Jessica De Gouw’s connection to her new role runs deeper than the script. The actress shares more with her character in The Couple Next Door, which premiered on January 17, than one might expect. Her unconventional views on marriage and relationships may come as a surprise to many of her fans.
In The Couple Next Door, De Gouw plays Becka, the wife of a suburban police officer Danny (Sam Heughan). Her life takes an unexpected turn when secrets about her and husband’s open relationship come to light. Off-screen, De Gow’s views on relationships closely mirror her character’s non-traditional approach, making the role a natural fit for the actress.
The actress’s portrayal explores the dynamics of a modern, open relationship with her on-screen husband Danny. Their seemingly conventional life is disrupted when a new couple moves in next door, unraveling a deeper narrative about the complexities of love and fidelity.
De Gouw, reflecting on the show's themes, shared her perspective on polyamory and non-monogamous relationships in a statement with the Entertainment Weekly.
“Traditional, monogamous relationships are not necessarily the norm. In my life, I'm surrounded by different kinds of relationships. The expectation that you are two people living monogamously forever doesn't necessarily exist in the queer community in the same way. So I feel like I had a bit of insight into that”.
