Almost Human Did People Ship The Main Character

Almost Human: Did People Ship the Main Character? Exploring the Dorian & Kennex Dynamic

Almost Human, the short-lived but beloved sci-fi drama, captivated audiences with its unique blend of action, mystery, and surprisingly nuanced character development. While the show explored various themes, a significant aspect of its fanbase centered around the compelling relationship between its two leads: Detective John Kennex and his synthetic partner, Dorian. This article delves into the reasons why many viewers "shipped" – a term used online to denote hoping for a romantic relationship between two characters – Kennex and Dorian, and the complexities surrounding this dynamic.

The core appeal of the Kennex/Dorian pairing stemmed from their unconventional partnership. Their relationship wasn't a simple buddy cop formula; it was a study in contrasts, trust, and unexpected emotional intimacy. Kennex, a hardened detective grappling with the trauma of a near-fatal injury and the subsequent integration of synthetic partners into law enforcement, initially viewed Dorian with suspicion and a degree of professional detachment. Dorian, however, demonstrated a surprising capacity for empathy, loyalty, and even humor, consistently exceeding Kennex's expectations and gradually chipping away at his emotional walls.

The Building Blocks of a Fan Favorite Pairing:

• Unconventional Dynamics: The central premise of a human detective partnered with an advanced android immediately created a unique dynamic ripe for exploration. The audience watched their relationship evolve from professional collaboration to genuine friendship, and for many, the natural progression of that friendship felt like something more.

• Contrasting Personalities: Kennex's gruff exterior and Dorian's surprisingly sensitive nature created a compelling contrast. This "opposites attract" trope resonated strongly with viewers, who found the characters' differences endearing and their eventual understanding deeply satisfying. The banter between them, often laced with subtle humor and underlying affection, further fueled the ship.

• Emotional Vulnerability: Both Kennex and Dorian displayed vulnerability throughout the series. Kennex's struggle with his PTSD and Dorian's exploration of his own burgeoning sense of self created a potent emotional connection between the characters and the audience. This vulnerability fostered a sense of intimacy and made their bond even more powerful.

• Subtext and Hints: While the show never explicitly confirmed a romantic relationship, many viewers interpreted subtle moments of interaction – a lingering gaze, a shared glance, moments of physical comfort – as evidence of deeper feelings. This ambiguity allowed for individual interpretation and fuelled speculation within the fanbase.

• Strong Chemistry: The undeniable chemistry between Karl Urban (Kennex) and Michael Ealy (Dorian) contributed significantly to the ship's popularity. Their performances brought depth and authenticity to their characters' evolving bond, making it believable and emotionally engaging.

Why the Ship Didn't Sail (and Why That's Okay):

While the Kennex/Dorian ship garnered considerable support, it ultimately remained unfulfilled on screen. The show's creators chose to focus on other aspects of the narrative, prioritizing the overarching mystery and exploring broader themes of human-synthetic interaction. This, however, didn't diminish the impact of their relationship for many viewers. The subtext and emotional connection were enough to create a deeply satisfying and memorable dynamic.

In conclusion, the "shipping" of Kennex and Dorian in Almost Human wasn't just about wanting a romantic resolution. It was about celebrating a unique and powerful friendship, a partnership that defied expectations and transcended the limitations of genre conventions. The strength of their bond and the compelling performances of the actors ensured their relationship remains a central topic of conversation and fond memories for many fans long after the show's conclusion.