Is Homecoming progressing too quickly for JR and Keisha?

All American: Homecoming has kicked off its third season with a significant time leap, confirming that Simone and Damon had a one-year romance before breaking up in the season opener. While Simone and Damon’s relationship might not appeal to every fan, the narrative at least acknowledges Simone’s initial choice between Damon and Lando.

Simone’s strong connection with Lando remains steady even after her breakup with Damon. By initially choosing Damon and exploring their romantic relationship, All American: Homecoming provided some closure to the lingering connection between Simone and Damon. Allowing Simone and Lando’s friendship to flourish on-screen sets a solid foundation for their potential romantic reconciliation if the show decides to reunite them.

But, the show’s decision to pair JR and Keisha comes across as more baffling compared to any other romance on All American: Homecoming. The series tries to justify their strengthened bond by pointing out that Keisha was JR’s donor and played a significant role in his rehabilitation. This reasoning, however, weakens their dynamic since the show mentions their growing friendship in conversations rather than depicting it on-screen.

Though this reference provides some context, it is insufficient to justify the trajectory All American: Homecoming seems to be setting for JR and Keisha. This off-screen bond supposedly places a wedge between them and their respective partners, Gabby and Cam, yet it doesn’t feel entirely authentic.

The show might have intended to shake things up among its romantic pairings, which wouldn’t be entirely unexpected. At the time of writing the season, the show’s renewal was uncertain, and it is realistic to portray that not all college relationships endure. Breakups and dating new people present relatable storylines. However, if All American: Homecoming aims to explore a romance between JR and Keisha, it is moving too rapidly. Not necessarily because they are confirmed as a couple, but because their bond’s strength doesn’t seem genuine given their season three portrayal.

All American: Homecoming scarcely provided a platonic view of JR and Keisha’s relationship before the episode “Before I Let Go” suggested that Cam might recognize something developing between them, an idea briefly noted by Gabby when she observed that Keisha seemed more attuned to JR’s motives than she did.

A stronger friendship between JR and Keisha could be welcome, especially in a series that aims to show that the Bringston found family consists of individuals with tight bonds and individual relationships with each other. However, implying that something more might be happening between them, without ever showing the development of their friendship over the time jump, results in a story arc that moves too hastily.

Overall, while some of the show’s decisions regarding romantic relationships may feel rushed or inconsistent, it’s clear that All American: Homecoming intends to keep viewers hooked with evolving dynamics and unexpected turns.