In a recent candid discussion, stars Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki broke down the possibilities, the risks, and why their characters’ relationship is so unique in the procedural landscape. While the chemistry is undeniable, both actors acknowledge that crossing that line is a decision that could change the fabric of the show forever.
The “Slow Burn” to End All Slow Burns
The chemistry between Peregrym and Zaki is what fuels much of the show’s emotional weight. Missy Peregrym noted that the strength of Maggie and OA lies in their platonic intimacy. They are each other’s “person” in a way that transcends typical office friendships.
“We’ve worked really hard to show a deep, loving, platonic relationship between a man and a woman,” Missy explained. “In television, that’s almost rarer than a romance. We want to protect that, but we also hear the fans loud and clear.”
Zeeko Zaki echoed this sentiment, pointing out that the characters’ shared history—including Maggie’s recovery from sarin gas exposure and OA’s protective nature—has naturally created a foundation that could support a romance. For OA, Maggie is the anchor that keeps him grounded in the high-stakes world of the New York Field Office.
The Risks of Crossing the Line
One of the biggest hurdles discussed by the duo is the “Moonlighting Curse”—the fear that once a lead couple finally gets together, the tension that drives the show disappears. Both actors are protective of the professional dynamic that makes Maggie and OA such an effective team.
-
Professional Stakes: As partners in the FBI, a romantic entanglement would complicate their chain of command and their ability to stay objective in life-or-death situations.
-
The Fear of Loss: For both characters, their partnership is the most stable thing in their lives. The fear that a breakup could destroy that partnership is a significant psychological barrier.
What the Future Holds
While the stars didn’t confirm an official “ship” sailing just yet, they teased that the emotional boundaries will continue to be tested. As both Maggie and OA navigate personal challenges—including Maggie’s journey as a guardian and OA’s own romantic hurdles—the realization that they are the only ones who truly “get” each other becomes more apparent.
The consensus from the stars? Never say never. Whether it happens through a slow realization or a high-pressure “near-miss” moment, the door to a Maggie-OA romance is officially cracked open. Fans can expect the 2026 season to lean further into these emotional beats, keeping the “will they or won’t they” flame alive for another year.
