Rider Strong Shares Insight on Cory and Topanga’s Marriage in ‘Boy Meets World’
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Rider Strong, best known for his role as Shawn Hunter in the iconic 90s TV show “Boy Meets World,” recently weighed in on the controversial topic of Cory and Topanga’s marriage on the show. The characters, played by Ben Savage and Danielle Fishel respectively, tied the knot at the young age of 18, sparking debates among fans and even the show’s cast members.
In a recent episode of the “Pod Meets World” rewatch podcast, Strong offered a fresh perspective on why it actually made sense for Cory and Topanga to get married at such a young age. He highlighted that within the context of their community, the decision was not as unconventional as some may believe. Strong’s insights added depth to the ongoing discussion among fans about whether the characters’ marriage was realistic.

The conversation on the podcast delved into the sixth season premiere of “Boy Meets World,” where Topanga proposes to Cory during their high school graduation. Despite their youth, Cory accepts the proposal, leading to a series of events that culminate in their decision to get married. Strong and his co-hosts, including Fishel and Will Friedle, explored the nuances of this storyline and how it resonated with viewers at the time.

One of the key points of contention raised during the discussion was the characters’ haste in getting married rather than simply being engaged. Strong noted that this narrative choice created tension and drama within the show, pushing the characters to confront challenges and grow as individuals. By drawing parallels to the experiences of their parents and their mentor, Mr. Feeny, Strong highlighted the generational aspect of Cory and Topanga’s decision.
Despite the characters’ eventual marriage in the final season of “Boy Meets World” and their continued relationship in the spin-off series “Girl Meets World,” Fishel has expressed reservations about the storyline. In an interview last year, she shared her belief that getting married straight out of high school is not typically advisable. Her reflective stance added a layer of authenticity to her portrayal of Topanga and resonated with fans who questioned the characters’ trajectory.
Looking back on the series, Fishel revealed that she would have preferred a different approach to Cory and Topanga’s relationship arc. She suggested a storyline where the characters explore the dynamics of a long-term relationship without rushing into marriage. This alternate narrative, as proposed by Fishel, would have allowed for deeper character development and avoided the pressure of maintaining heightened drama post-marriage.
As the debate around Cory and Topanga’s marriage continues to spark interest among fans and the show’s cast members, Strong’s thoughtful reflections offer a new angle for consideration. By contextualising the characters’ decisions within the framework of their community and family history, Strong sheds light on the complexities of young love and matrimony portrayed in “Boy Meets World.”
In conclusion, the enduring legacy of “Boy Meets World” lies not only in its nostalgic charm but also in its ability to provoke meaningful conversations about love, relationships, and growing up. With each rewatch and retrospective discussion, fans gain fresh insights into the timeless appeal of the show and the enduring relevance of its characters’ journeys.
