Jane the Virgin Reaction: "Chapter Forty-Five" (3x01)

Thanks to fellow TFI writer Giselle Abreu, who recapped Jane the Virgin season 2, I was convinced last year to start the show on Netflix. My sister joined me, and we quickly caught up and were able to watch the majority of season 2 while it aired. Unfortunately Giselle had to step down from writing these recaps, but because of her, I found a show I wholeheartedly love. I wanted to keep Jane the Virgin alive on The Fangirl Initiative, so I'll be reacting to season 3.

And now, let's begin! This reaction will contain spoilers, and Jane the Virgin contains PG-13 level content.

This episode had me basically rocking in a fetal position the entire time. I wept openly. I also screamed at the TV (which is a first). And despite all of that, I absolutely loved it.

Let's start with this simple fact: MICHAEL CORDERO JR. IS ALIVE.

MICHAEL CORDERO JR. IS ALIVE. (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

I'm totally fine...

Ever since May 16th, 2016, I've been worried about his fate. I worried that he'd die. I worried especially that he'd die just to a.) cause more drama and b.) make way for the Rafael ship to sail. Please make no mistake: I love Rafael dearly, and if he and Jane got together, I'd find a way to be okay with it. But over the past three seasons, I've become increasingly Team Michael. I loved that they got married (something that you don't see often on TV shows since the shows like to drag out the romantic tension), and I really wanted the show runners to honor that. So I'm grateful that they have. Although I'm definitely biased because this episode proved to me that Michael is my dream man. I mean, his Facebook profile picture is of him and his cat. Basically, I love him.

Like just look at that adorable face.

Also, if you want to know when I cried like a baby, it was when Jane talked to him before the surgery and described their future life together. It was absolutely beautiful, and props to both the writers and Gina Rodriguez for how poignant that scene was. (Though it does make me really worried--like does this mean something is still going to happen to Michael that prevents this future from unfolding? Please say no.)

But let's talk about Raf for a second. According to the executive producer Jennie Urman, they're leaving the love triangle behind... and I'd be lying if I wasn't sad about that because Jane and Rafael really were wonderful together. Mixed feelings, you guys. Mixed feelings.

Look at this chemistry, which is no more. RIP.

I also feel bad for Rafael because he's had such bad luck first with Petra and now with Jane. He needs to be okay again. Please, protect Rafael Solano.

Precious baby. That smile. </3

His role in tonight's episode, while minimal, was solid. I'm looking forward to seeing how his character evolves throughout the season without Jane and without Petra/Anezka/whichever. I need to also express that I strongly dislike Anezka and everything she stands for.

Yet despite my anger at Anezka, everything about this episode was amazing. I especially loved the return of Rogelio de la Vega (who is admittedly my favorite) and his plot line with Xo. And it's weird, but I have a love/hate relationship with the fact that Sin Rostro is back (though I'll never forgive her for shooting Michael).

I have to highlight that the actors' performances in this were amazing. Gina Rodriguez highlighted Jane's sorrow and despair in a way that shattered my heart, and Yael Grobglas did an expert job at managing to convince me that Petra and Anezka are two very separate people (though their identities are a bit mixed up at the moment). The actors on Jane the Virgin, every single one, are all top-notch.

Even though I've rambled on for a while now, I'm still a little speechless at how good this episode was. This was everything I'd ever hoped for in a season 3 premiere, and I can't wait to see how the rest of it unfolds. Season 3, here we come!

What did you think of "Chapter Forty-Five"? Spill all your feels in the comments below!

See you next week!