Miss Piggy and Kermit – The Muppet Show
A true romance is often marked by a couple’s unique closeness, as Emily Brontë expressed:
“whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”This perfectly describes Miss Piggy and Kermit. Their relationship, ongoing since 1976, has endured many ups and downs. Regardless of the setting—be it Dickensian London, Treasure Island, or their various TV shows and films—they consistently find their way back to each other, even after their official separation in 2015. Unlike Ross’s famous line to Rachel,
“You don’t need the whole world to love you, you just need one person,”their story embodies that sentiment genuinely. Michelle, 19, Manchester
Mulder and Scully – The X-Files
As a teenager, I was captivated not only by the intelligent, eerie plots but also by the evolving characters of Dana Scully and Fox Mulder. They defied typical TV gender roles: Scully was the grounded, scientific skeptic, while Mulder was the intuitive believer on a relentless quest for truth. The chemistry between Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny remains remarkable. Despite creators teasing fans and denying romantic involvement for years, when Mulder and Scully finally became a couple, fans who hoped for romance were thrilled. Natalie, London
Rob and Sharon – Catastrophe
The premise of Catastrophe suggests an unconventional relationship doomed to fail, yet what unfolds is a series of candid conversations about all aspects of life, including sex, that many wish they had in their own relationships. Instead of destructive thoughts leading to harmful actions, everything is openly discussed, instantly bringing them closer together. Their undeniable charisma adds to the appeal.
Anna, 42, London
Sam Tyler and Annie Cartwright – Life on Mars
My favourite TV romance is between Sam Tyler and Annie Cartwright in the time-travel police drama Life on Mars. After an accident in 2006, Sam wakes up in 1973. While the main plot follows his attempts to return home, the subplot reveals his growing feelings for the kind WPC Annie. Their relationship is genuinely moving and culminates in a highly tense final episode, embodying the classic “will they or won’t they?” tension. Tom Whelan, South Shields
Homer and Marge Simpson – The Simpsons
Their love is free of sentimentality but rooted in a solid, fundamental bond. Their relationship includes patience (not just from Marge), respect, tenderness, humour, honesty, and strength to face life’s challenges—even alien abductions. They represent an ideal TV couple and, arguably, a real-life one as well. Michael, Bristol
Tim and Dawn – The Office
Their story feels incredibly authentic. The secret longing, obstacles, and eventual joy when Dawn returns at the Christmas party moved me deeply. I cried the first time I saw her open Tim’s gift and still smile when watching it again. Their normalcy and the satisfying resolution of their storyline contributed to making The Office a masterpiece.
Tony Murphy, 54, Congresbury, Somerset
Sophie and Al – Stath Lets Flats
Al and Sophie’s relationship still brings a lump to my throat. Al nervously confesses his love outside a downstairs toilet, admitting he lacks defining characteristics beyond his love for her. Sophie, mid-jump for joy, asks if it’s okay to love him too. The flawless writing and casting—helped by the fact one actor is the other's sister—make their dynamic both ridiculous and utterly believable, portraying beautiful souls. I hope it’s okay if I love them too. Wendy Kirkby, 52, Conwy, Wales
Kirk and Spock – Star Trek: The Original Series
If discussing iconic TV couples, Kirk and Spock from Star Trek must be included. Their legendary friendship is defined by affection, devotion, and connection so profound it has its own term: “T’hy’la,” a Vulcan word meaning “friend, brother, and lover,” coined by creator Gene Roddenberry in the novelisation of Star Trek: The Motion Picture. Fans have imagined a romantic relationship since the season two opener, Amok Time, where Spock’s mating urges mysteriously subside after time with Kirk. This inspired much of modern fandom, with Kirk/Spock transcending a mere ship to become a cultural legacy. Ollie Glessner, 35, Colorado, USA
Gavin and Stacey – Gavin and Stacey
Gavin and Stacey’s relationship begins with mutual attraction that grows into enduring love despite their eccentric families. They accept each other’s friends as they are and show bravery in vulnerability. Neither seeks dominance; they simply want each other. Stacey’s drawn-out “Gavinnnnnn” remains memorable. Sadiye, 57, London
Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov – Heated Rivalry
Perhaps due to recency bias, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov stand out for me. Heated Rivalry is steamy yet sincere in depicting two men yearning for each other even while sharing a bed. Their social and professional pressures create a compelling forbidden love. The leads’ chemistry and thoughtful production compensate for budget limitations. The show’s cultural impact is significant for the queer community and the sports and media worlds alike. Beth Anthony, 27, Norfolk
Willow and Tara – Buffy the Vampire Slayer
This couple was profoundly important to me growing up. It was the first time I saw two women in a mainstream show portrayed in a loving, romantic relationship. Their moments—from moving a vending machine to intimate levitation scenes—captivated me. They showed that queer love is possible and acceptable. Beyond that, they were beautiful and adorable together. Ruby Grant, 38, York
Fleabag and Hot Priest – Fleabag
The brief but unforgettable love story between Fleabag and the Hot Priest features two damaged individuals: he struggles with alcoholism and his religious duties, she hides grief and guilt behind sharp wit. Despite differing beliefs, they fall deeply in love, connected by rare emotional honesty. Their bond strips away irony and defense, revealing vulnerability. The poignant exchange—her whisper,
“It’s God, isn’t it?”and his gentle reply,
“It’ll pass,”—captures the tragedy of faith chosen over love, even as they heal each other quietly.
Coral Ash, Buckinghamshire
Chidi and Eleanor – The Good Place
My favourite TV couple. Their oppositional personalities and distinct wit make them amazing together. I have never rooted so strongly for a fictional couple. James Gosnell, 57, Seattle, USA
Cathy and Michael – Mum
The most touching and realistic TV romance is between Cathy and Michael. Michael’s love for Cathy is poignant against the backdrop of her widowhood and the burden she carries as the family’s emotional anchor. Michael understands and waits patiently. The silences and the weight of unspoken feelings are beautifully written and performed by Lesley Manville and Peter Mullan. It’s domestic and authentic, perfectly capturing real life.
Bronnie Mayho, Hertfordshire
Stede Bonnet and Blackbeard – Our Flag Means Death
My favourite TV couple is Stede Bonnet and Ed/Blackbeard from Our Flag Means Death. Despite their differences, they complement each other. Their relationship is messy but they recognize they are happier together and commit to making it work. They portray queer love and joy in a way that uplifts viewers. The show emphasizes discussing emotions and personal struggles rather than suppressing them and accepting people as they are. When I feel disheartened by anti-LGBTQ+ hatred, I watch an episode or two to remind myself of the beautiful, respectful love David Jenkins created, even if only for two seasons. Sylvia Rowe, 58, Jackson, Tennessee, USA
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. Their relationship thrives on rhythm, contrast, and sharp comic timing. Margo is the dominant partner—socially ambitious, impeccably dressed, proud of her status, and determined to maintain standards. While this might make her unlikable in other shows, here she is portrayed with conviction and depth, her control stemming from anxiety about losing social standing. Jerry is unthreatened by her strength; mild, affable, occasionally pompous, but fundamentally kind. Rather than competing, he cushions her. This dynamic—a strong female lead and a compliant but not spineless husband—was refreshing for 1970s television.
Mark Hardy, Leamington Spa
