The Top 9 TV Couples We Wished Had Stayed Together
This article explores the top nine TV couples whose breakups left fans yearning for a different outcome. These couples had chemistry, shared dreams, and faced challenges that made their relationships compelling. Their separations not only affected the shows' dynamics but also the characters' development arcs. We delve into what made these couples special and why their breakups felt like a missed opportunity for a happily ever after.
9. Nick & Lindsay - Freaks and Geeks
High school is a tumultuous time filled with fleeting romances and heartaches, a theme perfectly encapsulated in the brief but impactful series 'Freaks and Geeks.' Lindsay Weir's (Linda Cardellini) journey of self-discovery includes her sweet, albeit short-lived, relationship with the affable drummer Nick Andopolis (Jason Segel). While Lindsay initially pines for the aloof Daniel Desario (James Franco), it's with Nick that she finds a genuine connection, one that resonates with tender vulnerability. Their breakup, although a realistic depiction of teenage uncertainty, leaves a lingering sense of 'what if?' Could time and maturity have allowed this couple to find a rhythm that resonated beyond the confines of McKinley High?
Lindsay and Nick kissing in Freaks and Geeks
8. Mike & Tina - Glee
Glee Club was more than a place for show tunes and choreography; it was a backdrop for blossoming relationships, none more harmonious than the one between Mike Chang (Harry Shum Jr.) and Tina Cohen-Chang (Jenna Ushkowitz). This duo danced into each other's hearts with an ease that felt both refreshing and genuine. When Mike graduates and moves on to college, their relationship is sacrificed on the altar of narrative changes, much to the dismay of fans. Their breakup raises questions about the challenges young love faces in the transition to adulthood and whether their bond could have withstood the test of time had the script allowed it.
Tina hugging Mike in Glee
7. Alexis & Ted - Schitt's Creek
In the quirky town of Schitt's Creek, Alexis Rose (Annie Murphy) undergoes a metamorphosis from a self-centered socialite to a self-aware individual with dreams and aspirations of her own. Her relationship with Ted Mullens (Dustin Milligan) is a testament to her growth, showcasing a love that evolves from superficial to profound. Their mature and amicable breakup is a bittersweet moment that honors their individual paths yet leaves viewers wondering if there was a scenario where love and ambition could have coexisted for this endearing couple.
Alexis and Ted snuggle closer in Schitt's Creek's Christmas episode
6. Willow & Tara - Buffy The Vampire Slayer
The magical world of 'Buffy The Vampire Slayer' presented an enchanting love story between the powerful witch Willow Rosenberg (Alyson Hannigan) and the gentle Tara Maclay (Amber Benson). Their relationship, marked by deep understanding and acceptance, is a beacon of representation and strength. However, the dark turn of events leading to their breakup and Tara's untimely death leaves a void that reverberates through the series. This tragic end to a once hopeful narrative exemplifies how the loss of a profound connection can irrevocably alter a character's path and the essence of a show.
Willow and Tara Embrace in Buffy the Vampire Slayer
5. Callie & Arizona - Grey's Anatomy
The bustling halls of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital have witnessed many a romance, but few as poignant and fraught with adversity as the relationship between Callie Torres (Sara Ramirez) and Arizona Robbins (Jessica Capshaw). Their love story, filled with passion and trials, stands as a testament to the complexities of life and love in the medical field. Their separation, while not ending in tragedy, concludes with an unresolved tension that suggests that their journey was far from over. The impact of their breakup extends beyond their personal lives, altering the dynamics of the entire hospital staff and leaving fans to ponder the possibilities of a love that could endure through the harshest of storms.
Callie and Arizona in Grey's Anatomy season 7.
4. Jackie & Hyde - That ‘70s Show
The retro vibes of 'That ‘70s Show' are complemented by the unconventional yet compelling relationship between the fiercely independent Jackie Burkhart (Mila Kunis) and the rebellious Steven Hyde (Danny Masterson). Their connection, brimming with biting wit and unexpected tenderness, makes them a couple to root for. The turmoil and drama that ultimately tear them apart leave fans questioning the narrative decision, especially when Jackie's subsequent pairing with Fez feels more like a forced plot twist than a natural progression. Was there a missed opportunity to explore the depth and growth of this dynamic duo had they weathered the storm together?
Jackie and Hyde in That 70s Show
3. Haley & Andy - Modern Family
The heartwarming sitcom 'Modern Family' brings together an eclectic mix of personalities, among which the sweet and comedic romance of Haley Dunphy (Sarah Hyland) and Andy Bailey (Adam DeVine) stands out. Their love story unfolds with an epic, cinematic quality that captivates the audience. Despite the painful sacrifice that leads to their breakup, one can't help but hope for a scenario where their dreams and relationship could have coalesced into a harmonious future. The end of their romance marks a pivotal shift in Haley's character arc, prompting speculation about the direction her life could have taken had love prevailed.
Sarah Hyland; Adam Devine
2. Nate & Serena - Gossip Girl
The Upper East Side of 'Gossip Girl' is a battleground of love, secrets, and social status, with the relationship between Nate Archibald (Chace Crawford) and Serena van der Woodsen (Blake Lively) being one of its most captivating tales. Their connection, built on shared experiences and genuine affection, stands in stark contrast to the more tumultuous pairings on the show. The dissolution of their romance in favor of a controversial endgame leaves many fans yearning for a narrative where Nate's steady presence and acceptance could have been the anchor Serena truly needed. The question remains: could their love have triumphed in a world rife with schemes and betrayals?
Nate and Serena smiling and kissing in Gossip Girl
1. Lane & Dave - Gilmore Girls
The charming town of Stars Hollow in 'Gilmore Girls' is home to many beloved characters and relationships, but few resonate as deeply as the romance between Lane Kim (Keiko Agena) and Dave Rygalski (Adam Brody). Their bond, characterized by mutual support and shared aspirations, shines as a beacon of healthy partnership amidst the show's various romantic entanglements. Dave's departure not only marks the end of their relationship but also the beginning of a downward spiral for Lane's character arc. The question lingers: what could have been if Lane's journey had continued alongside the supportive and dream-chasing Dave? Could this couple have set a new standard for TV relationships had their love story not been cut short?
Dave (Adam Brody) and Lane (Keiko Agena) kiss on Gilmore Girls.
