10 Lessons About Mental Health From Bojack Horseman And Steven Universe

8. You Can Still Miss And Love People From A Toxic Relationship

Steven Universe Bojack Horseman
Netflix

In Steven Universe, some toxic relationships were presented in such a way that could be understood by children without getting too graphic, with Lapis Lazuli and antagonist Jasper fusing together for an extended period of time, and when they finally separated, they missed each other - even though Lapis feared the violent, power-hungry Jasper, and Jasper was tricked and entrapped by Lapis.

Another toxic relationship was seen with Pink Diamond and her Pearls, both of whom adored her, even when she accidentally "broke" one in a tantrum and kept the other beholden to her.

In Bojack Horseman, Bojack was the toxic element. Even when he was good, even when he was loving, he was exceptionally toxic in the way he clung to others for approval while descending into harmful behaviours and addictions, even resulting in the death of a loved one - Sara Lynn, his own actions preventing her from getting medical attention that could've saved her life.

In the finale of Bojack, some stayed friends but not as close as before, while others cut him out altogether. They loved and missed him as he did them, but that doesn't mean distance didn't help them be better.

Contributor
Contributor

Writer, artist, professional animator. Indie comics and Hi Nay podcast creator. Queer Filipino storyteller || @MotzieD on Twitter || Originally from Quezon City, The Philippines. Currently based in Toronto, Canada || motziedapul.com