Who is Jake Peralta Obsessed With? The Ultimate Deep Dive
For fans of the hilarious sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Jake Peralta's unique brand of enthusiasm and his sometimes-over-the-top affections are a cornerstone of the show's charm. While Jake has a multitude of passions, from action movies to pizza, his true obsessions often revolve around people. So, who exactly is Jake Peralta obsessed with?
The Obvious Answer: Amy Santiago
Let's get this out of the way first: Jake Peralta is undeniably, head-over-heels obsessed with Amy Santiago. This isn't just a passing crush; it's a deep, abiding love that fuels a significant portion of his character development and the show's romantic storylines. Their relationship, which evolves from friendly rivalry to a powerful partnership and eventual marriage, is arguably the central romantic arc of Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
The Evolution of Jake and Amy's Obsession
- Early Days: The Competitive Spark. When they first met, Jake saw Amy as a rival, a by-the-book detective who constantly outperformed him in ways that irked his more chaotic style. However, even then, there was an undeniable chemistry, a playful banter that hinted at something more. Jake was fascinated by her dedication and intelligence, even as he outwardly mocked it.
- The Slow Burn: Recognizing True Feelings. It took Jake a while to fully acknowledge his feelings. He dated other people, and Amy did too, but the connection between them was always present. Episodes often showcased Jake's subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, jealousy when Amy was with other men. His obsession began to manifest as a protective instinct and a desire for her approval.
- The Grand Gesture: Making it Official. Jake's iconic proposal to Amy – a meticulously planned, over-the-top affair involving a series of elaborate clues and a romantic backdrop – is a testament to the depth of his obsession. He poured all his creativity and love into that moment, proving he was willing to go to extraordinary lengths for her.
- Married Life: An Enduring Devotion. Even after marriage, Jake's obsession with Amy doesn't wane. He continues to dote on her, support her career ambitions, and express his love in countless ways, often through movie references or silly nicknames. He truly sees her as his soulmate and the most important person in his life.
What Makes Jake's Obsession with Amy Special?
It's not just the romance; it's the mutual respect and admiration. Jake is obsessed with Amy not just because she's beautiful and intelligent, but because she challenges him, grounds him, and makes him a better detective and a better person. He loves her quirks, her competitiveness, and her unwavering moral compass. Their dynamic is built on a foundation of genuine friendship and shared values.
Beyond Amy: Other Objects of Jake's Affection (and Obsession)
While Amy is undoubtedly his primary obsession, Jake's passionate nature extends to other areas of his life. These aren't the same kind of deep-seated romantic obsessions, but they showcase his intense personality:
1. Action Movies and Pop Culture
Jake's love for action movies is legendary. He frequently references Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, and countless other action flicks. This isn't just a hobby; it's a driving force behind his detective work, his playfulness, and even his understanding of the world. He often imitates his favorite movie characters and dreams of living out his own action-hero fantasies. His obsession with the genre fuels his creativity and his desire to be a hero.
2. Pizza
This might seem trivial, but for Jake, pizza is a serious matter. He has specific preferences, knows the best pizza joints in the city, and can wax lyrical about the perfect slice. While not a romantic obsession, his dedication to the art of pizza is a humorous and relatable aspect of his personality.
3. His Dog, Cheddar
Jake has a deep and abiding love for his Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Cheddar. He treats Cheddar like a member of the family, showering him with affection, dressing him in costumes, and even creating elaborate scenarios involving the dog. This is a clear example of his capacity for deep emotional attachment outside of human relationships.
4. Captain Raymond Holt (in a unique way)
This is a more complex form of "obsession," but Jake has an almost reverent admiration for Captain Holt. He idolizes Holt's stoic demeanor, his intelligence, and his unique leadership style. While Holt often expresses exasperation with Jake's antics, Jake consistently seeks his approval and sees him as a father figure and a mentor. His attempts to "bond" with Holt, often through awkward or overly enthusiastic gestures, highlight this deep respect.
Conclusion: A Man of Intense Passions
In essence, Jake Peralta is a man of intense passions. While his romantic obsession with Amy Santiago is the most prominent and significant, his enthusiasm for action movies, pizza, his dog, and even his captain, all contribute to his vibrant and lovable character. He approaches life with a childlike wonder and a boundless capacity for love and enthusiasm, making him one of television's most endearing protagonists.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jake Peralta's Obsessions
How did Jake Peralta's obsession with Amy Santiago begin?
Jake's obsession with Amy started as a competitive fascination. He was initially annoyed by her by-the-book nature and perceived her as a rival. However, her intelligence, dedication, and underlying kindness gradually chipped away at his defenses, leading to a deep admiration and eventually, romantic obsession.
Why is Jake Peralta so obsessed with action movies?
Jake's obsession with action movies stems from his childhood and his desire to live a life as exciting and heroic as those he saw on screen. These movies represent his idealized version of heroism and adventure, influencing his personality, his sense of humor, and even his approach to detective work.
Does Jake Peralta's obsession with Amy change after they get married?
No, Jake's obsession with Amy doesn't diminish after they get married. Instead, it deepens and evolves into a mature, committed love. He continues to dote on her, support her, and express his affection in ways that are unique to their relationship, proving their bond is enduring.
Is Jake Peralta's admiration for Captain Holt considered an obsession?
While not a romantic obsession, Jake's profound admiration and respect for Captain Holt can be seen as a form of obsession. He idolizes Holt's intellect, leadership, and stoic nature, constantly seeking his approval and viewing him as a significant mentor and father figure.
