He was written out of the show because the actor, Glenn Quinn, was battling with addiction, a battle he sadly lost. Glenn died a couple years after this from an accidental overdose. This episode hits different from any other episode in the Buffyverse when you know that.
OMG, so many wincing moments in the commetary. "That's the perfect example of a Hero" "maybe Angel and Doyle can go get a drink together" "I'm still routing for Cordy and Doyle, they're meant for each other" "I hope they do shoot a commercial". Can't count how many times I said "OOF" knowing what's to come.
I agree that the Doyle elements were handled well and this was a good send off for the character. The demon refugees were also interesting enough, but I found the Scourge (obvious Nazi demons) to be more goofy than threatening.
Angel ep 8 & 9 are a gut-wrenching combo. Usually they follow a heartbreaking ep with a light-hearted fun ep, but this was brutal after crushing our Bangel hearts in the previous ep! That commercial being played for comedy to start the ep, then played dramatically to end after his death hits so differently but is pure genius!
Never apologize for getting emotional. It's always upsetting when we lose those favorite characters. I think I couldn't even talk about this episode for like two days after I saw it, because I started crying when I tried. Great reaction!♥
Doyle was and still is one of my favorite characters. What really hit hard about Doyle's death, which was beyond sad, is the knowledge that Glenn Quinn, the actor who played Doyle, has died as well. For me, that makes Doyle's death hit even harder.
Rewatching this on your channel, it hits me how important Cordy is in that she is actually trying to run a business while the others tend to forget they have bills.
@@nickreacts6394 Cordy's fixation on money went from superficial in Buffy to practical on Angel. She tells them when they are broke and need money to support their business. Going from fancy clothes to being the only one keeping them afloat.
On a reaction channel that always ends with the honorable and wise words, "Be active. Be mindful. And be a hero..." I'd say it is no surprise that this episode would affect you so greatly. It's a surprising and heartbreaking episode. And Doyle becoming a hero after all the previous episodes of self-deprecation and self-doubt... oh my heart. 💔 And you're right - it really really sucks that Cordy was ready to know him as he really is and go out with him, and just like that, he's gone. 😭 I'll be really fascinated to see your reactions to the next episodes. This show is going on a verrrrrry interesting ride ahead.
So, spoilers: It might not have been the most painful on my first watch through, but it is the only one that I will consistently cry to every damn time (The only other time that gets me almost every time is the Anya speech in the Body). That damn commercial just fucking hurts at the end of the episode.
I think it shows how good of a character Doyle was when his death is so gut wrenching after only being in the show for 9 episodes and also being the only character we didn't know previously from Buffy, Glenn Quinn real life story is so tragic but Doyle was a brilliant character and one that I am so sad we never got to see more of
This was the most emotional I've ever seen you. These characters become like friends, and it is heartbreaking to see them pass by. Doyle really was a hero. That outro always hits me real hard. Brilliant writing there. Funny to start, heartbreaking at the end.
So the story is a bit of a mix between real circumstance and Joss Whedon spinning a tale. At first it was said that there were some issues with Quinn, specifically his addiction problems causing him to be late and such. Eventually Joss spun it as something he had always wanted to do, start a show and firmly establish a character only to kill them off early on. It might be bit of both to be honest, but it is complicated by the actor's tragic death. All we really know is that the character was good, and his death was painful.
He always planned it, as it was a larger scale version of what he did with Xander's friend Jesse in episode 2 of Buffy. Whedon always wanted to introduce a main character and then kill them when the audience least expected it. He wasn't entirely happy with the result in Buffy, so this was his opportunity to improve upon it. The actor's personal problems simply accelerated that plan.
Actuall Joss originally said it was all part of the plan from the beginning. But then he later said that they were lucky to be able to [spoiler] on such short notice. showing that it hadn't been planned all along. So when Quinn's problems became obvious, many people sussed out that the claim of "it was planned that way all along" was a cover to not tarnish Quinn.
@@Logan_Baron To be fair though, Whedon also wanted to kill off Spike but wasn't able to because Spike became too popular and the producers kept asking for him to be added to Buffy storylines. So him eventually wanting to kill off Doyle is probably close to the truth...
@@donemu9096 Right. Spike was supposed to be "canon fodder," but he became so popular he couldn't kill him. He told James in the beginning that he was only supposed to last about 3 or 4 episodes, and at one point Joss grabbed him by the collar, slammed him against a wall and said "I'm going to kill you! I don't care HOW many people love you!"
I love how affected you were by this episode. That’s the Buffyverse for ya! It’s a tragic death, but damn, the show gives Doyle one hell of a send-off.
Buffyverse fans are way more likely to be upset about people not crying over a sad part than someone crying too much. We got problems 😂 This is a hard one though. It's wild how much it hurts us when we haven't even known him for a full season.
Doyle was really special, I loved his character so much. I loved that you allowed yourself to be vulnerable and really feel those emotions. Don't ever apologize for that. Doyle will always be a truly beloved character. That being said.. I'm so excited for the rest of the season to unfold.
I was crying along with you Thor! Doyles death is a tough one. They do a great job of filling in enough back story in only 9 episodes so we have time to get really attached to the character and his potential relationship with Cordy. Perfect title for the episode too, he dies a hero.
I was 14 when this episode aired and I sobbed off and on for days. It's crazy he was in the show so little but I loved Doyle so much. It is still one of the moments I remember most from the show.
This was such a hard one when it first aired, it destroyed me. Your reaction was very touching and quite a testimony to how invested you are in the show. Rest assured, there are more characters coming that you will fall in love with as well. RIP Doyle and RIP Glenn Quinn. 💔
This was great, Thor. Thank you for being willing to share it so fully, despite feeling apologetic for your emotion. Believe me - so many of us watch reaction videos to see people moved by stories we've loved, to laughter, cheers, AND tears : )
This is one of the most heartbreaking deaths in the Buffyverse. It's so beautifully acted and well written and it's such a gut punch because Doyle is so essential to the show and to Angel & Cordy. I'm always either on the verge of crying or crying when I watch this episode and when you cried, I cried along with you. This was one of my favorite reactions of yours. Thanks for sharing how deeply it touched you, like it does for me. Personally, it's even more devastating given the actor's passing just 3 years later. This is one of the best episodes in season 1, hands down.
Dear Lexi crowd the tragedy is that Glenn Quinn was also very close with the actor David boreanaz and they did not want to let him go but his drug addiction to heroin was destroying his ability to do the job and it had to be done. It was very traumatic for David I am told. I often wonder if he did not have that addiction how that character would have made Angel a truly different show than it became. Dear Lexi I want to thank you for all the reactions you did it all the reactions you that you will do. With respect always, Brant Heavner 😁❤️❤️😁🙏
Great reaction man. Glad to see the show resonating with you, means you'll almost certainly keep going and that we'll get more great content like this. Keep up the great work, good luck on hitting 40K!
This is the first of the show's amazing and hard-hitting surprise moments, of which there are a bunch. I loved seeing Doyle's character development, as well as Cordy's.
I've been waiting for this reaction since you did episode 1, sad but great in so many ways. Doyle created so much significance in 9 episodes that he is unrivalled by supporting Buffyverse side characters.
Amazing reaction to a truly great episode. 20~ years on and I still cry every time. Can't even watch a reaction without having a tear or two. Still, that's why Buffy & Angel are truly special shows. Other franchises can be good, enjoyable, rewatchable... but only THIS particular franchise hits so hard imo. Reactors having and showing their real emotions is what makes sharing these experiences so addictive. I come back to reactors time and again to share these authentic feelings, as direct a connection as you can get through parasocial engagement.
Yeah, that made me very sad too. And they put him in the main credits and everything. Anyone who hopes to come into the fold will have big shoes to fill. I think the reason he left so soon was because the actor was going through a substance abuse issue and was unreliable at showing up to set on time and things like that. They might have not rushed that ending for him if they had it planned in advance if not for that. This one is a tear-jerker
Doyle became my favorite character in the first episode and it always breaks my heart when I see this episode. I believe the reason Doyle gained the visions at that moment is because it was his form of redemption for not helping. One of the biggest themes of this show is about redemption.
At the time, no one knew about the behind the scenes struggles the actor had that forced the actor to be fired. The in-universe story because of said struggles played out heartbreakingly wonderful onscreen, though. RIP Glenn Quinn.
Of all the deaths in the buffyverse so far..... this one really seem to hit you the hardest.🥺😭 Goes to show how invested you have gotten into the characters over the seasons❤💔
I fully grieved because of this episode when it first came out. Doyle was so witty and bright, it really felt like a close friend died. This episode did a character death so well... But yeah... tears, tears, tears.
glenn quinn did a movie with jason mewes (jay from jay & silent bob) during a time where jason was in the throws of deep addiction. glenn recognized the signs and pulled him aside to talk to him about it. jason told the story on a podcast and talked about how it was one of the moments that helped him in his sobriety.
This must've been so hard to edit while watching your comments back! I think this hits so hard because it's episode 9 into season 1 and they're killing off one of the main characters, plus we assume (like the characters) that Angel is the hero and chosen one, so when someone else steps up there are so many different emotions. Great reaction, I bawl like a baby each time I see that commercial at the end. RIP Glenn Quinn 😭
aww *hug* when you said you were just done watching the funny buffy episode you were in such a good mood and i was like oh no hes not ready for this. im glad they gave doyle a hero send off. i really liked his character and would have loved to see it developed further. but at least he went out in a great way. RIP to glenn quinn. i liked him on angel and roseanne. sad he didnt find his way out of his drug addiction.
This is genuinely one of the saddest episodes of the show, made even more sad because the actor was struggling with addiction and died a few years later himself. I loved Doyle and the show, thankfully, allows that character a legacy for both Angel and Cordy. I will say, the show does really step up in these next coming episodes. We get into the most iconic characters and episodes from here on out.
The show will go on and a surprise is in store for you next episode. I cried too the first time I watched this episode but I promise you all will be revealed about where the show is heading and after getting over this shock i think you’re gonna like it??? Take care and all the best for the new year 😘
Oh you sweet, sweet summer child. Even after more than 3 seasons of Buffy you're still in denial of the emotional damage Whedon is capable of. I knew this one was going to hit you hard.
It was a powerful send off for Doyle. He was such a great character. We all cried. Glenn Quinn the actor playing him was having ongoing addiction struggles, so the decision was made to wrap up his role in the show. Very sad as he was great in the role. He would pass away a few years after at only 32 years old.
RIP Glenn Quinn. Another heartbreaking episode followed by "I Will Remember You". I remember hearing that the plan was always to kill him off but were in talks to bring him back the second season. Sadly, Glenn was dealing with his own health issues due to his own substance abuse problems that did cause some troubles at work. Nonetheless, his character went out like a hero. We were all gutted and the episode is still sad to this day. "Is that it? Am I done?" 😭
There was much discussion of bringing Doyle back behind the scenes. Sadly, the Actor, who had a known Substance abuse problem, passed away three years after this of an overdose
Please don't apologize for feeling Doyle's death so deeply😢I remember how I cried at my 1st watching. Keep sharing your deep love for ALL things Buffy/ Angel & we will keep following you ANYWHERE❤
I re-watch Buffy & Angel fairly regularly because they are my favourite shows… & I cry every single time in this episode when Doyle says at the end “Is that it? Am I done?” It’s so beautifully heartbreaking made even worse with the knowledge of the real life loss of Glenn Quinn 😭
1. They were part human, like Doyle. Therefore, they had souls. 2. The ray didn't kill Angel because it wasn't aimed at him. It was just laser focused on that one guy, unlike in the end when it was set to explode a quarter mile in every direction, which would have killed all the half demons, Angel, and all the humans within that radius.
Loved listening to your commentary for this one. It's really impressive that the writers made us care this much about Doyle in just nine episodes. As heartbreaking as it is, this is the episode that I think Angel the show really begins to shine and establish itself as a brilliant show in its own right, outside of just being a Buffy spinoff.
Charisma Carpenter(Cordelia Chase) has been in a few things, Buffy/Angel were definitely her biggest, she's in an episode of supernatural (with James Marsters(Spike lol) & she was in an episode of Lucifer (still the most gorgeous person to ever exist imo), a couple eps of Charmed & Veronica Mars to name a few, she was also Christmas'(Jason Statham) girlfriend 'Lacey' in the Expendables movies She also hosted the real life crime series "Survivng Evil" the 1st episode is about her own experience
I always felt it was implied (or at least in my head canon) in the flashback that if Doyle had helped they would have lived which is why he was "punished" with the visions, to atone
Mad respect for your being willing to share your softer side, Thor. We know that Doyle's actor had problems and others have covered the question of whether this was originally intended or happy circumstance. Regardless, the ep hits hard and you showed it. Thank you for sharing.
First of all, thank you for sharing the emotional part of your reaction, I know a lot of reactors take their time to process episodes like this, I appreciate you being open to us, and I'm grateful. It's easy to empathize with Doyle's journey because despite the fact he is half-demon he represents a lot of us, the fear, the hesitation, the regrets and guilt, mistakes from the past and the struggle to make things right, he's someone who's doing his best effort to change and do better. Doyle's desition was the right thing to do, and it was the most heartbreaking thing to watch from this episode, especially the way it happens, it's a very painful death, and just after Cordy let him know she liked him, tragic and unfair to their story. That video tape, playing again at the end, they way he says "it's that it? I'm I done?" it gets me everytime cause is like he's saying "is my arc finished?"
I haven't watched anywhere close to all his reactions but my overall impression has been that Thor holds the shows he's watching at arm's length. He doesn't emotionally engage with them. That changed with this episode. Best reaction I've seen him do and no wonder, because what an episode.
Considering how difficult things were on set, it was really kind to give Doyle such a heroic ending. It had to be so gut wrenching to write a redemption for the character whilst watching the actor slowly kill himself. As a fellow addict (in recovery), this episode hurts a lot but also gives me hope. I just wish Glenn could have realised his own worth before it was too late 😔
I believe Joss wanted to do the same thing on Buffy. According to some interviews he said he wanted to do the same thing with Jesse, instead of killing him at the start, he wanted to make us love him and then kill him.
I was waiting for this one. I always figured Cordelia would accept Doyle. She fell in love with Xander, after all, and they weren't even friendly. Doyle was the same type of guy, someone who would stand up and defend those he cared about, and he wasn't awful to her. So he was half demon, but that's better than all cheater. I was devastated by this ending, even if it was a magnificent way for him to go out. Then they showed the advertisement with Doyle asking if they were done and that just twists the knife even more, because no one wanted to be done with Doyle. There was not a dry eye in our house that day. My husband was crying, too. I still tear up when I see this. I miss Glenn Quinn. When I think of all the things he could have done with his life and what a tremendous actor he would have grown into, it still makes me so sad. He didn't live much longer than this. Two years, maybe.
Joss has said it was the plan but it wasn't supposed to happen this early. They didn't admit to it at the time as they didn't want to destroy his career but the actor was fired because his drug use was interfering with production. The actor died a few years later.
One other thing to remember... That mechanism killed humans too! The bad guys didn't care who died as long as they made their he'll here "pure. (sounds so familiar...even these days). 😵
The actor Glen Quinn that played Doyle overdosed after turning up on set stoned so Joss fired him and he died shortly after this episode in real life. Happy new year Thor reacts 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😘
They had no choice but to write him out, because his addiction (which started when he was still a teenager in Ireland) meant he just wasn't up to the job. At the time (and in the DVD commentary) they said they intended to do it all along, but I saw an interview with one of the writers, some years after Quinn's death, saying that was the story they put out because they didn't want to ruin his chance of getting another job if he could get clean. Sadly, Glenn Quinn couldn't conquer his demons, and died of a heroine overdose in 2002. He was 32.
oh jeez… did they help get him into rehab, or just make him unemployed with no friends (because let’s be real - when your older, and an addict, the people you have the most normal interactions with are your coworkers)
In response to the villains: it interesting if you go back to Buffy 3x01 "Anne" because they have the same masked villains - and Harry's Ex Financee Richard Strayly playing the lead villain Ken in Anne as well.
I'd definitely believe that those guys were Scourge. They've got the same look and the same human skin masks. And since they're demon nazis that was their version of a death camp factory.
this is the first of many growing pains, but don't give up hope, it keeps getting better and gives you many times of memories with Doyle. the biggest memory is a spoiler so you have to get there on your own.
He was written out of the show because the actor, Glenn Quinn, was battling with addiction, a battle he sadly lost. Glenn died a couple years after this from an accidental overdose. This episode hits different from any other episode in the Buffyverse when you know that.
Yes :(.
I love how Doyle's camera performance hits 2 different ways in this episode. Even on re-watches I still have the same reaction both times. RIP Doyle.
That was well done.
OMG, so many wincing moments in the commetary. "That's the perfect example of a Hero" "maybe Angel and Doyle can go get a drink together" "I'm still routing for Cordy and Doyle, they're meant for each other" "I hope they do shoot a commercial". Can't count how many times I said "OOF" knowing what's to come.
I did the same thing when it aired. This episode haunted me for a week after I saw it because of that.
"I hope we get to see the commercial at the end."
Doyle's death hits hard. 'Am I done?'
Those words hurt every time I watch this episode. Oh, Doyle. 💔
I loved Doyle. His death was surprisingly painful for a character who’s only in 9 episodes.
I agree that the Doyle elements were handled well and this was a good send off for the character. The demon refugees were also interesting enough, but I found the Scourge (obvious Nazi demons) to be more goofy than threatening.
This episode breaks me every time!!! RIP Glenn Quinn 😢💔
I know - how soon after this episode Glenn passed too…
i watch old episodes of roseanne all the time and i love seeing him... joss also wrote for that show for a bit
@@stephanierakowski2729 About a couple of years later, though despite that time in between this is one of his last projects to film
Angel ep 8 & 9 are a gut-wrenching combo. Usually they follow a heartbreaking ep with a light-hearted fun ep, but this was brutal after crushing our Bangel hearts in the previous ep!
That commercial being played for comedy to start the ep, then played dramatically to end after his death hits so differently but is pure genius!
Never apologize for getting emotional. It's always upsetting when we lose those favorite characters. I think I couldn't even talk about this episode for like two days after I saw it, because I started crying when I tried. Great reaction!♥
Doyle was and still is one of my favorite characters. What really hit hard about Doyle's death, which was beyond sad, is the knowledge that Glenn Quinn, the actor who played Doyle, has died as well. For me, that makes Doyle's death hit even harder.
Rewatching this on your channel, it hits me how important Cordy is in that she is actually trying to run a business while the others tend to forget they have bills.
Right? Cordy over here doing some real work haha
@@nickreacts6394 Cordy's fixation on money went from superficial in Buffy to practical on Angel. She tells them when they are broke and need money to support their business.
Going from fancy clothes to being the only one keeping them afloat.
On a reaction channel that always ends with the honorable and wise words, "Be active. Be mindful. And be a hero..." I'd say it is no surprise that this episode would affect you so greatly. It's a surprising and heartbreaking episode. And Doyle becoming a hero after all the previous episodes of self-deprecation and self-doubt... oh my heart. 💔 And you're right - it really really sucks that Cordy was ready to know him as he really is and go out with him, and just like that, he's gone. 😭
I'll be really fascinated to see your reactions to the next episodes. This show is going on a verrrrrry interesting ride ahead.
25:34 "That might be the most painful death in the Buffyverse so far." Oh you sweet summer child. 😢
Yeah I swear they get worse IN ORDER. Like they try to one-up the emotional pain every time and succeed.
So, spoilers:
It might not have been the most painful on my first watch through, but it is the only one that I will consistently cry to every damn time (The only other time that gets me almost every time is the Anya speech in the Body). That damn commercial just fucking hurts at the end of the episode.
Spoiler
To me it's Fred's death.
I think it shows how good of a character Doyle was when his death is so gut wrenching after only being in the show for 9 episodes and also being the only character we didn't know previously from Buffy, Glenn Quinn real life story is so tragic but Doyle was a brilliant character and one that I am so sad we never got to see more of
This was the most emotional I've ever seen you. These characters become like friends, and it is heartbreaking to see them pass by. Doyle really was a hero. That outro always hits me real hard. Brilliant writing there. Funny to start, heartbreaking at the end.
Testament to the writing and acting that they can devastate us this much after only nine episodes.
Thor, "I hope they do shoot a commercial"
Me a 20+ Year fan of Angel who's never forgotten THE commercial: :(
He just said that and I was like
“Well…. You will get your wish…”
Our rats are low...💔
Doyle is still such a fan favourite all these years later
This episode answers a question posed back in the series premier, when Doyle says, "We've all got something to atone for." 😥
So the story is a bit of a mix between real circumstance and Joss Whedon spinning a tale. At first it was said that there were some issues with Quinn, specifically his addiction problems causing him to be late and such. Eventually Joss spun it as something he had always wanted to do, start a show and firmly establish a character only to kill them off early on. It might be bit of both to be honest, but it is complicated by the actor's tragic death. All we really know is that the character was good, and his death was painful.
He always planned it, as it was a larger scale version of what he did with Xander's friend Jesse in episode 2 of Buffy. Whedon always wanted to introduce a main character and then kill them when the audience least expected it. He wasn't entirely happy with the result in Buffy, so this was his opportunity to improve upon it. The actor's personal problems simply accelerated that plan.
Actuall Joss originally said it was all part of the plan from the beginning. But then he later said that they were lucky to be able to [spoiler] on such short notice. showing that it hadn't been planned all along. So when Quinn's problems became obvious, many people sussed out that the claim of "it was planned that way all along" was a cover to not tarnish Quinn.
@@Logan_Baron To be fair though, Whedon also wanted to kill off Spike but wasn't able to because Spike became too popular and the producers kept asking for him to be added to Buffy storylines.
So him eventually wanting to kill off Doyle is probably close to the truth...
@@donemu9096 Indeed, people give Joss way too much imaginary power of these shows, in the end it was FOX that called the shots.
@@donemu9096 Right. Spike was supposed to be "canon fodder," but he became so popular he couldn't kill him.
He told James in the beginning that he was only supposed to last about 3 or 4 episodes, and at one point Joss grabbed him by the collar, slammed him against a wall and said "I'm going to kill you! I don't care HOW many people love you!"
I love how affected you were by this episode. That’s the Buffyverse for ya! It’s a tragic death, but damn, the show gives Doyle one hell of a send-off.
Buffyverse fans are way more likely to be upset about people not crying over a sad part than someone crying too much. We got problems 😂 This is a hard one though. It's wild how much it hurts us when we haven't even known him for a full season.
So glad you are posting your Angel reactions. Never get tired of Thor reacting to Cordelia.
Doyle was really special, I loved his character so much.
I loved that you allowed yourself to be vulnerable and really feel those emotions. Don't ever apologize for that.
Doyle will always be a truly beloved character.
That being said.. I'm so excited for the rest of the season to unfold.
I was crying along with you Thor!
Doyles death is a tough one. They do a great job of filling in enough back story in only 9 episodes so we have time to get really attached to the character and his potential relationship with Cordy.
Perfect title for the episode too, he dies a hero.
I was 14 when this episode aired and I sobbed off and on for days. It's crazy he was in the show so little but I loved Doyle so much. It is still one of the moments I remember most from the show.
This was such a hard one when it first aired, it destroyed me. Your reaction was very touching and quite a testimony to how invested you are in the show. Rest assured, there are more characters coming that you will fall in love with as well. RIP Doyle and RIP Glenn Quinn. 💔
Be active, be mindful, and be a Doyle
😢 Doyle 💜 RIP to the actor as well.
I was heartbroken when he died 😢
This was great, Thor. Thank you for being willing to share it so fully, despite feeling apologetic for your emotion. Believe me - so many of us watch reaction videos to see people moved by stories we've loved, to laughter, cheers, AND tears : )
"Spike married Angel" Well that's a spin off I've never seen ^^
Always just a fan fiction away...
This is one of the most heartbreaking deaths in the Buffyverse. It's so beautifully acted and well written and it's such a gut punch because Doyle is so essential to the show and to Angel & Cordy. I'm always either on the verge of crying or crying when I watch this episode and when you cried, I cried along with you. This was one of my favorite reactions of yours. Thanks for sharing how deeply it touched you, like it does for me. Personally, it's even more devastating given the actor's passing just 3 years later. This is one of the best episodes in season 1, hands down.
You are a great reactor Thor! And there is no need to apologise for your emotion, I love how invested you are in the show. Thank you for sharing.
I appreciate that, thank you!!
I'm still traumatized by this!! Am I done?
Dear Lexi crowd the tragedy is that Glenn Quinn was also very close with the actor David boreanaz and they did not want to let him go but his drug addiction to heroin was destroying his ability to do the job and it had to be done. It was very traumatic for David I am told. I often wonder if he did not have that addiction how that character would have made Angel a truly different show than it became. Dear Lexi I want to thank you for all the reactions you did it all the reactions you that you will do. With respect always, Brant Heavner 😁❤️❤️😁🙏
Right?? I’ll pass the tissues…
You held it together way longer than I ever could. I've seen it a bajillion times now and it literally still makes me cry every time.
yep
Sad episode, but props to the actor and the writers that made Doyle such a memorable character.
Gut punched, just like I was in '99. Came out of nowhere. I still can feel it.
What a heart felt reaction! These shows get you in your feels.
Great reaction man. Glad to see the show resonating with you, means you'll almost certainly keep going and that we'll get more great content like this. Keep up the great work, good luck on hitting 40K!
This is the first of the show's amazing and hard-hitting surprise moments, of which there are a bunch. I loved seeing Doyle's character development, as well as Cordy's.
I cried myself into a migraine and had to miss work the night this aired.
I STILL cry.
I've been waiting for this reaction since you did episode 1, sad but great in so many ways. Doyle created so much significance in 9 episodes that he is unrivalled by supporting Buffyverse side characters.
Amazing reaction to a truly great episode.
20~ years on and I still cry every time. Can't even watch a reaction without having a tear or two.
Still, that's why Buffy & Angel are truly special shows. Other franchises can be good, enjoyable, rewatchable... but only THIS particular franchise hits so hard imo.
Reactors having and showing their real emotions is what makes sharing these experiences so addictive.
I come back to reactors time and again to share these authentic feelings, as direct a connection as you can get through parasocial engagement.
Yeah, that made me very sad too. And they put him in the main credits and everything. Anyone who hopes to come into the fold will have big shoes to fill. I think the reason he left so soon was because the actor was going through a substance abuse issue and was unreliable at showing up to set on time and things like that. They might have not rushed that ending for him if they had it planned in advance if not for that.
This one is a tear-jerker
Doyle became my favorite character in the first episode and it always breaks my heart when I see this episode. I believe the reason Doyle gained the visions at that moment is because it was his form of redemption for not helping. One of the biggest themes of this show is about redemption.
At the time, no one knew about the behind the scenes struggles the actor had that forced the actor to be fired. The in-universe story because of said struggles played out heartbreakingly wonderful onscreen, though. RIP Glenn Quinn.
RIP Glen. You were such an amazing actor. We lost you to soon.
Of all the deaths in the buffyverse so far..... this one really seem to hit you the hardest.🥺😭
Goes to show how invested you have gotten into the characters over the seasons❤💔
I fully grieved because of this episode when it first came out. Doyle was so witty and bright, it really felt like a close friend died. This episode did a character death so well... But yeah... tears, tears, tears.
glenn quinn did a movie with jason mewes (jay from jay & silent bob) during a time where jason was in the throws of deep addiction. glenn recognized the signs and pulled him aside to talk to him about it. jason told the story on a podcast and talked about how it was one of the moments that helped him in his sobriety.
This happened earlier than I remember.
It always felt like Doyle was in the show longer.
The man had a big impact and was hugely memorable.
@@ianburns1167 Maybe that's it. His impact was felt through the whole series
This must've been so hard to edit while watching your comments back! I think this hits so hard because it's episode 9 into season 1 and they're killing off one of the main characters, plus we assume (like the characters) that Angel is the hero and chosen one, so when someone else steps up there are so many different emotions.
Great reaction, I bawl like a baby each time I see that commercial at the end. RIP Glenn Quinn 😭
aww *hug* when you said you were just done watching the funny buffy episode you were in such a good mood and i was like oh no hes not ready for this. im glad they gave doyle a hero send off. i really liked his character and would have loved to see it developed further. but at least he went out in a great way. RIP to glenn quinn. i liked him on angel and roseanne. sad he didnt find his way out of his drug addiction.
It was extremely sad especially since he passed away in real life. Rip Glenn Quinn and rip Doyle.
Given Cordelia's prejudices against certain demons I understand why Doyle kept it a secret
A man’s really out here looking like this and also not afraid to feel the emotions.. damn where can I get my thor
Your be active, be mindful, and be a hero outro hit a little harder after that.
These two shows both can put you through the wringer. Welcome to the Buffyverse.
I LIVE for the double whammy that is reactions to Angel episodes 8&9. Gut punch after gut punch.
This is genuinely one of the saddest episodes of the show, made even more sad because the actor was struggling with addiction and died a few years later himself. I loved Doyle and the show, thankfully, allows that character a legacy for both Angel and Cordy.
I will say, the show does really step up in these next coming episodes. We get into the most iconic characters and episodes from here on out.
The show will go on and a surprise is in store for you next episode. I cried too the first time I watched this episode but I promise you all will be revealed about where the show is heading and after getting over this shock i think you’re gonna like it??? Take care and all the best for the new year 😘
Poor Glenn Quinn. He never escaped his addictions, and it ended up killing him not long after this episode. He was so talented.
Heartbreaking episode but an important catalyst for the show moving forward as this brings a lot of changes…
Oh you sweet, sweet summer child. Even after more than 3 seasons of Buffy you're still in denial of the emotional damage Whedon is capable of. I knew this one was going to hit you hard.
It's okay, Thor. We all can't stop crying from this episode after all this time.
It surprised me when I first saw it and it’s still one of the best episodes of the show.
This was so hard, I couldn't bear to watch the rest of the series until many many years after it ended 🥺
It was a powerful send off for Doyle. He was such a great character. We all cried.
Glenn Quinn the actor playing him was having ongoing addiction struggles, so the decision was made to wrap up his role in the show. Very sad as he was great in the role. He would pass away a few years after at only 32 years old.
RIP Glenn Quinn.
Another heartbreaking episode followed by "I Will Remember You". I remember hearing that the plan was always to kill him off but were in talks to bring him back the second season. Sadly, Glenn was dealing with his own health issues due to his own substance abuse problems that did cause some troubles at work. Nonetheless, his character went out like a hero. We were all gutted and the episode is still sad to this day.
"Is that it? Am I done?" 😭
There was much discussion of bringing Doyle back behind the scenes. Sadly, the Actor, who had a known Substance abuse problem, passed away three years after this of an overdose
Please don't apologize for feeling Doyle's death so deeply😢I remember how I cried at my 1st watching. Keep sharing your deep love for ALL things Buffy/ Angel & we will keep following you ANYWHERE❤
Yeah, this episode is quite emotionally shattering!
I re-watch Buffy & Angel fairly regularly because they are my favourite shows… & I cry every single time in this episode when Doyle says at the end “Is that it? Am I done?” It’s so beautifully heartbreaking made even worse with the knowledge of the real life loss of Glenn Quinn 😭
1. They were part human, like Doyle. Therefore, they had souls. 2. The ray didn't kill Angel because it wasn't aimed at him. It was just laser focused on that one guy, unlike in the end when it was set to explode a quarter mile in every direction, which would have killed all the half demons, Angel, and all the humans within that radius.
He was my favourite character in the whole series.
Great reaction. Thanks for that!
Loved listening to your commentary for this one. It's really impressive that the writers made us care this much about Doyle in just nine episodes. As heartbreaking as it is, this is the episode that I think Angel the show really begins to shine and establish itself as a brilliant show in its own right, outside of just being a Buffy spinoff.
Charisma Carpenter(Cordelia Chase) has been in a few things, Buffy/Angel were definitely her biggest, she's in an episode of supernatural (with James Marsters(Spike lol) & she was in an episode of Lucifer (still the most gorgeous person to ever exist imo), a couple eps of Charmed & Veronica Mars to name a few, she was also Christmas'(Jason Statham) girlfriend 'Lacey' in the Expendables movies
She also hosted the real life crime series "Survivng Evil" the 1st episode is about her own experience
Your reaction is so heartfelt ❤
I always felt it was implied (or at least in my head canon) in the flashback that if Doyle had helped they would have lived which is why he was "punished" with the visions, to atone
Mad respect for your being willing to share your softer side, Thor. We know that Doyle's actor had problems and others have covered the question of whether this was originally intended or happy circumstance. Regardless, the ep hits hard and you showed it. Thank you for sharing.
First of all, thank you for sharing the emotional part of your reaction, I know a lot of reactors take their time to process episodes like this, I appreciate you being open to us, and I'm grateful. It's easy to empathize with Doyle's journey because despite the fact he is half-demon he represents a lot of us, the fear, the hesitation, the regrets and guilt, mistakes from the past and the struggle to make things right, he's someone who's doing his best effort to change and do better. Doyle's desition was the right thing to do, and it was the most heartbreaking thing to watch from this episode, especially the way it happens, it's a very painful death, and just after Cordy let him know she liked him, tragic and unfair to their story. That video tape, playing again at the end, they way he says "it's that it? I'm I done?" it gets me everytime cause is like he's saying "is my arc finished?"
Thank you for telling us what you favorite episode is. You are so sweet to care so much, it makes my blubbering seem less over the top.
I haven't watched anywhere close to all his reactions but my overall impression has been that Thor holds the shows he's watching at arm's length. He doesn't emotionally engage with them. That changed with this episode. Best reaction I've seen him do and no wonder, because what an episode.
Considering how difficult things were on set, it was really kind to give Doyle such a heroic ending. It had to be so gut wrenching to write a redemption for the character whilst watching the actor slowly kill himself. As a fellow addict (in recovery), this episode hurts a lot but also gives me hope. I just wish Glenn could have realised his own worth before it was too late 😔
I believe Joss wanted to do the same thing on Buffy. According to some interviews he said he wanted to do the same thing with Jesse, instead of killing him at the start, he wanted to make us love him and then kill him.
The best way to get over this episode is to start another one. Love the next episode.
I was waiting for this one. I always figured Cordelia would accept Doyle. She fell in love with Xander, after all, and they weren't even friendly. Doyle was the same type of guy, someone who would stand up and defend those he cared about, and he wasn't awful to her. So he was half demon, but that's better than all cheater. I was devastated by this ending, even if it was a magnificent way for him to go out. Then they showed the advertisement with Doyle asking if they were done and that just twists the knife even more, because no one wanted to be done with Doyle. There was not a dry eye in our house that day. My husband was crying, too. I still tear up when I see this. I miss Glenn Quinn. When I think of all the things he could have done with his life and what a tremendous actor he would have grown into, it still makes me so sad. He didn't live much longer than this. Two years, maybe.
Joss has said it was the plan but it wasn't supposed to happen this early. They didn't admit to it at the time as they didn't want to destroy his career but the actor was fired because his drug use was interfering with production. The actor died a few years later.
This one is so sad after all this years and knowing why this episode was made, and how glenn died 😢
I nearly got through this without crying, but when you started that was it for me 😭😭😭
One other thing to remember... That mechanism killed humans too! The bad guys didn't care who died as long as they made their he'll here "pure. (sounds so familiar...even these days). 😵
The actor Glen Quinn that played Doyle overdosed after turning up on set stoned so Joss fired him and he died shortly after this episode in real life. Happy new year Thor reacts 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😘
The good fight yea? R.I.P. Doyle and Glenn Quinn. Fantastic episode but sad. I still cry sometimes rewatching this episode
You’re hair is amazing! If I had the patience, I would grow mine out.
He might only be in 9 episodes, but Doyle is still one of my favourite characters in Angel
They had no choice but to write him out, because his addiction (which started when he was still a teenager in Ireland) meant he just wasn't up to the job.
At the time (and in the DVD commentary) they said they intended to do it all along, but I saw an interview with one of the writers, some years after Quinn's death, saying that was the story they put out because they didn't want to ruin his chance of getting another job if he could get clean.
Sadly, Glenn Quinn couldn't conquer his demons, and died of a heroine overdose in 2002. He was 32.
oh jeez… did they help get him into rehab, or just make him unemployed with no friends (because let’s be real - when your older, and an addict, the people you have the most normal interactions with are your coworkers)
Hi Thor.
Don't worry, they never have 2 heart-breaking episodes in a row on Angel.
Oh... wait...
That's my favorite joke about the Angel series.
In response to the villains: it interesting if you go back to Buffy 3x01 "Anne" because they have the same masked villains - and Harry's Ex Financee Richard Strayly playing the lead villain Ken in Anne as well.
I'd definitely believe that those guys were Scourge. They've got the same look and the same human skin masks. And since they're demon nazis that was their version of a death camp factory.
this is the first of many growing pains, but don't give up hope, it keeps getting better and gives you many times of memories with Doyle.
the biggest memory is a spoiler so you have to get there on your own.
Cordelia Chase, played by Charisma Carpenter, is in the first Expendables movie.