The Interview:
Why create Degrassi: The Next Era: Degrassi is one of my favorite shows. I've been watching it repeatedly since I was younger. The first episode that I saw was Take My Breath Away. Manny and Craig's first date. I've been hooked since. I also love writing so why not combine the two. This fanfiction was created to bring fresh faces to the beloved Degrassi.
Why choose Jack as the main character: Just like Degrassi TNG used Emma to connect the previous incarnation. I decided to use Jack with a little retcon of his age. I thought he was the perfect character to introduce again in this new timeline. He is also connected to Degrassi Alumni's like Spike, Snake, Emma, Spinner, and Manny.
The use of LGBTQIA characters: Representation is important of course. Love isn't black and white. I thought it was important showcasing the journey of identity. Jack, Decker, Harriet and Jordan to name a few all went through or going through this journey to find themselves.
Are you planning to continue the story: I will finish out season 5. There is a season 6, but unfortunately, I don't know if enough people would want more. I've been writing and developing these characters for 5 years now. I would love to continue, but the best way to gauge interest is through reviews, which have been becoming less. If people are interested then I will continue to write until there is no more story to tell.
Your top three storylines: I think my favorite storyline is Jack and Decker's love story. The reason I love this couple is that we have seen them go from enemies to friends to boyfriends to not even being on speaking terms. They have come so far and still have a long ways to go. My second favorite storyline is currently going on, which is Brandon's drug involvement. Brandon is a character that can't seem to do right no matter how hard he tries. I wanted a character that means well, but their intention doesn't always come off well. My third favorite storyline is Alicia's journey to find her voice in seasons two and three. In season five Alicia is more vocal and confident.
Jecker (Jack/Decker) or Jorson (Jack/Jordan): This is hard. I'm a fan of both. I think Jack and Decker have been through a lot together. Jack and Jordan have been friends for a long time and truly get one another. When creating both of these parings I was teetering back and forth. Who will be endgame? Guess we would have to see…
Top three couples: Carina and Isaiah, I think they are so wholesome and innocent. Really cute. Ivy and Dev. Didn't see it coming, but they sort of work. I can't say another because it hasn't happened yet, but another really good couple. I'll give an honorable mention to the budding relationship between Amina and Harriet. Also, Alicia and Jack get an honorable mention.
What can fans expect for the rest of Season 5: Without spoiling expect more drama. Expect more relationships. Expect some surprise alumni visits. Also, we will be spending a lot of time with these characters.