Now, we know most couples in Chelsea argue, but we didn’t expect our favourites Robbie Mullett and Joel Mignottto be at breaking point. Whilst their relationship was so lovely in the beginning, fans are starting to think they are just too different and maybe they should go their separate ways.
Robbie joined Made In Chelsea in 2020 as a friend of Paris Smith and has gone on to speak about incredibly important storylines from HIV awareness to homophobic abuse. Whilst Joel arrived from Yorkshire and he was a much-needed breath of fresh air on the show. From his northern charm to the twinkle in his eye – everyone just loves him. However, we can’t help but notice the shift in Joel's demeanour this series. The happy go-lucky person we knew seems to have faded away as his relationship with Robbie remains strained.
The cracks in their relationship started to show last series after Robbie opened up about wanting an open relationship - much to Joel's dismay. I think this suggestion of an open relationship has left irreversible damage within their relationship. At this point they had only been together for a year, and opening that conversation up so early into a relationship can leave room for insecurity to creep in as you begin to question why your partner is no longer satisfied with you.
This series the couple have even seeked counselling as they continue to have issues. Whilst this is a positive step - viewers are not convinced they are on the same page. It appears their communication just dosen't match up. This is a very key component in a relationship and when that dosen't add up - it only leads to further strain.
Viewers are also torn on who is in the right. Robbie has voiced that he needs time and space right now because he is in his final year of studying for his law degree. It is clear that Robbie seems stressed and under pressure and Joel should understand that he might not be as attentive during this time. One fan wrote on Twitter, ' Am I the only one that thinks Joel is the controlling one? Not taking the time to understand that Robbie is very stressed and isn't supportive of Robbie's life goals.' However, one could question if his Law training is just being used as an excuse so Robbie dosen't have to face the issues in their relationship.
Whereas other people believe that Robbie needs to compromise a bit more when it comes to Joel's feelings. They see an unbalance of power and believe it's Robbie's way or the highway. Joel seems to be seeking reciprocation and reassurance in their relationship. One fan wrote, 'When Joel expresses how he feels, Robbie gets upset and makes it about himself. I don't think it's the law training - I just don't think they are compatible.'
They are both a very different stages of their lives and what they want from their relationships currently is very different. This is Robbie's first serious relationship whereas Joel seems very secure in what he wants out of a relationship. The three year age gap between them (Joel is 26 and Robbie is 23) is a lot more apparent now they have to navigate tough moments. It is very clear that there is a disconnect between them and it only feels like it's growing.
With Joel - you can also see it's affecting him a lot more. His relationship seems to be his focus right now whereas Robbie's focus is elsewhere. It also seems to be affecting Joel's mood a lot more not just towards Robbie, but with other members of the cast. Last night he called out Inga Valentiner for being a fake friend to Robbie. Whilst he was just being honest, it was just a bit harsh and this negative opinion just seemed to come out of nowhere. He could be taking his relationship woes out on other people.
Believe it or not, Miles Nazairemight be right about the couple needing space. I know Miles is the last person Chelsea couples should be taking advice from - but he has a point. It might be healthy for Robbie and Joel to take a break and reassess their relationship. It might lead to greater understanding between them or they will walk away. If they continue arguing they will only go on to resent each other for it - and there's no coming back from that.