Love Knows No Boundaries: Unveiling the Most Iconic LGBTQ+ Love Stories in Pop Culture, Including 'Schitt's Creek', 'Modern Family', and Beyond

Love is love! Shows like Schitt's Creek, Modern Family, and The Fosters have placed LGBTQ romances at the forefront, captivating audiences with heartfelt love stories.

In the adored television series Schitt's Creek, created by writer and producer Dan Levy, the intricacies of coming out and finding love in a small town are beautifully portrayed. Levy's character, David Rose, falls for his business partner, Patrick Brewer, who has yet to disclose his sexuality to his family. When Patrick's parents unexpectedly visit the town, he relies on David for support, anxious about their acceptance. However, in the end, his parents reveal that they are simply happy to see their son in a loving relationship that brings him fulfillment.

During a conversation with his costar, Noah Reid, in March 2019, Levy shared his desire to write this particular episode. Up until this point, the character Patrick had been depicted as nearly flawless, making it a compelling opportunity for Levy. As a gay individual, it was significant for him to shed light on this narrative. However, what mattered even more to him was presenting this story in a way that deviated from the stereotypical portrayals he had encountered on television. While many LGBTQ stories often rely on clichéd tropes or end in tragic circumstances, certain shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Modern Family successfully showcased a more positive representation of queer love.

The ABC sitcom, featuring Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Eric Stonestreet as Cam and Mitchell, revolutionized the acceptance of gay couples on primetime TV. In 2015, the same year that marked the significant Supreme Court decision legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide, Ferguson commended Modern Family for its genuine portrayal of gay men.

“They're portrayed as fathers, sons, a lawyer, and a teacher — their gay identity is not their defining characteristic," he expressed to Variety. "This approach was both progressive and courageous, although it shouldn't have to be. Modern Family has become a cultural phenomenon, providing a comfortable and non-threatening way to introduce diverse relationships to audiences."

Scroll down to see more of the sweetest LGBTQ romances in pop culture history!

Credit: Shutterstock (2); ABC (2)

The Sweetest LGBTQ Love Stories in Pop Culture History: 'Schitt's Creek,' 'Modern Family' and More

Love is love! Shows like Schitt’s Creek, Modern Family, and The Fosters have brought LGBTQ relationships to the forefront, captivating audiences with their heartfelt love stories.

In the adored Pop TV series Schitt's Creek, writer and producer Dan Levy masterfully explores the challenges of coming out and finding love in a small community. The character David Rose develops feelings for his business partner, Patrick Brewer, who has yet to reveal his true sexuality to his family. When Patrick's parents unexpectedly visit the town, he relies on David for support, fearing that they won't accept him for who he truly is. However, to his relief, his parents ultimately express their joy at seeing their son in a loving relationship with someone who truly completes him.

"It was a story that I've always wanted to write because [Patrick] has always been portrayed as almost perfect, without any flaws," Levy explained in a March 2019 interview with his co-star, Noah Reid. "As a gay person, it was crucial for me to share this narrative. But more importantly, I wanted to present it in a way that challenged the common portrayals I've seen on television."

While many LGBTQ stories tend to rely on stereotypes or tragic endings, there have been shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Modern Family that have offered a more uplifting representation of queer love.

The popular ABC sitcom, featuring Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Eric Stonestreet as Cam and Mitchell, revolutionized the representation of gay couples on primetime TV. In 2015, when same-sex marriage became legal nationwide thanks to a landmark Supreme Court decision, Ferguson praised Modern Family for its genuine portrayal of gay men.

"They're not defined solely by their sexual orientation; they're fathers, sons, professionals - simply living their lives," he expressed to Variety. "This approach was progressive and brave, although it really shouldn't have been. Modern Family has become a cultural phenomenon, effortlessly introducing viewers to diverse relationships in a way that feels comfortable and non-threatening."

Scroll down to see more of the sweetest LGBTQ romances in pop culture history!

Credit: Amazon Prime Video

Prince Henry and Alex Claremont-Diaz (‘Red, White & Royal Blue’)

The romance film on Prime Video is a reimagining of Casey McQuiston’s book of the same title. It narrates the captivating journey of Prince Henry (played by Nicholas Galitzine) from Britain and Alex Claremont-Diaz (played by Taylor Zakhar Perez), the son of America’s first female president, as they evolve from adversaries to lovers. Despite their families and obligations rooted in time-honored customs, Henry and Alex find solace in each other's company while pretending to be friends to conceal an international crisis.

Credit: Netflix

Yuri and Juliana, ('XO, Kitty')

The first season of the To All the Boys I've Loved Before spinoff series, XO, Kitty, premiered in May 2023. The storyline revolves around two KISS classmates, portrayed by Gia Kim and Regan Aliyah, who embark on a secret relationship. The series follows Lara Jean's younger sister, Kitty (played by Anna Cathcart), as she transfers to an international boarding school in South Korea. Kitty finds herself caught in a complicated love triangle with her crush Dae (portrayed by Minyeong Choi) and his fake girlfriend Yuri. Yuri, who is secretly involved with Juliana, enlists Dae's help to conceal their romance from her disapproving parents.

Credit: Liane Hentscher/HBO

Bill and Frank ('The Last of Us')

During the initial season of the HBO series, viewers were delighted by a particular episode that revolved around the affectionate tale featuring survivalists Bill (portrayed by Nick Offerman) and Frank (played by Murray Bartlett). In the midst of a global pandemic, the duo unexpectedly crossed paths and ignited a passionate love story. As time passed, Bill and Frank established a meaningful existence together, ultimately meeting their demise side by side.

Credit: John Golden Britt/The CW

Alex and Michael ('Roswell, New Mexico')

Since its premiere in 2019, fans have eagerly cheered for the reunion of Alex (played by Tyler Blackburn) and Michael (played by Michael Vlamis) in the show. Building on this anticipation, the season 4 premiere, which aired in June 2022, showcased the significant development in their relationship as they decided to take the big leap and move in together.

Credit: YouTube

Levi Schmitt and Nico Kim, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’

After Grey-Sloan Memorial resident Levi Schmitt (Jake Borelli) came out as gay, he sparked an on-and-off connection with orthopedic surgeon Nico Kim (Alex Landi).

Credit: Netflix

Nick and Charlie ('Heartstopper')

The British private school term of openly gay teenager Charlie (Joe Locke) unfolds in the Netflix series, premiered in April 2022. His unexpected infatuation with Nick (Kit Connor), a supposedly heterosexual rugby player, triggers a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. As the story based on Alice Oseman's webcomic progresses, Nick finds himself questioning his own sexuality, and a deep emotional bond with Charlie blossoms, going beyond mere friendship, in this captivating romantic coming-of-age narrative.

Credit: The CW

Jed and Ben (‘Legacies’)

Werewolf Jed Tien (Ben Levin) expressed his emotions towards Ben (Zane Phillips), a new student at Salvatore School and demigod, in season 4. Their first kiss took place in the thirteenth episode, originally broadcasted in early 2022.

Credit: Kailey Schwerman/The CW

Ryan and Sophie (‘Batwoman’)

Ryan Wilder (Javicia Leslie) and Sophie Moore (Meagan Tandy) initially had a difficult start when Ryan became Batwoman in season 2. However, their relationship has grown stronger during season 3, which premiered in early 2022.

Credit: Aimee Spinks/HBO

Anne Lister and Ann Walker (‘Gentleman Jack’)

In the HBO historical drama, Suranne Jones portrays Ann Lister, a landowner who sets her sights on finding a wife. She ultimately selects Sophie Rundle's character, Ann Walker, a neighboring heiress. The eagerly anticipated culmination of their relationship unfolds in the first season finale.

Credit: CBC/ITV/Kobal/Shutterstock

David and Patrick ('Schitt's Creek')

David (Dan Levy) and Patrick (Noah Reid) blossomed from business partners to lovers, captivating fans with their genuine and profound affection. Their relationship is characterized by playful antics, unwavering support, and a deep commitment to safeguarding each other's hearts, all within a town that previously overlooked their budding romance.

Credit: Saeed Adyani/Netflix/Kobal/Shutterstock

Robert and Sol ('Grace and Frankie')

The ex-wives, Grace (Jane Fonda) and Frankie (Lily Tomlin), posed numerous hurdles for the coworkers-turned-partners (Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston) upon learning about their relationship. Nevertheless, their unwavering love for one another triumphed over all.

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Titus and Mikey ('Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt')

Despite the challenges they faced in their relationship, the couple exemplified the age-old saying that opposites truly attract. Titus (played by Tituss Burgess) and Mikey (portrayed by Mike Carlsen) ultimately achieved their well-deserved happy ending in the Netflix comedy series. Their love story culminated in the joyous arrival of two adorable "beautiful ethnic babies."

Credit: ABC

Maya and Emily ('Pretty Little Liars')

Throughout her journey of self-discovery, Emily (Shay Mitchell) found solace in the unwavering presence of Maya (Bianca Lawson). These two shared countless significant moments, each marking a new and profound experience for Emily. Tragically, their love story came to a devastating end, with Maya's untimely demise in the season 2 finale.

Credit: Giphy

Carol and Susan ('Friends')

While Ross (David Schwimmer) didn't always approve of his ex-wife Carol's (Jane Sibbett) new partner (Jessica Hecht), their relationship marked a significant moment for LGBTQ representation on television in the 1990s.

Credit: Twentieth Century Fox Film

Simon and Blue ('Love Simon')

This groundbreaking film revolutionized the dialogue surrounding the experience of young LGBTQ+ individuals in the era of technology. Throughout the majority of the movie, Simon (portrayed by Nick Robinson) remains unaware of the true identity of the person he has developed profound emotions for, their connection solely existing in the online realm. Despite enduring bullying and ridicule from his fellow high school peers, Simon eventually embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unearthing not only his own true self but also the reciprocated love of the boy he had unwittingly fallen for.

Credit: Giphy

Santana and Brittany ('Glee')

The cheerleaders, Naya Rivera and Heather Morris, initially only shared a close friendship. However, after confessing their feelings, they transformed into a formidable couple, always supporting each other through the highs and lows of high school.

Credit: ABC/Tony Rivetti

Cam and Mitchell ('Modern Family')

Modern Family made its debut in 2009 and played a significant role in the process of making queer representation more acceptable in popular culture. This ABC sitcom presented the characters Cam (played by Eric Stonestreet) and Mitchell (played by Jesse Tyler Ferguson) in a sincere manner, contributing to the advancement of inclusive television programming during prime time.

Credit: Freeform

Stef and Lena ('The Fosters')

The exemplary matriarchs of Freeform's The Fosters graced our screens with an abundance of inspiring and empowering scenes throughout the show's impressive five-season run. The tremendous love towards the foster parents is evident as fans passionately petitioned for a spinoff, yearning to witness Stef (Teri Polo) and Lena (Sherri Saum) magnificently showcase their romantic journey.

Credit: John P. Fleenor/NBC

Captain Holt and Kevin ('Brooklyn Nine-Nine')

While Brooklyn Nine-Nine is brimming with comedic brilliance, the heartfelt moments arise when discussing the relationship between Captain Ray Holt (Andre Braugher) and his spouse (Marc Evan Jackson). As an African American gay individual, Holt frequently reflects on the pervasive prejudice he encountered within the police force, yet he attributes his resilience during those difficult times to the unwavering love and support of Kevin.

Credit: Giphy

Kurt and Blaine ('Glee')

Even years after the series went off the air, “Klaine” still holds a special place in the hearts of pop culture fans. The endearing relationship between Kurt (Chris Colfer) and Blaine (Darren Criss) left viewers longing for their own special someone who would promise, "I will always love you, defend you, even if I know you're wrong, surprise you, and pick up your phone call no matter what I'm doing."

Credit: Giphy

Willow and Tara ('Buffy the Vampire Slayer')

Buffy the Vampire Slayer was a trailblazing TV series that revolutionized the portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships on screen in the 1990s. Among the show's numerous achievements, the heartfelt and genuine connection between Willow (Alyson Hannigan) and Tara (Amber Benson) stood out as a pivotal moment for many young viewers. Their characters provided a much-needed sense of representation, understanding, and a source of comfort for those grappling with their own identities.

Credit: Demmie Todd/Sony/Kobal/Shutterstock

Angel and Collins ('Rent')

Rent is a timeless musical that remains progressive in its portrayal of queer love. The characters Angel and Collins radiate self-assurance as they stroll together, accompanied by one of the most touching songs in Broadway history. Despite the tragic conclusion of their relationship, their unwavering belief in and affection for each other is undeniable.