Nobody Wants This: Justine Lupe and Timothy Simons on Sasha and Morgan’s Romance
In a discussion published by Netflix regarding the seventh episode of Nobody Wants This Season 3, actors Justine Lupe and Timothy Simons addressed the creative intent behind their characters Morgan and Sasha taking a 3,000-mile trip to New York. Simons explained that the creative team designed the single-day episode to emulate Richard Linklater’s romance Before Sunrise, giving the characters space to explore their growing attraction away from the impending marriages of their respective siblings, Joanne and Kristen Bell’s character, and Noah, played by Adam Brody.
The Production Choices Behind the New York Bottle Episode
Discussing the structure of Episode 7, Simons and Lupe noted that the installment functions as a bottle episode that departs from the standard narrative rhythm of the series. Lupe highlighted the presence of Kristen Bell and Adam Brody in the episode alongside the central focus on Morgan and Sasha. According to Lupe, neither actor had previously been cast in concentrated romantic leads, noting that they initially worried they would look awkward on screen together. Simons added that previous casting experiences usually positioned him for comedic or grotesque kissing reactions rather than straightforward romance.
The hotel room setting in New York became the catalyst for the characters to cross the line from close friendship to physical intimacy. Lupe credited the specific setup of the suite, featuring a sumptuous bed and a living room sofa, alongside a pacing tracking shot of Morgan as an element of what she described as divine intervention. Simons credited director Richard Shepard for executing the scene under a tight shoot schedule while maintaining a cinematic look. Shepard, who also directed the Season 3 finale, is married to co-showrunner Jenni Konner.
The Narrative Fallout and Character Decisions in the Season 3 Finale
Following their night together in the hotel suite, Morgan leaves New York without telling Sasha, waking him up only with a note. Lupe explained that Morgan’s departure stems from fear of the messy reality of getting involved with her sister’s husband’s brother. Simons noted that despite Esther learning about the hookup in the finale, he believes Sasha would have agreed to a formal relationship if Morgan had stayed in New York instead of fleeing. Lupe agreed with that assessment, pointing out that Sasha demonstrated emotional maturity by recognizing that the timing was wrong even if the connection felt right.
Reflecting on fan reactions across the show’s run, Simons mentioned receiving mixed feedback after previous seasons, with some viewers rooting for Morgan and Sasha while others preferred Esther and Sasha to work out their marriage. Lupe welcomed the divided viewer reactions, stating that eliciting strong feelings from the audience indicates that the storytelling is working effectively.
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