classic, Schitt’s Creek gained widespread recognition months after its release. It was often mentioned in the same sentence as popular sitcoms like Friends, Modern Family, and The Office. What truly distinguished the show, however, was its adept handling of sensitive themes with political correctness, ultimately normalizing them.

Schitt’s Creek explored various themes, including relationships within the LGBTQIA+ community. The main character, David Rose, played by Dan Levy, proudly identified as pansexual and never felt ashamed or resentful of his sexual orientation. He confidently embraced his sexuality and took pride in it.

Despite David’s family being accepting of his sexual orientation, Patrick was closeted when they first met. Unlike David, who occasionally faced taunts from his family, Patrick’s family did not approve of his sexual orientation.

Despite facing some challenges, Patrick and David were determined to publicly declare their relationship in front of Patrick’s family. Although there were a few obstacles, in the end, everything worked out wonderfully as Patrick’s family welcomed and embraced their son’s sexuality.

The Heartwarming Connection Between David Rose & Patrick Brewer in Schitt’s Creek

The experiences of both David and Patrick with their families in regards to their sexuality were not typical of what audiences are accustomed to seeing in popular culture. Rather than facing rejection and abandonment, the couple’s families embraced their sexual orientation, serving as role models for parents around the world with LGBTQ+ children.

Additionally, the people in their surroundings were incredibly supportive of their relationship and did not view it as unusual. This is a rare occurrence in media, as stories about queer relationships often focus on their hardships as queer individuals rather than their personal journeys.

Despite the common trope, Schitt’s Creek challenged it by featuring a main character who identifies as LGBTQIA+ without sensationalizing their sexual orientation. This suggests that attraction to individuals outside of societal norms is perfectly normal.

The Significance of David and Patrick’s Relationship in Schitt’s Creek

David and Patrick’s portrayal of their relationship in Schitt’s Creek was a refreshing and positive representation of queer relationships. While many shows and movies shy away from addressing “sensitive topics,”this one boldly chose to normalize and celebrate something that is often deemed taboo.

The portrayal of positive LGBTQIA+ relationships in the show had a profound impact on viewers as it helped them embrace their own sexual orientation. In a tweet from Dan Levy, known for his role as David Rose in Schitt’s Creek, fans were given a glimpse of the show’s impact. One fan shared on X how the show inspired them to come out to their loved ones.

5 Heartwarming LGBTQ+ Love Stories Similar to Patrick & David’s

While limited in number, there are still some positive depictions of gay relationships in pop culture. These love stories, similar to Patrick and David’s in Schitt’s Creek, are worth highlighting:

The Dynamic Duo: Captain Holt and Professor Cozner in Brooklyn Nine-Nine

When discussing politically correct sitcoms that address current issues, Brooklyn Nine-Nine should not be overlooked. In addition to its focus on catching criminals in New York, the show also teaches valuable lessons about acceptance through the relationship between openly gay police officer Captain Raymond Holt and his partner, Professor Kevin Cozner.

2) The Dynamic Duo of Mitchell Pritchett and Cameron Tucker in Modern Family

Mitch and Cam’s portrayal of a gay relationship in Modern Family is yet another stellar illustration of a positive depiction, similar to that of Patrick and David’s in Schitt’s Creek. The series begins with the couple’s adoption of a child from Vietnam and follows their journey as partners, parents, and eventually, a married couple.

3) The Unlikely Friendship of Eric Efffiong and Adam Groff in Sex Education

Premiering on January 11, 2019, Sex Education follows the journeys of various individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Among the characters is Eric Effiong, played by Ncuti Gatwa, who openly identifies as gay.

Despite Adam Groff’s initial discomfort with his own sexuality, he forms a strong bond with Eric, played by Connor Swindells. The two share a loving and joyful relationship, but ultimately, it comes to an end.

4) The Unlikely Romance of Alex Claremont-Diaz and Prince Henry in Red, White & Royal Blue

The novel Red, White & Royal Blue follows the journey of Alex Claremont-Diaz and Prince Henry, two individuals who share a strong attraction but are unable to be together due to their societal roles. Claremont-Diaz is the eldest child of the US President, while Henry is a member of the British royal family.

Despite facing numerous challenges in gaining acceptance from others, the two managed to maintain their relationship until the end.

5) The Unlikely Friendship of an Angel and a Demon in Good Omens

Definitely an unexpected combination to find on this list, Good Omens tells the tale of the enduring bond between Aziraphale, an angel, and Crowley, a demon and former angel. What begins as a platonic connection between the two ultimately blossoms into a romantic involvement in the show’s second installment.

Throughout the two seasons of the show, there were subtle indications of their mutual attraction. However, it was not until they shared a kiss in season 2 that their feelings for each other became more evident.

All of the six seasons of Schitt’s Creek can be found on Netflix.