The unique storyline of Skip Beat! has caught the attention of many feminists for its feisty heroine, Kyoko. After spending years at the beck and call of Sho, the guy she’s head over heels for/superstar, Kyoko discovers that her prince on a white horse is actually a self-absorbed jerk who was only using her as a maid. Her heart may have been crushed, but rather than crumple to the ground and curl up into a ball, this heroine picks herself up and steels her mind on something else: revenge. With that Kyoko enters showbiz to become a more popular star than Sho. While her initial focus is pure revenge, she grows passionate about acting and changes from a girl obsessed with a jerky guy to an independent woman and a force to be reckoned with.
From the left: Reino, Ren, and Sho
Interestingly, although Kyoko breaks from living life under the foot of a guy, throughout the thirty volume series so far she seems surrounded by men with a possessive nature. In between spasms of humor and (sometimes mixed up in them), nemesis Sho, coworker Ren, and singer Reino all have an interest in Kyoko and, whether their motivation is good or not, they all have moments of fighting to have some to a lot of control over her.
The worst offenders are Sho and Reino, which is depicted clearly when Reino makes his first appearance in the series. In this section of the story, Reino is the lead member of a new band trying to steal Sho’s fame by knocking off his work and style. Reino takes this so far that he decides to make Kyoko “his” simply because he believes that she’s Sho’s girl right now. In other words, he has no interest in Kyoko herself but is viewing her more as a thing to be stolen from his rival. This leads to a series of stalking incidents in which he eventually chases Kyoko into a forest and corners her. He tells her, “I’m looking forward to Fuwa (Sho’s) reaction when he sees you completely torn and tattered,” once again making it clear that he’s bothering Kyoko because he’s trying to hurt his rival, Sho. However, after coming face-to-face with Kyoko’s fierceness, Reino takes a personal interest in her (lucky Kyoko) and the dominance comes into play; he wants Kyoko to hate him so much that her mind and heart are filled only with thoughts of him. Creepy? Extremely. This section was disturbing on several levels, including the language used. Kyoko is constantly referred to as if she were an object to be possessed rather than a person with freewill and the word “dominate” gets thrown around as well.
Sho uses similar tacts, i.e. he tries to dominate Kyoko by getting her to hate him so that she only thinks of him. Later in the series, afraid that Kyoko might be interested in either Ren or Reino, Sho insults her repeatedly and then forcefully kisses her. Before this, while Kyoko hated Sho for having used her as a maid while caring nothing for her at the beginning of the series, her focus on her hatred for him had seemed to be dwindling. Therefore, for the sole purpose of stirring her up again and regaining his hold on her, Sho acted in this way.
Both of these guys are portrayed as jerks, although Sho gets moments where a better side is hinted at. However, even the “nice” guy in this story, Ren, has a bit of a possessive streak. For example, when Sho forcefully kissed Kyoko, she is distraught because that had been her first kiss. At first, it seems like Ren is trying to explain away the idea that her real first kiss could be stolen by essentially saying a real kiss is a mutual thing based on love, which was a nice thing to do. But he ends the explanation by basically threatening her that there’s no second chance and if Sho kisses her again, he’ll be angry with her. In a later incident, Ren gets angry at Kyoko because she allowed a guy to buy her a makeover. He makes a good point that a girl shouldn’t accept such gifts if she’s not interested in the guy because he’ll get the wrong idea, but it’s hinted that at least part of his anger is due to the fact that he didn’t want any other guys to know how pretty Kyoko could look. While some of his anger may be understandable as a guy who loves Kyoko, it strikes me as a bit possessive, especially when some things (like the kiss) were out of Kyoko’s power yet somehow the anger still falls at least partially on her.
What do you think? Is Kyoko surrounded by possessive guys or is Ren’s position justified?
Gagging on Sexism 
I wish I could comment in detail about the manga, but I haven’t gotten too far into it yet. I just think a lot of manga portrays a degree of possessive/aggressive guys. I don’t know if you can call it a trope, but it just seems like a common thing you see. Some are more extreme than others. The worst offender of possessiveness in manga I can think of is Miki Aihara’s Hot Gimmick, and it’s another series I’m dragging my feet in when it comes to finishing the story for the hell of it. It makes you wonder why a lot of mangakas like to instill this particular behavior in their love interests or potential love interests for their female heroines.
That’s a good question. Is a possessive guy supposed to be manly or something? As you said, it seems to be a trait that guys often have in manga. And not just in manga. I see it in novels and movies, too. The strange thing is, Kyoko is a pretty strong female character who’s able to take action on her own and for herself so, it’s disappointing to see behavior like that in the story (unless Kyoko’s fighting against, which she tries to do with Sho and Reino).
I think the reason is a possessive guy is seen as hot, because of how much he “loves” you. So they see how a guy is jealous, and think “Aww, how cute, he’s just in love with her!”
A lot of mangas take it to extremes though and it can be a real turn-off -_-;
First of all: holy poop they all look the exact same!
Secondly, just going by all of what you’ve said (I have never read it) yeah there is some definite posession going on here. As the person above me pointed out, this seems to be some kind of motif for some shoujo manga (Vampire Knight being another example, but with only one possessive guy).
Haha! Yes, I noticed that as I was reading the manga, but it became even clearer that they look alike when I was getting the pictures for this post.
As for possessiveness in shojo manga in general, I agree. I see that trait a lot, even in the language (phrases like “my girl,” etc). Some series just have a more potent dose of it like Vampire Knight, Hot Gimmick, and Skip Beat. I will say that unlike some series, possessiveness in Skip Beat is not passed off as completely normal. The worst offenders, Reino and Sho, are supposed to be jerks. However, I think Ren is supposed to be the “nice guy” and he’s still somewhat possessive, which is unfortunate.
Lol, I thought Reino was Shou the first time he appeared, it honestly took me a bit to realise. At least I can tell Ren apart as he is the only one with a face like that with black hair. Then again, there’s Kijima, but he always wears different expressions!
I like Skip Beat! but I have to say I felt that the addition of Reino was…unnecessary. I’m 18 volumes into the series and aside from the fact that his “interest” in Kyoko is the catalyst that makes Sho realize how important Kyoko is to him, I feel like he’s basically a clone of Sho (just more creepy). And while you’re right that Sho is possessive, what’s interesting is that I feel like Kyoko still has far more agency paired with him than she does with Ren. Because she admires Ren so much and doesn’t want to disappoint him she and Ren never feel like equals, while Sho is someone who brings out Kyoko’s fierce side. So I’ve actually been rooting for Sho, despite his possessiveness.
I never thought of it that way, but that makes sense. Ren and Kyoko definitely have a more uneven relationship since Ren is older and much more established, which affects the way Kyoko treats/thinks of him. While I appreciate the girl falling for the more mature guy, in this situation it feels too unequal power-wise. That’s what makes Ren’s possessiveness so troublesome. Hopefully, whoever she ends up with (because she’s going to end up with someone), he becomes respectful of Kyoko’s independence and is her equal by that time.
Yeah, that’s my take on it as well. Plus Sho can still “grow up” so to speak and is showing signs of it, so I’m also more on the Sho/Kyoko side of the ship. And like I said elsewhere, I’m more forgiving of this troupe when the heroine doesn’t take the possessive shit like with Sho. With Ren she does, which is the biggest reason I do not like them as a couple and really the only thing I don’t like about Skip Beat.
Also @Erin with Reino, it is meant to be seen as creepy and not romantic, so it doesn’t bother me as much. It’s when it romanticized (a la Ren mostly but there are some moments with Sho too) that it bothers me and as much as I like Skip Beat, I have to admit Ren’s possessiveness makes me feel uncomfortable. It’s really the only thing I dislike about the series. Those two moments you pointed out about Ren were the ones that left me feeling disturbed (and precisely because Kyoko and in extension, the manga, doesn’t call the possessive BS out for what it is). I’ve even been thinking of doing a post on this particular subject, but you beat me to the punch! XD Still have a general one planned, if I ever get it done. D:
I agree that Reino is different since he’s depicted as a creep. I just think it’s interesting that strong-willed Kyoko is surrounded by possessive guys. But yes, Ren is the most annoying since his possessiveness is always presented as justified/romantic and Kyoko takes it. I hope you and starsamaria are right and Sho grows up; I’m afraid it will just turn into a battle of the possessive guys. But I like Skip Beat! so, I have hope. Anyway, it might not be a bad idea to go ahead a write a post about Ren’s possessiveness if you want. The more people who point out questionable things, the better, I say.
I think that was actually the point of Reino’s character…
I feel like he’s done his duty now though, and I wouldn’t mind if we never saw him again personally.
The thing with the formality in Ren and Kyouko I hope will soon (but surely slowly) be resolved. The mangaka is working on that exact thing with the latest chapters, and seeing Corn and Kyouko get along so well makes me really excited for the future and what their relationship will be like!
Ok, so slightly off topic; What’s your stance on the whole “she’s mine” idea? I mean, in the above context, I can definitely understand the issue, but in a normal relationship, I’d sort of expect for that line of thinking to be mutual, right? As a guy, I don’t see a major problem with it. If a guy’s committed to a girl, I’d like to think that she’s supposed to be committed to him as well, assuming they’re both consenting to the relationship. So wouldn’t it be fair for both to see each other as “theirs”?
It’s a tricky issue because I do see where people are coming from when they say “she’s mine” or “he’s mine” or what have you. As you said, I think many people use it as a statement of mutual commitment. However, it’s not my favorite phrase given the possessive and objectifying nature of it. It just reminds me of someone laying claim to something like you might with an inanimate object, telling someone else to stay away from it. Of course, I don’t think that’s what many people are thinking when they use that phrase, but I can’t help but think that way when I hear it.
I think the problem is that Kyouko and Ren are not a couple, therefore that kind of jealousy is not exactly justified.
I just read this manga through in like three days because I couldn’t put it down and while I agree that sometimes Ren has a possessive side I think there are a few things to consider:
1) This is new to Ren too. It stated several times that though he has had relationships he’s never really been in love. He doesn’t know Kyoko’s feelings for him and I think that affects how he reacts with her at times. I think he only now started understanding his own feelings.
2) I think that the nativity of Kyoko can sometimes send him mixed signals. She doesn’t recognize how her behavior’s impact Ren’s. Partially because she doesn’t know his feelings. Imagine how different all the controlling situations would have been if he and Kyoko had been in an established relationship or aware of each others feelings.
Kyoko would have never accepted a dress from her coworker and I think she would have acted with way more anger towards Sho.
I also think if Kyoko were more willing to just TALK to Ren openly it’d make a difference. He’s constantly finding out things (like the Reino situation) through second parties and gets his feelings hurt.
3) I think that Ren’s past really effects how he expresses his feelings. His mask is coming off slowly and it effects his actions – I suspect because he’s been keeping it all bottled up has not been doing him any good.
Also, I absolutely despise Sho. It bugs me a A LOT that Kyoko continues to put herself in a position to be insulted by him. I don’t think he’s growing up at all and I think that if he did grow up he’d realize what harm he’s caused Kyoko in the past and just let. her. go. I don’t think him growing up and suddenly saying “I’m sorry I was such a jerk, can we please be together?” just doesn’t work.
I think part of this comes form having been the “doting stay-at-home wife” only to find out he was cheating on me. Then leaving him and having him stalk/belittle me (for example: asking me if I’m getting on birth control because I planned on becoming a tramp.) She CONSTANTLY plays into his hands exactly how he wants her too. Simply by answering the phone! I did the same stuff when I was going through a divorce.
He is no good for her and I would rather her be single than to end up with someone like Sho.
The Reino side point was a bit worthless, too, I think. I never really thought seriously about it. But once again, if Kyoko had been open about what was going on with her she could have saved herself a lot trouble.
Sorry for the extreme wall of text but I don’t really have anyone to talk with this about. Hahaha.
Absolutely agree about Shou, he is despicable and all I want for her is to get the better of him. It annoys me so much whenever she plays right into his hands and sometimes I wish she was less emotional so she could consider him in a calm manner, then easily dismiss him.
It’s definitely not just you, I’ve never even been in a relationship and you’re damn right I’d rather her be single than get with Shou!
This specific blog post, “Possessiveness in Skip Beat!
| Gagging on Sexism” displays the fact that you actually understand just what
exactly u are writing about! I fully am in agreement. Thank you -Tomoko
I have been reading the comments and I have to say I love skip beat, the characters, the storyline just great. I think kyoko being surrounded by possessive men is not only true but it gets a bit old too. I like a little bit here and there from ren because it shows that he cares .the problem comes when I feel like he is pushing his feelings on her, like erin said he gets angry at her and i’m like dude its not like you and her are in a steady relationship or that she is even aware of your feelings. loving her doesn’t give you the right to be her watch dog even when she is seen with sho which is also non of your business.Sorry for the rant that was just some of what I wish kyoko could tell ren the next time he gets on her case. I mean i love ren/kyoko i just want her to put him in his place when it needs doing. In fact sho should get told off too, but that’s for another time. Its awesome that im not the only one who feels this way
I can’t wait for a time when Kyouko is brave enough to get Ren off her back. Maybe not in a Shou situation, since the both passionately hate him, so she thinks seeing him would justify hate. Still I want her to put him in his place sometime, and do it really nicely too. She did at one point sort of have a go at his contradictions, when he said “if a man buys you clothes he wants something from you” and then said he would help her if she was in need, which she replied “then what exactly do you want from” (paraphrasing these quotes of course).
I feel like I could excuse Ren’s actions more easily, if only she didn’t idealise him so much!
I’ve read this manga and it’s one of my favorites. The possessive man thing does get a little old. Sho hasn’t really learned anything. He still sees kyoko as his property. That’s why I don’t see them ever really getting back together. Ren being possessive I can understand. In the beginning when he knew her as a child he let her go to easily and she ended up getting hurt. I don’t think he’ll make the same mistake again
Besides I would be mad to if the guy I was in love with kissed someone else even if the other person started it. The thing with the make over was wrong sure but in his defense he wasn’t thinking. The reino arc did have a point. It brought out sho feelings for kyoko and helped improve his music. It also helped kyoko realize that she needed to better defend herself and let ren meet sho for the second time in a situation where he was the outsider. Sure valentine’s thing was kind of weird but I think he served his purpose. A little possessive ness is good not to the point of seeing them as property but to the point that you want them to be with you and to be safe. Based on what we’ve been finding out about Ren s past things could be alot worse.
Just as a note, Reino was interested in her from the start, even without her being Shou’s (in his mind). He may have said that he wanted to take everything from Shou, but he also said it didn’t matter if she was Shou’s or not (bathroom scene).
Also Shou was alright in Karazuki ark, but after that he just got worse and worse, with Reino’s idea of possessing someone with anger (hate is stronger then love).
I think Ren is possessive, but I guess it’s a little understandable when you consider his past and that he is still really young and stupid with relationships. I think when he sort of threatened Kyouko, he was just letting his anger out, but not exactly aimed towards her. He was just trying to show her how serious it was I guess, and she didn’t take it as a threat either.
I mean, if you’re possessiveness and all that jazz, 193+194 (IIRC) are full of it. Still even THAT, wasn’t MEANT to be reasonable, he finally snapped and I guess he is human so he is allowed some mistakes (especially considering his tendency to lock up all his anger, which of course will lead to an outburst sometimes, it did in the past, and it did that time).
While the point you all bring is interesting , I find that many excuse Ren’s behavior too easily . He had Relationship in the past and while he hadn’t been in love , it doesn’t at all justify is anger at Kyoko . After all he know her past , . so he should be able to tone it down in regard to her. Sho is ajerk , Reino too but I think Ren is the worst because Kyoko don’t defend herself at all when it come to him . I like the Ren/Kyoko pairing but that really tick me off . If they are to be together Kyoko need to stop being so passive when it come to Ren , I would consider it improvement for their Relationship and for herself if she told him off , as their Relationship feel unequal .
(I find it sad that she managed to bite back at Reino almost as if she was comfortable with him while the same can’t be said with Ren .
On a lighter note , there is aguy who isn’t possessive of Kyoko even though he have feelings for her. Granted he is aminor character so you mind not remamber him , I’m talking about Hikaru from Brige Rock .
sorry for the English mistakes , i wasn’t really paying attention. But seriously Ren need to get knocked down a peg or two (by Kyoko ). I also think that their Relationship is inequal because he presente himself as an intimidating figure.
For the fact she didn’t tell him about the stalker , well they just saw eachother and when wanting answers he use intimidation wth??
I think Ren need to grow too .( I was glad when Sho seemed to mature because that means that he was growing but come valentine arc all is undone. That felt cheap to me. I was greatly disappointed )
[…] READ IT HERE! […]
Your examples are true, but Ren takes it a whole new level in the Cain Heel Arc of the story in my opinion. *Spoilers* Due to his past Ren is at war within himself and Kyoko is right in the middle of it as the two Rens kind of fight over her. There are multiple occurences where Ren even gets extremely hostile to others, and even Kyoko to keep her next to him in a act of extreme possessiveness. So I agree on what you are saying. But in my standpoint I actually enjoy it and see it as my favorite Arc as of right now. Not only due start to understand each other better, but they realize their feelings for each other. And how they will act in the future towards their relationship.
Sorry if their are grammatical errors I wasn’t paying attention to much so my apologies there.