Summary
Buffy and Angel's post-resurrection reunion was never shown on screen, leaving audiences to wonder about what happened.
The reunion between Buffy and Angel following her resurrection had the potential to be an incredibly poignant moment for the duo.
In the Buffy comics, the decision was made to not provide any concrete details about their reunion, indicating that the creators intended to leave it unresolved, enabling viewers to envision their own interpretation of the scene.
Buffy Summers and Angel's relationship was a significant aspect of Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Angel, but there was one remarkable reunion that never made it to television. Despite Angel leaving Sunnydale and starting his own spinoff in Los Angeles, the two characters had multiple crossovers along with supporting players. One of their most memorable moments occurred in Angel season 1, episode 8, "I Will Remember You," where they had a chance at true happiness only to be crushed by a heart-wrenching twist. While Sarah Michelle Gellar did not appear in Angel beyond season 1, episode 19, "Sanctuary," David Boreanaz did return as Angel for Buffy the Vampire Slayer's final two episodes. However, there was yet another reunion in between all of this that would have been truly incredible to witness.
Buffy & Angel's Post-Resurrection Reunion Could've Been Their Best Ever Scene
Audiences gain insight into Angel's reaction to Buffy's death in season 5 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The third season of Angel begins with Angel returning from a lengthy absence where he has been processing his grief. However, their reunion after Buffy's resurrection is not as elaborated upon, despite being hinted at in both shows. The setup for this reunion occurs in episode 4 of Buffy season 6, titled "Flooded," where Buffy has a phone conversation with Angel off-screen and agrees to meet him at an undisclosed location. The actual events of their meeting are not shown on screen, but in the subsequent episode, "Life Serial," Buffy describes it as "intense" and opts to keep the details to herself.
Considering the deep and tumultuous history between Buffy and Angel, their reunion was undoubtedly a significant and emotionally charged moment. This is evident in their reactions, which encompass not only happiness but also unresolved issues and traumas. Their encounter had the potential to be an immensely powerful scene, capable of effectively capturing the weight of their past and present emotions, creating an intense and emotionally captivating sequence.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer made its move to the UPN network starting from season 6, while Angel continued its run on The WB. This change in networks posed challenges for crossovers due to contractual issues. Although some crossovers did occur, they often did not involve the main stars (such as Gellar not returning for Angel) or were limited to brief scenes. Particularly during Buffy season 6 and Angel season 3, it seemed unlikely for a major crossover reunion between the two shows to take place, thereby necessitating off-screen resolutions.
Did Buffy's Death Restore Her Memories Of Angel's "I Will Remember You"? Theory Explained
When Buffy and Angel reunited after her death, it remains a mystery as to what transpired. However, there is a compelling theory that adds an extra layer of significance: Buffy's recollection of their cherished day together in "I Will Remember You" may have been restored. Considering Buffy's journey to Heaven, it is plausible that she would be granted the ability to retain the happiest moments of her existence and gain insight into the events involving her loved ones. Consequently, this would nullify the enchantment that caused her to forget, resulting in her resurrection with those cherished memories still intact.
Even The Buffy Comics Refused To Answer What Happened When Buffy & Angel Reunited
There is no definite confirmation, and neither character implies that this is the case. However, the theory carries some weight as it aligns with the missing scene. If Buffy and Angel indeed discussed this topic, it would explain why they refrain from providing details and why Buffy desires to keep it to herself. Such a conversation would likely involve a complex mix of agony, affection, sacrifice, and perhaps even anger. It is a deeply personal matter to them, hence why they would choose to keep it private.
The Buffy the Vampire Slayer comics expanded the story and contributed significantly to the canon. However, although they delved into Buffy's post-show journey, they never fully disclosed the specifics of her reunion with Angel. Curiously, though, they came close to revealing it in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer one-shot comic Reunion (crafted by veteran Buffy writer Jane Espenson, featuring artwork by Paul Lee, Brian Horton, Ryan Sook, Randy Green, Eric Powell, and Chynna Clugston-Major, with color by Guy Major).
Reunion occurs after Buffy and Angel's reunion, although its canonicity is questionable. The rest of the Scooby Gang is curious about what transpired between them. Xander envisions a scenario where Angel is in danger and Buffy comes to his aid. Dawn imagines a romantic rendezvous. Anya suggests a meeting at Denny's where Buffy can share a secret with Angel. However, their stories are interrupted by a fire demon, which originates from a spell gone awry by Willow. The fire demon manages to infiltrate their subconsciousness before ultimately being defeated by Buffy in the real world. This comic further emphasizes that the Buffy the Vampire Slayer team deliberately withheld information about Buffy and Angel's post-resurrection relationship. Perhaps it was for the best, considering the immense significance it would have held and the challenge of meeting viewers' expectations compared to their own interpretations.