Rick and Morty season 8 isn’t far away, and with the official trailer dropping, the series looks like it has finally answered a critical question about the protagonists’ relationship. Having become one of the most iconic duos in modern television, Rick and Morty have remained on our screens for well over a decade, with their adventures only getting crazier over the years. While season 7’s finale really tested their dynamic, Rick and Morty’s relationship won’t change much in season 8 based on what the teasers have shown, but it looks like it will see one significant improvement.

Despite there being a clear amount of care for one another, the balance between the duo has always been off, as Rick’s genius intellect and experience with other dimensions have made him much more apathetic and emotionless. In comparison, Morty has often worn his heart on his sleeve and clearly looks up to his grandfather, creating questions about whether their feelings are equal or if Rick feels Morty is replaceable. Morty’s new-found independence in season 7 seemed like it would potentially further this conversation, but a subtle detail from season 8’s trailer suggests Rick does in fact love his grandson.

Rick Instinctively Using His Portal Gun To Protect Morty Shows How Much Their Relationship Has Grown

Rick Has Become Much More Selfless & Cares More About His Grandson Than Ever

Season 8’s trailer offered plenty of fun action sequences and wacky story promises, but one of its most subtle details may also be its most important. During a clip from Rick and Morty season 8’s Easter episode, the protagonists face off against enemies wearing Christian armor, who subsequently attack the тιтular characters. As Rick quickly pulls out his weapon, his other hand simultaneously shoots a portal beneath Morty, which gets him to safety. Rick has frequently helped protect Morty, but instinctively saving his grandson before attempting to defend himself highlights how much their relationship has grown over the years.

In seasons gone by, Rick would still have attempted to save Morty, but his focus would probably have been on killing his enemies, not looking out for his loved one. Considering the show has focused on how many Ricks mistreat their Mortys in alternate dimensions, the fact our main version of Rick has become so close to his grandson is telling. The duo may still argue and have different moral stances during their adventures, but this blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment is a sign that Rick cares deeply for Morty and will selflessly put himself in harm’s way to rescue him.

Rick Defending Morty Feels Even Bigger After Season 7’s Finale

Season 7’s Final Episode Highlighted That Morty’s Biggest Fear Was Feeling Like He Doesn’t Matter To Rick

Rick’s instinctive decision to defend Morty already feels wholesome, but the fact that it comes after their fear hole experience makes it even more impactful. Season 7’s finale saw Morty face his biggest fear inside the hole, and after essentially a lifetime of dealing with his phobia, he discovered what truly worried him the most – being unloved. The idea that Rick didn’t care for him deeply troubled Morty, and while he seemed to eventually make peace with the fact it could be true, season 8’s portal gun moment proves that’s not the case.

On multiple occasions, Rick has highlighted that he does love Morty despite some actions suggesting otherwise, but putting Morty’s safety first shows he could never replace his grandson. Sure, there are plenty of other Mortys out there, but the original one is who Rick loves the most, and he will always risk his life for him. Exploring this complicated aspect of their relationship is what made “Fear No Mort” one of Rick and Morty‘s best finales, and expanding on this traumatic episode by further showcasing their unbreakable bond suggests season 8 will be full of subtle yet significant character moments.

Rick Has Grown A Lot After Defeating Rick Prime

Despite His Eccentric Personality, He Has Become More At Peace

After spending multiple seasons trying to kill Rick Prime, Rick finally succeeded, but defeating his enemy risked having a negative effect on him. Without Rick Prime, there was the possibility of Rick feeling left without a purpose or potentially unfulfilled, suggesting he could have become more hostile. However, he actually seems more at peace and willing to help others. Season 8’s early footage indicated that his upcoming adventures would also involve Summer, the two Beths, and even Jerry, meaning that he has far more time for his family after ending his Rick Prime obsession that had consumed his life.

While he will undoubtedly still be his usual grouchy and sarcastic self, Rick may be more open-minded and up for adventure in season 8, potentially embracing more of his chaotic side. As a result, Rick and Morty looks set to be even more exciting upon its return and Rick could have one of his best outings yet if he is able to maintain this side of his personality. The return of the Citadel could still have an impact on him, but without Rick’s most bitter enemy in his life, he appears to have gained closure and looks truly free.