From The OC to The Good Place: TV's Most Unforgettable Romances
Television has gifted audiences with some of the most memorable love stories, from the sparks flying during The OC's Spider-Man snog to tales so powerful they bring viewers to tears. Guardian writers have selected the television couples whose narratives consistently make hearts pound, celebrating the chemistry, depth, and emotional resonance that define these iconic pairings.
Seth and Summer in The OC
While the premise of a nerdy teen boy winning over the queen bee he has adored since childhood may not be groundbreaking, Seth and Summer's romance in The OC transcends clichés through undeniable on-screen chemistry. Their journey spans four seasons of dramatic breakups and grand reunions, anchored by sarcastic banter and a palpable physical spark, most notably their unforgettable Spiderman kiss. Beyond the humor, their relationship showcases genuine care and friendship, helping both characters mature into promising adults. Watching them navigate insecurities and poor choices offers a comforting reflection on the emotional turmoil of adolescence, reminding viewers of the teen longing for someone who would declare love from a coffee cart or wait through a summer of sea otter activism.
Mae and George in Feel Good
Mae and George from Feel Good represent a hilarious and tender portrayal of queer love, breaking away from sitcom stereotypes. As an odd couple who are wrong in practice but right at the soul level, their relationship is marked by sweetness, intensity, and authenticity. From George saving Mae's name as "Corn" due to her hair texture to their early kiss in the first episode, their connection feels real and profound. Over twelve episodes, Mae transitions, confronts her past, and avoids mainstream comedy pitfalls, all while maintaining her bond with George. Their story concludes under a tartan blanket in Canada, dreaming of ice fishing in Norway and discussing photosynthesis, encapsulating pure romance.
Sun and Jin in Lost
Sun and Jin's love story in Lost remains a tearjerker, enhanced by the show's emotional score. Initially, Jin's controlling behavior and Sun's hidden English fluency create tension, but flashbacks reveal a complex history of honor and tradition. Jin evolves into the husband Sun deserves, just as they expect a baby, offering a groundbreaking portrayal that overturns Asian stereotypes. Their beach kiss, after a season of yearning, stands as a classic Hollywood moment, though their tragic end in a sinking submarine—clasping hands after a heartfelt goodbye—leaves a lasting impact, reminding viewers that great love stories often encompass both joy and sorrow.
Dawn and Tim in The Office
In the mockumentary The Office, Dawn Tinsley and Tim Canterbury embody unrequited soulmates, bonding over eye-rolls at their boss and winding up colleagues. Their workplace crush thrives on unspoken longing, especially with Dawn engaged to the boorish Lee. The climax arrives in the Christmas finale when Dawn receives a Secret Santa gift of oil paints and a sketch from Tim, inspiring her to break off the engagement and kiss him at the office party. As Yazoo's Only You plays, this relatable moment of triumph resonates with anyone who has experienced the pangs of a hidden crush.
Bill and Frank in The Last of Us
Amid the brutality of The Last of Us, Bill and Frank's romance in the episode Long, Long Time shines as a beacon of beauty. Through flashbacks, misanthropic survivalist Bill finds solace with the extroverted Frank, building an idyllic life of gardening, wine, and art. Their love transforms a fortified home into a sanctuary, with Bill expressing newfound fear of loss. As Frank succumbs to illness, they choose to end their lives together, exemplifying finding love in a hopeless place and showcasing the power of domestic bliss against a backdrop of horror.
Fleabag and the Hot Priest
The tragic romance between Fleabag and the priest in Fleabag thrives on white-hot chemistry and vulnerability. Their connection develops through flirty chats and shared adoration for Winnie the Pooh, with the priest being the only one to notice when Fleabag breaks the fourth wall. While their relationship is short-lived, it allows Fleabag to embrace vulnerability, highlighting the universal desire to be seen and accepted. This doomed love story captivates with its intensity and emotional depth.
Charles, Sebastian, and Julia in Brideshead Revisited
ITV's 1981 adaptation of Brideshead Revisited presents a sumptuous heartbreaker centered on Charles Ryder's infatuation with the Flyte siblings. Their love story intertwines Catholicism and self-sacrifice, as the trio clings to faith while their hopes dwindle. This portrayal of doomed romance and youthful despair resonates deeply, offering a poignant exploration of love, loss, and spiritual conflict.
Hal and Kate Wyler in The Diplomat
In The Diplomat, Kate and Hal Wyler's relationship blends rivalry and affection, set against a backdrop of political intrigue. As the only people who can keep up with each other, their bond is marked by tender, telepathic moments amidst global crises. Their love occasionally breaks through the competition, illustrating a complex partnership built on mutual understanding and emotional intelligence.
David and Patrick in Schitt's Creek
Schitt's Creek delivers a moving queer romance between David and Patrick, balancing humor and sincerity. David's pansexuality and Patrick's growing confidence in his queerness create a supportive dynamic, with Patrick accepting every part of David. Their sweet, honest relationship serves as an antidote to often tragic portrayals of queer love, celebrated through unique renditions of songs and heartfelt moments.
Niles and Daphne in Frasier
Niles and Daphne's romance in Frasier evolves from comically unrequited love to a heartfelt connection. Starting with Niles's awe at Daphne folding laundry, their journey includes erotic tango dancing and poignant unsaid words. After years of yearning, their kiss marks a turning point, though their relationship faces challenges post-elopement. This sitcom romance masterfully blends humor and pathos, leaving viewers captivated by their emotional depth.
Woody and Lol in This is England
In This is England '90, Woody and Lol's wedding amidst trauma highlights their love as a stabilizing force within a dysfunctional friend group. Their relationship provides stillness and equilibrium, earning a righteously happy ending that feels both earned and emotional, showcasing love's power to endure chaos.
JD and Turk in Scrubs
Scrubs redefines platonic love through JD and Turk's bromance, treating their friendship with the narrative weight of a romantic relationship. Their bond, marked by jealousy, commitment, and vulnerability, challenges stereotypes of straight male friendships. By embracing emotional expression without irony, the show celebrates the depth and care required in platonic love.
Angie and Will in Will Trent
Angie and Will's relationship in Will Trent explores how past trauma shapes present connections. Meeting in foster care and now fighting crime together, their bond is narratively rich and lighthearted, offering a counter to toxic love tropes. They rescue each other professionally and emotionally, making for compelling viewing as they navigate complexity.
Chidi and Eleanor in The Good Place
In The Good Place, Chidi and Eleanor's romance blossoms from initial conflict as mismatched souls in the afterlife. Their love helps each other grow—Chidi relaxes, while Eleanor embraces moral philosophy—revealing they choose each other across timelines. This philosophical comedy underscores that the right person can inspire personal transformation.
Angela and Jordan in My So-Called Life
Angela Chase's yearning for Jordan Catalano in My So-Called Life captures the essence of teenage obsession. From Jordan leaning against a locker to publicly taking Angela's hand, their romance, despite its flaws, unleashes a lifelong appreciation for yearning and the raw emotions of first love.
