Meg & James Are No 'Big Brother' Showmance

It was clear from the very first episode of Big Brother 17 that James had a crush on Meg. When he first saw her, he even compared her to Taylor Swift. However, just as early, it was obvious that Meg did not return those feelings. This became even more evident when it appeared that she had a big crush on Clay — especially after that weird, extended hug session. But since then, Clay has left the house and Meg has remained very close with James. They are in an alliance, always have each other's backs, and are pretty much attached at the hip. They are have-nots together, they eat together, and they obviously talk game together. What does all of that add up to? Could Meg and James be another Big Brother 17 showmance?

Despite being a competitor in a very deceitful game, Meg seems like a straight-shooter, so my guess is no. She has never expressed romantic feelings for James, or any kind of emotional attachment beyond friendship, and they've never shared one of those weird extended hug sessions. They seem more like the Big Brother version of an office duo that consider each other their "work husband" or wife, but have no actual feelings or chemistry between them.

It makes sense for Meg to align with James, because he's good at winning competitions and can keep her safe. Meg has a bad knee from arthritis, which has stopped her from winning physical competitions, and she has yet to come through for any of the mental games. James' wins and Meg's influence over him have given her an indirect power in this game — one that prevents her from getting blood on her hands and makes her look pretty harmless to the other houseguests.

James gets a loyal vote from Meg to back up all of the decisions he has to make when he wins Head of Household or Power of Veto competitions. He has the comfort of knowing that he has someone's unwavering support.

It seems like Meg and James have a mutually beneficial friendship on Big Brother. They can protect each other in the game, and hang out together to kill all the downtime in the house. It's a win-win.

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Image: Sonja Flemming/CBS