Pop Matters' Joss Whedon: The Complete Companion, written by Kristin M. Barton.

[kudagirl]

About a week ago, I made a comment on a friend's journal about how Spike changed after losing Fred.
I think that was when he finally decided to become the hero he always tried to be for some woman.
To me, Fred saw Spike for who he was instead of just a demon.  Her faith in him and losing her, to me,
was the turning point for Spike.  I think it was why

Comments

[eilowyn]

I have never really thought much on how Spike was influenced by Fred's death, but now that you (and the article) bring it up, he is changed by his death in the Hellmouth and Fred's death does have a significant impact on him as a character. I think this is why, if Spike can't be with Buffy, I'd want him with Fred - someone who sees him and appreciates him for who he is, because she's only known soulful hero!Spike and believes in him.

[kudagirl]

James has said he suggested that Spike and Fred try it as a couple, but I think Joss had a vision for Fred/Illyria that he was more interested in for the show. I've heard that if the show had not been canceled, Joss meant to bring back Fred again.

I enjoy Spike and Fred in fan fiction, but I really only like him with Buffy if it's a f/m relationship. Early in season five of Angel, Angel wants Spike gone. Fred stands up for Spike and says he was a hero doing right. She reminds Angel that's why they came to W&H. To do good and Spike deserves to be saved. Angel backs down after that and lets her try to bring him back.