Introduction
“You have to love yourself before anyone else can.” That quote, often attributed to the character Manny Santos, encapsulates the complex and transformative journey of one of Degrassi: The Next Generation‘s most memorable figures. Degrassi, the Canadian teen drama that tackled complex issues with unflinching honesty, became a cultural touchstone for a generation. And within its sprawling cast of characters, Manny Santos emerged as a standout, sparking conversations, challenging norms, and leaving an indelible mark on television. More than just the girl who wore that thong, Manny’s evolution resonated deeply with viewers, solidifying her place as a Degrassi icon. Her story, filled with vulnerability, ambition, and self-discovery, continues to be relevant, proving that her impact extends far beyond the halls of Degrassi Community School.
The Budding Wallflower: Early Days
When Manny Santos first graced our screens, she was largely defined by her shyness and her close friendship with Emma Nelson. Often relegated to the role of the supportive best friend, Manny lacked the confidence and outspokenness that characterized her companions. Her early fashion choices reflected her insecurity; she preferred to blend in, often feeling overshadowed by Emma’s strong personality and outspoken activism. Viewers witnessed her struggles with self-esteem and her yearning to find her place within the complex Degrassi social hierarchy.
These early storylines revealed a vulnerable side of Manny that many viewers could relate to. Her initial crush on Craig Manning, for instance, showcased her awkwardness and insecurity around boys. The dynamic between Manny and Emma, though supportive at times, also highlighted Manny’s feelings of inadequacy. She yearned for the attention and recognition that seemed to come so easily to her best friend. The importance of her friendships with both Emma and Liberty Van Zandt cannot be overstated. These relationships formed the bedrock of her support system, even as their friendships faced challenges and evolved alongside their individual journeys. They helped shape her into the person she was destined to become. Many viewers, especially those who felt like they were living in the shadows of their more assertive peers, found solace and understanding in Manny’s early struggles.
The Thong Heard Round Degrassi: A Turning Point
The infamous “thong incident” during the school production of Romeo and Juliet served as a pivotal moment, not only in Manny’s personal journey but also within the Degrassi narrative itself. This wasn’t just about provocative underwear; it was about a young woman’s burgeoning sense of self, her desire for attention, and her exploration of her own sexuality. Manny’s decision to wear the thong was a calculated risk, a deliberate act of rebellion against the expectations placed upon her.
The public reaction, both within the fictional world of Degrassi and in the real world watching at home, was swift and often judgmental. Manny faced criticism from her parents, her schoolmates, and even some of her closest friends. She was accused of being attention-seeking and was subjected to slut-shaming, a term that unfortunately became all too familiar. However, beneath the surface of this controversial moment lay a deeper motivation. Manny was tired of being invisible. She wanted to be seen, to be heard, and to be acknowledged. The thong became a symbol of her desire to break free from the constraints of her shy and insecure past. This event significantly shaped Manny’s character development. It was a starting point for embracing her sexuality, but also a harsh lesson in the double standards that women often face.
Confidence Blooms: Embracing Identity and Desire
Following the “thong incident,” Manny embarked on a path of self-discovery, marked by a growing sense of confidence and a bolder approach to her personal style. Her fashion choices evolved dramatically, reflecting her changing self-perception. She embraced more daring and expressive looks, shedding the conservative image she had previously maintained. This transformation wasn’t merely superficial; it was a visual representation of her inner growth.
Her relationships also became a testing ground for her newfound confidence. Her complex relationship with Craig, marked by passion and instability, forced her to confront her own desires and needs. She navigated the challenges of young love, experiencing both the joy and the heartbreak that come with it. Throughout this period, Manny faced the harsh reality of societal expectations and double standards. She was often criticized for the same choices that her male counterparts were praised for, highlighting the deeply ingrained sexism that permeates society. Her dreams of acting and performing became more concrete. While she still faced challenges in pursuing her career aspirations, her resilience only grew. Manny learned the power of standing up for herself, even when faced with judgment and criticism. She began to reclaim her narrative, refusing to be defined by the opinions of others.
Hollywood Dreams and Enduring Lessons: Growth and Maturity
As Manny matured, she continued to pursue her acting career with unwavering determination. Her move to Los Angeles, the mecca of the entertainment industry, presented a new set of challenges. She faced rejection, competition, and the constant pressure to conform to industry standards. Despite these obstacles, Manny remained committed to her dreams, honing her craft and working tirelessly to achieve her goals.
Her experiences in Hollywood forced her to confront her vulnerabilities and to learn from her past mistakes. She reflected on her earlier relationships and recognized the importance of self-respect and healthy boundaries. As a character, Manny learned that she was in the beginning phases of becoming a strong woman. She went to Hollywood and learned a lot more about who she was and what she wanted in life. While there, she got into a bad relationship, and became pregnant. This experience led her to come back to Toronto. After returning, she found that she was not pregnant, because she suffered a miscarriage. This was difficult for her, but she moved on with her life.
Manny also recognized the importance of supporting and mentoring younger characters at Degrassi, drawing upon her own experiences to guide them through their own challenges. This showed a new level of maturity and a desire to give back to the community that had shaped her. Manny’s journey was one of redemption and self-acceptance. She learned to embrace her imperfections, to forgive herself for her past mistakes, and to celebrate her strengths. It wasn’t easy, but she emerged from her trials with a greater sense of self-awareness and a deeper understanding of the world around her.
A Lasting Impression: Manny’s Enduring Legacy
Manny Santos’s significance as a female character on Degrassi cannot be overstated. She fearlessly addressed issues of female sexuality, body image, and ambition, providing representation for young women who were navigating these complex issues in their own lives. She challenged the status quo, sparked conversations, and forced viewers to confront their own biases and prejudices. Manny’s cultural impact extends far beyond the confines of the television screen. She sparked conversations about slut-shaming, societal expectations, and the importance of female empowerment. Her influence can be seen in other television shows and characters that have followed in her footsteps. Even today, Manny remains a beloved and iconic character, resonating with viewers of all ages. Her story continues to inspire and empower young women to embrace their individuality, to challenge societal norms, and to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. Compared to other teen drama characters who explored similar themes, Manny’s authenticity and vulnerability set her apart. She wasn’t afraid to be flawed, to make mistakes, and to learn from them. Her journey was relatable and inspiring, making her a true icon of teen television.
Conclusion
Manny Santos’ journey on Degrassi, from a shy and insecure teenager to a confident and ambitious young woman, was nothing short of transformative. She challenged societal norms, sparked important conversations, and provided representation for young women grappling with issues of sexuality, identity, and ambition. She will always be remembered. More than that, she was a force of nature, a character who refused to be defined by the expectations of others. Her lasting impact on viewers and on the landscape of teen television solidifies her place as a Degrassi legend. She embodied the struggle of self-discovery, the courage to embrace one’s true self, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. As Manny herself might say, “Don’t let anyone tell you who you are. You define yourself.”
