Beckett's affection for Castle, and over time accepted Castle as part of the team. Fans visited
websites featuring their quotes. One YouTube video promised to show them how to dance like
Ryan and Esposito.
Lanie, played by TV and film actress, Tamala Jones, served as Beckett’s best friend,
confidant, and Esposito’s love interest. Lanie urged Beckett to date Castle. In "The Limey”
(4.20) she told Beckett life was too short and uncertain to wait to make a move. Reviewer
Luciana Mangas of TVOM observed, “Now, we’ve got a tease with Beckett talking to Lanie
about telling Castle how she feels. I swear, if they don’t take this relationship to the next level
soon, I am going to scream” (“The Limey, Review”).
Ruben Santiago-Hudson played Roy Montgomery, the Captain of the 12 th precinct. He
overcame Beckett’s objections to having Castle observe the workings of the homicide
department. He encouraged their relationship, stating, “Kate, you weren't having any fun before
he came along” (“Knockout” 3.24). Captain Montgomery died in a shootout at the end of season
three. Victoria “Iron” Gates (Penny Johnson-Jerald) replaced him for seasons four through seven.
Gate’s tough-minded character forced Castle to earn a place in the precinct by fitting in and
solving cases. Reviewer Courtney Morrison hoped “she (Gates) ends up being a Castle shipper
like the rest of us” (Castle: Season Premier Review).
Through the Seasons
Marlowe shaped the story of Castle and Beckett like a soap opera, an interesting choice since
one of Fillion’s previous roles was on Desperate Housewives, Susan Sullivan starred on Falcon
Crest and Seamus Dever had a role in General Hospital. The story line began with charismatic
characters in a distinctive setting. The classic theme of boy meets girl soon changed to two
people seeking love. The characters’ first meeting was a defining moment. There was a
connection and conflict. Beckett described Castle as “an immature, egotistical, self-centered
jackass” (“Probable Cause” 5.5). However, Castle’s boyish charm, humor, and concern for her
won her over.
The theme of two people finding love moved the characters through danger, doubt, and
separation. Most of the formulaic episodes moved the relationship forward or backwards.
Shippers fretted over the setbacks, but delighted in the episodes that highlighted changes in the
couple’s relationship from flirtation, to dating, intimacy, and marriage. They considered episodes
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