In the episode “Simple Ways,” the character who develops a crush on Applejack is Trenderhoof, a travel writer. As an expert sommelier and brewer, Trenderhoof is known for his refined taste and sophisticated palate. But when it comes to matters of the heart, he finds himself stumbling over his own words and actions.
Trenderhoof's infatuation with Applejack becomes apparent early in the episode. He becomes enamored with her down-to-earth nature, strong work ethic, and genuine authenticity. However, Applejack does not share the same feelings for him, which leads to some awkward and cringe-worthy moments throughout the episode.
From the beginning, Trenderhoof makes it clear that he wants to be close to Applejack. He hovers around her, constantly seeking her attention and approval. Whether it's offering to help with her chores or showering her with compliments, Trenderhoof goes to great lengths to win her over.
One of the most memorable scenes is when Trenderhoof decides to dress up like Applejack, donning a cowboy hat, boots, and even mimicking her accent. This attempt to impress her backfires, as Applejack finds it insincere and disingenuous. It highlights Trenderhoof's misguided attempts to win her affections and his lack of understanding of who she truly is.
Throughout the episode, Trenderhoof's crush on Applejack becomes more and more obvious to those around him. He becomes the talk of the town, with ponies gossiping about his infatuation. This further complicates matters for Applejack, who just wants to go about her daily life without the added attention.
Despite Applejack's clear disinterest, Trenderhoof remains persistent in his pursuit. He even goes as far as declaring his love for her publicly during the Ponyville Days festival. However, Applejack firmly rejects his advances, making it clear that she values their friendship but does not share his romantic feelings.
Trenderhoof's crush on Applejack serves as a lesson in unrequited love and the importance of respecting someone's boundaries. It highlights the importance of genuine connections and understanding in relationships, rather than superficial infatuation.
Trenderhoof's crush on Applejack adds an element of humor and awkwardness to the episode “Simple Ways.” It showcases the complexities of human emotions and the challenges of navigating romantic feelings in a way that is relatable to viewers.