Since its première on December 7, more than 20 million individuals have viewed the young adult romance series My Life With the Walter Boys on Netflix. It has already received a second season renewal, and the central love triangle has amassed over one billion views on TikTok.
Based on a 2014 novel by Ali Novak, the series follows Jackie, an orphaned adolescent who relocates to rural Colorado with her godmother and the ten children who bear her name, the “Walter Boys.” Jackie is attracted to both the intellectually inclined Alex and the endearing yet troubled Cole, with whom she currently shares a farm.
TikTokers, whether they are members of Team Alex or Team Cole, have been creating fan edits, or video tributes to the characters. The majority of the posts feature excerpts (or a sequence of clips) from the show that portray their preferred romantic interest in a positive light. Occasionally, they engage in benevolent actions or fixate wistfully on the main character. On occasion, they are merely exhibiting aesthetic appeal in compilations accompanied by melancholic music.
Users explain in the comments sections of these tributes why they have chosen to support one romantic interest over another. A TikTok post with 12.3 million views depicts Alex preparing coffee for Jackie subsequent to her decision to stay up late. She is not present when he arrives at her bedroom door to deliver the package. The clip concludes at that juncture; however, it is widely acknowledged by viewers that Jackie had already abandoned Alex at home in order to be with Cole. While the edit features the song “Traitor” by Olivia Rodrigo in the background, this may seem betraying to Alex’s supporters. However, it represents a tremendous victory to Cole’s followers.
Certain users commended Alex in the remarks section for his benevolent deed. “Ok but the fact that he had a hangover BUT STILL GOT UP AND MADE HER BREAKFAST IN BED is why one of the reasons why I am team Alex he is so good to her,” a person wrote.
“I am astounded by their heinous act towards Alex. “None of it was deserved by him,” said another.
Cole’s supporters were also present. One wrote, “Yes I’m team Cole but I feel bad for Alex,” while another simply declared that Alex gives them “the ick,” or an inexplicable bad feeling.
