Summary
Suits took 8 seasons for Harvey and Donna to be together because the show initially focused on their professional arcs, not their romance.
Harvey and Rachel's relationship took precedence, allowing little room for other romantic connections. Harvey's reluctance towards long-term commitments prevented him from being in a committed relationship with Donna until he was ready.
Harvey and Donna of Suits had an instant connection, but it took them 8 seasons to finally be together. Despite being a legal drama, Suits also delved into the personal lives of the characters at Pearson, Hardman, and subsequent versions of the firm. At first, the focus was mainly on their professional journeys, which brought plenty of drama through office conflicts and Harvey and Mike's efforts to keep their secret hidden. However, as the show progressed, it expanded beyond the law firm, giving viewers more insight into the characters.
Four years after Suits ended, it found a new audience on Netflix and became its most-watched acquired show. Whether fans returning or newcomers discovering it, there is a growing interest in the show's narrative. One of the major questions revolves around the romance between Harvey and Donna. While the pair engaged in playful flirting, it was disguised as office banter. Suits could have easily united them earlier, but it chose to wait years before bringing them together.
Suits' First 7 Seasons Prioritized Mike & Rachel's Romance
Suits, being a legal drama, focused primarily on the working relationship between Harvey and Mike at Pearson, Hardman. The show seamlessly incorporated Mike's personal life into his professional journey, including his complicated romantic prospects. While he was involved with Jenny at one point, the show also explored his relationship with Rachel. Once they officially became a couple, the focus shifted to their office romance, leaving little room for another one.
After Mike and Rachel departed from Suits, Harvey still had a lot to deal with. He had to come to terms with losing Mike, who chose to move to Seattle with his new wife. Additionally, Harvey had to navigate numerous challenges as he sought a way for the firm to move forward. Meanwhile, Donna, his longtime secretary, was starting to establish herself outside of his shadow. In an attempt to cope, Harvey engaged in an unethical relationship with his therapist, Paula Agard. However, even she saw through his actions, leading to their breakup.
Harvey & Donna Couldn't Get Together Until He Was Ready To Be Fully Committed To Her
Harvey and Donna's compatibility as a couple may have been evident from the start, however, Suits chose not to act on it immediately. As Harvey was portrayed as the top attorney in New York, the show decided to maintain his image as a cool and relaxed lawyer, making him unprepared for a serious relationship during its early seasons. Despite having a few more substantial relationships, Harvey always hesitated to commit to them long-term. If Harvey and Donna had been brought together earlier, it would have inevitably led to their breakup since Harvey simply wasn't prepared for a committed relationship.