In a candid episode of New Rory & Mal, the hosts take a deep dive into the nuanced and often ambiguous world of familial relationships in Black communities. The conversation centers around the widely-used term “cousin,” which is frequently employed in ways that extend beyond blood relations. Rory and Mal unpack the loose use of the term, touching on instances where individuals refer to each other as “cousins” despite having no familial connection.
The hosts delve into the concept of “play cousins,” where people grow up considering one another family due to close family ties or friendships, even though they aren’t actually related. The conversation takes a personal turn when Rory and Mal share anecdotes, including a surprising revelation about a person who was dating someone they believed to be a “play cousin,” only to learn they were, in fact, blood relatives. This discovery, which led to the relationship being cut off before it could cross any boundaries, highlights the often awkward but necessary conversations that arise as people navigate these familial dynamics.
As the discussion unfolds, Rory and Mal explore the complexity of family relationships as people age and evolve. The casual use of “cousin” can sometimes blur lines, especially when the individuals involved are no longer part of a close-knit family setting. However, they agree that, regardless of the casual nature of these relationships, there are lines that should never be crossed—particularly when it comes to “play cousins” raised like family.
Shifting gears, the hosts inject humor into the conversation, joking about how flirtation and romantic attraction can emerge in these “cousin” relationships, even as adults. They share lighthearted thoughts on how family gatherings, such as reunions, funerals, and repasses, often set the stage for unexpected romantic encounters—though they quickly joke about their personal boundaries, specifically drawing the line at pursuing someone after a repass meal.
By blending humor with honesty, Rory and Mal tackle a complex and relatable topic, shedding light on how these familial terms and relationships evolve over time. Their discussion reveals how family dynamics can vary widely from one person to another and how certain cultural practices shape perceptions of family.
Through this episode, New Rory & Mal highlight the fine line between family and romance while reminding listeners that there are, indeed, some boundaries that should never be crossed—even in the most casual, familial settings.
