Image via Complex Original
While the new generation of Disney kids are fascinated by the celebrity-by-day, regular-kid-by-night saturated storylines, they will never know the true greatness of the show that was the first of its kind. The Famous Jett Jackson turns sweet 16 today and ‘90s nostalgia just wouldn’t be the same without Jett, Kayla, J.B., and Miz Coretta. Long before Miley made a living with her scripted double life, the late Lee Thompson Young did it first with his humble portrayal of Jett and the smooth secret agent Silverstone. In true Disney fashion, the trio of Wilsted didn't only show us chemistry that was too good to be written, but they taught us lessons in friendship along the way.
Kristin Corry is a product of New York City and the '90s. When she isn't feeling nostalgic she's tweeting at @writeordiechck.
Friendships Require Effort
Whether you’re a freshman in high school or twenty-something, friendships require work. If Jett could trade in his Los Angeles lifestyle for North Carolina-living to be closer to his friends, what’s your excuse? Let’s not be that lame generation stuck to our phones confusing followers with friends.
Shallow Friendships: Just Say No
Jett could've had his choice of any circle of friends he wanted. Instead of being a douchey, arrogant high school punk, he avoided the popular crowd. Kayla, the artsy photographer, and J.B., the chubby, easy target made for a surprising clique. During a time when your friends are a direct reflection to your social status, Jett did what was simple: He held it down (said in Donna Goudeau voice.)
Be the Bigger Person
When you’re famous, people will try to catch you slipping. Throw petty high school egos in the mix and you have a problem on your hands. Jealousy reared its ugly head all too many times for Jett, and although Silverstone would probably have some witty comeback to hush his haters, Jett didn’t have it that easy. Yet, time and time again, Jett managed to help those who were Petty Patties toward him. Do us all a favor and take a note from Jett’s book.
Real Friends Carry That Heat, Too
In the event that Jett was stumped on how to handle his rivals, Kayla and J.B. had his back. The two were ride-or-dies, concocting plans and formulating comebacks to help salvage their friend’s good name. Standing up for Jett regardless of the high school hierarchy only further solidified their loyalty.
Be Down For The Cause
Unfortunately, life is not as easy as a ‘90s sitcom. It gets real, and when it does, you’ll need to have people around you who are even realer. These people are the basis of your support system—your personal cheerleaders. J.B. was Jett’s right-hand man, ready to take the L when necessary, even if that meant cutting class to save Jett from embarrassment. Whether you need a getaway or someone to down a gallon of Henny with, they need to be there.
Don’t Limit Yourself To An Age Bracket
Having a few friends who are older than you is always clutch. You’ll probably never listen to the advice they have to give, but it brings variety to your friendships. Cubby, the special effects gawd, was that older fixture in Jett’s life. He may not have been the most mature person around, but he was a friend nevertheless.
Being Too Friendly Will Friend-Zone You Real Quick
You would've thought that Jett was exempt from being friend-zoned, but no one is exempt. His friendship with Kayla was pretty platonic, but Jett had a soft spot for her ever since he met her in the girls bathroom. Kayla wasn’t the only one throwing out curves though. When Destiny’s Child guest starred on the show, a blushing Beyoncé shared an obvious chemistry with Silverstone. Just as Jett works up the nerve to ask the R&B singer out, she hits him with the “little brother” line.