The Summer of our Lives: Why Summer Smith is More Than Just a Supporting Character in Rick and Morty

Javiii63
2 min readFeb 13, 2023

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Rick and Morty, the popular animated science fiction sitcom, is known for its diverse and dynamic cast of characters. From the narcissistic and alcoholic scientist Rick Sanchez to the anxious and mediocre Morty Smith, each character brings their own unique quirks and personalities to the table. However, one character that often goes overlooked is Summer Smith, Morty’s older sister.

Summer may seem like just another teenage girl in the background, but she plays a much more significant role in the series. As the only child of Beth and Jerry Smith who is not constantly dragged into Rick’s dangerous adventures, Summer serves as a grounding force for the family and provides a fresh perspective on the insanity that surrounds her. Despite her lack of involvement in the interdimensional exploits, Summer is still a crucial part of the Smith family dynamic and the show as a whole.

One of Summer’s defining characteristics is her sarcasm and quick wit. She is unafraid to call out Rick and Morty on their antics, providing a much-needed dose of reality and humor to the often chaotic and dark situations. Summer’s sarcastic commentary serves as a form of comic relief, but also serves to emphasize the absurdity of the events taking place.

Summer is also shown to have a strong sense of morality and justice, as seen in several episodes where she takes a stand against unethical actions and tries to make things right. In “The Rickshank Redemption,” Summer becomes a member of the Galactic Federation and works to overthrow the corrupt government. In “The Rickshank Redemption,” Summer’s bravery and determination showcase her as a capable and resourceful individual, proving that she is much more than just a supporting character.

Despite her intelligence and courage, Summer is still a typical teenage girl who experiences typical teenage struggles. From crushes to school drama, Summer’s personal struggles provide a relatable aspect to the show and serve to humanize the characters. Summer’s personal growth and development throughout the series are a testament to her significance and importance as a character.

In conclusion, Summer Smith is much more than just a supporting character in Rick and Morty. Her sarcastic wit, strong moral compass, and relatable struggles add depth and complexity to the show, making her a crucial part of the Smith family and the series as a whole. So the next time you watch Rick and Morty, take a moment to appreciate the Summer of our lives.

In the following video you can see the best moments of summer throughout the series.

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