Yes, Ben Linus is indeed in love with Juliet Burke in the television series Lost.
This significant aspect of their relationship is a recurring theme within the show, revealing a complex dynamic between the enigmatic leader of the Others and the fertility doctor he keeps on the island.
The Nature of Ben's Affection for Juliet
Ben Linus, the manipulative and often ruthless leader of the island's original inhabitants, known as the Others, harbored deep romantic feelings for Juliet Burke. This revelation is explicitly shown to the audience through various character interactions and insights provided in flashbacks within the series. Juliet herself discovers the extent of her boss's affection for her during these pivotal moments on the island.
Despite his powerful position and control over Juliet, Ben's love for her was largely unrequited. Juliet's affections were directed elsewhere, notably towards James "Sawyer" Ford, which often led to jealousy and further manipulation from Ben. His desire to keep Juliet by his side heavily influenced his decisions and actions, shaping a significant portion of the narrative surrounding the Others and their interactions with the Oceanic Flight 815 survivors.
| Character | Primary Role in "The Others" | Feelings for the Other |
|---|---|---|
| Ben Linus | Leader, Juliet's Boss | In love with Juliet |
| Juliet Burke | Fertility Doctor | Aware of Ben's love |
Key Aspects of Their Relationship:
- Unrequited Love: Ben's romantic feelings for Juliet were genuine, but she did not reciprocate them.
- Power Dynamics: As Juliet's superior and the leader of the Others, Ben often used his authority to try and control her and keep her on the island.
- Flashback Revelations: The audience, alongside Juliet, learns about Ben's affection through various flashback sequences that delve into their history on the island.
- Impact on Plot: Ben's jealousy and desire to maintain proximity to Juliet had tangible effects on the storyline, influencing his interactions with other characters and driving key events.
