{}Welcome to the 100th Angsty Artists (Craig Manning and Ashley Kerwin) Appreciation Thread!{}

{Craig: Hey save the film for tonight when Ash and I win the luau crown.
Ashley: You put us in the contest?!
Craig: Yeah this is our night. Everyone’s gonna know it}
+Tears Are Not Enough

Celebrating 100 Threads of Craig and Ashley Love
After 100 threads and over 100 shippers, we're still here loving Crash as much as ever!

Learn about the characters...Craig Manning {Jake Epstein} and Ashley Kerwin {Melissa McIntrye}

{Troubled, artistic, and passionate, Craig Manning has twice the angst of any other eighteen-year old. Whether it’s being the center of love triangles or struggling with his bipolarity, or his recent cocaine addiction, Craig’s life is plagued with problems. Yet, despite his dark past, which includes an abusive father and a mother who died of cancer, Craig has somehow maintained a great sense of humor and a romantic spirit. He's learned how to be a great stepson to Joey Jeremiah, a good brother to Angie Jeremiah, and a loving boyfriend. His songs have earned him the admiration of ex Manny Santos, the appreciation of BFF Ellie Nash, and the love of Ashley Kerwin, the other half of Degrassi’s power couple. Even when he’s most cocky and breaking the hearts of girls, this heartthrob still oozes charm and personality, and we always manage to forgive him.}

{Because if he really loved Kate,
he wouldn't want to change her.
He'd love her for who she is}
+Craig in Dressed in Black

{Degrassi’s resident chameleon, Ashley Kerwin is a combination of mysterious beauty, strong compassion, and creative expression. These traits have lead to appreciation from Jimmy Brooks and Sean Cameron, and love from Craig Manning. Throughout her transformations from teacher’s pet to goth girl to rocker chick to vintage princess, she’s channeled her thoughts into lyrics, both poetic and musical, all while being a soundboard for Craig and her friends in times of need. While she does have a penchant for not confronting certain issues in her life, it makes her more real as she grows into her own person, learning from her mistakes. Her family life has been altered, by both her father coming out to her and remarrying, along with Kate’s recent relationship with boyfriend Jeff, but Ashley rolled with the punches and found her place in each. In season 4, the formerly moody poet lightened up and opened herself up to love again with Craig before jetting to England. Once returning, she also has an altered attitude, more care-free, and even though her relationship with Craig hasn’t been addressed, we know she’ll always be in the front row, cheering him on because it’s in her nature.}

{Really? Wow. I guess
I knew he was always
destined for greatness}
+Ashley in High Fidelity

The Story of Crash (Craig & Ashley)

{Hey congratulations!
So you finally asked that Ashley girl out? }
+Joey in Take My Breath Away

{Just like I imagine that you and Ashley won’t just be friends for long either}
+ Jimmy in Neutron Dance

Ash's Last Journal Entry

{Have you ever done that thing with your eyes where you focus on something with like a regular pattern, like checkered curtains or something really close up and then your eyes go blurry for a second, but then when everything comes back into focus it's like a strange, vivid 3-D effect and you can't tell how close up or far away the thing you're staring at is, like even though you know it's across the room you feel like you can touch it?

That's as close as I can come to describing the last year or so with Craig. Especially since he began to have bipolar episodes. I know he's there, but no matter how far I reach, I just can't touch him. Even when he's on his medication and we're having fun, writing songs and playing music together, he's just a little bit out of reach. Of course he can't help it. He's not trying to hold back from me. It's me. On some level I just can't let myself put him into focus. I'm always worrying about him, waiting for the next bipolar episode, watching for signs. I can't trust my own judgment around him -- when he's happy is it because he's off his meds, having a manic period, or when he's upset is that because he's off his meds, or they're not working, and he's depressed? I can't tell -- and I know how much it hurts him to have me constantly questioning his moods...and it's too much for me to handle too.

So I just have to go away. It feels horrible, like I'm abandoning someone who needs me. But I need to deal with my own things, and Craig has Joey and Caitlin there for him -- not his biological parents but an amazingly supportive substitute. It was hell telling Craig I didn't want him to come with me to England, even just for the summer. I guess he figured out what that really means. But it was something I had to do.

I'm sorry...bye.}

{C: I must have had the ringer off. I couldn’t really sleep.
A: You, you need me there with you.}
+Voices Carry

{A: Hey. If you think you’re just gonna walk away.
*She pulls him back and kisses him*
A: So um. Do you think we can uh.
C: Yeah. Yeah I do.
A: So do I}
+ Craig & Ashley in Neutron Dance

Craig's Last Journal Entry

{Back to square one for both me and my tiny stepdad Joey. Weird timing -- both of our leading ladies (and onetime fiances) bail on us for faraway places (Ashley to England, Caitlin to LA) within a day or two of each other. Now it's just me, Joey and my sister. Living in a house technically owned by his oldest flame Caitlin. Don't ask me how that's going to work out...too much to thin about...man I've never seen a 30-whatever year-old guy bawl his eyes out like Joey did when Caitlin left. Funny, I was shocked, but I never really so much felt like crying when Ashley left. Must be because I'm a real man or something...yeah right. Instead I stopped taking my meds and lost my mind on the streets where some scammer stole my guitar. Real bright. Surprisingly (not) going off my meds didn't make anything better. (such an idiot sometimes -- maybe on some level I understand Ash...which is the problem of course, since she's the only person I have the slightest understanding of...full circle again...)

So here we are -- Joey with no fiance, me with no Ash and no axe. And Kevin Smith waiting to hear some amazing song I'm supposed to finish for his movie. Terrifying much? Hope I can get Jimmy to lend me his guitar...as long as I don't tell him I talked to Spinner who did his best to save my hinie...maybe he deserves another chance? not so sure...

It's going to be a quiet summer. Back to helping out at the car lot for me...a single used car salesman. Looking at Joey, maybe it's my fate. Oh man...}

{C: Yeah we’re back together. Ash and me.
Me and Ash. What was I thinking before?
Cheating on her with Manny. Why’d I do that?
Caitlin: People make mistakes.
C: Never ever, ever, ever, ever again}
+Voices Carry

{C: Going somewhere?
A: Are you?
C: Soon. I’m gonna go home. I think we owe everyone a dance.
*He takes her hand and they start walking to the dance floor*
C: You can ask.
*They start dancing*
A: Ask what?
C: How I’m doing. I won’t go psycho.
A: How are you doing Craig?
C: Better}
+Craig & Ashley in Tears Are Not Enough

Learn About Us...The Fans

who we are......who supports them

why we love them what makes us think of them

what episodes we never get tired of what we've said in the past

Why we love Crash
{There are many reasons we love Crashley, but mostly it's because they will always be there for eachother. We've seen that in past episodes, how Craig helped Ashley realize she shouldn't change for someone else, and how Ashley helped Craig through his fathers death, and his bipolarity. And the summer will make them stronger and make them realize how much they do in fact love and need eachother. Also for the fact that after Craig, cheated on her last year, she was willing to give him another chance. That say's a lot.}

Craig and Ashley had one of the most natural, genuine beginnings on television. They both needed to be in each others life at that point and it turned their world upside down completely. From that point their problems were handled realistically and weren't handled to make them look perfect. That only made their solution all the more special and believeable that it would bring them closer. They have come farther in their time together from start to finish then most tv couples go their entire run. By their final season their love for each other was not "in your face" but it was very easy to see how strongly they cared for each other. They may have other relationships that are even more "on/off" but the emotional effort they each put into those pales in comparison to all they went through with each other. No matter how much the writing has screwed with their story, at every screw up there is even more potential for them created. They may have killed the characters at this point in time, what they meant to each other hasn't dared to be messed with. They're too afraid to deal with it right now.

--Kathy

Craig and Ashley are the ultimate couple because they are the whole package. They are a realistic and honest teen couple that I've always been able to relate to and love discussing because there are so many layers to them. Jake and Melissa play so well off each other and the result is an amazing range of emotionally intense scenes; scenes that can only happen when a couple has intense passion for each other. They have their sweet moments and moments of angst, all which have this amazing energy and feel genuine. Though both Craig and Ashley are troubled, they seem to really balance each other out and understand each other. As a bonus, I never know what to expect next with Crash. They are such a surprising couple.

-- Nicole

Craig and Ashley are the ultimate couple for so many reasons. Besides being beautiful, talented, intelligent and musically-inclined, Craig and Ashley share a deep connection and bond that grew incredibly strong over time. The love that they have for one another is undeniable. They don’t throw out the term “love” without substance and feeling behind it. The build-up they were given to come to that point is rare for any couple on Degrassi. There are negative moments throughout their relationship, but they aren’t simply glossed over. The lows of their characters help to mold the highs, which therefore creates an ideal balance. No couple is perfect and Crash certainly doesn’t pretend to be. They have worked hard over the years to get to a point of understanding, comfort, friendship, love and passion. When they are together, they are each other’s best friend and lover all at once, which is a beautiful thing.

-- Jen

Craig and Ashley are the ultimate couple because out of all the couples from D:TNG they received the most development. They made it through some of the most stressful obstacles in couple could endure. They survived Craig cheating, they survived Craig's bipolar disorder, and it is just a matter of time before they overcome Ashley staying in England. No other couple in D:TNG a had practically a whole season dedicated to them like CrAsh.

-- Leigh

Craig and Ashley are the ultimate couple because not only do they fight to be with one another, but they fight the odds. Their storylines are consistent, wonderfully written, and there are no hints of randomess or a lack of depth. They are shaped by their history, rather than reliant on their history. They have a shown, established connection rather than an assumed connection. Seasons 2-4 is a testament to their strength and the faith the writers have in the ultimate DTNG couple.

-- Nikki

Craig and Ashley are the ultimate couple because every season that both Craig and Ashley have been in, they have shared the screen. They have been through so much, yet it comes back to their story. Crash has attracted so many different kinds of fans who have remained loyal and true to their ship through the roughest times and I believe that shows dedication that the couple has been able grasp a hold to these fans, which not all couples can do with their fans. There are also the little moments, that don’t take as much notice along with the big ones, that you realize how much they really mean to each other, proving all the more how "ultimate they are" This couple has been through quite a few issues together and their story is far from over.

-- Ria

Want to re-live the 50th? The 100th?

Dear Stephen Stohn (or To Whom It May Concern),

Like Craig gave Ashley (Should I Stay or Should I Go?), here are a dozen roses. Each one of these roses represents a significant Crash-related episode. We, the fans, are so incredibly thankful for the amazing episodes and storylines devoted to Craig and Ashley’s relationship, so here is a token of our appreciation.

It has been months in the making, but we are finally ready to showcase our support for Craig & Ashley the best way we know how. In our 100th thread you will find fanart, fan-made music videos, fanfiction, in-depth discussions and analyses of the couple and their characters, a soundtrack with songs suiting Craig and Ashley, top Crash moments voted on by the fans, a “what if Craig and Ashley got married” section, a Joey/Caitlin and Craig/Ashley parallels section and so much more. We have poured our hearts and souls into this project and we would love for you or any of the Degrassi: The Next Generation staff to come on July 11th and celebrate our work with us.

Sincerely,

The Angsty Artists

Exec Post

Our Extra Links

Links
+ Angsty Artists Photobucket Password: crash100
+ Nicole's Photobucket The Best Place for Caps
+Craig and Ashley Fanlisting! Every Wish
+Crash C2 Community on Fanfiction.net
+Craig and Ashley: Daily at Livejournal!

Fanfiction
By our very own AA's
I Saw Her Standing There by Nikki+++{As Joey and Caitlin's wedding approaches, tension resumes and sparks fly between Craig and Ashley}
Nowhere to Run by Nikki+++{Jimash's marriage is on the rocks, especially when Craig comes into the picture}
This Is It by Diana+++{Ashley is back and she and Craig decide to become friends again, but will it stay that way?}
The Mixed Tape by Diana+++{Craig and Ashley reflect on their on again, off again relationship}
Learning to Breathe by Diana+++{Ashley returns from England with a secret}
The Best Laid Plans by Diana+++{A glimpse into the future life of Ashley and Craig}
Empty Apartment by Lissa+++{About London, Craig and Ashley, and a city that tears things apart but can also bring things together}
More Things Change by Nicole ( TarynAsh)+++{They're back. They may not be together, but so what? More things change}
What Was Left Unsaid by Nicole (Kaleidocat)+++{Craig-centric. Craig Manning rewritten starting with When Doves Cry.
Because recovering from abuse takes more than a season. Tons of Joey interaction with a splash of Crash.}

Other favorites
Rings, Rainy Days, and Valentines+++{Craig finally asks those four little words to Ashley}
The Crash+++{When Craig gets in a car accident he finds that he has hit Ashley. One of his worst fears comes true; Ashley is in a coma}
Bad Decisions+++{For Craig and Ashley, everything was going well...until something tears them apart, something that Ashley can't deal with}
Craig's Pain+++{What if Craig had never let anyone know about the torment he lived through}

{Look, I’m nervous too.
But I mean you’ll be there
and all I have to do is look
over at you and I’ll be fine.
So, you wanted to tell me something?}
+Ashley in Neutron Dance

{C: Look, ignore him. I'm dying here, man. I like...need her.
Marco: What, you just want to get laid?
C: No, it's not like that.
Marco: You sure?}
+Should I Stay or Should I Go?

+ Celebrating Our Family of Little Post Whores

{The AA Family is definitely of the dysfunctional order; even the name itself speaks of addiction problems. The family matriarch, examples herself as the mayor's drunken socialite wife who doesn't know who her children's daddies are, but suspects it's of the celebrity variety, and no one really knows where her husband aka The Mayor hides himself (he's most likely avoiding his crazy wife) as he goes off with his French maid.

Nikki, the oldest daughter, was until recently hiding the identity of her own children’s father; due in part most likely to the fact she was fighting with her mother over that very man, James Franco (Nikki won of course). Nikki had six children with him, not even including the two she adopted. The 2nd oldest in the family is Jen, who would be best described as the “fun” aunt. Whenever Nikki is away, and Jen is left in charge, they know how they can get away with being naughty, with her two kids along to help. Youngest is Callie, who could be more considered one of the children of the family as she causes problems along with the rest of them. When she is seen, it’s mostly hanging out with Leigh, her cousin. Leigh’s parents (Nicole’s sister/brother in law) left Leigh to live with Nicole since she had a huge mansion that needed more filling up, so that is where she spent most of her time, right along side Callie as they wander around.

Then we have all nine of the grandchildren. Kathy, Nikki’s oldest, would be considered the wise and most well behaved one of the family, even though everyone has their moments. Next in line is Katie, followed by her twin Michele. They are mostly causing problems over at the neighbors, making sure their dirtiness is intact. Speaking of the neighbors, Joa, claimed to be Katie’s soul mate, was recently adopted by Nikki after being the best friend of the family, who hung out at our house (almost) as much as her own but being from the outside she likes to cause problem. The newest adoptee is Mal, who barely ever even comes and visits. The youngest trouble-some twins are Ria and Diana. They were the original pair to misbehave in the family, even though Diana was also the leader of that. Ria still likes to try and keep everyone on track. Jen’s youngest, Carli, started followed Diana (and Ria) around, so you could say she was their almost triplet at one point, before both her and Diana headed off to college and barely drop by for a visit anymore because they seem to be too busy with their new friends. And that brings us to Mel, Jen’s oldest daughter, who was away at college for some time when she wasn’t up to speed with the family ways, but she’s changed her ways and comes to visit much more when bringing her insight in. Plus we can’t forget the nosey neighbor, Vince, who drops by unexpected, and for the most part unwelcome to a degree. He also became part of the family, as a brother-in-law, but after so many triangles and OTP’s, it’s hard to keep track with who the happy couple is now days. But after everything, the AA's will always remain a family}

Inside Jokes...Every Family Has Them

{Every couple might have a special "place"
but as AA's we came up with the one place
perfect for Crash,
t h e s h o w e r}+++

{Proof that Craig & Ashley had fun,
and were meant for each other,
matching stuffed animals
(of course Craig teased Ashley...
before she found out about his}

{Every couple, no matter how long they have been ignored,
should get the c h a n c e to have some type of scene
and instead of settling for some measely crumbs (ie High Fidelity)
we like something more...
in the form of a cupcake!}

{During Craig's late night
visits to Ashley's bedroom, he
found himself tripping over the
Kerwin's garden gnome,quite a problem
if he wanted to serenade her outside her window.}

The Anti-Season Six Snowman
Greg and Smashley

++{You’re every present I never got.
You’re every wish that never came true.
You’re every prayer that went unanswered.
So, baby I’ll spend Christmas with you.
With you.
So, baby I’ll spend Christmas with you.}++

Our Reasons (along with others) on why Craig and Ashley are Star-Crossed

++{Something 'bout the way you shine
And when the lights go out
I wanna make you mine
Somethin bout the way it seems
You're always here, in my dreams
When there's noone there no I'm not scared
But I'm in love
With you}++

#1 Powercouple

++{I don't know if you'll
forgive me
For being so blind to how you felt
Don't ask me why I couldn't see it
And that'd take me years to figure out
And that's not something I know much about
But there's only one way to find out
Yeah, yeah, yeah
What I know
Is that I hurt you, oh
What I know is that I suck
And what I know is that I'm sorry
What I know is that I'm a loser, yeah
What I know is I screwed up and then I never earned your trust
And what I know
Is that everything I touch
Just turns to dust}++

Popgurls.com interview with Jake Epstein: Which girl would you pick? Can you tell me?
Jake: Personally? Ashley. I mean, honestly, I never understood the Manny/Craig relationship.
I just think the two characters wouldn't go well together in real life.

The-N.com podcast with Jake Epstein:
So the question I'm sure you've been asked a million times; If it were you, Jake Epstein,
choosing between the characters of Manny, Ellie, or Ashley, who would it be?
That's a good question. I would say Ashley. I always liked the character Ashley, from the beginning.
Cause I think I related to her, with all the music stuff and the kinda goth phase she went through. I'd say Ashley!

Post from the Exec:
{"I got a great Crash package in the mail a while back
with 60 reasons for Craig and Ashley to be together,
including 60 individually wrapped reasons--
which we've hung up on the wall leading to the studio
and the cafeteria so all the writers and actors can check them out!!"}

To Whom It May Concern, This is a project put together by fans of the Craig and Ashley relationship from the Degrassi board at fanforum.com, in order to make known that we are standing by the couple and would like to see more of their story. Enclosed in this package is 64 bags, one for each thread the fans (The Angsty Artists) have on the forum, with plastic rings and a slip of paper with one of our thread titles along with a quote from fans that have signed the petition we created for our CrAsh (found at this address: Petition Spot - Make Free Online Petitions. The bags are intended to be reminiscent of how Craig kept the ring he proposed to Ashley with in Voices Carry; the episode originally aired in November, thus the reason we are sending it now. Granted, we are not sure what your plans are for the future, but please keep the Craig/Ashley relationship in mind. Many fans feel that they were not given proper closure, especially given the gravity of their history and love. Their relationship has meant a lot to us, and what follows is a series of testimonies from the fans that frequent the Angsty Artists thread at Fan Forum.

++{Through the mud and the dirt
All the tears and the hurt
It seared and it burned, and I cried
Through the mud and the dirt
All the tears and the hurt
It seared and it burned, and I died
There was nothing at all
No, nothing at all
There was only a dream of you (only a dream of you)
There was nothing at all
No, nothing at all
Till your promise exploded through}++

Now to answer the conflicted question of just how did those pants end up on the lamp?



Nicole's Theory
"Okay, Jake, you're in your boxers for this scene. Just drape them on the bed or something alright?" Some important person on set says.

"Oooh, this is the scene where I don't wear pants. What is up with that? This is the second time that I've lost my pants," Jake says.

"It's symbolism. You know how deep Degrassi is. Lose your pants, lose your mind," Melissa states with a nod.

Jake does a silly stripper dance, which includes ripping his belt off with flourish. He then daintily drapes his pants over the lamp.

"Nice, Jake. Nice personal touch," Melissa observes.

"This episode has made me feel so freeeee! I get to take off my clothes, I get to trash a room. It's been fantastic!" Jake says.

"Why don't I ever get to trash a room or take off my clothes for the show?" Melissa says.

"Why doesn't she get to take off her clothes...for the wholesome purpose of the show, of course," Jake agrees. He glances around and then picks up the condoms on the bedside table. "Can I have these when we are done filming?"

------------------------------------------------

Kathy's Theory
1. This does not make sense.
2. I wanted to be as outlandish as possible.

Craig and Ashley are in the moment of passion. As each second passes their need to consummate their relatoinship grows stronger. Suddenly, the room starts to shake. As hot and heavy as Crash were, they were not the reason the room was shaking. No, it was zombies who were emerging from their grave RIGHT UNDER THE HOTEL that caused this random earthquake. Of course, Crash didn't care. The shaking just added please to their expierience. However, they were both still fully clothed and that needed to change. As zombies approached their lovenest Ashley did some quick thinking. She yanked Craig's pants off both for her need and to save the world; she threw the pants on the lamp, creating darkness. The zombies passed over Crash's room, allowing them to *fully* enjoy each other's company.

------------------------------------------------

Nikki's Theory
Craig and Ashley were intensely kissing after they slept together. Ashley interrupts, says: "Now I know that you wear boxers and not briefs". Craig jokes that she could've known earlier, but bets to see if she can guess his pants size? Ashley moves to find his pants, cheating in a sense. But Craig throws them away, and they stick on the lamp. She says fine, she can't guess, and Craig says his prize is picking a movie for them to watch. That's why Craig's going through the channels on the hotel TV.

------------------------------------------------

Leigh's Theory
My theory is that Craig was so excited the he just threw his clothes off without even caring where they landed. I have to wonder where he had to go find his shirt? Did that land on the lamp? Did he toss it across the room? Did he even take it off? It really makes you wonder.

------------------------------------------------

Katie's Theory I think as craig and ashley were kissing, craig leaned to go on top but then ash flipped him over so she was on top, ripped off his pants and threw them, they ended up on the lamp and then they obviously banged for a long time...orrr i think that after crash stopped kissing, ash flipprd craig up on his head and proceded to take of his pants, didn't know where to throw them so threw them up on the lamp, his boxers landed on the tv and her panties in his teeth..

------------------------------------------------

Ria's Theory
Well everyone knows that Nicole is a little crazy so while we planned our road trip to kidnap Jake and Mel, Nicole snuck along for the ride without us knowing. And while we hid Make in the closet, Nicole snuck off and found the set of VC. Being completly deserted by everything frantically trying to find Jake and Mel, she decided to have a little bit of fun. Eating the food, jumping on the bed and that is when she came across Jake's pants. Being her normal self, she wondered what size he was, but when she heard a noise from outside, she threw the pants up in the air, they landed on the lamp and she spent the rest of filming hiding under the bed. And we left, so we're not quite sure how she got back. But at least we know how those pants got there, it's one mystery down, another one to go.

{C: But I’m your Craig.
A: Yeah you are and you know what,
you’re just as important to me as he is.
So get dressed. You’re coming with me}
+Voices Carry

+ Fan Testimonials

{A: Just love all those curls.
C: You like my curls?
A: Yeah.
C: No, I like your hair better.
A: Yours is better.
C: No, I like yours better.
A: Yours is better.
C: I like you.
A: I like you}
+Father Figure

When did you first start shipping CrAsh?

{I knew from the minute Ash was sitting on Craig's lap in Father Figure that they were going to be my new favorite couple. Previously I had always prefered Jimmy/Ashley, so in season 2 I was kind of biased against them, but how could you not ship them after seeing how cute they were? - Ria}

{After I started liking Crellie over Cranny in season five, I found that I lot of reasons I used in Crellie's defense could also apply to CrAsh. And I just started to respect them more. And then when I compared the Cranny reunion in season five to the CrAsh reunion in season four, it really showed just what girl Craig really loves and appreciates the most. Another thing I realized about CrAsh is that while Craig kept both Ellie and Manny in his life because that way he could have the friendship aspect and the romance aspect, he had both of those in Ashley. And as I started to compare them to Cranny's status more and more, it really showed just how strong CrAsh's relationship really was.

But even before all this, while I was still filled with hatred over the couple and convinced I would never like them, I had made two CrAsh videos. One very positive and another semi-positive. As I made them, I couldn't help but have several positive thoughts about the couple. - Melanie}

{I first started shipping Crash during season 3. I thought they were pretty cute before SISOSIG, but once the dreaded triangle began, I realized how much I was pushing for Crash to stay together. Once RRHS aired, I was completely hooked and I've been smitten ever since. - Jen}

{I've always liked the characters Craig and Ashley and I'm fairly certain that while watching Season 2 I had the realization that these are two teens that probably would interact and date in real life. I supported them enough while watching Season 3 to be slightly upset at the triangle. When the-n started airing commercials that hinted a Crash reunion, I felt myself getting excited. I'm not normally a shipper, but I think you could call me one once I finished watching GITM. Season 4 was the season of the Crash and that has been the only time I've ever looked forward to episodes so much. - Nicole}

{The first time I started shipping them was when I saw SISOSIG. I really enjoyed seeing how important it was for Craig to be with Ashley. The second time I started to shipping them was when I saw the looks they shared in High Fidelty, instead of giving Ashley a dirty look for staying in England and hooking up with Ali Craig just smiled and waved at her. - Leigh}

{I believe it was Dressed in Black. Which was one of my first episodes - Callie}

{I started shipping CrAsh the first time I saw RRHS on the-N. I always liked them before, in DIB, and especially in TANE, but RRHS just confirmed to me that I cared whether or not they got back together. Of course, I was pulling for them. - Nikki}

{A: I, I can't marry you yet. But I want to. I do.
C: So that's a someday?
A: That's a yes}
+Voices Carry

Why do you think they will get back together again?

{I feel it's the Craig ship that has gotten the most romantic development. The writers haven't made the effort to have Craig speak badly of Ash, or vice versa. GDTR was more of a cliffhanger ep than final closure imo. - Nikki}

{I suppose I'm fairly optimistic that they have a chance. I think/hope that Crash package will influence the writers to at least have them interact next season. I think Cranny is pretty much done for good and though Crellie will probably be dealt with first if Jake came back, since Crash has so much more history and a bigger fan base, I would think/hope that they would eventually move back to Crash. - Lindsey}

{Their story is not over. Things ended so abruptly because of Melissa's absence during season 5 and now that she's come back, it seems the writers have a severe case of amnesia. Ashley's absence has not been addressed whatsoever and there is still so much unsaid about the dissolving of their relationship. The relationships that they have been in since do not even compare to the love that Crash had. Ashley and Jimmy are completely void of any substance and have lost any charm that they may have had during the first couple seasons. Craig and Manny are still the fluffy, predictable and immature couple they've always been. Craig and Ellie lack the passion, intensity and romantic feelings that Crash have for each other. It's unfortunate that Craig and Ashley have been paired with other characters that ultimately hinder their character development. If Melissa and Jake's schedules allow, and if the writers are willing to carefully plan a well thought-out reunion, there is no doubt in my mind that Craig and Ashley could have a believable reunion and return to the former power couple status that they once had. - Jen}

{Because they never got proper closure, and things were left in the air, where so much can happen. The writers also know the fans want it, and can't ignore CrAsh for much longer. - Callie}

{Well I have no idea how long that would take. But if they do, it would definitely be after holding onto a strong significant friendship. Ashley was once like Craig's bestfriend, and I can see that being the case again. And then after a while, they'll finally admit their true feelings, and that'll be it. They have an undeniable bond that goes beyond both friendship and romance, if that makes any sense. Anyways, I'm confident that's how it would happen. It's very realistic. - Melanie}

{If Crash was reunited, it would benefit both Craig and Ashley's character development. Craig has abandonment issues and to have someone come back into his life that he feels left him and was deeply affected by, it help him. His father cannot come back so the next best person is Ashley. Ashley has had a long history of avoiding things, bringing Craig back into her life might force her to deal with that. It would be a way to bring the show back around to individuals and not just couples drama. - Nicole}

{I think they will get back together again because they were the only people to ever really get each other, the complement each other, they have amazing chemistry. I think that they both love each other more then anyone else, I think that the feelings will always be there no matter who their with and that the feelings will always come back. They just fit and go well together, they balance each other out and I think they definitly have that stating power, they are each others true loves. - Katie }

{Because Crash, along with the fans, got the one of the worst "closure" of any Degrassi couple. An email break up will not do it for me or anyone else. And when you have non-fans/haters saying their closure sucked and that they deserve something, you know something is wrong. Plus they keep giving them very sutble you'd have to be obsessed with Crash to figure out hints that they are not over. I mean Ash mentioning him in HF, the wave, and then her sitting front row at his concert? Yeah it's still there and going strong, just on idle for a little while. - Ria}

{Because the writers love reunions and they must know that there are ton of CrAsh fans out there. There is so much they could do with these two. - Leigh}

{Wait, what?! They're not together? Sorry I think I fell asleep half way through GDTR part 1... Kidding. I guess the obvious answer is, because they're meant to be and it's right. - Teeka}

{C: Look. I hurt Ashley and the fact that she's even willing to look at me,
I'm not screwing that up again. So you can flirt with me and people can say
whatever but the fact is I love your niece.
A: Thought you only said that at airports?
C: I'm not staying here long. I just came to give you this. It's a hotel room key. It's for later.
If you need a place to go}
+ Voices Carry

What is the moment you can watch over and over again without getting sick of?

{Mrs. Kerwin: Craig broke my daughter's heart.
A: And I forgave him.
Mrs. Kerwin: Ashley I feel like we just put you back together again.
A: Look mom. I'm really happy so you're just gonna have to be happy for me}
+ Voices Carry

{Dr. Manning: Life's not fair and you're right Joey is better for you.
This way you can kiss your potential goodbye,
settle for some interesting little goth girl-
C: Don't talk about Ashley like that!}
+Tears Are Not Enough

What do you feel CrAsh brings to the show Degrassi and TV as a whole that makes them fresh and unique?

{C: Hey! What you got in here?
A: Every shoe I own. Hey. *They kiss* You know I thought this whole goodbye thing was gonna be so hard.
I'm so glad you're here and you surprised me}
+Going Down the Road

What is one thing you would change about how their relationship ended?

{You are everything Ash}
+Craig in Voices Carry




+ Reasons NOT to give up hope: They're so not over



Ten
The Wave In High Fidelity


It was telling that they included Ashley in the HF wave, when they could've focused on Cranellie, which they did all throughout s5. Including Ashley when she didn't have to be there at all shows that the writers still made an effort to include an aspect of Crash and that it wasn't completely forgotten. Plus, the editing where they cut directly to Ashley after showing Craig could be interpreted as foreshadowing. On this show, it's been more stubble than that in the past.

Nine

They aren't over because their characters still have room to grow and they would do that best with each other. Craig has deep rooted abandonment issues, to have someone come back into his life that he feels left him would help him in the long run. The best person to do that would be his father. Since his father is dead, the next best is Ashley. By dealing with Craig, Ashley would be forced to deal with her avoident tendencies.

Eight

Cranny was never developed as a stand-alone couple, and neither was Jimash. They scream convenience. Crellie, probably the biggest obstacle, doesn't have the history, even if they're the last Craig ship to exist on the show. Craig or Ashley have not show the determination to be with Jimmy or Ellie/Manny as they have shown in their relationship with each other. The writers have not given any of the other couples the same attention, patience and respect they've given to CrAsh.

Seven

The writers never closed the book on CrAsh. They've never indicated that Craig got over Ashley, or that Ashley doesn't have any feelings over Craig. It's all been speculation. The last we heard of Craig's opinion of Ashley was in Venus, and he was still completely in love with her then. He seemed to move on because he had no choice, but that doesn't mean his feelings for Ashley went away. Ashley seems to be running from all of her past problems, so it would be completely believable if she were hiding her true feelings for Craig. The potential for the feelings to resurface is high.

Six

This is a show where two people who spoke one word to each other over 3 years reunite and consider going to college together after a brief 3 month relationship. TPTP are reunion!happy, putting Crash back together (or much less acknowledging they exist) would not be braking any rules they haven't already broken.

Five

CrAsh fans are amongst the most dedicated, active fan bases within the Degrassi community. We've stuck by Crash through the ups and the downs. Our couple has not been active for over 2 years now and we're still just as strong. We aren't going anywhere and the writers know that. They have a tendency to want to please their fans.

Four

Joey and Caitlin broke up in the same two-parter Crash did. They did not even try to hide the similarities in how both Craig and Joey felt the same way about Ashley and Caitlin respectively. They are getting the same "pretend they never existed" treatment as Crash did and they were the most important couple of the entire franchise. Their impact on the show has not been erased because they are not part of the show now, the same rule can apply to Crash.

Three

TPTP love their parallels to the old series. In Holiday, Crash were in the Jaitlin role from "School's Out." Their first times were very similar. There are many small hints to remind the audience that Craig and Ashley are the intended couple to follow in Joey and Caitlin's footsteps. In the majority of Jaitlin's episodes Crash is not far behind. If Jaitlin were ever to return to the series, Crash would continue to follow.

Two

Diana and the rest of the AA's worked so hard to put the Crash package together in order to be heard. Many other fanbases followed in our footsteps but the executive producer only mentioned two: Crash and Sean/Emma (a favored couple by the writers). It was a relief to learn that it was received and everyone in the studio knows we exist. Plus, the writers might get some inspiration from it as the walk to their office.

One

They do angst the best. They do the love story the best. They do light hearted moments best. They feel the most realistic out of all the pairings. They dominated a majority of the seasons they existed and the writers usually return to the couples that took place in the spotlight. They are the only couple to be labeled Degrassi's #1 power couple by a direct media source. The way they were written shows that they were intended to be endgame, let's hope the writers follow through!

The Greatest Crash Moments


+ The Angsty Artists voted from a list of the most significant Crash moments and here are the best of the best:

The Top 5 Angsty Moments

5. Neither Craig nor Ashley understands what's going on with Craig and his rollercoaster of emotions. Finally Craig reaches his breaking point and starts attacking Joey. As Ashley rushes in to try and find Craig, she sees his meltdown and helps pull him off Joey. Craig instantly grabs Ashley for comfort and as she pulls away, the tears start flowing. Together they kneel down on the ground and with their foreheads pressed together, Ashley tells him that they're going to get him help. It was heart wrenching and beautiful all at the same time.

4. Craig and Ashley still haven't dealt with his infidelity. Craig's trying to move on, but Ashley can't just forgive and forget. She goes out of her way to make sure he understands just how much pain he caused her, but Craig still didn't quite get it. Finally asking what he can do and how many times does he have to say he's sorry, Ashley responds "Until you mean it." This line is filled with all the hurt, heartache, angst and determination that Ashley has been feeling for months and it's the exact line that finally knocks some sense into Craig.

3. Craig made a huge mistake by cheating on Ashley, but at the time he didn't realize just how big a mistake it actually was. Ashley was also unaware of what exactly was going on behind her back until the news of Craig's infidelity is eventually broken to her. After finding out that Craig had been cheating on her, there was no way that Ashley could go on stage and perform a Christmas song about spending the holidays together. All of her pain was released through one giant slap that the entire school saw and that Craig was most definitely feeling for weeks to come.

2. This moment was inevitable due to Melissa McIntyre's leaving Degrassi, but for Craig, for Ashley and for the AA's, the pain was almost too much to bear. Ashley decides to leave for England and tells Craig that he can't come with her. It's a moment that still hasn't been resolved, but angst is what these two do best. An ending between these two without tears and heartache, would not be a Crash-worthy ending.

1. After a disastrous engagement announcement to Ashley's family, Craig and Ashley are torn apart. Nothing epitomizes the complete and utter angst that Craig and Ashley are feeling at this moment more than the vision of the two of them bawling simultaneously. As an inner battle between pain, confusion, need and yearning consumes the couple, the tears say it all. Even though they're apart, the connection that they have at this moment shows just how much they truly need each other

The Top Five Eye Sex Moments

5. It's a new season and a new start for old flames. Unexpectedly for the fans, Ashley bumps into Craig in the hallway and while Craig assumes Ashley decorated his locker for his birthday, Ashley is unable to speak. Rather than using words to reconnect with Craig, she is unable to do anything but stare. Craig returns her gaze as she slowly backs away. This powerful eye contact provided hope for fans of the couple and truly was a new start from the painful events of the previous year.

4. Ashley stood up to her family by bringing Craig to the wedding with her. In front of the entire wedding party and guests, Ashley mouthed the words "I love you" to Craig. An immediate flicker of excitement and pure bliss is displayed as Craig and Ashley stare deep into each other's eyes. Sure Craig's not exactly acting like himself and Kate is standing there frowning at their connection, but nothing takes away from the pure warmth and tenderness of this moment.

3. One of the biggest milestones in Crash's relationship was when Ashley decided to stick by her man after finding out about his life-altering illness. After reaffirming their love for each other, they lay still on Craig's hospital bed; hands clasped and gazed deep into each other's eyes. The freeze frame at the end of this episode exemplified the deep longing that their eyes exhibited even further.

2. It seemed unlikely midway through season 3 that Craig would ever be able to gain Ashley's forgiveness, but a song of honesty changed all that. Craig sang his heart out like there was no one else in the room, but Ashley. Ashley returned Craig's intense gaze and her eyes said "I forgive you". This was a scene that truly showed Craig and Ashley would eventually be able to move past all the dishonesty and heartache. It gave hope for the future.

The Top 10 Squee-Worthy Moments

10. Craig hasn't been dealing with his father's death very well. Until the year-end dance he had been trying to ignore what happened, which is why he keeps his date with Ashley and enters them in the Luau King and Queen Contest. After winning the contest, Craig has a complete breakdown. Saddened by what Craig was going through, Ashley turns towards the doors and is about to leave. At that moment Craig shows up and walks slowly towards her. They share a beautiful last dance, as Craig tells Ashley that he's doing better, thus becoming one of Degrassi's newest couples.

9. As troubled times had caused Ashley to doubt herself and who she was, she began to change back into the person she used to be. This change didn't come through self-realization though; it came from the want of others. While most people welcomed Ashley's old appearance, Craig made it very clear that it's important to be who you are and to not change yourself for anyone because if they really loved her, they wouldn't want her to change. This was one of the first scenes where a real connection could be established between Craig and Ashley.

#2

by Kim Carnes
+She's precocious, and she knows just
What it takes to make a pro blush
All the boys think she's a spy
She's got Bette Davis eyes///

{With this ring, I thee wed.}

Cat Included, see conversation:
Craig: "I saw the coolest thing on an informercial last night. An automatic cat litter box."
Ashley: "I'm not putting it on the wedding registry. We don't have a cat, Craig."
Nicole: "Everyone should have a cat."
Craig: "Come on Ash, you don't have to scoop the poop. It does it for you!"
Ashley: "You don't think it would scare the cat? Ever used one of those toilets that flush automatically and you don't know it's about to flush?"
Nicole: "It waits for the cat to finish."
Craig: "How does it know?"
Nicole: "It just does. Let's go get a cat."
Craig: "Yay for kitties!"
Ashley: "But we don't have a litter box."
Craig: "We'll get a regular one."
Ashley: "What was the purpose of this conversation then?"