Zeeko Zaki Explains Why the Relationship Between FBI’s Maggie and OA Should Remain Platonic

Since its premiere on CBS in 2018, the partnership between Maggie and OA in FBI has been a cornerstone of the series. Now in its seventh season, their bond continues to deepen, highlighted in the fall finale, episode 8 titled “Riptide.”In this episode, Maggie confronts the reasons behind OA’s feelings of indebtedness to his former army buddy, Clay, while choosing to support her partner despite her reservations about Clay.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Zeeko Zaki, who portrays OA, was asked about the possibility of shifting dynamics in later seasons, particularly regarding a potential romantic relationship between Maggie and OA. Viewers hold diverse opinions on the nature of their relationship, but Zaki expressed a strong preference for them to remain friends throughout the series. He emphasized the significance of depicting profound platonic friendships between men and women, suggesting that there are myriad ways to explore their connection without turning it romantic. Here’s Zaki’s full quote:

ScreenRant: When you have a long-running procedural like FBI, it’s not unusual for character dynamics to change. Do you see that ever happening to Maggie and OA or do you think it’s important that their relationship does not go in a romantic direction?

Zeeko Zaki: No, I definitely think friendship is the best course just because, again, we have to show the world that incredibly intimate and strong friendships between men and women are possible, and it doesn’t always have to go a romantic route. We got really lucky casting-wise, character-wise, and with the writing. It really gives us this space.

It’s amazing to get to have each other’s back and to be there for each other in such a platonic way that we would die for each other every day. There’s so much to explore, especially with it being such a long-running procedural, there’s still a lot to explore through the eyes of other relationships that each character might have and things like that. It’s just such a blessing to be this far into a show and feel like we haven’t run out of opportunities to show our relationship.

Implications of Zaki’s Comments for FBI Season 7

Unlikely Change in Maggie and OA’s Relationship Dynamics

OA and Maggie in FBI season 7, episode 8, wearing vests

As of now, FBI‘s seventh season offers no strong indications that Maggie and OA’s friendship will transition into a romantic storyline. Zaki’s comments hint that this element is not in the pipeline for upcoming episodes. While they are undoubtedly significant to each other’s lives, their rapport suggests they are more like platonic soulmates. However, considering that FBI has been renewed through season 9, there’s always the possibility for the show to explore a romantic angle in the future.

Analyzing Maggie and OA’s Dynamic in FBI

The Importance of Maintaining Their Friendship

Successful romantic relationships often stem from a foundation of friendship. If Maggie and OA were to find love in their friendship, it wouldn’t undermine the show. Nevertheless, given television’s tradition of converting male-female partnerships into romantic entanglements, demonstrating an alternative path holds significant value. Many procedurals exploit the will they/won’t they trope, most often resulting in a couple forming.

Since Maggie and OA don’t exhibit typical slow-burn romantic signs, maintaining their current relationship status would not seem out of place. As Zaki pointed out, the show has ample opportunities to further explore their bond without the underscore of sexual tension. Regardless of how the storyline evolves, the unwavering trust and support intrinsic to their relationship must remain a priority.

Mark your calendars: FBI season 7 resumes on CBS on Tuesday, January 28 at 8 p.m. ET.

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