Five Moments of Honesty in Television – Number One: Desmond and Penny in LOST

No doubt LOST is a frequently divisive series, but critics and audience members can unanimously agree upon one thing: plot holes and unanswered questions aside, the drama excelled in developing character relationships. A perfect example is Desmond (Henry Ian Cusick) and Penny (Sonya Walger); arguably the best love story in television history.

In one of the series' most critically acclaimed episodes – The Constant – Desmond and Penny finally reunite and reaffirm their love after years of separation.

Utilizing themes of time-travel, the episode follows Desmond as he physically shifts between the years 1996 and 2004. His one saving grace from this harrowing experience is establishing an anchor – a constant – between the two periods of time. Desmond, of course, chooses Penny. Contacting her in 1996, Desmond convinces Penny not to change her phone number so that he may call her in 2004. When he is finally able to make that call, their emotionally charged reconnection is breathtaking.

With beautifully honest performances from Cusick and Walger, Desmond and Penny absolutely shine as they reveal their undying love for each other. However, it is not so much the scene alone that really hits home but the dramatic buildup of Desmond and Penny's relationship over the course of the entire series – a true testament to LOST's immensely talented creative team. The reward is a brilliant scene that inevitably brings tears to the eyes of viewers even after countless viewings.
 
“I love you, Penny. I've always loved you.” Stunningly powerful. And honest.

Stay positive,
Andrew