Editor’s Note: The following contains spoilers for Ghosts Season 4, Episode 21.The newest episode of <em>Ghosts</em> has introduced a transformative character that could alter the dynamics within the series. In the episode titled “Kyle,” Pete (Richie Moriarty) brings home another living person who possesses the unique ability to see ghosts, further enriching the show’s universe. Superstore alum Ben Feldman portrays the character Kyle, whose arrival, while thrilling for Sam (Rose McIver) and the other spirits at Woodstone Manor, creates significant tension for Jay (Utkarsh Ambudkar). This episode takes viewers on an emotional journey, allowing them to connect with both Sam and Jay. While Sam is ecstatic to meet someone who understands her unusual lifestyle, Jay grapples with jealousy, feeling that this newcomer shares a deeper bond with his wife.

Throughout the episode, viewers are reassured of Sam’s unwavering commitment to Jay, even as the plot explores her connection with Kyle. Jay’s jealousy isn’t unfounded; Kyle makes an advance toward Sam, intensifying Jay’s insecurities. In a classic Ghosts twist, Sam responds with a humorous facepalm, highlighting the show’s unique approach to conflicts. Rather than driving a wedge between Sam and Jay, Ghosts cleverly utilizes every obstacle to fortify their marriage, enhancing the narrative each time it occurs.

Kyle’s Arrival Tests the Foundations of Sam and Jay’s Marriage in ‘Ghosts’

Until now, Sam’s ability to communicate with ghosts has been a solitary experience. The introduction of Kyle, who shares this extraordinary gift, immediately alleviates Sam’s feelings of isolation surrounding her unique circumstances, which often complicate her life despite the joy they bring. Their shared understanding fosters an instant connection, creating a level of intimacy and empathy that leaves Jay feeling excluded. Kyle’s ability to engage with the ghosts alongside Sam, something Jay has only experienced in rare moments, exacerbates Jay’s feelings of inadequacy. With a growing collection of “ghost notes” and a strong desire to connect with the many spirits haunting their home, Jay spirals into jealousy as he witnesses the bond forming between Kyle and Sam.

As Jay feels increasingly sidelined, he begins to panic quietly, attempting to insert himself into conversations with the ghosts, but ultimately only succeeds in appearing awkward and desperate in a comically endearing manner. When Bela (Punam Patel) makes matters worse by commenting on Kyle’s attractiveness and his effortless rapport with Sam, Jay’s insecurities deepen. One of the strengths of Ghosts lies in its ability to craft conflicts between Sam and Jay while ensuring that both characters have valid points, allowing audiences to empathize with each side during their disputes.

In a pivotal moment, Sam decides to offer Kyle a job without consulting Jay, which only fuels his rising anxiety that Kyle could potentially take Sam away from him due to their shared abilities. Despite his deep-seated trust in his relationship with Sam, Jay’s insecurities cloud his judgment, prompting him to seize on the first piece of information that could undermine Kyle. When he uncovers Kyle’s criminal history, he confronts him, attempting to diminish the newcomer’s credibility. However, his plan backfires spectacularly when Kyle shares a heartfelt story behind his past crime, revealing the emotional turmoil that shaped him. Unlike their previous assistant who was driven away by jealousy over Sam’s attention, Jay finds himself repeating that pattern, only to be reprimanded for it.

From Sam’s perspective, it seems absurd for Jay to feel threatened by Kyle, as there’s no scenario in which she would ever betray her husband. Nevertheless, when she seeks to explain and apologize to Jay for his behavior, Kyle unexpectedly makes an advance, confirming that Jay’s concerns were not entirely unfounded this time. Sam responds with a classic facepalm, clearly indicating that her only interest in Kyle is strictly related to “ghost matters.” While other series might have leaned into romantic tension between Sam and Kyle, Ghosts uses this moment to reaffirm Sam’s commitment to Jay.

How ‘Ghosts’ Celebrates Sam and Jay’s Marriage as a Genuine Strength

After Sam’s humorous facepalm, Kyle reveals that he is, in fact, envious of the bond that Sam and Jay share. Living with the constant presence of ghosts can make one appear somewhat eccentric, but throughout Sam’s journey with this ability, Jay has remained her steadfast partner. Kyle shares his past, explaining that the person he was with when he first discovered his gift left him because she couldn’t cope with it. His heartfelt confession prompts Sam to reflect on Jay’s unwavering support and deep love for her. Once Kyle departs, Sam seeks out Jay and, before she can express that he was correct, Jay takes the initiative to apologize, affirming his complete trust in her and admitting he should never have doubted her loyalty. When Sam reveals that Kyle did indeed make a pass at her, Jay manages to suppress his “I knew it!” to a reasonable pitch, understanding that both of them had valid points and were somewhat in the wrong.

Sam takes the opportunity to express her gratitude to Jay for all that he does for her and the spirits in their home. Jay’s patience and understanding shine through, showcasing a love so profound that he is willing to navigate every unexpected twist life and death throw their way. Their ability to communicate openly about their issues and collaboratively find resolutions cements Sam and Jay as one of the most admirable married couples on television, especially in the realm of sitcoms.

This scenario is just one in a series of challenges that Sam and Jay have faced, but Ghosts consistently brings them through these trials, enhancing the narrative. From the very first episode, Sam and Jay have encountered numerous disagreements, from Jay’s initial reluctance to relocate to Woodstone to Sam’s aversion to playing long sessions of Dungeons and Dragons, and even Jay’s reluctance to share his feelings about his former restaurant job. In every instance, both points of view are valid, and their mutual affection and understanding enable them to reach compromises that benefit both.

This dynamic breathes fresh air into Sam and Jay’s marriage, offering a realistic portrayal of a couple who genuinely cares for one another, contrasting sharply with the countless straight sitcom couples who barely seem to tolerate each other. Their deep bond is a cornerstone of Ghosts, and throughout the four seasons, it has become abundantly clear that the unconditional love between Sam and Jay is unbreakable, capable of withstanding any challenges they may face.

Ghosts is available for streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S.