Laurie Admits to Feeling 'Pressured' by Eli's Family in 'Forbidden Love' Preview
If your significant other is close to their family, earning the approval of their parents is a stress unlike any other–something Laurie and Eli have come to experience in the latest episode of TLC's new reality dating series, Forbidden Love.
The new series, which only premiered this month, follows four couples with extremely different views on faith as they navigate their relationships in hopes that they can take them to the next level.
In an exclusive preview of an upcoming episode shared with Parade, the couple meets with Eli's mom and dad to observe Hanukkah as a family. It's also the first time Laurie, an ex-Catholic preparing to convert to the Jewish faith, will celebrate Hanukkah. She explains that the situation makes her "nervous," especially in the wake of a recent interaction she shared with her boyfriend's mother.
"After going wig shopping with your mom, I feel pressured to be a good Jew," Laurie, 36, shared, hinting that struggles she's faced while converting to her boyfriend's religion could challenge her relationship with his family.
Although Laurie doesn't have a chance to get into detail before the clip cuts to the couple arriving at Eli's parents' home, an official description of the third episode teases that "Eli's mom questions Laurie's dedication to Orthodox Judaism."
His mother's uncertainty about Laurie doesn't appear to have affected Eli, 32, as he quickly reassured her that she shouldn't "be nervous" and the family gathering will be "fun." When Laurie doubts her knowledge of the language, admitting she "lip-syncs" the words to religious songs and prayers, Eli is ready with another supportive pep talk.
"You're learning, though," he said with reassurance, joking, "You just go by the juice. You'll just smell the melody behind it."
"The train wreck the track."
To see what happens between Laurie, Eli, and his mom, tune in to TLC on Sunday, Aug. 4, at 10 p.m. EST or stream via Discovery+.