From Tim Riggins to Landry Clarke: Embracing the Nice Guy on Friday Night Lights
My brother Wolfgang asked me recently, “Why does every girl love Tim Riggins and not the nice guy Jason Street?” It’s also like Sex and the City – every girl loves Big who treats Carrie horribly, but not the good guy Aidan. I have to admit, I got a little defensive and firmly stated, "I do like nice guys!"
Wolfgang’s question honestly had me do some critical thinking.
For the longest time, Tim Riggins from Friday Night Lights has held a special place in my heart. Played by the incredible Taylor Kitsch, Tim’s charm and bad boy appeal are everything. He’s literally my phone background! Rewatching the series for what feels like the 100th time (truly never gets old for me), I’ve found my affections the other night shifting in a different direction: Landry Clarke, portrayed by the talented Jesse Plemons.
Landry Clarke isn’t the typical heartthrob. He’s the sweet, nerdy guy. He has a genuine kindness that really goes unnoticed. Unlike Tim whose rebellious nature creates an allure, Landry embodies the quintessential nice guy. He’s dependable, caring and so real.
“Why is the nice guy always overlooked?” It’s a question my brother asked me. Why do we as a society often gravitate towards the bad boys while overlooking the nice guys?? There’s even that silly song “Nice guys finish last.” Is it the thrill of the chase or the allure of someone who seems just so out of reach?
One of my ex boyfriends was incredibly inconsistent and a “bad boy”. If a friend had shared a similar experience, I would have told them to walk away without hesitation. So, why did I put up with it?
Revisiting Friday Night Lights, I see Landry in a new light. His awkwardness, his sincerity – these qualities are incredibly endearing. Landry isn’t perfect though. He’s human and that’s what makes him so appealing. He represents the kind of partner who offers stability and someone who values you for who you are.
Landry’s character shows us that nice guys bring something invaluable to the table. They may not have the flashy exterior or the crazy drama, but they offer something better.
This shift in my TV crush has led me to reevaluate what I want in real life. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of chasing someone unattainable, but true happiness lies in finding someone who’s going to be there for you through thick and thin and isn’t playing games.
Even though I recently said I’m done with the dating apps. This morning, I updated my Hinge and Raya profiles, stating that I’m looking for my own Landry Clarke. I want a partner who embodies those same qualities – kindness, loyalty, and a sense of humor. Someone who truly might be a little awkward, but is always authentic.
So here’s to Landry Clarke and all the nice guys out there – you may not always get the recognition you deserve, but your kindness and authenticity make you the real heroes in our stories. As for me, I’m excited to find my own Landry, someone who’s as genuine as the character I’ve grown to love.