Will's New York Flatmate: A Sitcom Stereotype Survival Guide
Let's talk about the quintessential character in every US sitcom set in New York: Will’s flatmate. You know the one. They’re the polar opposite of Will, the quirky, often neurotic sidekick who somehow manages to stick around despite being a walking, talking disaster.
The Character Archetype
This character is a complex blend of hilarity and frustration. On one hand, they’re the source of endless comedic gold: their bizarre fashion choices, their outlandish theories, and their uncanny ability to get into the most absurd situations. On the other hand, they’re the kind of person who could make you question your life choices if you had to live with them.
Sub-headline: The Classic Traits
- The Eccentric Artist: This character is usually broke, messy, and has a deep-seated belief that their next masterpiece is just around the corner. Their apartment is a chaotic explosion of paint splatters and half-finished projects, and they have a habit of borrowing (or “borrowing”) Will’s stuff without asking.
- The Overly Optimistic Friend: This flatmate is always seeing the bright side of life, no matter how bleak the situation. They're the eternal optimist who can find a silver lining in a dumpster fire. Their constant cheerfulness can be endearing, but also incredibly irritating when Will is dealing with a major life crisis.
- The Neurotic Neat Freak: This character is the yin to Will's yang. They're obsessed with cleanliness, organization, and routine. Their apartment is a minimalist's dream, and they have a strict schedule for everything from laundry to grocery shopping. Living with them is like living in a constant state of high alert.
Surviving Your Sitcom Flatmate
So, you find yourself cast as Will in this sitcom scenario. How do you survive sharing a cramped New York apartment with one of these characters? Here are a few tips:
- Lower Your Expectations: This is crucial. Expecting your flatmate to be a normal, functioning human being is setting yourself up for disappointment.
- Develop a Thick Skin: You're going to hear a lot of crazy ideas, bizarre theories, and questionable life advice. Learn to tune it out.
- Establish Boundaries: This is important for both of you. You need to set clear boundaries about shared spaces, finances, and personal belongings.
- Find a Good Therapist: Just kidding (kind of).
How to...
- How to survive sharing a bathroom with your eccentric artist flatmate: Invest in good earplugs and a strong stomach.
- How to deal with your overly optimistic flatmate's constant cheerfulness: Learn to fake it till you make it.
- How to keep your sanity while living with a neurotic neat freak: Embrace chaos. It’s liberating.
- How to avoid becoming your flatmate: Regularly check your reflection for signs of eccentricity or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- How to find humor in the situation: Remember, it's just a sitcom. (Or is it?)