Before there was Drake, there was Jimmy. Wheelchair Jimmy. I learned about life's toughest challenges, including eating disorders, rape, pregnancy, and not getting chosen for the cheerleading squad from a group of Canadian teenagers that composed one of the greatest TV shows of the millennial decade. Drake recently teamed up with his old squad to give us the Degrassi reunion we didn't know we needed.
His recently released video, "I'm Upset" included cameos from the cast that we all grew to know and love, and featured more than a few moments that will take you down memory lane.
Here were a few of the best moments from the video that gave us some serious nostalgia:
All In The Family
We get to see almost all of the characters, minus J.T. (played by Ryan Cooley), who acted their way into our hearts more than 10 years ago right where we left them. The video begins with Drake waking up in bed with a bodacious beauty to an alarm for his highschool reunion. He later meets up with his former bad-boy bestie who we all know as Spinner Mason (played by Shane Kippel) to crash their ten-year reunion in true 6 God fashion. We get a glimpse at the school where it all went down before they enter the wild party that later ends in flames, as to be expected.
How Jimmy Became Wheelchair Jimmy
One of the most iconic scenes on Degrassi is when Jimmy gets shot by a former classmate dealing with mental issues in a school shooting that leaves Jimmy paralyzed, and his shooter, Rick (played by Ephraim Ellis) dead. In the video, we see Rick in a similar scene, but instead of the aforementioned outcome, Rick is met by a clique of Drake's goons.
Before Heartbreak Drake, There Was Hazel
Degrassi had a predominately white cast, but there was always some melanin poppin' on the screen, and that's partially what made the show so relatable. Drake's first girlfriend on the show, Hazel Aden (played by Andrea Lewis), made a cameo in the video and proved that black don't crack. On the show, Hazel was a voice for us all and defied the 'black girl sidekick' stereotype but still dealt with discrimination and bullying based on her Muslim heritage with grace. Not to mention, she also had Jimmy's back after he got shot. She's a real one and it was great to see her looking as good as ever.
Emma & Manny 4 Life
One of my favorite relationships on the series was the friendship between Emma and Manny. Early in the series, Manny became aware of her sexuality and it got her into a whole lot of trouble, meanwhile her best friend Emma, tried her hardest to reel her in. In the video, we see an ageless Emma and Manny, with their same dynamic. Manny is pulling down her top, while Emma pulls it back up. It was a small moment, but it reminded me of how watching their relationship develop molded my views on sexuality.
The Credits
At the end of the video, we hear the familiar theme song and get a chance to see 'then and now' photos of all of the Degrassi cast members. I was already going to go look up old pictures, but this just made the process that much easier.
The visual was directed by 22-year-old rising star Karena Evans, who also directed "God's Plan", "Nice for What", and SZA's latest video featuring Donald Glover as the Adam to her Eve, "Garden (Say it Like Dat", and was a treat for Drake and Degrassi stans alike. If you're feeling nostalgic like I am and now feel the need to binge watch the entire series, you can check out every episode of Degrassi: The Next Generation ever on YouTube.
Drake also announced the release of his new album, Scorpion, which is set to release Friday, June 29 but until then you can check out the video below:
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
