Unraveling The Complexities: 20 Mind-Boggling Aspects of Fiona & Jimmy's Relationship

Warning: This article contains references to violent acts and homicide.

In the debut episode of Showtime's popular dramedy series Shameless, viewers were introduced to Fiona Gallagher, who had a fateful encounter with Steve Wilton - a handsome and seemingly accomplished man. Their connection was sparked when Steve intervened to thwart a thief's attempt to steal Fiona's purse. However, it didn't take long for the audience to realize that there were unsettling aspects surrounding their relationship. Eventually, it was unveiled that Steve, who went by the alias Jimmy, was Fiona's first romantic interest on the show. Although they initially appeared to be well-suited for each other, the more insight gained into Jimmy's character, the more toxic their bond became.

Jimmy's Hypocritical Introduction — Season 1, Episode 1, "Pilot"

Steve/Jimmy was the lover who managed to stay with Fiona the longest out of all her partners on Shameless. Throughout seasons 1 to 5, actor Justin Chatwin delivered a remarkable performance as this character, who went by different names and engaged in various illegal activities to generate income. The Fiona and Jimmy relationship was filled with turmoil, even witnessing both of them betraying their own partners and getting involved with each other at different times. However, Jimmy's fate in Shameless was the consequence of his own decisions, leading Fiona to believe that she had escaped a potentially disastrous situation by not ending up with him in the end.

The initial introduction of Steve and Fiona revealed their relationship to be marred by hypocrisy. This deception served as the first indication that all was not well between them. Jimmy, however, shattered any illusion of loyalty amongst thieves when he witnessed Fiona's handbag being snatched while they were at a nightclub. Displaying a rare sense of chivalry, he immediately sprang into action, though his efforts to apprehend the thief were in vain. Nevertheless, Jimmy's brief display of gallantry transformed him into a perceived hero, subsequently leading him to seamlessly infiltrate both Fiona's life and her heart.

Fiona Encouraged Jimmy's Criminal Career — Season 1, Episode 1, "Pilot"

Unfortunately, Jimmy turned out to be far from the chivalrous hero he was originally portrayed as. In reality, he was a seasoned car thief, rather than merely a pickpocket. Despite his apparent love for Fiona and his desire to assist the Gallagher family, Jimmy ultimately proved to be just another lawbreaker, posing a threat to their already tumultuous lives.

Fiona's inability to maintain a healthy relationship with someone who was genuinely right for her and her family became evident when she discovered that Steve was involved in car theft in the first episode of Shameless. This revelation suggested that the Fiona and Jimmy relationship was destined to fail right from the beginning. Despite having other better choices, Fiona's disastrous taste in men was one of her most glaring flaws on Shameless. For instance, Mike Pratt was not only great with her siblings but also had a stable job and a remarkably friendly personality. However, her relationship with Mike was ruined due to her involvement with his manipulative brother.

Jimmy Gave Away The House He Bought Fiona — Season 1, Episode 11, "Daddyz Girl"

Fiona's relationship with Gus was flourishing until she had a brief one-night fling with Jimmy. Despite being aware of Sean's troubled past as a former addict with a criminal record, she almost tied the knot with him. However, it was Jimmy Lishman who kicked off Fiona's pattern of poor decision-making in relationships. Initially uninterested in him when she believed he was a wealthy businessman, Fiona's desire suddenly sparked when she discovered his car theft profession. Eventually, when Jimmy decided to leave that life behind and pursue a career as a doctor, they called it quits.

Jimmy's initial generosity towards the Gallaghers convinced audiences that the Steve and Fiona relationship was destined for success. He willingly spent all of his hard-earned money from car theft to ensure Fiona's happiness. Not only did he provide her with everything she needed to make life in the Gallagher house easier, but he also went a step further. Recognizing her desire for freedom and privacy from her siblings, he spontaneously purchased the house next door. This thoughtful gesture allowed Fiona to finally experience a sense of independence while still staying close to her family.

It was a remarkably romantic and considerate gesture, but unfortunately, the house didn't remain in his and Fiona's possession for long. In a bid to evade arrest by Tony Markovich for grand theft auto in "Daddyz Gurl," Jimmy decided to simply hand over the house to his rival for Fiona's affections. Despite Tony's assurance that he wouldn't report Jimmy if he left town, this illogical action deprived Fiona of the gift he had promised her. Shortly thereafter, the relationship between Fiona and Jimmy is put to the test when he flees the country.

Fiona Couldn't Make Up Her Mind About Jimmy — Season 2, Episode 6, "Can I Have A Mother"

The Steve and Fiona relationship is plagued by a significant issue - both individuals struggle with commitment. They resorted to infidelity to be together, yet Fiona and Jimmy encountered difficulties in fully investing in the relationship upon his return to Chicago. Unlike most individuals in healthy relationships, they constantly find themselves questioning their compatibility. While audiences consider Jimmy to be Fiona's soulmate on Shameless, Fiona herself has always remained uncertain about their connection.

When Jimmy returned to Chicago after fleeing the city in the first season, Fiona was torn on whether or not she should give him a second chance. In "Can I Have a Mother," she ended up fooling around with him in a bathroom while on a date with another guy, causing immediate regret. However, she continued to string him along for weeks. Despite being married to Gus, as soon as Jimmy returned to town, she couldn't resist sleeping with him. Unfortunately, their relationship quickly fell apart, leading to a breakup soon after.

Jimmy Took Lip In Just To Upset Fiona — Season 2, Episode 9, "Hurricane Monica"

The deterioration of the Steve and Fiona relationship became evident when he started exploiting her own family as a means to reconnect with her. Upon Jimmy's return to Chicago, he immediately embarked on a mission to win back Fiona. At first, she adamantly refused to reignite their romance due to Jimmy's marriage to Estefania and the lingering resentment she held towards him for abandoning her in the first place. As a result, Jimmy resorted to dubious tactics in order to stealthily reintegrate himself into Fiona's life.

Jimmy attempted to assist with household chores at the Gallagher residence and chauffeured Fiona's siblings around the town, hoping that Fiona would rely on him and realize her need for him. When this strategy failed, he allowed Lip to stay at his apartment after Fiona expelled him due to his decision to drop out of high school in "Hurricane Monica," fully aware that this act would infuriate Fiona and finally prompt a much-needed conversation between them. Partners who genuinely care do not resort to this kind of manipulative behavior.

Even The Writers Struggled To Bring Them Back Together — Season 2, Episode 7, "A Bottle Of Jean Nate"

Upon returning to Chicago, Jimmy's attempts to reconcile with Fiona proved unsuccessful, indicating that their relationship was on the verge of fading away completely. As a result, the Shameless writers had to resort to absurd means of bringing the former couple together, further adding to the nonsensical aspects of the show. It was during this time that Fiona's friend Jasmine extended an invitation to both Jimmy and his new wife Estefania. They were invited to a party hosted by Jasmine on a fling's boat in the episode titled "A Bottle of Jean Nate."

There are numerous factors rendering this situation utterly nonsensical. Jasmine was well aware that Jimmy had shattered Fiona's heart when he departed the town, she also knew that Jimmy was now married, and she knew that her best friend wanted nothing to do with him. Additionally, Jasmine harbored a secret infatuation for Fiona and had even kissed her at the same event. She tried to justify her actions by explaining that she had contacted Jimmy in an attempt to reunite him with Fiona. However, if Jasmine truly cared for Fiona or desired to be with her, she should not have extended an invitation to Jimmy.

Fiona Barely Cared About What Jimmy Was Up To — Season 3, Episode 1, "El Gran Cañon"

When Jimmy disclosed to Fiona in the Shameless pilot that his wealth was obtained through car theft, she never exhibited any concern about the potential consequences that could land her boyfriend in prison. Her preoccupations with her siblings and problematic father overshadowed any worries about Jimmy's activities. This early sign of trouble in the Steve and Fiona relationship escalated over time as she continued to disregard or ignore his actions.

When she stumbled upon Jimmy incinerating his own garments in front of the Gallagher residence one fateful evening, she refrained from questioning the motive behind his peculiar behavior. The strength of Fiona and Jimmy's bond could have been severely tested had she discovered that he had been an unwilling accomplice in disposing of Marco's lifeless body. Although he bore the weight of an unspeakable ordeal and appeared visibly traumatized as he set ablaze his attire, Fiona's attention was consumed by other pressing matters, oblivious to his distress.

Jimmy Was Never Honest About Estefania — Season 3, Episode 11, "Order Room Service"

Jimmy's marriage to Estefania was a complete fraud, leading to some of his most disgraceful moments. A criminal coerced Jimmy into marrying his daughter for her legal stay in the US, threatening Jimmy's life if he didn't maintain the charade and make their relationship appear genuine to government authorities. Ultimately, Estefania can be seen as the primary catalyst for the demise of Fiona and Jimmy's romance. In "Order Room Service," Jimmy had to flee again when Estefania's father uncovered her impending deportation.

Fiona Only Cares About Her Own Problems — Season 3, Episode 5, "The Sins Of My Caretaker"

Jimmy's lack of transparency regarding his marriage to Estefania proved to be detrimental to his rekindled relationship with Fiona. If he had been forthright about his predicament, it could have potentially salvaged the bond between Fiona and Steve. Unfortunately, Fiona remained oblivious to the grave danger that Jimmy faced from Estefania's menacing father, Nando, and his cohorts. Thus, when Jimmy mysteriously vanished for the second time after being coerced onto Nando's vessel, it came as an utter surprise.

The relationship between Steve and Fiona once again faces turmoil when Jimmy learns about his father's same-sex affair with Ian. Sadly, Jimmy becomes overwhelmed by this revelation, and Fiona fails to offer him much solace, despite her own brother's involvement. As the primary caretaker of her siblings, Fiona is constantly burdened with responsibilities in Shameless, leaving her with little time to devote to Jimmy or assist him in resolving his personal struggles in the same compassionate manner he has always provided for her.

Jimmy's lack of emotional expression became apparent when he discovered his father's affair with Ian Gallagher, prompting his parents' divorce. He yearned to confide in his girlfriend about this shocking revelation, but she was too engrossed in her own family turmoil to spare a few moments for Jimmy's concerns regarding his father. Finally, Jimmy confronted Fiona about her self-centeredness in "The Sins of My Caretaker," leading to an unresolved conflict between them.

Their Fights Left Deep Scars — Season 3, Episode 5, "The Sins Of My Caretaker"

All couples experience disagreements, but healthy ones handle arguments much better than Fiona and Jimmy. Instead of addressing their differences, Jimmy dismissed Fiona's concerns about her problems overshadowing his. This unresolved issue was simply ignored by the couple, allowing it to fester. As his anger grew, Jimmy sought revenge by engaging with another woman.

They Didn't Make Plans For Their Future Together — Season 3, Episode 11, "Order Room Service"

After their heated argument in "The Sins of My Caretaker," Steve turned to Estefania for comfort. Although Jimmy and Estefania were only legally married, whenever Steve and Fiona faced problems, he sought solace by engaging in a physical relationship with his wife to alleviate his stress and frustration. Despite proclaiming his love for Fiona and expressing remorse for his infidelity, his actions contradicted his supposed care for her.

Steve and Fiona appeared to have plans for their future, but these goals were weak at best and neither of them showed a strong commitment to their relationship. Before Jimmy left Fiona for the second time, he contemplated giving up his life of crime and returning to medical school in Michigan. He asked Fiona if she and the rest of the Gallaghers would consider leaving Chicago with him. However, Fiona soon discovered that he had applied for a studio apartment in "Order Room Service."

Jimmy Hesitated Before Contacting Fiona When He Returned To Chicago — Season 5, Episode 5, "Rite Of Passage"

: The fracture in Fiona and Jimmy's relationship in Shameless became evident when Fiona realized that Jimmy never truly wanted Fiona's siblings to be part of their fresh start. While Fiona had initially supported Jimmy's plans to turn his life around, their relationship took a turn for the worse when she discovered his intention to separate her from her family. During a heated argument, Fiona emphasized that they never made joint decisions, leaving Jimmy unable to dispute this fact.

Originally, audiences believed that the relationship between Steve and Fiona had come to an end when he was completely absent from Shameless season 4. However, in a surprising twist, Jimmy made a comeback in season 5, causing a stir in Fiona and Jimmy's complicated relationship and solidifying his place as one of Fiona's wildest romances. When Jimmy returned to Chicago for the second time, after months of no communication with Fiona, he made a conscious decision to not immediately approach her and beg for her forgiveness. Instead, he enlisted the help of his enigmatic friend Angela to covertly observe Fiona and determine if she was happy or involved in a new relationship.

Angela persistently frequented Fiona's restaurant to monitor her actions until Jimmy ultimately divulged his presence in "Rite of Passage." Jimmy never truly clarified his reasons for delaying his approach towards Fiona or for pursuing her despite learning about her marriage to Gus. If his feelings for her were genuine, he would have respected her progress in life and refrained from interfering.

They Never Sorted Out Their Issues — Season 3, Episode 5, "The Sins Of My Caretaker"

The undeniable truth is that Steve and Fiona had unresolved issues that were ignored, and their most significant argument in Shameless, arguably depicted in "The Sins of My Caretaker," served as sufficient evidence that their relationship was destined to fail. Throughout Fiona and Jimmy's on-again-off-again relationship, they voiced various concerns about each other that were never properly addressed. Fiona was completely justified in her observation that Jimmy failed to involve her in significant decision-making, while Jimmy was correct in pointing out that Fiona seemed to prioritize her own problems and was unavailable to support him when he needed to vent about his father.

Fiona Sacrificed A Healthy Marriage For Jimmy — Season 5, Episode 7, "Tell Me You F***ing Need Me"

Fiona's disregard for Jimmy's emotions regarding his father in "The Sins of My Caretaker" severely damaged their relationship. Despite frequently reconciling after intense arguments, they consistently failed to address the underlying issues that were brought to light during these conflicts. While successful couples are capable of forgiving and overlooking their partners' minor indiscretions and shortcomings, they do not simply brush aside significant problems within their relationships as Fiona and Jimmy have always done.

Fiona's actions on Shameless shocked her devoted fans when she irreparably damaged her once-amazing relationship with Mike Pratt to secretly pursue a rebellious and manipulative affair with his brother, Robbie. This betrayal marked one of Fiona's most unacceptable choices on the show, but it wouldn't be the last time she sabotaged her own love life. The romance between Steve and Fiona became infamous for both Shameless characters cheating on their respective partners to be with each other. Several years later, Fiona impulsively married Gus Pfender, and their relationship appeared blissful until Fiona ultimately opted to reunite with Jimmy once again.

Jimmy's repeated betrayal and sudden departures had shattered Fiona's heart not once, but twice. Despite this, each time he returned to town, Fiona found herself unable to resist him, surrendering to his charm and ending up back in his arms. Immediately after cheating on Gus, she admitted her wrongdoing and expressed her desire to be with her new husband in "Tell Me You F***ing Need Me." Unfortunately, the damage had already been done, leaving Fiona once again alone and heartbroken.

Jimmy Constantly Lies To Fiona — Season 1, Episode 1, "Pilot"

The foundation of Steve and Fiona's relationship is built upon a significant falsehood: Steve is not his actual name. From the very beginning of their acquaintance, Jimmy has deceived Fiona, presenting himself as Steve and leading her to believe he is a thriving entrepreneur, when in reality, he is a car thief. While their bond evolved, Fiona consistently faced trials as a result of Jimmy's dishonesty, often leaving her heartbroken and searching for answers.

Later in the relationship, he concealed the truth regarding his association with Estefania's drug lord father from Fiona for unknown motives. Upon his return to Chicago several months later, he had adopted yet another new persona, and his companion Angela referred to him as "Jack." Jimmy appears to have a penchant for deceit, as he also misled his family into believing he was attending medical school while he was actually in Chicago engaging in car theft.

He Expected Debbie To Lie To Fiona For Him — Season 1, Episode 9, "But At Last Came A Knock"

There is truly no basis to anticipate any change in his behavior.

The initial obstacle for the Steve and Fiona love story arose when it was revealed that Steve's true identity was Jimmy. However, it was not Fiona who discovered this fact first. When Debbie Gallagher stumbled upon an insinuating message on Steve's phone from an unidentified woman, she assumed the role of an investigator in order to ascertain if her sister's boyfriend had a clandestine second relationship. Her detective work led her to the residence of Candace Lishman, where she unraveled the truth that Steve was, in reality, Jimmy Lishman, Candace's offspring.

Candace was completely unaware that Jimmy had assumed a new identity and was residing in Chicago. Upon his unexpected arrival at his childhood home, Jimmy urgently pleaded with Debbie not to disclose his true identity to Fiona. Over the course of several weeks, he manipulated Debbie into keeping the secret by showering her with gifts. This predicament with Debbie could arguably be considered one of the most significant issues, as she eventually revealed the truth in Shameless season 2.

They Never Treat Each Other Like Partners — Season 3, Episode 11, "Order Room Service"

It is crucial for couples to treat one another with respect. Regardless of the income disparity between partners, financial decisions should be discussed and agreed upon together. Planning for the future and being supportive in both joyful and challenging moments are also integral aspects of a healthy partnership. While Fiona and Jimmy may have presented as an entertaining couple, they failed to demonstrate the qualities of genuine partners.

Jimmy always purchased items that he believed Fiona required, without obtaining her consent beforehand. He went ahead and applied for a studio apartment in Michigan without consulting Fiona about leaving her siblings behind to be with him. This action, known as "Order Room Service," led to a series of intense disagreements that severely damaged the relationship between Steve and Fiona. Eventually, when Jimmy needed emotional support from Fiona, just as he had always been there for her, she failed to provide it.

Fiona Was Never Appreciative — Season 1, Episode 1, "Pilot"

Despite her claims of independence, Fiona secretly relished in the constant pampering and support from Jimmy. Their first night together in the pilot episode marked the beginning of her acceptance of his generosity, starting with the washing machine he gifted her. Refusing to turn down his offers to assist with household chores, Fiona gratefully embraced the house he later bestowed upon her.

Yet, inexplicably, she consistently failed to express her gratitude towards Jimmy for his unwavering generosity. Undoubtedly, an inequitable power dynamic existed in the relationship between Steve and Fiona, with Steve frequently being her physical and financial savior. Expressing gratitude towards Jimmy would have required Fiona to acknowledge her need for assistance, something she adamantly rejected, always relying solely on herself. Consequently, she chose to appear unappreciative whenever Jimmy attempted to bring her joy.

Fiona Only Reached Her Potential Once Jimmy Was Gone — Season 7, Episode 12, "Requiem For A Slut"

The toxic nature of Steve and Fiona's relationship was evident in Fiona's upward trajectory after Jimmy's permanent departure. In the later seasons of Shameless, Fiona finally started to turn her life around. She took a bold risk by acquiring an old laundromat, but it paid off handsomely as she swiftly garnered a significant profit from the investment. With the money she earned, Fiona then went on to purchase an entire apartment building in "Requiem For a Slut."

Jimmy Was Always Indecisive — Season 5, Episode 5, "Rite Of Passage"

After Fiona and Jimmy ended their relationship, Fiona finally found the motivation and determination needed to secure a stable job and provide for her family. Without the constant pampering from Jimmy, Fiona was able to tap into her own drive and unlock her full potential. It became evident that Fiona excelled in all aspects of her life when he was no longer a part of it.

Regrettably, the relationship between Steve and Fiona was continuously plagued by Steve's lack of clarity and uncertainty about his own desires in life. Jimmy Lishman always struggled to determine what he truly wanted. He resented the expectations his parents had of him becoming a successful and wealthy doctor, yet he still asked Fiona to relocate with him to Michigan so that he could resume his medical education. Despite enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Gallagher house and taking care of Fiona and her siblings, he let his anger get the best of him and criticized her home as a slum, insinuating that he deserved better.

However, there was a clear indication that Jimmy was uncertain about his feelings when he came back in Shameless season 5 and didn't immediately seek out Fiona. In "Rite of Passage," when he returned to Chicago for a second time to win Fiona back, he spent weeks secretly watching her before revealing his presence. While he is certain that he wants to be with Fiona, Jimmy is uncertain about his future and the paths he wants to pursue in life. Even if he and Fiona are meant to be together, they both need to take time for self-discovery before entering into a healthy and stable relationship.