40 Most-loved on-screen couples in Hollywood TV shows

40 most beloved couple in TV history ((Image via Netflix)
40 most beloved couple in TV history ((Image via Netflix)

TV shows are like an extension of home to most viewers. These shows often encourage emotional bonding for some characters as the viewers relate to certain parts of their lives. Shipping their favorite couple is a very common aspect especially as the viewers watch them go through the ups and downs facing challenges of life.

Watching a beloved couple helps people escape the struggles of real life and vicariously enjoy an idealized romance. Here are some of the most popular TV couples in Hollywood history, known for their chemistry and memorable love stories.


Listing out the 40 most beloved couples from TV Shows in Hollywood

1. Ross and Rachel from Friends

Ross and Rachel (Image via Max)
Ross and Rachel (Image via Max)

"Friends, the popular sitcom, began in 1994 and became an overnight sensation. Ross (David Schwimmer) and Rachel (Jennifer Aniston) accompanied by their friends remained the central focus of the show. Because of the couple’s on-off relationship, viewers often wondered if the couple would end up together. But as fate had it even though they dated other people during the series, Ross and Rachel were always meant to be.


2. Monica and Chandler from Friends

Monica and Chandler (Image via Friends)
Monica and Chandler (Image via Friends)

Monica (Courteney Cox) and Chandler (Matthew Perry) start as best friends in what probably was the most popular show in sitcom history, Friends. These two often help each other deal with romantic and life crises. The show gives the best arc to their relationship, from friends to lovers.

The couple gets married in the season 7 finale episode, after facing their share of challenges and eventually finding their happy ending.


3. Jim and Pam from The Office

Jim and Pam from The Office (Image via The Office)
Jim and Pam from The Office (Image via The Office)

Jim Halpert (John Krasinski) and Pam Beesly’s (Jenna Fischer) romance is amongst the most endearing romances the world has ever seen on television. The Office, which premiered on NBC in 2005, featured Jim and Pam and their relationship as an integral part of the storyline from the pilot episode to the last. But before the couple could find their happy ending, they had to navigate through many challenges accompanied by near misses.


4. Eric and Donna from That 70’s Show

Eric and Donna (Image via That 70’s Show)
Eric and Donna (Image via That 70’s Show)

That 70’s Show aired on FOX in 1998. Since then Eric Forman (Topher Grace) and Donna Pinciotti (Laura Prepon) remain an integral part of the plot of That 70’s Show from the beginning. They start as childhood neighbors, become best friends, and eventually boyfriend and girlfriend.

Throughout the eight seasons, the writers test their relationship in many ways but ultimately the two find a way to make it work and find their happily ever after.


5. Lucy and Ricky from I Love Lucy

Lucy and Ricky (Image via I Love Lucy)
Lucy and Ricky (Image via I Love Lucy)

I Love Lucy first aired on CBS in 1951. The show's main characters, Lucy and Ricky, were played by real-life couple Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Filled with funny moments, mostly from Lucy's attempt to break into show business and Ricky's efforts to keep her grounded, their differences occasionally lead to humorous misunderstandings but also show very well how they balance each other out. The show remains a classic today because of its great performances and clever writing.


6. Meredith and Derek from Grey’s Anatomy

Meredith and Derek (Image via Grey’s Anatomy)
Meredith and Derek (Image via Grey’s Anatomy)

Grey's Anatomy is one of the longest-running television shows ever produced by Shonda Rhimes. Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) and Derek (Patrick Dempsey) have been at the center of the drama, with their on-and-off relationship affecting every major character in some way. Even though the couple’s storyline followed a tragic end following Derek’s death in Season 11 the two are still known to be amongst one of the most treasured couples in the world of TV shows.


7. Carrie and Mr Big from Sex in the City

Carrie and Mr Big (Image via Sex in the City)
Carrie and Mr Big (Image via Sex in the City)

The relationship between Mr. Big (Chris Noth) and Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) has numerous ups and downs. Their relationship continued with the same complications throughout the 2021 revival. Many fans supported their love for over twenty years, but the couple faced a very sad ending with Mr Big’s death due to a heart attack leaving Carrie with grief

They met on the pilot and immediately clicked. This then translated into a whirlwind romance with their own toxic traits.


8. Homer and Marge from The Simpsons

Homer and Marge (Image via The Simpsons)
Homer and Marge (Image via The Simpsons)

Homer and Marge Simpson's marriage on The Simpsons is one of the longest and most cherished on television. Homer and Marge first met in high school. After chasing her around for some time, Homer finally won Marge's heart. Marge stayed with Homer even when he wasn't motivated enough and made several mistakes. They finally married in a small chapel when Marge became pregnant with Bart.

They show unconditional love, humor, and strength despite these differences and the family's troubles.


9. Marshall and Lily from How I Met Your Mother

Marshall and Lily (Image via How I Met Your Mother)
Marshall and Lily (Image via How I Met Your Mother)

The romance between Marshall (Jason Segel) and Lily (Alyson Hannigan) on How I Met Your Mother is classic and enduring. No other character on the show has such a stable and loving relationship. They have been together since they met and fell in love in college. They eventually get married and become parents. Throughout the series, they mostly watch their friends' romantic journeys and support their choices while staying together.


10. Randall and Beth from This Is US

Randall and Beth (Image via NBC)
Randall and Beth (Image via NBC)

Randall and Beth are one of the greatest TV couples of all time. They have been fan favorites from the beginning. Randall's anxieties have always been counterbalanced by Beth's serene demeanor since they first met in college. They have been there for one another through numerous hardships, such as Beth selling her dancing business and Randall's struggle with anxiety. When combined, they demonstrate what a true marriage looks like.


11. Mitch and Cam from Modern Family

Mitch and Cam from Modern Family (Image via Peacock)
Mitch and Cam from Modern Family (Image via Peacock)

Modern Family is valuable for its current, warm, and humorous description of diverse family dynamics. Cameron Tucker's cheerfulness (Eric Stonestreet) is perfectly paired with Mitchell Pritchett's (Jesse Tyler Ferguson) soothing nature. As a couple, they were excellent parents.

Their relationship and standards set an ideal benchmark for television representation of the LGBTQ+ community. Seeing the two provided a refreshingly authentic feel to the show’s viewers.


12. Paul and Jamie from Mad About You

Paul and Jamie from Mad About You (Image via Prime Video)
Paul and Jamie from Mad About You (Image via Prime Video)

Mad About You revolves around newlyweds Paul Buchman (Paul Reiser), and Jamie Stemple Buchman (Helen Hunt). They navigate everything from unexpected situations to serious challenges. Their relationship offers a touching and funny look at marriage which connects viewers at the same time.

The show emphasizes particularly how the couple handles arguments and disagreements, much like real-life relationships. As they become new parents the couple experiences problems and delves into the highs and lows of married life.


13. Lois and Clark from Smallville

Lois and Clark from Smallville (Image via Prime Video)
Lois and Clark from Smallville (Image via Prime Video)

Lois and Clark's relationship in Smallville began slowly. They started out as friends, which eventually blossomed into love. Though they often fought their fated relationship began when the two met at the beginning of Clark's senior year of high school.

Two cared deeply for each other. Lois played an important role in Clark's life as his anchor to humanity. Lois would often help Clark build and maintain relationships with other people.


14. Mindy and Danny from The Mindly Project

Mindy and Danny (Image via The Mindly Project)
Mindy and Danny (Image via The Mindly Project)

The show The Mindy Project was launched in 2012. A significant portion of the series revolves around the romance between Kaling's OB-GYN character, Dr. Mindy Lahiri, and her colleague at work, Dr. Danny Castellano.

Their friendship automatically evolved from friendly competition to close friends and gradually turned into a romantic relationship. The interesting thing about this couple is that their very different characters create humorous conflicts between them, but at the same time provide the perfect harmony.


15. Jane and Michael from Jane the Virgin

Jane and Michael Image via Prime Video)
Jane and Michael Image via Prime Video)

Before her happy ending with Rafael, Jane was married to Michael Cordero. Many things were challenging for them, but they always found a way out until the day Michael supposedly died. Michael came back later, but this time he had amnesia, and the previous couple irrespective of their best efforts couldn't go back to the way things were.

Although Jane ended up with Rafael Solano and found happiness, most fans rooted and wished for the original couple. Could end up together.


16. Lois and Jessica from Fresh Off The Boat

Lois and Jessica (Image via Hulu)
Lois and Jessica (Image via Hulu)

Jessica Huang (Constance Wu) and Louis Huang(Randall Park) are a loving and funny Taiwanese couple who immigrate to America with their three sons.

Jessica is a strict, no-nonsense mother who believes in hard work and discipline as a guarantee of success. Louis is her husband and her optimistic, easy-going counterpart. The couple paints a warm, authentic portrait of an immigrant family where old values meet new challenges.


17. Damon and Elina from The Vampire Diaries

Damon and Elena (Image via Netflix)
Damon and Elena (Image via Netflix)

Damon and Elena's relationship in The Vampire Diaries is a passionate love story that grows from dislike to deep devotion. At first, Elena is attracted to Stefan, Damon's brother, but as the series progresses, she discovers Damon's vulnerable and protective side, leading to a gradual romance.

Despite the many challenges Damon and Elena face, they forge a strong bond amidst supernatural dangers.


18. Anthony and Kate from The Bridgerton

Anthony and Kate (Image via Netflix)
Anthony and Kate (Image via Netflix)

Anthony and Kate's relationship in Bridgerton Season 2 is one of tension, attraction, and passion. Anthony Bridgerton, the Viscount, wants to marry out of duty rather than love, while Kate Sharma is a protective older sister.

Their relationship begins with witty exchanges and obvious chemistry, as Kate is not on board with Anthony's pursuit of her younger sister, Edwina. But through heated arguments, they eventually come to respect each other and explore deeper feelings.


19. Mary and Matthew from Downtown Abbey

Mary and Matthew (Image via Prime Video)
Mary and Matthew (Image via Prime Video)

Mary and Matthew came from different backgrounds. Mary was the eldest daughter of the Earl of Grantham, while Matthew was a lawyer from an upper-middle-class family in Manchester.

Even though they faced the problems of class differences, misunderstandings, and personal loss, the couple eventually married and found their brief period of happiness. But their fairytale took a tragic end when Matthew died in a car accident leaving Mary heartbroken with their newborn child.


20. Grey Worm and Missandei from Game of Thrones

Grey Worm and Missandei (Image via HBO)
Grey Worm and Missandei (Image via HBO)

Grey Worm and Missandei didn't fully understand the word love until they found Daenerys, where they learned the power of having a voice and choosing what they want. Both found comfort and affection in each other.

Missandei encouraged Grey Worm to embrace his humanity beyond being a soldier. Their story abruptly ended when Missandei got captured and executed, leaving Grey Worm heartbroken. Their love story depicted one of love, loss, and resilience in a harsh world.


21. Ragnar and Lagertha from Vikings

Ragnar and Lagertha from Vikings (Image via Prime Video)
Ragnar and Lagertha from Vikings (Image via Prime Video)

In the series Vikings, Ragnar Lothbrok was Lagertha's main lover. Although they did not end up being together and had several fights, it was obvious that they bore deep love towards each other.

Their marriage ran into problems, especially when Ragnar fell in love with Aslaug, and he had to leave Lagertha in a painful separation. Even after their separation, Lagertha remained an important person in Ragnar's life.


22. Harvey and Donna from Suits

Harvey and Donna (Image via Peacock)
Harvey and Donna (Image via Peacock)

The story of Harvey Specter and Donna Paulsen in Suits illustrates themes of loyalty, friendship, and a palpable chemistry that culminates in romance.

From the beginning, Donna's deep understanding of Harvey and the trust he placed in her judgment significantly strengthened their bond. Their connection evolved over years of working together, showing a transformation from professional colleagues to intimate friends, ultimately leading to their status as life partners.


23. Sheldon and Amy from The Big Bang Theory

Sheldon and Amy (Image via Netflix)
Sheldon and Amy (Image via Netflix)

The relationship between Sheldon and Amy was a major storyline of The Big Bang Theory for 12 seasons. They met when an online dating site matched them as the perfect couple, and their story grew from there.

At first, Amy was Sheldon's girlfriend in her eyes, but for Sheldon, she was just a friend to him. Throughout the show, they evolved to become a fan-favorite couple. By the end, the pair moved in together, got married, and began their lives as a couple.


24. Eleven and Mike’s from The Stranger Things

Mike and Eleven (Image via Netflix)
Mike and Eleven (Image via Netflix)

Mike Wheeler and Eleven got acquainted with one another young. Their bond only grew much deeper throughout the series as they navigated the mysteries and faced the challenges of a war-torn country.

The two overcame their childhood friendship for a deep adolescent love. The two overcame difficulties despite being apart. Numerous misunderstandings prevailed their way while Mike suffered from difficulty in verbally articulating the same love in his words for Eleven. But the two finally ended up together.


25. Ted and Robin from How I Met Your Mother

Robin and Ted (Image via Prime Video
Robin and Ted (Image via Prime Video

Robin and Ted are the heart of How I Met Your Mother. Their meeting was the starting point for the show. The observant Ted Mosby fell in love at first sight with the beautiful, mature Robin Scherbatsky and thought she was "the one". But their relationship eventually hit a snag as each had a different vision for the future.

The two continued throughout the series being good friends. However, as the show concludes it offers the two a second chance.


26. Edith and Archie from All in the Family

Edith and Archie (Image via Prime Video)
Edith and Archie (Image via Prime Video)

All in the Family is a touching and funny look at a long-term marriage through the eyes of Edith and Archie Bunker. Despite Archie's callous nature and constant complaining, Edith remains patient, supportive, and devoted, often softening his roughness with kindness and care.

They are one of television's most memorable couples, as their relationship captures the highs and lows of marriage, with a serious subject matter answered with satire and warmth.


27. Luke and Lorelai from Gilmore Girls

Luke and Lorelai (Image via Netflix)
Luke and Lorelai (Image via Netflix)

Luke and Lorelai's relationship in Gilmore Girls is a cherished slow-burn romance. Lorelai Gilmore is a funny and strong single mother, while Luke Danes is a tough and caring owner of the local Stars Hollow diner. They start as close friends, with Luke often supporting Lorelai through life's challenges.

Over time, their strong chemistry develops into a romantic relationship, but they face hurdles. Despite these problems, their deep connection and understanding draw them back together.


28. Kurt and Blaine from Glee

Kurt and Blaine in Glee (Image via Prime Video)
Kurt and Blaine in Glee (Image via Prime Video)

Kurt and Blaine meet for the first time in season two and quickly become friends. They eventually start dating and make an effort to see each other often to make up for the distance that lies between them. Despite their strong feelings, they break up several times but get back together after Blaine proposes.

Despite the misunderstandings and challenges they face, they reconcile and spontaneously marry.


29. Dre and Rainbow from Blackish

Dre and Rainbow ( Image via ABC)
Dre and Rainbow ( Image via ABC)

Dre and Rainbow Johnson's relationship in Black-ish is built on respect, love, and humor as they raise their five children while juggling work, cultural identity, and family life.

Throughout the series, they face issues like parental arguments, work stress, and cultural differences, but strong communication keeps them growing. They spend time apart and then reunite. Their on-screen chemistry makes them one of television's most relatable and inspiring couples.


30. Jess and Nick from New Girl

Nick and Jess (Image via Hulu)
Nick and Jess (Image via Hulu)

Nick and Jess first meet in the pilot and become close friends. Over time, their friendship deepens. Their strong chemistry leads to a romantic relationship in Season 2. However, their differences and insecurities cause them to break up, but they remain close confidants.

Even as they date other people, their connection remains strong. Eventually, they reconcile and realize they are meant to be together. By the series finale, the two get engaged and marry.


31. Blair and Chuck from Gossip Girl

Blair and Chuck (Image via Netflix)
Blair and Chuck (Image via Netflix)

If one had to mention one of the most iconic and most shipped relationships it would be that of Blair and Chuck in Gossip Girl began as a flirtation but became a complicated romance with many breakups and reconciliations.

Although Blair and Chuck have numerous flaws and their manipulative ways the two have a strong emotional bond along with clear chemistry. They challenge and help each other grow as their love is tested by betrayal, ambition, and insecurity.


32. Claire and Jamie from Outlander

Jamie and Claire (Image via Starz)
Jamie and Claire (Image via Starz)

Claire Randall, a 20th-century nurse, finds herself in 18th-century Scotland where she meets Jamie Fraser. Though they come from different times and places, they quickly form a strong bond. Clair is already married in her current timeline but after being transported to the past she is to marry Jamie for practical reasons but soon falls deeply in love.

The two face their fair share of trouble with constant sudden transportation across the different timelines. But despite the distance of time and space, they remain connected, maintaining a strong sense of love as well as respect, trust, and deep understanding.


33. Dwayne and Whitley from A Different World

Dwayne and Whitley (Image via Apple TV+)
Dwayne and Whitley (Image via Apple TV+)

The relationship between Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert in A Different World is a classic love story. Initially, Whitley thinks Dwayne is immature and not her type, while Dwayne develops an unrequited crush on her.

As time goes by, Whitley realizes how honest, smart, and dedicated Dwayne is. Dwayne matures to become more responsible and supportive. Once married, Dwayne and Whitley face the ups and downs of married life and the two depict the struggles a couple face in real life.


34. Willow and Tara from Buffy the Vampire

Willow and Tara (Image via Hulu)
Willow and Tara (Image via Hulu)

Tara Maclay's relationship with Willow Rosenberg on Buffy the Vampire Slayer is one of the most meaningful and popular television romances, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. Tara arrives in Season 4, and their relationship takes off.

As their magical partnership grows stronger there lingers some tensions. Both work through their issues together until their story takes a tragic turn when Tara is killed and Willow is left with grief and rage.


35. Nathan and Haley from One Tree Hill

Nathan and Haley (Image via Prime Video)
Nathan and Haley (Image via Prime Video)

Nathan and Haley's love story on One Tree Hill is one of love, growth, and struggle. Despite all their differences, they fell deeply in love as high school sweethearts. Their love has endured despite everything that has been thrown at them. After going through all kinds of personal struggles, professional setbacks, and betrayals, they emerge stronger and more committed to each other.

Their journey to self-discovery through forgiveness makes them one of the most popular TV couples of this generation.


36. Ian and Mickey from Shameless

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Ian and Mickey's relationship gradually develops amidst the disorderly and chaotic life of the Gallagher family in Chicago. Despite their different backgrounds, they feel a strong bond. Their relationship is filled with challenges including, betrayals, and separations they face tear them apart for a while, causing heartbreak.

But in the end, they hold on to the love they have for each other.


37. Jane and Rafael from Jane the Virgin

Jane and Rafael (Image via Prime Video)
Jane and Rafael (Image via Prime Video)

Jane and Rafael have a complicated relationship. They both have a child named Mateo when an unplanned medical event brings them together. Though their relationship is rocky at first, they begin to bond as co-parents and work through family conflicts, competition, and self-development.

As their romantic story progresses, they gradually come to terms with each other's pain, mistakes, and different desires. In the end, they find their strong love and devotion to their family.


38. Philip and Elizabeth from The Americans

Elizabeth and Philips (Image via Channel 4)
Elizabeth and Philips (Image via Channel 4)

In The Americans, Philip and Elizabeth Jennings are a married couple working as Soviet spies in 1980s America. Their marriage is a complex act based on years of shared secrets and dangerous missions. The love that grows between them is constantly challenged by their work.

They must make moral concessions and live in constant fear of being discovered. Their practical partnership turns out to be a real but abnormal love story, full of sharp conflicts and disillusionment.


39. Oliver and Connor from How To Get Away With Murder

Connor and Oliver (Image via Prime Video)
Connor and Oliver (Image via Prime Video)

Connor and Oliver became the best romantic couple on the show irrespective of their rocky start. Their relationship started as a manipulative one-night stand to get information for a case. But their relationship eventually turned into them having real feelings for each other.

Oliver helped the insecure Connor realize he was worthy of love, while Connor helped Oliver accept himself. The two’s relationship was filled with numerous troubles but the two overcame it and, got married.


40. Daphne and Simon from Bridgerton

Daphne and Simon (Image via Bridgerton)
Daphne and Simon (Image via Bridgerton)

The affair between Daphne and Simon in Bridgerton begins as a rush into marriage for practical reasons. Their initial feelings develop into true love, but they face many obstacles.

Simon's scarred past and his reluctance to become a father add to the tension. But irrespective of this their love conquers the hard times, leading them to personal growth, forgiveness, and the surprising happiness of becoming parents.

Edited by akhil.vashisth
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