Jackson Braddock (Gale Harold) is Susan's boyfriend throughout the fifth season. He is briefly introduced at the end of the fourth season finale, which flashforwards five years into the future. The couple continues dating in the fifth season. The origins of their relationship are explained in a flashback in "Mirror, Mirror", in which Susan, having just divorced Mike, engages in casual sex with Jackson, her house painter. Initially, Susan insists on keeping their relationship a secret. However, Mike and M.J. soon learn of the relationship and are both supportive. Jackson sustains serious injuries in a nightclub fire after Dave Williams, who set the fire, traps him in the club's restroom. After recovering, Jackson decides to move to Riverton and pursue a career opportunity at a college in Riverton and invites Susan to come with him. Susan ultimately decides not to go with him. Jackson returns later in the season and asks Susan to marry him, as his visa has expired and he must marry an American citizen to avoid being deported to Canada. Dave fears that Jackson could inform police of his involvement in the club fire and reports him to immigration officials. Jackson is subsequently deported.