The new Netflix series The Four Seasons is full of holidays, secrets, and funny moments – but also some really familiar relationship dynamics. Whether you’re single, dating again, or trying to make it work after years together, this show might hit close to home or be something you can really relate to.
Here are four types of relationships that show up in the series – and what they can teach us about keeping love healthy in middle or later life.
The couple who’ve drifted apart
You know the ones – they’re still together, but it feels like they’re living separate lives. They might sleep in the same bed, but it’s been a while since they really talked, and they spend more time with their screens than each other.
In The Four Seasons, Anne and Nick been married for years but struggle to connect. This is more common than you might think – especially in long-term relationships.
If you feel more like housemates than partners, it’s okay to say so. You don’t have to make big changes all at once. Even small check-ins or honest chats can make a big difference.
The person starting again
Break-ups can be tough at any age. But starting over in your 40s, 50s or later can feel especially scary – especially if you’ve been with someone for a long time, and your lives have a lot of crossover.
In the show, Anne is suddenly single again and unsure where to start. She tackles that in a lot of different ways – but what the show explains well is that there’s no right or wrong way to move on after a relationship ends.
If you’re in a similar position, take things at your own pace. Talk to people you trust. And remember – you’re allowed to want love again.
The couple who can’t stop bickering
They love each other, but wow – they argue. Over small stuff, big stuff, and sometimes nothing at all. In Kate and Jack, we see a couple where every chat turns into a row. It’s clear they care, but they’ve forgotten how to talk kindly to each other and understand that they’re both their own person.
This kind of pattern can show up when stress builds or when things haven’t been said for a long time.
If you’re stuck in a cycle of snapping at each other, you’re not alone. A calm chat (when you’re both feeling steady) can help. So can outside support – like relationship counselling – especially if you’re struggling to break the habit.
The couple who’ve been through it all
Claude and Danny have had rows, they’ve had distance, and they’ve had scary moments. But they still choose each other. Not because it’s easy – but because they’ve worked at it.
This kind of relationship doesn’t always look perfect. But it can be strong in all the right places.
Every relationship has ups and downs. If you’ve been through a rough patch before and come out the other side, take a moment to notice what helped. Was it talking? Counselling? Space? Those things matter.
Relationships change – and that’s okay
Whether you’re in a relationship, ending one, or figuring out what’s next – shows like The Four Seasons remind us that love isn’t always simple, and everyone experiences messy, emotional or difficult moments. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
At Relate, we support people through all stages of the relationships in their lives – from new beginnings to saying goodbye. If you’re thinking about counselling or just need some advice, we’re here.