I really agree. Neelix’s obnoxious behavior and strange jealousy / possessiveness of Kes was a real disservice to his character for the first few seasons and initially I couldn’t stand him. He improved a lot once he and Kes broke up. It was an uncomfortable relationship to watch anyway because Kes was maybe the equivalent of a very sheltered, naive 18-year-old human, and Neelix was clearly a middle-aged dude who had been around the block a few times. He was half controlling parent, half controlling boyfriend and it was just weird.
He became such a wonderful, warm person as the series went on. Godfather to Naomi, took his jobs as chef and morale officer seriously (even though everyone ungratefully complained about his cooking!), trained as a security officer, and always a friendly ear to anyone who needed him.
I’ll also make this argument in his favor: Neelix didn’t have much of an ego, whereas the Doctor was unbearable at times. Neelix’s EQ was much higher.
For many people Neelix is a write off because of just how gross his relationship with Kes is. It’s a shame too, his introduction to the series is 100% wildcard. I was most excited about his character when I watched the first time. And then all my excitement was spoiled by constant couch talk about how Neelix is just a gross pedophile.
I always thought it was the Doctor more than Neelix. He was more comic relief.
Removed by mod
I really agree. Neelix’s obnoxious behavior and strange jealousy / possessiveness of Kes was a real disservice to his character for the first few seasons and initially I couldn’t stand him. He improved a lot once he and Kes broke up. It was an uncomfortable relationship to watch anyway because Kes was maybe the equivalent of a very sheltered, naive 18-year-old human, and Neelix was clearly a middle-aged dude who had been around the block a few times. He was half controlling parent, half controlling boyfriend and it was just weird.
He became such a wonderful, warm person as the series went on. Godfather to Naomi, took his jobs as chef and morale officer seriously (even though everyone ungratefully complained about his cooking!), trained as a security officer, and always a friendly ear to anyone who needed him.
I’ll also make this argument in his favor: Neelix didn’t have much of an ego, whereas the Doctor was unbearable at times. Neelix’s EQ was much higher.
I think you can explain most of Neelix’s behavior in the first few seasons on severe PTSD considering what happened to him before he went on the run.
This is a very fair take. We see a very different and haunted Neelix in Jetrel.
Removed by mod
For many people Neelix is a write off because of just how gross his relationship with Kes is. It’s a shame too, his introduction to the series is 100% wildcard. I was most excited about his character when I watched the first time. And then all my excitement was spoiled by constant couch talk about how Neelix is just a gross pedophile.
Some real whacky choices were made with voy.
Yes, the Doctor would be a good candidate there as well.