Hottest TV Intimate Moments: From Bridgerton to Riverdale
From the seductive escapades of 'Bridgerton' and 'Outlander' to the tantalizing encounters in 'Riverdale' and 'Lucifer,' we delve into the most sizzling TV sex scenes that have set screens ablaze A scintillating journey through desire, passion, and forbidden love awaits
Fans have delighted in some unforgettable intimate moments between their beloved TV couples, from Kate and Anthony in Bridgerton to Jack and Belle in The Artful Dodger. The Netflix regency series initially caused a stir with its steamy scenes featuring Daphne and Simon in season 1, but creator Chris Van Dusen has announced a shift towards less explicit content in season 2.
During an interview in March 2022, he emphasized that their approach to on-screen intimacy remains rooted in storytelling, rather than focusing on quantity. They strive for scenes that serve to propel the narrative forward, rather than for the sheer sake of it. This season, centered around new characters like Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) and Kate (Simone Ashley), presents a fresh take on this approach. Even with minimal physical intimacy, the emphasis on emotional connection lends depth to their depiction of the couple's evolving relationship.
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Fans of The CW's Nancy Drew eagerly waited for three seasons to see Nancy (Kennedy McMann) and Ace (Alex Saxon) finally act on their feelings. The season 3 finale briefly teased a happily ever after for the couple before they officially became a couple in the final season.
Keep scrolling for a list of the most intense TV sex scenes.
Credit: Netflix; The CW (2); Hulu
Steamiest TV Sex Scenes Throughout the Years: From Bridgerton's Kate and Anthony to Riverdale's Betty and Archie
From Bridgerton's Kate and Anthony to The Artful Dodger's Jack and Belle, fans have enjoyed some pretty memorable sex scenes between their favorite TV couples over the years
The Netflix regency series initially caused a stir with its numerous steamy moments between Daphne and Simon in season 1. But ahead of season 2, creator Chris Van Dusen announced plans to tone down Bridgerton's graphic love scenes.
"Our approach to intimacy on the show has always been about storytelling," he explained during a March 2022 interview. "We've never included sex scenes just for the sake of it. It all serves a larger purpose, and with a different story and different characters in season 2, the focus shifts to Anthony and Kate. It's part of the appeal of a project like this, the ability to tell distinct love stories of different characters season after season."
Viewers were pleasantly surprised by the understated yet significant intimate moments between Anthony and Kate. Ashley emphasized the importance of emotional connection, which ultimately led to a deeper physical relationship for the season 2 couple.
Nancy Drew fans were also rewarded for their patience as they eagerly awaited the romantic development between Nancy and Ace. After three seasons of anticipation, the pair finally got together in the series finale, giving viewers a brief glimpse of their happily ever after before the show concluded.
Scroll on for a guide to the steamiest TV sex scenes
Credit: Hulu
Jack and Belle ('The Artful Dodger')
Despite taking place in the 1850s, the first time Jack (played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster) and Belle (played by Maia Mitchell) shared together was a truly unforgettable moment, especially given the anticipation that had been building throughout the entire season. After Belle confided in Jack about a potentially life-threatening health condition, the two of them made the decision to sleep in the same bed. It was the next morning that Jack subtly expressed his deep love for Belle before they consummated their relationship.
Credit: Colin Hutton/Netflix
Kate and Anthony ('Bridgerton')
During season 2, the dynamic between Kate and Anthony simmered with unresolved feelings, culminating in a passionate encounter in the garden. Additionally, fans got a sneak peek of the newlyweds in the closing scenes of the finale.
Credit: Colin Bentley/The CW
Nancy and Ace ('Nancy Drew')
In the season 3 finale, fans of the Nancy and Ace relationship were delighted when the two characters acknowledged their mutual feelings, believing them to be unreciprocated. However, this pivotal moment turned out to be a dream sequence that only Nancy could recall. As the CW series nears its conclusion after season 4, it seems likely that Nancy and Ace will have one last opportunity to make lasting memories together.
Credit: Jack Rowand/The CW
Betty and Archie ('Riverdale')
Following much anticipation and a significant time leap, Betty (Lili Reinhart) and Archie (KJ Apa) at last consummated their relationship in a steamy shower scene in season 5. The intimate moment appeared to confirm that Betty and Archie are meant to be the show's ultimate couple as it approaches its seventh and final season.
Credit: Jose Haro/Peacock
Rose and Dimitri ('Vampire Academy')
Despite only exchanging a very passionate kiss halfway through the initial season, it could easily be mistaken for a sex scene between Rose (Sisi Stringer) and Dimitri (Kieron Moore). The sizzling moment between the couple happened in the midst of their ongoing will they, won't they dynamic.
In the remaining episodes of season 1, Rose and Dimitri attempted to create a future together while dodging constant obstacles.
Credit: Bettina Strauss/FOX
Lucifer and Chloe ('Lucifer')
Lucifer (Tom Ellis) and Chloe (Lauren German) finally gave fans what they've been waiting for in season 5 with their sizzling chemistry and steamy sex scene. This fan-favorite TV ship proved that it's all about the destination, not just the journey.
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Jamie and Claire ('Outlander')
After six seasons, Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Claire (Caitríona Balfe) still captivate us with their endearing affection for each other. Despite facing numerous challenges, the couple always manages to rekindle their love and express their emotions through numerous intimate moments.
Credit: Enda Bowe/Hulu
Marianne and Connell ('Normal People')
Adapted from a book penned by Sally Rooney, Normal People delves into the evolving relationship between Marianne (played by Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Connell (played by Paul Mescal) as they navigate their way through secondary school and into their college years. Their journey is marked by a raw exploration of love and desire, portrayed through a series of intimate and intense sexual encounters.
Credit: AMANDA MATLOVICH/NETFLIX
Billie and Brad ('Sex/Life')
Sex/Life on Netflix gained attention for its memorable intimate scenes. The passionate memories of Billie (Sarah Shahi) and Brad (Adam Demos) kept viewers engaged. The on-screen chemistry extended beyond the show when Shahi and Demos began dating after the actress' divorce from Steve Howey.
Credit: Cw Network/Kobal/Shutterstock
Chuck and Blair ('Gossip Girl')
The relationship between Chuck (Ed Westwick) and Blair (Leighton Meester) from Gossip Girl is quite polarizing, but it has definitely made an impact on many viewers. Despite the ups and downs they experienced in the series, their intimate moments were always a standout.
Credit: Josh Stringer/Hulu
Lucy and Stephen ('Tell Me Lies')
The dynamic between Lucy (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen (Jackson White) was incredibly toxic, yet their intimate moments in Tell Me Lies left a lasting impression. Off screen, Patten and White's connection sparked romance rumors as well.
