#just about write

Emily Bett Rickards Arrow (The CW)

Admittedly, I stopped watching Arrow consistently a few years ago (sorry, show, but you kinda sucked life out of me). Nevertheless, I’m constantly amazed that no one has seemed to recognize Emily Bett Rickards for her talent over the years! This woman has done incredible work and, arguably, has held the series together as its glue when the writing was in shambles. Since the past season’s finale was her last (I expect she’ll make some sort of return in the series finale at least), I thought it was appropriate to honor her here. Emily Bett Rickards has done immense work with Felicity Smoak over the years. She was so captivating in the first appearance that she became a regular part of the series even though that was never the intent. And it’s a testament to her chemistry with Stephen Amell and presence on screen that she went from a presumed one-off role to the show’s leading lady.

What I was always impressed by was Emily’s impeccable navigation between nervous awkward comedy to genuinely heartbreaking emotion. She’s the kind of actress who can make you feel something so deeply by just the look in her eyes. There have been countless moments over the years where I’ve just cycled through watching a GIF of a facial expression or nuance over and over, impressed by her ability to communicate feeling. Emily understood Felicity deeply; I know she loved her as a character and it shows. Felicity was an incredible, complex character — someone who was equal parts moral compass, light, and tragedy. Emily fought hard in her portrayal to make sure Felicity always stood out and stood on her own, never needing to be defined by another character to make an impact. Even though she was the other half of the show’s major romantic pairing, Emily Bett Rickards didn’t need Stephen Amell to shine — she just shone by existing.

I am sooooo excited about this interview with Just About Write. It was such an honor Jenn asked me. JAW has been a HUGE part of my Arrow fandom experience. It’s been a privilege writing for this website and you all know I never turn down the chance to talk about Arrow and Olicity!!!

Two major takeaways: It’s not the same without Emily Bett (Duh) and Arrow will have a happy ending, which we kind of knew because Oliver is reunited with Felicity now. But I’m sure more happy is on the way. Thanks Just About Write for the coverage.