Who Is Your Favorite Love Interest For Neal?
For weeks there have been much debate amongst the White Collar fandom as to who Neal should be with (Peter is a given 
). We know Neal is a romantic…he escaped prison for Kate, but he has been through a lot more dangerous situations with Alex. Then we met Sara – “Insurance Investigator Barbie”. First she pursued him for the stolen Raphael painting, then she stole his heart…or did she? Putting aside the fact that Kate is dead (yes, she is, so please stop asking!), let’s look at these lovely ladies and their influence on Neal’s life.
This is a controversial poll but one that showrunner, Jeff Eastin, wanted. So here goes!
As always, you are welcome to leave a comment but keep in mind this is a friendly fandom so no hate allowed! Vote away! xox
I’m starting to think that people don’t want Neal to have a girl friend at all!
July 13, 2011 at 7:07 am
Duh!…
July 13, 2011 at 11:37 am
I don’t want Neal to have a girlfriend that takes screen time away from the other characters. This show has a lot of characters and sometimes it feels like they are getting shafted like Jones, Diana, and June. I think adding in new characters at this time is a mistake. We have finally gotten Jones out of the office/van and had a story line for Diana – both positive things. They need to continue this as well as expanding time for Elizabeth and Mozzie who steal the scene every time they are on. They barely have enough time for these characters. Taking time out for Neal’s girlfriend, who is not at all interesting to me, means less time for characters I care about.
July 13, 2011 at 7:30 pm
because they want Neal for themselves xDxDxD
July 14, 2011 at 4:06 pm
I love Sara, more chemistry than the other two and more interesting. She’s strong on her own. Kate was a disappointment from day one, and while I did enjoy Alex and her storyline, just didn’t really mesh with Neal.
Of course to be perfectly honest, at least fandom wise I do love a Neal/Peter/Elle kind of thing.
July 13, 2011 at 7:10 am
Please, please no love triangles. Elizabeth and Peter have the best TV marriage currently on screen. Messing with them is a dealbreaker for me.
July 13, 2011 at 7:31 pm
I agree! Don’t mess with Peter and El!
July 14, 2011 at 4:52 am
Who said anything about a love triangle?
I think Diana Moon was probably referring to the fairly-popular-in-this-fandom threesome.
But, I have to agree, no love triangles, Peter and Elizabeth have the best onscreen marriage, and messing them would probably break my heart.
July 14, 2011 at 4:34 pm
Thanks, yeah I didn’t mean it as a love triangle. I meant as them in a loving, stable relationship of three.
Cause yes, Peter and El are just adorable together and does show the rare good marriage that you don’t often see in RL or anywhere else.
July 17, 2011 at 8:13 pm
No vote here. All were/are important to Neal at different stages in his life. He wouldn’t be who he is without any of them. You could add June, Elizabeth, and Diana to the list of influential women for Neal and not go wrong. What a tribute to Jeff Eastin and the writers of White Collar that they create strong, capable women!
July 13, 2011 at 7:17 am
I voted Alex, because from her very first episode there was something special between her and Neal. We’ve only seen little snippets – and I’m hoping we see more of her story. But really, I don’t mind Sara at all. In a lot of ways I think she’s been good for Neal. In the end, I’m just glad that Neal has moved on from Kate and is finally gettin’ a little loving
July 13, 2011 at 7:19 am
Sara! Her chemistry with Neal is amazing and I love their dynamic. They’ve been all sorts of adorable so far this season.
I never really trusted Kate and while I love Alex, I really don’t see her and Neal in a relationship. She’s constantly on the move and wants nothing to do with the FBI and Neal’s new life.
July 13, 2011 at 7:21 am
Alex and Neal had a good story going on, until their background relationship was revealed in a flashback episode and it was realized that they never had much together, only slight sexual tension and a physical attraction towards one another, as well as their mutual career activities.
Kate and Neal also originally had a good backstory, and it was the entire reason that Neal had his antics for all of Season 1. However, Kate has never really proven herself to be someone that could actually match Neal character-wise; Kate had a lot less substance. To be fair, I don’t think she was meant to be written into the script.
Sara has a good chance of being with Neal namely because she is a character on her own, and doesn’t necessarily require his expertise to save her from distress (as romantic as that was with Kate).
July 13, 2011 at 7:25 am
Peter Burke
July 13, 2011 at 7:25 am
I love you. And totally 2nd that.
July 13, 2011 at 7:32 am
I agree! Peter Burke is Neal’s true love!
The previous poll for favorite White Collar couple proves we’re not the only ones who feel that way 
July 13, 2011 at 9:46 am
Peter and Neal have the best love affair on the show.
July 14, 2011 at 4:54 am
Have you also voted in our Favorite White Collar Couple poll? Yep, there is no doubt Neal and Peter are the best and most popular
http://shippersunite.wordpress.com/2011/07/07/which-white-collar-couple-is-your-favorite/
July 14, 2011 at 5:01 am
I don’t see any chemistry with sara and neal. I like sara but not for neal. I think all the females are important. This show will go on for many more years. I am sure we will meet new girls. I hope in the end neal finds someone he falls in love with like he felt for Kate. He was in love with Kate as soon as he saw her. He needs to find someone like that. True love again. Sara is just for sex and friendship it seems. Neal should date around for now. Can’t wait to see Eliza on the show. They had chemistry in thier old show.
Jeff Eastin your show rocks!
July 13, 2011 at 7:34 am
Apparently I’m one of the few people who HATE Neal being w/Sara.
July 13, 2011 at 7:37 am
i must agree with u!;)
July 13, 2011 at 11:50 am
I agree with u! i don´t Like Sara :@
July 13, 2011 at 3:45 pm
You’re really not. It depends where you look on the internet. Sara is very unpopular in some places, but not here apparently.
July 13, 2011 at 4:00 pm
Not only, me to
July 13, 2011 at 6:46 pm
Count me in as someone who dislike the Neal/Sara pairing. I see no chemistry between them. I enjoy watching Neal and Alex together. Much more exciting and fun to watch.
July 14, 2011 at 1:13 am
I like kate n Neal but Sara is a close second. Esp like her in ‘scott free’ where the eal and sara dialogues are less silly.
July 13, 2011 at 7:42 am
I’m curious who you enjoy seeing Neal with, not necessary who you think is best for him.
July 13, 2011 at 7:49 am
Peter for the challenge; Sara for the fun; Alex for the mystery; Kate for the “dream girl”; Elle for compassion and joy; Diana for sheer competence; Jones for stability; June for a sense of home and the history of the con; and Mozzie for loyalty, wisdom, and freedom.
All of them because they call Neal on his BS, know him for who he is, love him anyway, and don’t quite trust him — yet. In short, they are the family he isn’t ready to give up, and they aren’t ready to let him go.
Neal’s still on the outside looking in, still playing all of them to one degree or another, and they’re smart enough to allow it. When he finally makes a choice, they’ll be prepared — each in their own way — to deal with it. And won’t Neal be surprised when they do.
I can’t wait to see what happens next.
July 13, 2011 at 8:33 am
If I could “like” or “+1″ on this, I so would. Excellent answer!
July 13, 2011 at 6:22 pm
Jeff, are you going to frown if I say Kimberly Rice? I mean, yes, that may be unconventional, but IMHO those two had more spark than any other woman Neal’s been paired up with.
July 13, 2011 at 9:18 am
To be absolutely honest (because that’s the way I roll) I loved Sara when she was waving her baton at the bad guys and her digital recorder at Neal in “Unfinished Business”. She was feisty and sassy, tough but vulnerable (who wouldn’t be with a professional assassin at their heels?). She showed a softer side in “In The Red” (and managed her composure in front of a shirtless Neal! Thank you!).
However, when she started making eyes at Neal in “Burke’s Seven” I became suspicious. OK so she got points for getting us a sort-of-shirtless Neal in “Powerplay” but her role was still a bit uncertain.
Having said that, seeing Sara help Neal in his Wally Burns diversion in “Deadline” renewed my like for her. I still don’t love her with Neal and I am still suspicious of her motives (can’t wait to find out her true agenda because I KNOW she has to have one!) but the way I see it, Season 3 is full of suspicions all over the place. So I’m happy to let it ride and place my faith and trust in the writing team to bring us the best possible scenarios.
Oh, and of course, we all know Neal’s one true love is Peter so all of this is moot anyway
July 13, 2011 at 12:29 pm
There’s a very popular vote that Sara with a baton is when she is best loved
And when she gets us a peek at shirtless Neal 
July 13, 2011 at 12:35 pm
I enjoy seeing Neal with Sara and Alex.
Sara is refreshing character who is smart, capable and yet vulnerable. I like that she comes off as a realistic woman to me, and I love how her and Neal interact. They’re a young and sexy couple (and damn beautiful too), and I love that their playfulness and the way the characters enjoy being together. There’s also a dash of cat and mouse riddled with mutual support and understanding in the relationship that makes it interesting to watch (as the case with Neal and Peter).
Alex is fun and I love the con vs. con aspect of her and Neal’s relationship. I like that she’s always on Neal’s side (as long as he is on hers of course), the mystery of her, and their shared history. When they’re together you get the sense that the characters existed before you knew them…. gotta love that. Also, she’s from Neal’s world and it’s nice to watch Neal with someone who ‘gets’ him and with whom he can be himself (as the case with Neal and Mozzie).
I think of Alex her as part of Neal’s criminal family, a cultural construction that has become real and take precedence… and then comes Peter/El, Sara and the White Collar team.
I love where Neal is right now. Caught between two families who both want him for their own. Can he be part of both, or must he choose? Can’t wait to find out!
Anyway, I like the women with Neal, and I like the women on the show in general. I seldom look forward to watching couples on screen (there’s always so much needless drama surrounding them) but I look forward to spending time with these. They work, not least because the characters themselves work.
July 13, 2011 at 1:04 pm
Kate was a drip & a liar, Alex has her life as she wants it & Neal’s path has changed. Sara is great, as long as she is NOT with Neal. Prefer adversarial & cannot wait for them to break up & hope it stays that way!
July 13, 2011 at 4:40 pm
I’m with what seems to be the majority – none of the above. Right now White Collar has some of the best secondary characters on TV and we need time to delve into them. I’d love to know more about Jones, Diana and June. Every scene with Elizabeth and/or Mozzie is a gem. These are the characters I want to see more of on screen, not a romance that feels forced and peripheral. Have Neal date, fine, but not at the expense of better characters.
July 13, 2011 at 7:57 pm
Well, if this is the question: I enjoy Neal with Alex, because Alex always stirs things up. The eps with her tend to be my favourites (although I wouldn’t want to see her regulary). Especially Copycat Caffrey
I absolutely hate to see him with Sara to an extent that I’m sometimes squicked by it. Some of us call her squee kryptonit because she tends to take the fun out of every scene she is part of, especially when Neal becomes Con Man Ken to go with Insurance Investigator Barbie. (And that is a very notable reaction, because I’m normally not invested in pairings at all, neither positve nor negative).
I feel indifferent about Kate. Always saw her more as a plot device than anything else.
July 13, 2011 at 8:31 pm
Squee kryptonite…I like that! Have to agree, I feel the same way! Sara seems to have lessened my enjoyment of the show. And no to con man Ken please.
July 14, 2011 at 1:22 am
Well, out of the three choices, I enjoy seeing him with Alex. I cringe whenever Sara is on the screen. She was awesome until you guys decided to pair her up with Neal and now, I’ve gone from eagerly awaiting the show every Tuesday to having someone screen it for me before I decide if I’m going to watch the episode. Now, if the goal of the writers is to have me hate Sara, then I say, “Bravo. Well done! Brilliant job!”
July 14, 2011 at 1:43 pm
I think that Sara is best fit for Neal. I feel that she pushes him not only profesionally but personally. Sara is a good girl and can keep Neal in check like Peter. She is also doesnt seem like she is weak minded. I cant wait to see where this relationship goes.
July 13, 2011 at 7:55 am
Neal “kept in check” is not something I want to see on this show. A “well behaved” Neal is a boring Neal, and not why I watch the show. This is actually one of the reasons I don’t like Sara with Neal – she makes him more boring in every scene she’s in with him. He’s much more interesting when he’s with Alex.
July 13, 2011 at 10:14 pm
Double high-fives. You know, my psychic abilities have enabled me to understand that a fundamental problem with this show is that Jeff Eastin is too nice — well, he’s too GOOD. I think he projects himself into Neal and designs the Neal character wanting what he wants, which seems to be a life of enriching stability. But we HAVE that with Peter. Maybe too much so. So there’s a constant implication of Neal’s-bad-if-he-does-criminal-stuff. Well, in the real world, yeah. But taking a look at its depiction of life in prison, I think we can agree the show has pretty much cut its ties with certain aspects of verisimillitude. So I don’t think there’s a problem in accepting a thief as a hero. Rule-breakers are very powerful characters. They’re individualists and they do what they want, rather than what they’re told. Given a very firm base in human kindness, which we have with Neal, I think his character is much more exciting and fun if we celebrate his irreverence and defiance of authority, rather than considering his migration in that direction to be a victory.
July 13, 2011 at 10:48 pm
100% agree, and once again, beautifully put.
I’ve seen quite a lot of comments around and about with people increasingly unhappy with the show over the course of S2 and into S3, and I think you have articulated the reason for many of them: the increasing tendency for the show (via the pronunciations of its characters, and the storylines) to be sending the message that Neal should be “improving”, working towards “being a better man.”
There wasn’t such an emphasis on this in S1 – Neal’s mischievousness and painting outside of the lines seemed to be more celebrated – the emphasis now on how he should be “learning his lessons” is increasingly tiresome.
I guess that Sara is a part of this for me, and adds to why I don’t like her (other main reasons being I’m not keen on the actress’s portrayal and I see no chemistry between Matt and Hilary).
July 14, 2011 at 6:15 am
THIS! Thank you.
July 15, 2011 at 5:20 am
I missed this comment earlier. I completely agree with you. This part in particular:
“Rule-breakers are very powerful characters. They’re individualists and they do what they want, rather than what they’re told. Given a very firm base in human kindness, which we have with Neal, I think his character is much more exciting and fun if we celebrate his irreverence and defiance of authority, rather than considering his migration in that direction to be a victory.”
Perfectly put.
July 17, 2011 at 5:10 pm
Kate represented Neal’s Happily Ever After, but she wasn’t really much of a character. The flashback episode was great, but I was a bit disappointed with the “When Neal Met Kate” story. I had always assumed until then that the reason why Neal put so much faith in her was because they grew up together or had known each other for a long time. Instead, it seems like Neal just fell head-over-heels in love for someone who was beautiful and came from a life he aspired to have.
I do like Sara, but I feel like she’s a bit forced into the storyline right now. I like that she and Neal are both independent and have their own lives, and they both aren’t pushing for more. I don’t think their relationship has much of a future, though. Peter claims that Sara is a “good influence” on Neal, but I’m not sure what that’s based on. Apart from NOT being a criminal, Sara isn’t exactly a beacon of moral integrity. I think she makes Neal happy in the “Yay, sex!” way, but I don’t think we’ve seen enough of who she is as a person to make any judgments on whether or not she makes Neal a better man.
Alex, on the other hand? I feel like Alex is the only person Neal can actually be himself around. They may play games with each other, but I don’t think they have to pretend to be anybody else when they’re together. And despite the fact that we haven’t seen much of her on the show, I feel like Alex is much more interesting as a character than Sara or Kate. She’s a mystery, and there is history between her and Neal. I really do hope we see more of her!
July 13, 2011 at 7:58 am
You have hit the nail on the head, yes, Neal can be ‘himself’ around Alex. Together they are adorable. They understand one another completely. They know when they are lying to one another and will do anything to proctect each other.
July 13, 2011 at 10:16 pm
I get what the show was trying to do with Sara, but it just doesn’t work. Maybe if they had waited another season (maybe even a couple more) it would have been more believable. It just felt too rushed. Plus it doesn’t help that Matt would probably have more chemistry with a brick wall than he’ll ever have with Hilarie.
July 13, 2011 at 8:07 am
I don’t like Sara at all. I can’t help but think that her character was borrowed from 1999′s ‘Thomas Crown Affair’. If you look at Rene Russo’s character, Catherine Banning, you’d see a really great, beautiful and strong woman. Sara – is her younger, flattened, simplified and glamoured up version.
Sorry, but I love Catherine and I find Sara’s character a bit insulting.
July 13, 2011 at 8:08 am
Sara is growing on me but I have been in love with Alex from day one. She’s just beautiful and naughty and there is a fire between her and Neal that I just don’t see in the more tame relationship he shares with Sara. Besides, is there a prettier couple than Neal and Alex?
July 13, 2011 at 8:25 am
I love Sara for Neal, they have great chemistry and are so fun to watch. I also love that they come from different sides of the law which will eventually lead to good drama.
Kate is dead so it doesn´t count anymore although I never really liked her, individually or with Neal as a couple, and as for Alex… I don’t see any future with that relationship.
July 13, 2011 at 8:58 am
Sara is an interesting character and I do like her interactions with Neal, more so when they were just flirting around before they hooked up. But if I had to choose between Sara and Alex, I’d say Alex. I think Matt and Gloria has better chemistry and it’s always enjoyable to watch their scenes together. I even enjoy Alex and Mozzie’s banters.
That being said, I hope to see more depth to the background story regarding Neal and Alex’s past relationship from what we’ve witnessed in the flashback episode with Adler. Before that episode aired, I was under the impression that they had been through a lot together, not just some fling or rebound from Kate.
July 13, 2011 at 9:12 am
You should have added an option of “none of the above” because my choice would (unconventionally) be Kimberly Rice. Or maybe someone else altogether, because I can’t see Neal in a happy, fulfilled relationship with either Kate, Alex or Sara.
July 13, 2011 at 9:13 am
As a viewer of the show with a group of friends every one of us thinks that Sara is too forced. I liked her at the start but never truly loved her character. Alex is too much like him so not really that great. The show is about Neal and Peter. I think Neal kinda wants what Peter has with Elizabeth. He needs a girl next door that will make him want to change. Not a Sara who is too forced or Alex who is a female him. So for now none of the above. Looking forward to the rest of the season. Tim and Matt are great. The show is fantastic.
July 13, 2011 at 9:27 am
I can’t stand Sarah with Neal but I almost feel sorry for her this season. Neal has no right to be getting into a relationship when he is planning on taking off. He would have left 1st ep w/out a good bye if not for the change in plans. He doesn’t deserve a love interest yet, he is acting very selfish this season. He seemed a better person in Season one. Now he has a real life and is acting like a jerk. Also, I never felt the Neal-Kate relationship was fully explained
Also, remind me again-who is Kimberly Rice? The agent played by Diane Neal? No way no chemistry.
July 13, 2011 at 9:40 am
Yes, Kimberly Rice was the agent from Front Man played by Diane Neal
July 13, 2011 at 9:44 am
My vote goes to Alex. You can see the sizzling chemistry between Neal and Alex from day one. I can’t say the same for Sara and Neal. In theory…Sara may be good for Neal and his roaad to reform. But Neal already has a conscience and his name is Peter Burke! Making Sara to be Neal’s El is something I don’t buy! And I don’t need another character to come along to “neuter” Neal. Also, Sara pales in comparison to Catherine Banning…just saying!
Alex and Neal have something deeper (they said so since season 1) and I hope it gets explored. They have sizzle and excitement that doesn’t seem forced. During their scenes,their banter comes naturally and they can say their dialogues or remain silent but still convey their emotions through their eyes & body language. With Alex, Neal doesnt have to pretend to be someone else. They know each other well.
With Sara, Neal needs to walk on egg shells, and he’s got enough of that working with Peter. Besides, I think Neal needs a June, not an El! I have a feeling that June and Byron were like Alex and Neal back then! (And maybe Ford was their Mozzie!) =0
July 13, 2011 at 9:47 am
I agree with PMX, Alex and Neal have something deeper and even their silences speak volumes!
July 15, 2011 at 2:59 pm
Sadly there is no “no one” button, so I’ll have to keep from voting. Guess me & my friends belongs to small gropu of fans who actually don’t care for shipping and prefer little to no romances in their shows. There are so much romance shows on tv, that WC’s bromance is like a breath of fresh air:) Hope it’ll stay that way.
Kate was like a symbol of Neal’s true love for me, but a symbol exactly, I didn’t “feel” her as a real person.
Alex is a fellow con artist, but she’ll push Neal back into a life of crime, and I really don’t want it. I hope his relationship with Peter make him choose the right side at the end.
As for Sara, I liked her when she was first introduced – when she was chasing after Neal for that Raphael – and wouldn’t mind to see her ocassionally in that role. But when she suddenly become involved with Neal and regular…well, I don’t wan’t to offend anyone, but it seems way forced for me. (And as for me show had enough regulars already, so one more = less time for others, which is sad). I can try to put up with Neal/Sara as a short no-strings-attached thing (as I see it now, it’s not a love, but more of a mutual convinience), but sincerely hope that writers wouldn’t go a “true love” route, because it really isn’t who they both are.
Have to say, I just love Neal & El (&Peter) family dynamic, I adore Neal & Diana growing friendship, and Neal is very lucky to have June. But I’m just not interest (more like the other way around) in any of Neal’s love interests. But I can live with his girls as long as Neal&Peter bromance remains the main relationship on the show!
Sorry for the ramblings.
July 13, 2011 at 9:49 am
I’m quite confident that Jeff and his very capable team of writers will continue to provide us with lots of Neal/Peter bromance otherwise there would be no show, right?
July 13, 2011 at 9:53 am
I agree!
July 13, 2011 at 4:48 pm
I find the relationship between Neal and Sara forced and not as funny or sexy at it should probably be. In fact I find it really boring. On the contrary I absolutely love Alex and how she interacts with Neal and the others. She should be more on the show!
July 13, 2011 at 9:57 am
Ok, what’s this shipping that keeps getting mentioned?
July 13, 2011 at 10:10 am
“Shipping” is simply short for “relationship”
So when people “ship” people it simply means characters that fans like to see in a relationship together 
July 13, 2011 at 10:13 am
Well, there’s no voted at all. I hope they get one better love interest more than that. Only it would be Neal/Peter.. haha!!
they’re so chemistry for real. Nah kidding.. Just not really into any Neal’s ship to three ladies. 
July 13, 2011 at 10:13 am
Ah, yes, a very popular response! We all love Peter with Neal – they are the best, right? You are welcome to vote for Favorite White Collar couple and you can choose Peter/Neal there
http://shippersunite.wordpress.com/2011/07/07/which-white-collar-couple-is-your-favorite/
July 13, 2011 at 10:20 am
Ah, thank you!
July 13, 2011 at 10:18 am
If Neal is happy with Sara(or Alex), then I’m happy. So my vote goes to Sara at this present.
July 13, 2011 at 10:42 am
I’m not a fan of romance either, so have to agree with Jean – neither. I find it sad that almost every show on TV nowadays has to pull romance angle. I don’t need love interest to love the show, moreover, heavy romance often make me lose interest in the show. WC hooked me right away with Peter&Neal friendship and thats why I watch it. Besides, Peter&Elizabeth marriage is wonderful and totally enough for me in that department.
So, @jeffeastin, most of all I enjoy seeing Neal with Peter, El, Moz, FBI team & June
And ypur show is awesome, BTW!
July 13, 2011 at 10:45 am
Sara, hands down. She’s a good balance for Neal. But I like the way the relationship is being handled right now — it’s casual and fun; I don’t think they’re in love at the moment — they just enjoy being with each other. Neal doesn’t need another true love right now; he needs healthy and fun. If it evolves to something more serious later on, that’s fine, too.
Kate struck me as more of a plot-driving element than a fully-developed character or true love interest. It didn’t ever seem like there was any possibility that she and Neal would be back together, and even if there was, I tend to take the Peter Burke suspicious route with her intentions. She wasn’t healthy for Neal by the time in their lives the show picked up. even if she was trustworthy and did still love him, he needed to move past her to have a life of his own.
Alex…doesn’t really strike me as a relationship girl.
I also don’t get much chemistry between her and Neal; I know it’s supposed to be there, but for me, it just doesn’t come across. They don’t have the banter and energy I like in a romantic pairing.
July 13, 2011 at 11:02 am
I think I like Sara best so far. It’s a more ‘adult’ relationship. Kate was sort of an idealized person, Neal’s 1st love, as close to a high school sweetheart as we’re likely to see. Alex is interesting for the relationship angles, you know that neither of them really trust each other, which makes for compelling drama. But if we’re going for a Peter/Elle mirror, where Neal has an intelligent, supportive person in his life, who can give him a fulfilling relationship, be a sounding board, etc., Sara is it. And I enjoy seeing him have a person more in-tune with his thought process than Mozzie. We love Mozzie, but Neal needs someone a little less quirky in his life, and he has that with Sara. Though, I don’t imagine Neal Caffrey gets to keep that kind of life…
July 13, 2011 at 11:16 am
I wish there was a “none of the above” choice. None of them seem to fit just right. Kate was kind of an unknown entity. It’s still not clear whether she was entirely trustworthy or whether Neal had her too much on a pedestal to have really known her. Alex is fun, but to be with her he’d have to return to his old life. I like Sara, or at least I did, until she got together with Neal and she stopped being an interesting character in her own right, rather than just a pretty girl who shows up sometimes to sleep with Neal (WRITERS PLEASE FIX). Plus their personality differences don’t seem to be ideal for a long term relationship.
I think I’m team “Eh”. I don’t even ship Neal/Peter.
July 13, 2011 at 11:28 am
How can I vote for one of the girls (well I did. Voted for Alex..) when at the top of this page you see Peter and Neal bromancing?……….
July 13, 2011 at 11:36 am
Hehe lots of people have commented on that
You are welcome to vote for Favorite White Collar couple and you can choose Peter/Neal there 
http://shippersunite.wordpress.com/2011/07/07/which-white-collar-couple-is-your-favorite/
July 13, 2011 at 11:49 am
I go for Sara. I like their witty banters and flirty ways.They challenge each other. I enjoy watching them and having fun. are they in love? no,that’s why I think their relationship is not forced.They enjoy each other’s company and has been less judgmental towards each other. They’re not head over heels inlove.
Plus the fact that Sara is a kick-ass girl (armed with a baton and a gun!). she’s not the clingy type,she’s self-reliant and doesn’t demand too much out of Neal. She’s okay with what Neal could offer.When Neal realized they haven’t been out on a real date, she’s okay with it.When Peter took over their date, she made the most out of it. And just on the Scott free ep, she was able to give Neal the best option there is over Scott’s situation. If Kate was in that situation, she might have told Neal to go and turn Scott in, just like what Peter would’ve wanted.If it was Alex, Alex would go with Mozzie’s decision to help Scott and free him after.With Sara, it was the best of both worlds.Help Scott first, then turn him in. Which Neal did or at least tried to do by talking Scott into it. Result?Both sides were satisfied.She also cons with Neal and Mozzie and at the same time, is able to work with Neal and the Feds. Although she still sided with what is right, but she’s not all black and white, like Neal she may have had done wrong things for the right reason.I enjoy watching her with Neal, and I think she would be the best for him.
one more thing, I do think its essential that Neal has a love angle. it wouldn’t take anything from the Neal/Peter Dynamics that has been the focal point of the show. it just need to show the different sides of Neal. How Neal would be able to handle and cope up with different kinds of relationship that a person should have. May it be Work,Love,Friendship,Camaraderie all those kind of stuff.
Scott Free episode is awesome!!!!!!!! keep it up!
July 13, 2011 at 12:12 pm
Alex! ‘Cause Neal’s a romantic, and whatever he has with Sara seems ‘temporary’, so for me, seeing them together is kinda weird.
People say they match, but I just don’t get it. I thought Alex and Neal looked sweet together. So Alex all the way. \o/
July 13, 2011 at 12:16 pm
I voted Sarah, because she was the least bad of the three. But I would have much preferred being able to vote Neal/Peter/Elle.
July 13, 2011 at 12:28 pm
Sarah all the way. I love seeing them together. She´s gorgeous, smart, funny, perfect.
July 13, 2011 at 12:39 pm
The show has already labeled Sara ‘Insurance Investigator Barbie’ and I think that title is appropriately apt. She comes across as shallow and devious and it would be an insult to Neal’s intelligence for this to develop into anything beyond a fling. Alex on the other hand is a much more interesting and complicated foil for Neal. There is history between them that has only been superficially explored, and though by their very natures there is duplicity, there is also an undeniable bond and the sense that when push comes to shove, they will always choose to save each other. It’s who they are…
I don’t see Neal in a conventional relationship. He has already commented to Peter that he’s ‘not that guy’ and his relationship with Alex makes sense for who he is… at least for now.
July 13, 2011 at 1:04 pm
I love seeing Neal with Sara! I think that they have excellent chemistry together. She is an independent woman who fights on the good side of the law while Neal is the complete opposite. Hopefully like Peter said Sara is a good influence on Neal not the other way around. I feel like they are exciting because their relationship can go in so many different directions given their opposite personalities. Also we don’t know much about Sara’s background so in a lot of ways she is still a mystery. Can’t wait to see what is in store for them.
July 13, 2011 at 1:12 pm
Of the three, I like Sarah the best. That said, I don’t have a great love for any of the possible couples available on the show, including and especially Peter/Neal and Peter/El/Neal. I always saw their relationship as entirely non-sexual and incredibly platonic, and have a hard time visualizing either of those relationship.
That said, I’ve always been a fan of having no romantic relationships and just having a bunch of great friendships between the majority of the characters. So take that as you will.
July 13, 2011 at 1:18 pm
Sara is perfect! She is smart, self-dependent. She could be against to Neal which shows that she is kinda equal with him, not like alex or kate. Also She is here to help him, like sweet 306 showing. As a friend of Peter as well, there could be more funny storyline for all of them.
I love them!!! very very much!!!
July 13, 2011 at 1:47 pm
I picked Sara without a second thought, and I’ll tell you why.
I always saw Kate as this fairy-tale romance that didn’t really exist. She struck me as Neal’s “love is blind” phase, wherein he idealized this person and this relationship that was never all it was cracked up to be. For evidence, I point to Peter AND Mozzie’s constant distrust of her motives, and that extremely poignant moment from the end of season 1 when Elizabeth encouraged Neal to differentiate between loving someone and loving the IDEA of them. I think Neal was in love with the idea of Kate. He is still chasing that same dream — but it’s no longer wrapped up in her.
Alex is a great part of the show and I love her relationship with Neal, but I think there is a certain romance in her unrequited love for him. Neal is Alex’s “wonderful fantasy that’s just out of reach,” but he will never feel the same about her. Alex pretty clearly represents Neal’s former life, and she’s something of a safety net for him. If he can’t hack it with Peter, a life of crime with Alex makes for a solid Plan B. Don’t misunderstand me, because I do believe that Neal cares a great deal for Alex, in that she will always be his friend, and he will consistently take necessary risks to protect her from harm, but I just don’t believe he will ever be in love with her. And as much as she may love him, she has made no efforts to fit into his new life on the right side of the law, so if Neal ends up with Alex, it will almost certainly signal the end of his partnership with Peter.
Sara, on the other hand, may well be the real deal for Neal. I do not think they are remotely in love at this point, and I don’t want to see that rushed. I love that Sara came on the scene, kicking butt and taking names (and after Neal in a whole other way), and then she found herself feeling something more for him in spite of herself. I like that she doesn’t trust him and isn’t willing to let him hurt her. She’s guarded, which keeps Neal on his game. Additionally, I don’t think he really trusts her, either. Who’s to say that she’s not just angling for that Raphael? Or something else entirely? It amuses me that they’re essentially sleeping (together) with one eye open. They’re not quite sure what to make of the other, but they are having a lot of fun in the meantime. Their scenes are funny and at times a little awkward, which makes sense with their situation. I see this as merely the beginning for them. I’m sure they’ll break things off and then do that ever-so-charming dance around each other until they can’t resist again.
As time goes on (and hopefully many more seasons unfold), I can see other women drifting in and out of Neal’s life. He can’t be tied down right now, and his flirtatious, ladies-man air is integral to the tone of the show. However, we also can’t see him being a womanizing jerk, so I think he needs to have a more noble purpose in his romantic life, and Sara is a good candidate for that, because she’s not going to make it easy for him.
We know that what Neal really wants (even if he doesn’t fully know it yet) is the life that Peter has with Elizabeth. We see him cast wistful glances at them, as if he is trying to picture his own future life that he’s not entirely sure he can ever have. And then he has the example of Byron, who gave up a life of crime to settle down with the woman he loved, who had her own gray areas, just like Sara.
Maybe I’m more sentimental, but it would be nice to have a couple to root for in the long term, no matter what twists and turns they take along the way.
July 13, 2011 at 2:26 pm
Sara has an agenda & if she can have a bit of slap & tickle with that agenda, so be it. She wants that Raphael painting she believes Neal has & if she can retrieve the treasure, so much the better for her bank account. Neal is fun & a mystery, but he cannot compete with the money to be made when she arrests him for those thefts.
Alex is great, but not for Neal. I’m so glad that Kate is gone, what a drip!
July 13, 2011 at 4:56 pm
I couldn’t agree more with everything you’ve said here. You’ve actually hit everything I feel right on the head, so thank you for this rational, well thought out response. It’s so hard to find reason in this fandom sometimes.
July 13, 2011 at 7:13 pm
What a well-thought out analysis Amanda. Thank you! Like you, I also wish to see Neal with different women in his life in future seasons. He has demonstrated that while he is flirtatious (that is part of the natural Caffrey charm) he is also a hopeless romantic but he is not averse to having a little fun along the way.
I hope he does find his own version of Elizabeth one day so he can retire out of the con world like Byron did with June
July 14, 2011 at 12:36 am
well put! Although the one point I’ll hold back on complete agreement with you on is Alex being in love with Neal. I think she wants him, absolutely — but Alex wants lots of pretty, shiny things for herself. I haven’t seen enough depth to her to know if she’s capable of something closer to real love or not yet.
July 14, 2011 at 11:45 am
Agreed, “no one” button in the poll is totally necessary. I’ll take friendship and family over romances anytime, that’s why I became hooked on White Collar since season 1.
Kate was more the idea than real person, Alex was only in couple of eps, so it’s OK too. And I even liked Sara when she was first introduced. But after she makes 180 turn to fit the “Love interest” spot and appears in almost every episode, I just want her to go,
And really, this season we met Christie (though have nothing about her, she was cute), Mozzie will have a girlfriend, Jones will have a girlfriend… Isn’t it too much? Why everything has to be about romance? Please, please, don’t turn WC into soap opera!
July 13, 2011 at 2:26 pm
Sara, definitely
Glad to see she’s winning too.
You people really need to get let go of Peter/Neal. They’re not romantic interests to each other, so of course Peter is always going to be missing in the polls. Neal is a healthy straight man, he likes women, and that’s that. He isn’t going to end up married to Peter, hes going to end married (if it gets to that…) to a girl. Peter and Neal are fun, but it doesn’t go beyond bromance and it’d be ridiculous to have Neal be a third wheel to Peter and El forever…
July 13, 2011 at 2:38 pm
I wish there will be neither option too.
Alex isn’t a relationship material and will put Neal back to the life of the crime. Not good for him. Though short fling is ok, i guess.
Kate was Neal’s idea for true love, but I think he was more in love with the idea than real person, and I doubt she ever loved him.
And gotta say it honest, I don’t like Neal/Sara. Seems writers are trying to hard to make us love this pairing and to wrote Sara into almost every episode (and I appreciate their efforts), but she still feels a fifth wheel. She isn’t necessary to the story like every other character. Unless she is using Neal for some hidden agenda (in which case I’ll be thrilled), I’m not a fan. She was much better as reccuring Neal’s rival who tried to catch him than as regular love interest.
July 13, 2011 at 2:42 pm
Totally agree with Cath, not everything should be about romances! All the Neal/Sara vs Neal/Alex discussions and wars just make me sad – before introducing romances on screen WC was such a friendy fandom…
Personally I’m more interested in seeing more of Neal&Peter unusual friendship, Peter-El-Neal hanging out together, Neal&Mozzie schemes or FBI team at work than Neal/Sara (or Neal/anyone really) sexytimes. So, if it’s really necessary for ratings or whatever, I can live with any girl, but only if romance storyline would be kept on the background. Still, right now Neal’s two most important relationships are Peter & Mozzie (both totally in platonic frienship sense, don’t get me wrong!), and I’m very happy with this and hope it’sll stay that way.
July 13, 2011 at 3:11 pm
I love Sara. I think Neal/Sara have a lot more chemistry than Neal/Alex or Neal/Kate. Of course it doesn’t beat Neal/Burke. Just sayin’~ their friendship is surreal. I want to see more scenes of them just doing nothing. Maybe add Jones to the crew, he needs more lines!!
Also the post above by Amanda is on par with how I feel.
July 13, 2011 at 3:20 pm
This show was excellent in Season One. Then it started going downhill in S2 with all the Neal/Sara crap. What used to be a brilliant show has turned into a soap opera now.
July 13, 2011 at 3:36 pm
In all fairness to the writers, the Neal/Sara romance did not start till the second half of Season 2 and was supposed to be a sign of Neal slowly letting go of Kate and moving on to helping find her killer and get to the bottom of the mystery inside the music box.
I hope you’ll keep watching the show though because I think the Neal/Peter bromance is still strong and there’s more and more evidence of that each week. Have faith in Jeff and the writers
July 13, 2011 at 3:42 pm
I’m shocked how many comments here favor Sarah considering how I see absolutely no chemistry or heat between her and Neal at all. Their scenes together seem forced and awkward to me, and uncomfortable to watch.
On the other hand he had amazing chemistry with Alex. Although even Kate was better than Sarah.
I will say that I’m not alone among my friends in not liking Sarah. A friend of mine who used to watch gave up half way through S2 after Sarah arrived, and refused to come back after her role was increased for S3. Shame, because I used to enjoy discussing the show with her.
I think that may be something to do with the results of this poll – a bunch of people who didn’t like Sarah have already given up on the show because she was made such a prominent part of S3, so the floor has largely been left to the Sarah lovers.
July 13, 2011 at 3:53 pm
Oh Charlie I certainly hope this is not true! I would like to think the fun Neal and Peter have each week far outweighs any disappointments you may feel over scenes of Neal with Sara
Please tell your friend to come back and watch the show! I know plenty of people in my circle who feel a little like you but we try to look past those and just focus on discussing the Neal/Peter bromance.
And I’m not sure if you’re an Eliza Dushku fan but I am personally very much looking forward to the episode when she guest-stars in 3 wks time. And we’ll get to see Ross McCall return as Keller too! How awesome is that! Eliza reuniting with Matt is a simply stunning casting coup! Now if only we can get Jason Priestley on the show, then Luc can have his revenge! (apologies for all the Tru Calling references
)
Thank you for voting and commenting!
July 13, 2011 at 4:03 pm
Sad to say, but this is true for me as well, ShippersUnite. Like Charlie, four of my friends who used to love this show (watched it w/ me since the 1st ep) have lost interest and given up on the show since the introduction of Sara. I guess this is the polarizing effect she has. For every new viewer she brings in, another viewer tunes out.
July 14, 2011 at 1:52 am
Hmm hopefully the network executives will take this into consideration for the future but I guess this sort of thing happens
July 14, 2011 at 2:05 am
Charlie, I agree. Neal/Sara scenes make me cringe. It feels so contrived, so staged and unsensual. The audience is supposed to accept that he’s attracted to her, but we’re given no reason — no character-based reason — why. And Neal’s yearning for the whole white-picket-fence scenario runs contrary to the things I enjoy about his character anyway. Sara’s hair, her clothes, her makeup, her demeanor, all speak of somebody who is very controlled and conforming. When Neal is paired with her, it implies those traits are what he values, and it leaches the edge and fun out of his character. In addition, other than a nearly-perpetual smirk, what character attributes does she have, what quirks? She’s pretty shallow. Alex had much more personality, her presentation — clothing, hair — were much more bohemian and threw a light on Neal I found much more enjoyable. But why is there such a drive to have him in a permanent relationship? Can’t he be a bit more of a Bond type, and enjoy the woman who happens to be part of the scene at the moment? The arc to domesticate him is perhaps fundamental to the writers’ concept of the show, but it really works against everything I like about the character.
I’ll also second that my aversion to the Sara character is strong enough that I had decided not to watch this season. Then got sucked in by a great season opener.
And didn’t have to endure too much Sara until last episode.
July 13, 2011 at 4:44 pm
Fantastic comment, secresea. You’ve said what I wanted to say, only much better. I particularly agree about how pairing Neal with Sarah makes him less enjoyable, and seems to affect his characterisation negatively. And yes, really, what is up with Sarah’s constant smirk? I don’t think I’ve ever seen a character look more consistently smug.
If Neal had to “get over” Kate so quickly (and I can see why that was thought necessary for the show) I would have loved to see a “free and easy” Neal this season – more like the delightful flirt we saw in S1, perhaps with the occasional romantic evening where we could see him really spark with someone. Pushing him into this relationship this season has felt so forced, and I’m sure they could have found other reasons to show Matt with his shirt off (painting or sculpting on a hot day, for example).
July 13, 2011 at 5:03 pm
I agree with you Shippers Unite. I also want to see Eliza and Matt. I am also looking forward to that. They had such good chemistry in tru calling. I hope that is people like her role she comes back and does more WC.
Who knows maybe sara/alex/kate are NOT the one for neal.
I know people also who dont like sara and some have stopped watching the show. I just dont think sara and neal have chemistry and they are trying too hard to make it look like they do.
I think its to early to ship anyone. The show is in season 3. I can see this show going for at least 8 seasons. so I hope for a new girl.
July 13, 2011 at 4:13 pm
From interviews Jeff had done when it was announced that Eliza had been cast as Raquel for S03E09, he said that they had written her character with a possibility of return in the future. I am already so excited about it that even though I have no idea what her story is, I want her back!
(oops there goes my impartiality as moderator!)
July 14, 2011 at 12:40 am
Since adding Sara, there is less and less of “Peter & Neal” which is what I tune in for. I cannot stand the wooden way the actress who portrays Sara which doesn’t help at all but I’m here for the Bromance of P & N. That entire portion of the story line is one big massive Zzzzzzz as far as I’m concerned.
July 13, 2011 at 4:14 pm
I really would like the “neither” option, but due to the lack of it, I voted for Alex. She is certainly not cut out for a long term love interest, but they have sparks (and since she is travelling a lot, there is no need to force her into every second episode. They could enjoy each other whenever she is in town).
Concerning Sara: She could have been a great antagonist, but as love interest she is even worse than a fail, she is a constant demontage of Neal’s character. Neal is different from the other con man on TV because for all his flirting, he isn’t a womanizer, but actually very romantic. His relationship with Sara lacks any kind of romance and paints him in a very unfavorable light (especially considering that he uses her to get the information he needs to leave her). And the way Sara is portrayed by now is frankly insulting. She is supposed to be a strong woman, why does she feel the need to explain Peter anything? Mrs. Right would have told Peter to butt out and remind him that he has no business to snoop around in Neal’s love live.
No opinion about Kate, since we never really get to know Kate, just the idea Neal had of her (which is more or less the opposite of what Sara presents, so why should he fell for her at all, when she isn’t his type?)
July 13, 2011 at 4:38 pm
Count me in as someone else who would prefer White Collar without the romance. The bromance is the real focus, as far as I’m concerned.
I voted for Alex though, as I enjoy her scenes with Neal the most from options given. I also really love Neal’s scenes with Diana – not that I want her to be a romantic interest obviously, I just think they play well off each other.
July 13, 2011 at 4:49 pm
Most definitely Sara.
She’s smart, beautiful, independent, and has a bit of mystery surrounding her still. I have no idea if she’s the end game for Neal but she’s the best option at giving him the normal life he seems to want. Right now they’re having fun with no strings or expectations from the other. I don’t see the harm in that.
I like that she has a grey area and we’re not sure how far she can be pushed. I like that she can offer a different influence for Neal than what Peter and Mozzie do.
July 13, 2011 at 4:51 pm
Peter. Of the three women named, I like Alex best, but she should never turn into a love interest for Neal. Kate needs to stay dead — no spiritual reawakenings or ghostly presences please. She was the love of his youth and he’s older now, more grown-up.
Sara was ill-conceived, poorly introduced, and the various versions we’ve seen of her have not impressed me one iota. She needs to disappear. I’m not at all opposed to Neal having a love interest, but she needs to be classy, smart, and a woman, not a child like Kate, a con like Alex, or a mistake like Sara.
July 13, 2011 at 4:54 pm
Count me in as someone else who would prefer White Collar without the romance. The bromance is the real focus, as far as I’m concerned.
I voted for Alex though, as I enjoy her scenes with Neal the most from the options given. I also really love Neal’s scenes with Diana – not that I want her to be a romantic interest obviously, I just think they play well off each other.
July 13, 2011 at 4:55 pm
Chemistry is 100% subjective, and I don’t think it necessarily needs to be factored into this question.
Character-wise, I thought Kate fell flat and it was more about Neal’s idea of her and what she could have represented. Alex is interesting and quirky, but she also isn’t in a stable place yet. She’s still figuring out what kind of life she’s gonna go after. With her, Neal would be taking a step back…and then floundering. Sure, they could con together, or whatever, but honestly how fulfilling could a life on the run be?
Even with Mozzie in “Scott free” Neal said if it could be done without having to change personas often or look over their shoulders then he would be ‘in’. He wouldn’t get that with Alex as she stands now…they’d still be running. Maybe if she changes as the show progresses…
Right now, he and Sara don’t fully trust each other; they’re still in the fun stage. As a character, she spends a lot of time in the ‘grey’ areas, too. I think she can show Neal that he doesn’t have to give up the ‘rush’ of conning in order to have a life outside of crime. She’s not as much on the right side of the law as Peter (which I think is probably a little too much for Neal…) but she’s not on the wrong side, either. She tends to play the ‘end justifies the means’ card…as long as she recovers the stolen items for the rightful owners, she’ll do what she needs to. That plays into what Neal is doing with Peter; the end is staying out of prison and the means is conning other con men and getting them off the streets. lol. It’s only a slightly different rush, but still an exciting one. I think he still needs time to really accept that and let it sink in.
So, right now, Sara is a good romance foil for Neal. As all the characters grow, who knows? Right now, I’m gonna sit back and enjoy watching it all unfold.
oh, and for the peeps saying a lot of viewers are dropping off because Sara’s more of a regular…to each his own (and the rating seem pretty stable, so…). Personally, I had to catch up with this show, since I only started watching when I followed the actress here. No regrets…it’s a good show
July 13, 2011 at 5:02 pm
Well said!
July 13, 2011 at 5:07 pm
Yeah, but what is it worth if the fans of the actress are coming in if the regular viewers are slowly leaving? Many people who used to be obsessed with the show are only watching now in the hope that it gets better. Look at the poll. I wouldn’t call this an overhelming win for Sara, and if you take the people who didn’t vote because they like neither option into account, it gets even dimmer. Considering that Sara it the one who gets constantly promoted for the job, that’s not really an overwhelming result.
For the Fans, this isn’t about the question if Kate, Alex or Sara is the best love interest for Neal, it’s about the question how the love interest of Neal should be and if he needs one at this point at all.
July 13, 2011 at 5:18 pm
People’s perception of chemistry might be subjective (of course it is), but whether or not a couple have chemistry tends to be a significant part of whether or not they enjoy a couple together. And Jeff’s interest, as indicated above, is in who people “enjoy” seeing Neal with the most. Therefore whether or not people think a pairing has chemistry would seem to be very relevant to this discussion.
As to the ratings, White Collar does okay, but it’s the lowest rated of all the USA Originals airing at the moment (check tvbythenumbers for confirmation if you need it). I expect when they added Sarah they were hoping to build on their audience, not just have Hilary Burton fans replace viewers who left because they didn’t like her.
July 13, 2011 at 5:27 pm
Sorry, clarification: ‘In Plain Sight’ may have lower ratings than ‘White Collar’, but WC is the lowest rated USA Originals show which airs Monday to Friday, I believe.
July 13, 2011 at 5:31 pm
To clarify the “neither”: If I had the choice, I would prefer no focus on any love affairs at all. One of the reason I love (or used to love) White Collar so much was the lack of UST, relationship dramas and the other crap TV writers seem to think are interesting for the viewers. Peter and Elizabeth are my favourite couple on TV, because they have a healthy, loving relationship. And if you really want to pair Neal up again, I want to see him falling in love with someone, and want to see him pining after someone, I want this person to be really important for him, the same way Elizabeth is important for Peter and June was important for Byron.
July 13, 2011 at 5:02 pm
I still haven’t seen anyone interesting enough to put with Neal. Sorry, but all three of these women are boring and frankly, almost indistinguishable. Is it really that hard to write a compelling or interesting woman who isn’t off-limits to Neal (because they’re married to his friend or have different sexual preferences)?
July 13, 2011 at 5:05 pm
Some folks like Sara & so do I, but NOT with Neal. Neal & Peter are the show & Sara as an adversary is good, but as a love interest?? NO! Kate was a drip & Alex is great but not for long term.
You are losing viewers because of Sara if I read some of this right. Every time I see her it grates on my nerves. When she found that passport last night she wasn’t upset or hurt, she began scheming. She would hurt Neal & not give it a second thought if she could get the painting she believes he stole.
July 13, 2011 at 5:07 pm
Though I’m a fan of all three, I voted for Alex.
She’s the only one that Neal has really been able to be himself around. Because, like it or not and despite the fact that he’s trying to change, as he said in the most recent episode, he hasn’t hit “rock bottom” yet, and maybe he’s not ready to change.
Sara, though she doesn’t always abide by the law herself, definitely has no room in her life for a less-than-legal Neal. Kate, who I absolutely (and somewhat unreasonably) adored, was a con of Neal’s – admittedly, he wanted it to be more, but we all know how that turned out.
Alex is the only one that has liked him for being who he is/was – the thief and the conman.
July 13, 2011 at 5:16 pm
Where can I vote for June’s granddaughter??
July 13, 2011 at 5:29 pm
Ah Cindy! She was great as Neal and Mozzie’s “Phoebe Cates”, wasn’t she? I would love to see more of her as well…I believe her scheduling may also be a reason we have not seen more of her since the Pilot till she returned in “On Guard”.
If Cindy and Neal got together I would expect Grandma June would be the happiest grandma, right?
July 14, 2011 at 12:45 am
Neal needs someone who understands him (like Alex does – she sometimes understands him better than himself), who has no ulterior motives (like June – a younger version of June would be great), can take care of herself (like Alex) , can act as a moral compass (like Elizabeth), but wouldn’t stop him being what he is (like June and Alex) and there should be sparks between them. (The best chemestry was with Alex so far).
So Neal nees to be with Junelex!
July 13, 2011 at 5:58 pm
Here here!!!! Fantastically put! Neal and Alex. I started watching season 3, but after 2 episodes and knowing HB will be turning up in the following episodes, it has put me off watching the show. I check out Jeff’s twitter pages religiously in the hope to hear or see any news on Alex’s return… Gloria and Matt’s chemistry is truly amazing.
July 13, 2011 at 10:30 pm
I do hope you will come back and watch the show
Some of the stories this season have been so hilarious that it is a shame if you have missed them. And ultimately, Neal/Peter’s interactions are the most important of the show and those have been pure gems! Tim DeKay has the best facial expressions on TV right now and seriously the looks he gives Neal in some crucial scenes have had been analyzing their meaning that I thought my head would explode from the excitement 
Hope you will come back and enjoy the show
July 14, 2011 at 12:50 am
Peter Burke !!!
and they must do a lovely trio living together and having a lot of bisexual sex (we can bring a long alex for some ocassions) because the lovely wife of peter would love to live with the both of them!!
July 13, 2011 at 6:16 pm
Hehe have you voted in our Favorite White Collar Couple poll?
http://shippersunite.wordpress.com/2011/07/07/which-white-collar-couple-is-your-favorite/
July 14, 2011 at 12:58 am
Ewwww, none of these, If I had to go with anyone it’d be Peter Burke.
July 13, 2011 at 6:36 pm
I picked Sara. Of the 3 listed she’s the one I like the most and would chose for him. But, I must say, I really liked the pretty PR girl from “Flip of the Coin” who was played by Margaret Ann Florence. According to IMDB she’s just listed as “Business Woman”. I immediately felt chemistry between her & Matt Bomer and between the characters as well. I think she’d look good on Neal’s arm. Her and Neal flirting with each other was cute. And PR is an interesting, and exciting, but *regular* job. No dangerous element to it like with Alex and Sara. I could see her and El teaming up with their respective clients on occasion.
July 13, 2011 at 6:51 pm
I love Neal and Sara. I thought Kate and Neal were cute but I never liked him with Alex – nothing against her though.
July 13, 2011 at 6:56 pm
I’d prefer the poll to have a 4th option. Why can’t Neal find love with a regular gal, the way that Peter did? Someone like a June, that would accept the man he was, and know the man he is. If the show is about someone’s ability to change, then why can’t Neal find a woman with her own life, that would see what a good man he is? I always thought we were going to see the evolution of this character, and have it proven that he wasn’t ‘too damaged’ to reinvent himself and have a ‘real’ life. Is the poll suggesting that the only woman that could accept Neal is one that already belongs in this type of life? I don’t think that’s the intent, but I think a fourth option would get a lot of response. Atleast, IMO, that’s who I would pick.
July 13, 2011 at 8:22 pm
To be 100% honest here – I am not a fan of the way the show has taken on such a romance angle RE Neal. I personally think he doesn’t need to be involved with anyone. He has been looking like a manwhore. I like him single and trying to be good (diff poll possibly).
Now for my opinions on the women up for vote-
Kate was a fanciful dream like girl for Neal.. Always chasing… Never quite there. I did like his determination to be with her and how much of a romantic that that portrayed him as, and I also liked how when it didn’t go the way he wanted, it showed he actually had a heart – even though it was broken.
Alex to me is fully representative of the fast paced, never stand still too long, can’t stick and stay lifestyle that is the con. I like her because she doesn’t take any bullsh!t from anyone – regardless of who you are! She’s strong and independent and overall awesome! Even if she’s on the opposition.
Sara.. Not gonna lie here – I don’t like her. Here is why. When her character was first introduced.. She came off as a strong, no nonsense woman [love the baton]. Not falling for Neal’s smile and charm. That is why I used to like her. Now that she is all kinds of lovey dovey mushy face [mature right] with Neal – its like she went back in time when we women were expected to pay a blind eye to things going on. Where is your snark? Where is your spice? Your fierce womanly independence?
Overall I would say that Alex is my choice – Seeing as that there is no “none of the above” or “Neal should be single” or even a “Neal belongs with Peter” option. Yes I am a N/P shipper.
The one downfall to her character is that she is so reluctant to let him be good.. Truly deep down. Yes there was the s2 finale but she isn’t willingly going out of her way.
Diana is the perfect example of a strong, fierce woman that has a romantic life but doesn’t let it smother her or her job. But alas he isn’t even on her dance card! Yes that is my fave thing about the whole show!
I just want Neal to be a good boy [[Haha SUITS reference ftw!]] and not be so… Sexually driven. So yeah.
July 13, 2011 at 8:36 pm
Sara Ellis sets my teeth on edge and is seriously undermining my enjoyment of the show.
July 13, 2011 at 9:14 pm
Kate is dead, so even if I liked him with her, I wouldn’t vote for her. Sorry Kate!
I don’t like Sara. I have never liked Sara. I certainly don’t care for her with Neal. I don’t even understand their relationship. It seems more like two horny teenagers dating rather than a mature, adult relationship. Besides my issues with their relationship (such as it is), I find Sara to be dull and filled with typical character tropes. I find her to be less interesting each week. I don’t want to know more about her. I don’t want to see her interact with other characters.
Alex is a more compelling character. She has given hints about her past that make me curious to know more about her, to make me want to get to know her. Not only do I like her better with Neal, she is just more dynamic and interesting to me as a character. There’s a lot of room to work with her character; could she start moving towards the right side of the law? Would she want to stay in the shadows? The push and pull of her character with Neal’s would be a lot of fun to watch. I’d like to see her interact with Elizabeth and Peter and June. It’d be interesting to see what kind of journey she could go on as a character.
So obviously, my choice is Alex. I don’t know that I would put her and Neal as an ‘established’ couple just yet. They have an established intimate relationship, so developing their interest in each other would be fun to watch.
July 13, 2011 at 9:27 pm
Agree so much I can’t stand it. Can we be best friends?
July 14, 2011 at 10:10 am
YES WE CAN
I think you responded to me but I can’t tell. lolz
July 17, 2011 at 3:06 am
None of the above. I don’t understand the need showrunners have to shoehorn romantic subplots into perfectly good shows.
(That said, I really enjoy Sara as a character. She’s hot and snarky and sneaky and fun. I wish the writers hadn’t gone and turned her into The Girlfriend, sigh.)
July 13, 2011 at 10:11 pm
After reading some comments I agree. No one yet. Why can’t Neal be single and flirt around for a while. Kate just died. She was the love of his life. He needs a regular girl that has nothing to do with white collar crimes. Peter met Elizabeth one day and fell in love. Neal should meet someone out of the blue and fall in love. The whole Sarah thing is not cute. Just forced.I will always keep watching the show for Neal, Peter, mozzie and El. My would be none of these girls for Neal.
July 13, 2011 at 10:34 pm
This season doesn’t feel at all like the show I fell in love with instantly from the pilot and excitedly convinced my friends to watch. I’m still holding out, but it’s fading with each passing episode. That said, I voted for Alex, and would love to see that character back to add some depth to Neal’s conflict and shake things up a little bit. Everything about the relationship with Sara feels unnatural to me.
July 13, 2011 at 11:20 pm
Can we please have a none-of-the-above option?
July 14, 2011 at 1:34 am
+1
July 14, 2011 at 3:54 am
Sara and Neal are the best together I believe. They have that sexual chemistry but they also get along good and actually have maintained a good couples relationship.
July 14, 2011 at 4:37 am
I voted for Sarah only because you gave us three choices and one of them is dead so I don’t want to see her come back to life.
I am waiting to see what Jeff Eastin does with Eliza; there may be hope yet. In the end, Jeff has not dissappointed me. I will always watch this show no matter who you put with Neil. It is well written and (honestly)I watch it to see talented and handsome Matt.
July 14, 2011 at 4:57 am
I voted for Alex because I enjoy watching how she and Neal play off of each other. I love their chemistry. I know people have insisted that Neal and Sara have tons of chemistry, but I can’t help it if I just don’t see it. Their scenes fall flat compared to the Neal/Alex scenes. Of course, I started watching this show because of the Neal/Peter dynamic, Peter being the lawman and Neal being the con man. That, in it of itself is fun to watch. I would like for Neal to stay true to himself…the blue-eyed con man with devilish charm. Keep Peter on his toes just for a while longer. I can’t see Neal doing that if he’s with Sara (she has become a boring, annoying irritation in the recent episodes!). At least with Alex, it will be a little more fun to watch Peter practically break his neck trying to figure out what Neal and Alex (and Mozzie) are doing behind his back!
Also….LURVE the tagline Slashers Welcome! Neal <3 Peter!
July 14, 2011 at 6:28 am
Glad you caught the tagline
July 14, 2011 at 10:19 am
Sara and Neal. She’s is better for him! (;
July 14, 2011 at 11:44 am
I really cannot stand Sara. I find her character perplexing and her clothing choices appallingly unflattering. First, she came off as abrasive and irritating — the kind of coworker who if you see coming towards you, you pick up your phone and pretend to talk into it so you don’t have to talk to her. Then, suddenly, we’re supposed to believe the abrasiveness was sexual tension? The only tension I feel is wondering why we’re supposed to believe someone who consistently dresses like a high-priced call girl moonlights as an insurance investigator. I also disliked intensely that the writers chose to have her giving Neal advice on how to charm women. I think the guy’s got that angle covered. Seriously?
July 14, 2011 at 1:46 pm
I hope that everyone voting for Alex and wanting Neal to end up with her realize that it means the end of Neal and Peter.
July 14, 2011 at 4:15 pm
Hi Annie, I’m interested to understand why you say this?
July 15, 2011 at 12:41 am
Why should it be? It’s basically the same struggle Neal’s friendship with Mozzie is, and it works (somewhat). Now that you mention it, it would be interesting to see how Neal would handle a relationship with a criminal while trying to fullfill Peter’s expectation at the same time. Perhaps a plot for later on?
July 15, 2011 at 8:31 am
I need a “None of the above” choice.
I like Alex and Sara well enough as recurring characters, but I’m not at all keen on the relationship between Sara and Neal. It feels forced and kind of… tainted. If she’s supposed to be part lover/part scheming antagonist, that just feels creepy. If she’s supposed to be helping Neal along the road to complete reform, that’s just sad.
Neal’s charm at this point (in my opinion, obviously) is that he’s become a sort of black sheep younger brother to Peter and his crew. Neal’s that sort of disreputable brother who drives you crazy some days, but you know that in a bad spot, he’ll be there for you, and that same devious brain that makes you nuts on other days is what will save you today. Peter is the older brother who bugs Neal with his insistence on rules, but overall he’s the one who knows Neal so well, grounds Neal, and keeps him from going off the edge. Neal and Peter’s friendship fizzes, pops, occasionally boils over.
Sara and Neal… nope, sorry. Totally flat.
Plus, the show’s already got excellent secondary regular characters, and there’s only so much screen time to share. I’d much rather see more of June (there is waaayy too little of June!), Diana, Clinton, El and Moz.
I find it interesting that it’s been written into the show that Diana – who is totally awesome – is not fond of Sara. And for obvious reasons, one can’t claim that Diana is simply jealous over Neal. She just doesn’t like Sara. So why should I be thrilled that Neal is involved with her?
July 14, 2011 at 4:49 pm
Hi Brig, thanks for the comment. Just wondering why you say that Diana doesn’t like Sara? She seemed to be quite happy with Sara at the impromptu dinner party in “Deadline” and was encouraging Neal to cook for “Insurance Investigator Barbie” in order to impress her when she and Neal were in the van in “Veiled Threat”.
July 15, 2011 at 12:45 am
“Insurance Investigator Barbie”
You don’t consider that an insult? I do. If someone called me a Barbie, I’d be plenty ticked.
July 15, 2011 at 12:49 am
Actually, no, I don’t
There are plenty of nicknames being given to various characters on the show. I think Diana has a lot of respect for Sara and she also has a lot of respect for Peter, who obviously approves of the “relationship”.
July 15, 2011 at 1:07 am
I’m trying to think of nicknames given on the show that are positive. Mozzie calls Peter and El “Suit and Mrs. Suit”. Now, there is some affection there but those weren’t, at least from his perspective, positive nicknames. What other nicknames are being used? I’m drawing a blank.
The consensus among my friends reacting to “Insurance Investigator Barbie” was “harsh”. We don’t like Sara but we’d never insult her that way. So, if the show is looking to show that Diana has a lot of respect for Sara, that didn’t do it for us.
July 15, 2011 at 1:16 am
Fwiw, I thought “Insurance investigator Barbie” was intended as an insult too. (And it was weird — I don’t expect Diana to be so sexist.)
July 15, 2011 at 8:08 pm
I think we may be watching different shows then, because nowhere I saw Diana doesn’t like Sara, on the contrary, actually
July 15, 2011 at 1:24 am
Not to mention that if we’re going to take into account what one of the characters think, then it means Alex needs to go, because nobody likes her except for Neal.
July 15, 2011 at 1:25 am
June seems to like Alex, and Mozzie gets on well enough with her. But I think the real point is that no one is dismissive of Alex. The people who disapprove of her do so because of real things that she’s done. That’s quite different from dismissing Sara as a Barbie doll, you know? Diana’s Barbie comment read to me like a slur on Sara’s character. And then this week we had Mozzie representing Sara with a Barbie doll — was that really a coincidence or is the show trying to tell us something?
(I think this is getting off topic. Oops.)
July 15, 2011 at 10:55 pm
I like Sara. I like Alex. I wish that they were both a bit more well developed, but I like them as characters. I think that you could hardly call Kate a character at all, we know so little about her. Neal has interesting dynamics with all of them, but I think that he belongs with Peter and Elizabeth. Do I expect this to happen? No. Do I wish it would? Hell yes. It is nice that Jeff Eastin is so interested in knowing what the fans want, but this poll does not include the biggest ship in fandom: Neal/Peter/Elizabeth.
July 14, 2011 at 10:23 pm
The poll only includes possible ships. I love the ot3 as well, but it’ll never happenb, no in fiction not in reality. Neal needs a woman for himself, and not to be a third wheel in a happy marriage :/
July 15, 2011 at 1:27 am
You need a “None of the above” choice on this poll. Unless they’re going to give us Zombie Kate and Necrophiliac Neal (ICK! and Double-ICK!), I don’t see the point of having Kate included in the poll. Alex? She seems more like a “f*ck-buddy” than a Serious Romance for Neal. As for Sara, I like her a bit more now than when she was introduced, but I don’t see the “chemistry” between her and Neal.
If you aren’t going to offer “El and Peter” (i.e.: a threesome) as a choice, I’d vote “none” rather than either of the two live ladies you offer.
July 15, 2011 at 2:45 am
I chose Alex, but honestly I would choose none of the above. I don’t think the show needs to force Neal into some romantic relationship just for the sake of it. If a female character is introduced to the show and her and Neal show natural chemistry, then maybe create a romantic relationship between them. For me- Sara just has no part of the show. She doesn’t belong. Neal doesn’t seem to have any problem with running away and never seeing her again. It seems only Peter is holding him back (love those two)! So
I’m holding out for future woman to come in and be the one for Neal!
July 15, 2011 at 2:58 am
“I’m holding out for future woman to come in and be the one for Neal!”
I agree with you. These girls are not working. Alex was fun, but not for Neal. I really dislike Sarah. She does nothing for the show at all. I hope a new lady comes that has real chemistry. Sarah does not go well with the show. Lots of people are voting for Sarah because they are a fan of the actress and have never even seen white collar one time. That does not seem fair to me. The writers and the creators should know that you can not fake chemistry. It is not working. Other than this the show is great. I am still hoping for a new girl.
July 15, 2011 at 4:17 am
I agree with Sara. Neal doesn’t need a relationship right now. I like Alex, but she’s a criminal. Sarah/Hill is a barbie – all show no substance. Even her job is like a bounty hunter, not a Federal Agent. I don’t think Diana likes Sarah/Hill because of that. I prefer having better stories for Neal and Peter, with El and Mozzie. An occasional fling for Neal would be great, but not to make him a womanizer. We don’t need another soap opera. If you look at all the other good USA shows, no one is tied down to anyone.
Neal is a good hearted person who goes out of his way to help people. He is not basically “bad”. He never hurts anyone. He is loyal to his friends and would give his life for them. I want the fun, caring and excitement back from the first two seasons. I would like more El, Diana, and June, as well as Jones also. And I would like to see the funny Mozzie again instead of the greedy one from this season.
July 18, 2011 at 12:15 am
I’m not loving the Neal/Sara relationship – it was cute as flirtation late in Season 2, but the development of more between them hasn’t really been teased out, so it feels more like casual sex than a romantic pairing. Which would be fine, but in that case I think the casual sex partner should probably less screen time, especially when there’s such a great ensemble cast already in place. And maybe another element of this is that, in light of the Peter/Mozzie dichotomy that is currently pulling Neal in two directions (will he or won’t he skip town?), the Neal/Sara relationship sort of inevitably ends up feeling like a bit of a third wheel. It doesn’t make sense for Neal to be getting more deeply involved in a romantic relationship when he’s thinking about making a run for it, and seems a little out of character given his total devotion to Kate and his established tendency to look at things from a slightly “romantic” perspective – it upsets the balance of the developing storyline, and leaves me feeling vaguely as though Neal is leading Sara on, without advancing the story. Maybe more romantic intrigue could be saved for later in the season/series, as Neal makes his choices and begins to grow more comfortable in his role. I’m not sure the character as presented, or the fans, are quite ready for it at this point.
July 15, 2011 at 3:34 am
Voted for Alex. I enjoy watching Alex’s scenes, not just with Neal but also with Moz. It fits better. I really hope that Alex comes back. Her character has more layers and there are still things between her and Neal that remains as a mystery and it needs to be explored. Give Neal and Alex a chance before you decide that Sara is really “The One” for Neal. I feel that the whole Neal and Sara thing was a forced and rushed. I don’t see any natural chemistry between Neal and Sara, as opposed to the obvious chemistry between Neal and Alex. While I understand what they are trying to do with her character, I just can’t see any exciting future for Neal and Sara. She’s there basically as the female version of Peter. There to reel Neal in to the “good” side, that’s why Peter likes her for Neal. But that already is Peter’s purpose, I don’t need any more characters trying to tame Neal! I don’t need Neal to be boring and neutered Neal. I want Neal to remain naughty and exciting. And I honestly don’t feel any excitement when I see Neal with Sara.
July 15, 2011 at 5:58 am
“Maybe more romantic intrigue could be saved for later in the season/series, as Neal makes his choices and begins to grow more comfortable in his role. I’m not sure the character as presented, or the fans, are quite ready for it at this point.”
Can’t agree more! I would be fine with romance in S5 or 6, but right now it just feels unnecessary, forced and upsets the show balance. It’s really exciting to watch Nel struggle between his old life and life he can have, between Peter & Moz, and I really prefer to see more of that without romance subplot takes time from it. And Sara definetely have too much screentime.
I really wish network execs could take that into consideration. This romance romance really pushes away plenty of old fans…
July 15, 2011 at 6:01 am
If it’s a question of who I ENJOY the most with Neal, then I must go with Alex. I hope she comes back soon. I like their witty banter and sexual chemistry. Yes, count me in as one of those who can’t see any chemistry between N/S. I liked Alex ever since Home Invasion. She adds to the excitement in the story. I like the drama she brings with her whenever she’s in town, albeit she creates some sort of conflict between Peter and Neal. I also like the whole dynamic between her and Neal and Mozzie. It adds to the humor.
I don’t really like Sara at all, even when they first introduced her…too caustic and irritating. The attempts on making her a likeable character made her too inconsistent. Sara as Neal’s love interest was IMHO indeed rushed and forced. Neal at this point in his life, shouldn’t be in a relationship. And I don’t really get the point of Sara’s character. Is it merely as Neal’s love interest? Femme Peter with horrible choices in wardrobe? Another person to preach and nag to Neal why he should be a man and not a con? If this is so, then why get rid of Alex (the bad influence on Neal) only to make Sara be involved in his cons? Kinda defeats the purpose if Neal’s going to end up corrupting her anyway, in my opinion.
July 15, 2011 at 7:28 am
I like Neal and Sara, but images of the Thomas Crown Affair keep popping up in my mind. I think Sara is conning the con.
July 15, 2011 at 12:10 pm
Yvonne Strahovski please. *Remembers her and Matt’s hot make out sessions on Chuck* Or the PR girl from “Flip of the Coin” somebody mentioned above, interesting idea. Out of the three women proposed in the poll, I don’t mind Sara (although I think she’s on the verge of turning a bit into a caricature lately), but acting-wise Gloria’s eyes look so fantastically alive and her smile so charming and mysterious when she stares at Neal that I have to go with Alex.
July 15, 2011 at 1:19 pm
“but acting-wise Gloria’s eyes look so fantastically alive and her smile so charming and mysterious when she stares at Neal that I have to go with Alex.”
That’s a fantastic statement about Gloria, and may I add that the delivery of her lines in the last scene we see her in with Neal, when she’s saying good-bye, I think one of the best moments in the series. She delivers the lines with just enough regret and sweetness that made that whole scene feel so genuine. I really felt for Alex as she walked off.
I really hope we get to see her again.
One of the things I find most disturbing about Neal and Sara is that I can’t quite find the connection of when they went from not liking each other to the point where they felt comfortable enough to go sleep together.
I would really have liked some more development in that area. I believe I said before that I didn’t necessarily want Neal and Alex to be in a relationship right away (although I want them to end up together!). The love of Neal’s life just died. I find it hard to believe that Neal absolutely needs to be in a romance. Let him date around — even with Sara, Alex, maybe some other original characters we don’t have to see again. He needs time to breathe and to heal a little bit.
July 15, 2011 at 3:50 pm
I feel that not a lot of people are watching the show as much as they once were. The show started off with a bang, the tension between Neal and Peter plus the relationship that Peter shares with his wife El is the making of the show. Not to mention the fact that Neal is a “ladies man” who was in love with kate. However, the additon of Sara should have stayed as it was her being a part timer. There is no real reason for her to be a main part of the show. In my opinion i think that it was one of the worst ideas to make Sara a regular part of the show and to in turn start a romance between her and Neal. It seems to me that their relationship is forced and fake and one thing is you can not fake chemistry no matter if you are an actor or not. The truth is that they have no connection what so ever.
If you were to read all the comments you would see that all the people who say they like “Sara” have no real reason or they have no explaination as to why they like her. Just because you are a fan of the actresses does make her a great actresses. I did vote for Alex, but the truth is none of the above. El, June, Diana are the best females for the show. I am hoping that Neal will not be with Sara in the end. I am hoping that this show will last for many more years to come.
July 16, 2011 at 1:24 am
I’m sorry but if you haven’t seen anyone give a real reason why they like Sara, you’re not reading everything. Personally I like her for several reasons.
1. She challenges Neal. Ever since she was introduced, I’ve really enjoyed watching Neal trying to figure her out and her often surprising him and reacting in ways he didn’t anticipate. Neal even seemed nervous around her in season 2 and a little bit in the season 3 premier and I like seeing that, considering how charming and suave he usually is.
2. She fits into the new life Neal should be aiming for. Obviously I don’t know how the series is gonna end, but I hope that Neal will find a way to walk the line between the two sides he’s currently struggling with. I don’t want him to completely step out of the shadows but I also don’t want him to live in them. Sara has already found a way to manage that which makes her a good match for him and she can help him walk that line. Looking at Kate and Alex, I can only see Alex dragging him back to his old life and as far as I understand it, his goal with Kate was to gather a fortune and then quit conning completely.
3. I know chemistry is subjective, but I think Hilarie and Matt are incredible together. All of their scenes are very fun to watch. I love the playful vibe they have around each other. Their banter is very enjoyable and they also pull off the sexy scenes very well (and on a more shallow note, the look great together).
4. Sara is bringing out a sweeter side of Neal this season. After a two season long Kate quest, Neal has been kind of portrayed as a bit of a hopeless romantic, so I’ve been dying to see what he is actually like in a relationship. So far, I am far from disappointed. I like the more intimate side of him we’re getting to see. Peter and Mozzie really need to stop barging in on Neal and Sara’s alone time! I really wanted to see how the rest of the date in 3×05 would have went.
I respectfully disagree with your “they have no connection what so over argument.” Did you not watch them bonding over their missing loved ones in season 2? I could go on but I’m tired and I’m heading to bed soon.
July 16, 2011 at 2:02 am
Sorry, but do you watch the same show I see?
1. Sara used to challenge when she was still the antagonist. Since they are together, she is basically his doormat, doing everything what he asks of her. And no, reminding Neal that they never had a romantic date (which isn’t exactly true by the way, in their very first episode they had a very romantic date together – one Neal iniciated to con her) doesn’t count.
2. I really don’t think that a woman has to be ready to participate in a con to fit in Neal’s life. Elizabeth isn’t an FBI agent and fits into Peter’s life just fine. And did you see the last episode? Sara was egging Neal on instead of caution her. I used to somewhat accept this argument, but not anymore. Sara is a danger for Neal in a double sense: She could betray him every day and she does nothing to keep him on the right path, quite the opposite in fact.
3. I couldn’t disagree more (no chemistry, and since Sara in high heals is visible bigger than Neal they made an odd couple), but you are right, that’s subjectiv. Not subjective is the question of motivation. Perhaps you can explain to me why a career woman like Sara should hook up with a thief who conned her three times already, or why Neal should choose a woman who is hell bend on putting him back into prison.
4. I like Neal less after every scene with Sara. It’s not sweet to use the partner in a con to get information to leave said partner. It’s not sweet to plan a flight while starting a relationship with someone. And I liked Neal as a hopeless romantic. Everything on him, his style, his clothes is part of another time. Why should he be all modern in his relationship? That doesn’t fit at all.
And those connection was forced in. Never mind the fact that Sara used to be an only child (her own words), having lost a sister at one point is not enough motivation for risking the own life and career to help a con man one used so hunt.
July 16, 2011 at 8:06 am
I disagree.
1. I don’t see how she has become his doormat. So far she has appeared in 4 episodes this season. In 3×01 he asked her for an allibi. Seeing as how he actually was with her that night and she would be telling the truth, I don’t see why she shouldn’t do that. In 3×03 she snuck out of his house at night when he wanted her to stay, then showed up later when it suited her and she wanted his advice on something. She agreed to go to dinner with Diana and Christie because she tought it would be fun. I think she didn’t mind him not telling her why they conned Christie because as long as he doesn’t lie to her, she doesn’t seem to have a problem with it. That seems entirely in her character to me. Besides, she wouldn’t tell him who she was gonna con earlier and why. I agree that reminding him they’ve never been on a date was not challenging him. I guess in 3×05 they were just trying to do something normal for a change. In 3×06 he asked her what she would do with the whole Scott situation and they ended up doing what she suggested. None of this is screaming doormat to me.
2. I’m not saying that a woman needs to be willing to participate in a con to fit in Neal’s life, she just has to be someone who can deal with that part of who he is. If someone life Elizabeth was dating Neal, and she found out he was going to break into someone’s office, do you think she would mind? I didn’t mind the fact that Sara helped him out with it, since hse does things like that on a regular basis for her job. Peter reluctantly ended up helping and stalling the target because ultimately he knew Neal was doing it for the right reason. Sara did the same. She’s not there to keep him on the good side of the law. The whole point of Sara is that she can find a middle ground. I think this was demonstrated very well in 3×06. Mozzie and Peter’s advice to Neal regarding Scott was basically help him or turn him in. Doing it Sara’s way, they achieved both.
3. We’ll have to agree to disagree on the chemistry issue. I disagree with your motivation argument. Yes Sara is a career woman, but she is far from being an upstanding citizen. I believe Jeff Eastin tweeted “She has always been grey area,” to which I agree. Neal may be a con but he is trying to live in that same grey area, working for the FBI but often doing things in a more shady way. It is also pretty clear that she is no longer hell bent on putting him back in prison. In fact, I think ever since her first episode she had started to let the whole Raphael thing go. Her main problem with Neal was initially more wounded professional pride. By the end of 2×05 she had already started warming up to him, especially after having to face the fact that no one cared when she ‘died.’ By the end of the episode they were basically laughing about the whole thing. Then she was pissed off at him again in 2×06 because of the FFA package. In my opinion they were both using each other in 2×05. They know that and they got past it, why haven’t you?
4. Neal is a bit of a contradiction this season. He keeps urging criminals like the one in 3×02 and Scott to do the right thing yet he still refuses to let the treasure go. I don’t really like this at all but he has been ‘using’ practically everyone to get information he can use to aid this cause (Elizabeth, Christie, etc). I would like to believe that he is doing it to humor Mozzie while trying to find a way out of the whole mess. I guess we’ll have to wait and see.
I have seen several people point out this whole Sara was initially an only child issue but I don’t have a problem with that either. Sara is a very private person. If her sister ran away when she way just 13, do you really think she would feel comfortable sharing that information with everyone? She tells people she’s an only child because its better than having to answer 101 questions about her missing sibling.
July 16, 2011 at 4:01 pm
To me Sara seems very awkward in the show. I so very much agree with you 100%. Sara for many is killing the show. It was the Peter and Neal Show and now is the “Sara and Neal show”. I also have notice a trend of people voting Sara just because of the actress. This makes it not a very fair poll. Some people that tweet how much she is wonderful are just fans of the actress. Some of these people never seen the show.
Neal was a romantic and pleasant guy. Every time I see him with Sara I just want to walk away from the TV. I did enjoy Sara at the very start as a woman that would not take Neal’s crap. Then a few days later it went 180. Now she is sleeping over.
They should focus on Peter and Neal the real heart of WC. Mozzie and El are fun. The FBI team is also excellent. Sara should have been a recurring character. I am not “team alex” or “team sara”. I am “team find someone new”. When you add a obligatory relationship in a show it seems as it is about to jump the shark. White Collar has had some of the best episodes in season 1 and 2.
Plus from the very start is has always looked as if Neal wants what Peter already has. The white picket fence and the lovely wife. Alex and Sara are not long term material.
July 16, 2011 at 4:50 pm
Thank you, swan pride! Very nice rebuttal. I totally agree! You’ve hit everything I’ve been wanting to say!
July 16, 2011 at 7:34 pm
ALEX is the girl for Neal, HANDS DOWN! Sara&Neal were forced therefor I don’t see no chemistry. Kate was never a character. Alex is just more interesting and pretty then Sara. Now Neal just needs to realize that.
July 16, 2011 at 5:00 pm
Sara! I think that Matt & Hilarie have insane chemistry and Sara challenges Neal. I like Alex has a character, but not as a love interest for Neal.
July 16, 2011 at 6:54 pm
This shipping thing is making the show not enjoyable anymore. The most important thing to remember is white collar was and hopefully still is about Neal and Peter. Neal is in the middle between con and becoming a beter person. Sara and Alex are very alike to me. Both work within gray areas. To me none are good for Neal. Peter and Elizabeth both represent a life Neal would like to have. June also a woman who married a con man and trun him into a beter person. Ever since Sara came into the story all white collar fans have done is fight and disagree. I believe they the writers of the show have a good reason for Sara. I would not like Sara to end up with Neal. Sara and Alex should not stay with him.
Neal and Sara seem like two adults that are just sleeping together. He fell in love with Kate since he first saw her. Maybe this will happen with another woman in a future ep. I don’t think they will have Sara for long. She takes away time from the other characters im the dhow that are more likable.
July 16, 2011 at 11:27 pm
I chose Alex. I have been riveted by her history with Neal and although I didn’t mind him with Kate, I saw their potential from the beginning.
With Kate or Sara, Neal seems bland, “neutralized” (like someone very aptly said).
But with Alex, he seems alive. She keeps him on his toes and she knows how to make his life interesting.
Their flirty banter feels real, unlike Sara and Neal’s.
Their chemistry is undeniable. Their scenes together are sizzling.
And I need to know what Neal feels for her because it seems deeper than what the flashback episode seems to imply. She never fitted the ideal woman he wanted for himself, she is the opposite of the “innocent “Kate but still, he has always been attracted to her against his will.
Besides, Alex could bring much to the show. Someone else besides Mozzie who pushes him toward the dark side, a much stronger pull, I might say, because the way I see it, Mozzie doesn’t stand a chance against Peter.
Nevertheless, Alex is not a dark character and I can actually see her grow tired of her life of crime, tired of the danger of it all.After all, she started it because of an idealized treasure and a wonderful story.But the attraction is fading since the treasure has been found. I can see her asking herself: it is still worth it if I might loose Neal in my life? Can I lead another life than the one I chose a long time ago? She is far from being an unredeemable character, least of all for Neal’s romantic interest.
And I definitely believe that even if she chooses to change her path, her evolution could be written organically. It would still be in character as long as we see her relationship with Neal slowly evolve. It doesn’t necessary means that she has to take up the much loved Neal/Peter screen time, because it is the essence of her character to be free to come and go, to pop in and out of Neal’s life without any of them forgetting the other. Her relationship with Neal never needed any painfully obvious scenes to make us feel that they care for each other, their silences and eyes always spoke volumes (at least for me).
Last but not least, I don’t think Alex should be ruled out yet as the right woman for Neal, the one a lot of people are comparing to June. I can definitely envision her as the 21 century’s version of June, a June who has lived a life outside Byron, a life mirroring his. And a june who understands him and loves him better for it. Even though Neal and Alex’s life would be on the right side of the law, they would always lead an interesting and eventful life because their individual characters are both unconventional.That’s…who they are.
July 17, 2011 at 12:09 am
wonderfully said
July 17, 2011 at 2:12 am
thanks
July 17, 2011 at 2:46 pm
Okay.. I have some male friends and they like white collar.. maybe not as much as I do but they watch the show regularly.. since the beginning they have always made a comparison of kate vs alex.. who prefers whom.. some like kate.. the others like alex.. and since sara appeared.. some of them have changed their mind and preferred her more.. no one cares about the actress.. they just see all of them as characters.. and they love white collar as what it is.. I do too..
Honestly I really need some romance in the show.. I love peter and neal as a team.. peter and liz as a couple.. and I love Diana too.. but I also want to see Neal with someone he likes.. so it’s been great for me to see neal with some women.. even that the woman is not me
Well.. I voted for Sara.. I really like her character.. she’s grown on me.. and I love her the most in the latest episodes more than the episodes in season 2.. she’s quite amazing.. this is just my opinion.. not hoping everyone would agree with me..
July 17, 2011 at 5:28 am
I voted for Sara! Love her & Neal together.. Although I don’t expect things to be perfect for them, I do think they have the most potential to last in the long run..
July 17, 2011 at 6:40 am
I’d rather Neal not be a one woman man right now. Possibly not ever, because it’s BORING! I don’t watch this show for romance, just the bromance. But, if Neal absolutely has to be with someone I vote for Alex (I like June’s granddaughter too! She’s beautiful!). Neal and Alex have tons of chemistry. My tv screen smolders when those two flirt. With Sara? No. Nada. Nothing. Zero chemistry. And the actress is one of the most wooden I’ve ever beheld. I don’t know how she got the job.
July 17, 2011 at 6:46 am
i completely agree with the everyone who wants to avoid the “romance centric” white collar. It’s not what the show is about. It’s about Neal and Peter’s partnership, and the constant draw that pulls Neal in each direction.
It’s because of that premise that I think Alex is his best fit. Alex isn’t the “steady” girlfriend type, at least not now. She doesn’t stick around in one place, and just comes across a lot more passionate, a lot more romantic, and a lot more elusive than Sara. Therefore, if she was Neal’s primary love interest, we wouldn’t have to endure episode after episode of them being all “lovey dovey.” With Neal and Alex, I picture her still be a reoccurring character, who has Neal’s primary interest, but doesn’t stick around long enough really get in the way of Peter and Neal. He’d still be a womanizer, but he’d have one woman on his mind. Sort of like Kate in season one. Sure he had his mind on Kate, but it didn’t stop him from sleeping around.
With Sarah, I feel like they are trying to put a leash on him way too early. Sarah is replacing Peter’s role in Neal’s life far too much, and i think that’s what’s upsetting people so much. I’d honestly learn to tolerate the show’s decision of making Sarah Neal’s love interest if i didn’t have to see it in every episode in ever other scene, but the more i see it, the more turned off I get.
If the question is who is better for Neal right now? I think we’d all agree the answer is Sarah. She’s the “GOOD” choice. She’s supposed to be the happy medium between the life that Peter has, and the life that Neal is used to. The only problem is that it’s too cut and dry, too perfect. There’s not excitement in that relationship. The only way I’d accept the Sara and Neal pairing is if Sara does end up trying to con Neal, trying to use him, and is in fact more of an antagonist than she’s letting on. Until then, I’m an Alex fan.
July 17, 2011 at 10:03 am
I’m so glad I’m not a showrunner. You can’t please everybody and a tv show should probably not be some kind of democracy. The thing is, they are still trying to figure out what to do with Neal’s love life (maybe following a network request?), and it shows.
As far as I’m concerned I don’t really care who they pair Neal with, as long as nobody domesticate him and he doesn’t call anybody “honey”.
July 17, 2011 at 10:33 am
But isn’t that what the relationship with Sara is about? Peter even urges him on in the hope that Sara can tame him (how he gets this idea, I’ll never know).
My dislike for Sara aside, my main issue with her is that since 2.5 she always distracts from the more important things. First it was the big showdown with Adler, which was way too rushed considering that they had to put in a love triangle, now it’s Neal’s decision, which barely gets adressed with all the Sara scenes and Special character episodes. Plus, I think that Neal should find first himself before going in any kind of permanent relationship, never mind how casual it’s supposed to be.
Sara’s presence isn’t organic and takes away screentime from more interesting characters. Worst of all: She more and more takes away screentme from Peter. It’s a slow process, but it’s there already. Last episode half of Neal’s screentime with Peter was about Sara. But it should have been about him, and Scott, and wrong decisions all the way.
July 17, 2011 at 12:17 pm
“Sure he had his mind on Kate, but it didn’t stop him from sleeping around.”
He did? What’d I miss? -pout-
(And FWIW I would have preferred a ‘nobody’ option in the poll; but since Kate’s dead, and I can’t bear Sara (I’m indifferent to HB, but also in the ‘zero chemistry’ camp), and I’ve always liked Alex, I went with her.)
July 17, 2011 at 3:10 pm
“Sure he had his mind on Kate, but it didn’t stop him from sleeping around.”
He did? What’d I miss? -pout-
(And FWIW I would have preferred a ‘nobody’ option in the poll; but since Kate’s dead, and I can’t bear Sara (I’m indifferent to HB, but also in the ‘zero chemistry’ camp), and I’ve always liked Alex, I went with her.)
July 17, 2011 at 3:37 pm
That was the great thing with Season 1: All a matter of interpretation. He may or may not have done more than kissing with the suspect in “Book of Hours”, he might have spend an interesting night with Mei Ling and it was heavily hinted that he and Alex really enjoyed their time in the pool – but all if this was just suggested, and I liked it that way. Everyone could decide for himself if he had or hadn’t.
July 17, 2011 at 10:54 pm
I love Sara as a character, but I hate the Neal/Sara pairing. At first she was a strong and independent woman who antagonized Neal in the greatest possible ways (the baton and the digital recorder scenes are a fan favorite, but now their pairing just look like another sappy and boring soap opera’s couple. Alex/Neal were far more interesting for the show, because Alex is dragging Neal to the dark side while Peter tries at the same time to do exactly the opposite, and THAT is challenging and makes the storyline exciting…
But I still have hopes the WC’s writters have some surprising twist were Sara ends up as Neal’s adversary again, there would be nothing better than a bitter or revengeful Sara trying to take Neal down with funny and smart interactions (as they first did)
July 17, 2011 at 5:37 pm
I’m happy with the results of the poll. I really like Sara’s character and I love what she brings out in Neal. Not only a romantic side, but also a child-like excitement that I haven’t seen from him much on the show. They might not be relationship material at the moment, but I think the writers have done a nice job with keeping them undefined and gradually giving them a platform for a relationship with more depth. Alex is an okay character, but she just doesn’t intrigue me very much. We have our conmen in Neal and Mozzie. I just think she’s a pretty redundant character, especially considering Neal’s evolving journey towards a life that Alex not only can’t provide, but she can’t even exist that type of life. I love the ot3 but not enough to be blinded by the fact that Neal is not a throwaway character, and he deserves to have something substantial to call his own. Peter and El will still be a big part of his life.
July 17, 2011 at 11:16 pm
Well, it’s disappointing, to be honest. All of my friends have stopped watching this season. They love Neal but they have become bored by the forced romantic story line with Sarah.
Everyone just wants more of original and Old White Collar. We miss Alex.. she added spice.
She was someone we couldnt wait to see what happened next with. As for Sarah, she is a fine actor.. but she is not magnetic opposite the ever so amazing Neal. He needs to NOT have a serious romance – he is a play boy by nature- perhaps finding his own path, dancing along the good and bad sides of his own character. But the woman should not define him. We all voted Alex. She is by far a part of the White Collar team, aside from even being his “love” interest. She feels more a part of the story and like a fundamental part of the plot is missing. We dont need them to fall in love so quickly… just let her be her cool self already and pop in and out of Neal’s life and giving us something to look forward to already.
Enough with Sarah.
sorry
July 19, 2011 at 11:57 pm
after kate,sara will be best for neal cafrey
August 6, 2011 at 1:45 am
I had to stop watching White Collar because I adore Alexandra Daddario. She is so incredibly beautiful. Sadly the other two girls bore me to tears.
But Mozzie will forever be awesome even if I’m not watching.
August 7, 2011 at 9:50 pm
i don’t like sarah
September 24, 2011 at 5:42 am
Couldn’t vote, because you didn’t have Neal’s TRUE love in the list: Peter & El!
December 22, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Ah you missed our very first poll http://shippersunite.wordpress.com/2011/07/07/which-white-collar-couple-is-your-favorite/
December 22, 2011 at 2:23 pm