‘Ghosts’ Season 5 Romance Fails to Captivate Viewers

In the latest episode of CBS’s popular sitcom, Ghosts, the romance between characters Pete and Alberta has drawn criticism from fans and critics alike. While the show has previously succeeded in crafting charming relationships among its ghostly ensemble, the pairing of these two spirits seems to be falling flat.

Contrasting Characters Struggle to Connect

From the outset, the series has hinted at a budding romance between the meticulous ’80s nerd Pete and the free-spirited ’20s jazz singer Alberta. Over the course of the show, Pete has made several attempts to win Alberta’s affection. These include asking her to accompany him to prom in Season 1 and attempting to kiss her in Season 2, only to be met with embarrassment. Despite some initial progress in Season 3, where Alberta agrees to pretend to be Pete’s girlfriend to provoke jealousy in his ex-wife, their romantic tension has yet to transform into a genuine connection.

In the Season 4 finale, Pete and Alberta finally share a kiss, leading fans to believe that their relationship might evolve into something compelling. However, as Season 5 progresses, it becomes increasingly apparent that the chemistry between the two characters is lacking.

Missed Opportunities for Character Development

While initially, it seemed that Pete and Alberta’s differences could create a dynamic partnership akin to that of fellow characters Flower and Thor, the reality is proving to be disappointing. Alberta’s dramatic flair contrasts sharply with Pete’s easygoing, accommodating nature, resulting in interactions that have been described as forced and even cringeworthy.

Critics note that this lack of chemistry detracts from the humor that has defined the show. The romantic moments intended to resonate with viewers appear flat, leaving audiences wanting more depth and authenticity in their relationship. Despite the talent of actors Rose McIver and Utkarsh Ambudkar, the absence of genuine connection between their characters has rendered their romantic storyline less engaging.

Beyond personal dynamics, the show has not adequately explored the deeper aspects of their relationship, adding to the sense of disconnection. As a result, the choice to pair these two characters feels less like a natural progression and more like a forced plotline.

Given the range of potential storylines offered by the ghostly ensemble, it is worth considering that the best narratives in Ghosts often arise from interactions with outside characters. For example, in previous seasons, Alberta’s brief romance with a visiting baseball player brought new energy to her character and showcased the potential for more engaging story arcs.

As Season 5 continues, many fans are calling for a reevaluation of the relationship between Pete and Alberta. Some suggest that a breakup might be the most appropriate resolution, allowing both characters to thrive independently rather than in a contrived pairing. Whether it is a friendly acknowledgment of their incompatibility or the introduction of a new character, the consensus seems to be that Pete and Alberta’s current storyline lacks the spark that made previous romances on the show so enjoyable.

New episodes of Ghosts air on Thursday nights on CBS and are available for streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S. As viewers continue to engage with the show, it remains to be seen how the writers will navigate the complexities of these ghostly relationships moving forward.