From Mulder and Scully to Marge and Homer: Your Favourite TV Couples
Slow-burn office crushes that left you weeping, sitcoms that made you fall in love, and vampire shows that changed you forever: Guardian readers have picked their ultimate television romances. These couples span decades and genres, capturing hearts with their chemistry, authenticity, and enduring appeal.
Miss Piggy and Kermit – The Muppet Show
A mark of a true romance is that the couple are closer than anyone else in the world. As Emily Brontë said, "whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same." This is true for Miss Piggy and Kermit. They've had a longer relationship than most TV couples, dating back to 1976, although it has been tumultuous. No matter the universe, from Dickensian London to Treasure Island, they find each other – even after their official separation in 2015. Did Ross ever say to Rachel: "You don't need the whole world to love you, you just need one person"? Michelle, 19, from Manchester, thinks not.
Mulder and Scully – The X-Files
Many watched The X-Files avidly as teenagers, drawn not just by the smart, creepy stories but by the development of the characters. Dana Scully and Fox Mulder broke the TV gender mould: Scully as grounded, scientific, and sceptical, Mulder as an intuitive believer on a quest for truth. The onscreen chemistry of Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny remains incredible. Show creators teased fans for years, denying anything more than friendship, but when they finally got together, Shippers – fans who wanted a romance – were stoked. Natalie from London recalls this with fondness.
Rob and Sharon – Catastrophe
The plot of Catastrophe suggests an unconventional start would lead to disaster, but viewers see a relationship built on honest conversations about all things, including sex. Instead of destructive thoughts leading to action, everything is aired openly, bringing them closer. Anna, 42, from London, notes that their insane charisma helps make this couple unforgettable.
Sam Tyler and Annie Cartwright – Life on Mars
In the time-travelling police drama Life on Mars, Sam Tyler wakes up in 1973 after an accident in 2006. The subplot follows his attempts to return home, but his resolve is tested by feelings for the kindly WPC Annie. Tom Whelan from South Shields finds it genuinely moving, building to a tense final episode that epitomises the "will they or won't they?" trope.
Homer and Marge Simpson – The Simpsons
No mawkishness here; just a solid, fundamental love. Add in bite, patience, respect, tenderness, good humour, honesty, and strength through life's trials – including being kidnapped by aliens – and you have the perfect TV, and frankly, real-life couple. Michael from Bristol praises their enduring bond.
Tim and Dawn – The Office
It's just so real. Secret longing, circumstances getting in the way, and then the joy of her returning at the Christmas party. Tony Murphy, 54, from Congresbury, Somerset, recalls crying when Dawn opened Tim's gift and smiling on repeat viewings. The Office was a masterpiece, and this storyline ended it beautifully.
Sophie and Al – Stath Lets Flats
Al and Sophie from Stath Lets Flats still bring a lump to the throat. He nervously declares his love outside a downstairs loo, saying he's just a person who loves her. She reminds him of his fondness for spicy food and asks if she can love him too. Wendy Kirkby, 52, from Conwy, Wales, marvels at the flawless writing and casting, noting the actors' sibling connection adds charm.
Kirk and Spock – Star Trek: The Original Series
If lists include JD and Turk, they must include Kirk and Spock. Their friendship is legendary, with affection, devotion, and connection so powerful it has its own word: "T'hy'la," meaning friend, brother, and lover. Ollie Glessner, 35, from Colorado, USA, highlights how fans have envisioned a romantic relationship since the iconic Amok Time episode, creating a legacy in fandom.
Gavin and Stacey – Gavin and Stacey
Gavin and Stacey start with fancying each other, growing into a real, lasting love despite goofy families. They accept each other's friends and are brave enough to be vulnerable. Sadiye, 57, from London, still hears Stacey's voice saying "Gavinnnnnn" with affection.
Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov – Heated Rivalry
Maybe it's recency bias, but Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov take the cake for Beth Anthony, 27, from Norfolk. Heated Rivalry is steamy but earnest in depicting two men yearning for each other despite social constructs and professional expectations. The chemistry and cultural impact for the queer community are extraordinary.
Willow and Tara – Buffy the Vampire Slayer
This couple was crucial for many growing up, as it was the first time two women were represented in mainstream media in a loving, romantic relationship. Ruby Grant, 38, from York, recalls being hooked from moving a vending machine to steamy levitation, showing that queer love is possible and okay.
Fleabag and Hot Priest – Fleabag
The love story between Fleabag and the Hot Priest is brief yet unforgettable. Both are damaged: he wrestles with alcoholism and faith, she masks grief with wit. Coral Ash from Buckinghamshire notes their emotional honesty and vulnerability, captured in her whispered "It's God, isn't it?" and his heart-breaking reply, "It'll pass."
Chidi and Eleanor – The Good Place
James Gosnell, 57, from Seattle, USA, calls them his favourite TV couple. They are oppositional, witty in different ways, and amazing together, making viewers root for them intensely.
Cathy and Michael – Mum
The most touching, real television romance is between Cathy and Michael in Mum. Bronnie Mayho from Hertfordshire praises the ache of Michael's love against Cathy's widowhood and family pressures. The silences and weight of knowing, with beautiful writing and performances, make it domestic and pitch perfect.
Stede Bonnet and Blackbeard – Our Flag Means Death
Stede Bonnet and Ed/Blackbeard in Our Flag Means Death are messy but complementary, realising they're happier together. Sylvia Rowe, 58, from Jackson, Tennessee, USA, appreciates how they portray queer love and joy, uplifting viewers and promoting emotional honesty.
Jerry and Margo Leadbetter – The Good Life
One of the most quietly perfect marriages on British television is Jerry and Margo Leadbetter from The Good Life. Mark Hardy from Leamington Spa notes their relationship is built on rhythm, contrast, and comic timing, with Margo as the dominant force. Her control, rooted in social anxiety, is balanced by Jerry's mild, affable nature, making it refreshing for 1970s television.
