The Ultimate Guide to the Most Riveting Sex Education Romances: Ranking the Best of the Best+

Summary

Over four seasons, Sex Education has explored a wide range of diverse and complex romantic relationships, from toxic and abusive to heartwarming and genuine.

Viv and Beau hold the title for the most dysfunctional couple in the history of Sex Education, with Beau exhibiting both physical and emotional abuse towards Viv.

While certain relationships in Sex Education are fleeting or end in failure, the connection between Otis and Maeve endures beyond their separation in season 4, marking a profound and undeniable love between them.

Beware: Spoilers ahead for Sex Education season 4. Netflix has recently dropped the final season of Sex Education. Now that the series has come to a close, it's the perfect opportunity to delve into all 28 romantic storylines featured in the show and rank them. Throughout its four-season run, Sex Education has introduced a captivating ensemble of characters who not only entertain but also provide valuable insights into sexuality, identity, and the tumultuous journey of growing up. Season 4 continues to deliver the series' trademark blend of awkward encounters, personal growth, and, of course, romance.

Given that Sex Education revolves around the theme of sex, it's no surprise that the show boasts a plethora of romantic entanglements spanning across its four seasons. While some of these relationships are deep-rooted and emotionally charged, others are short-lived and occasionally regrettable. Among the mix, there are also instances of toxic and abusive partnerships. Ultimately, Sex Education offers a diverse array of romances, and for the first time ever, we'll be ranking each one from worst to best.

28 Viv & Beau

A new relationship that emerged in Sex Education season 4 was Viv and Beau. In an attempt to prioritize her education, Viv ended her online relationship and became captivated by a nerdy student at Cavendish. However, Beau ultimately reveals a dark side, as he becomes physically and emotionally abusive towards Viv. Undoubtedly, this makes them the most toxic couple in the history of Sex Education.

27 Jean & Remi

While they may not receive much screen time, one cannot discuss the couples of Sex Education without acknowledging Jean and Remi. Previously married and divorced prior to the events of the series, Jean and Remi come close to rekindling their romance in season 2. Remi not only betrayed Jean's trust through infidelity, but he also fails to be a present father figure to Otis. Overall, their relationship is a melancholic one that leaves lasting repercussions even in Sex Education season 4.

26 Eric & Adedayo

Throughout Sex Education, Eric has had a handful of romantic encounters, but his relationship with Adedayo in season 4 stands out as the most challenging. Despite being physically intimate during Queer Night, their differing religious beliefs lead to misunderstandings. Moreover, when Eric publicly reveals his true self to his church, Adedayo fails to support him. Although both he and Eric's pastor apologize later in the episode and promise to improve, the lack of support from Adedayo ultimately renders their pairing unappealing.

25 Aimee & Adam

The initial romantic relationship explored in Sex Education involved Aimee and Adam. Despite frequently engaging in physical intimacy, neither of them appeared to derive much pleasure from their time together. Aimee and Adam's dynamic became Otis' inaugural case in sex therapy, ultimately liberating them from their emotionally draining connection. Consequently, while Aimee and Adam hold a significant place in the show's history, their partnership fails to spark any butterflies or genuine happiness.

24 Otis & Lily

23 Jean & Dan

Despite being two endearing characters in their own individual ways, the brief romantic encounter between Otis and Lily was undoubtedly a disaster. During the first season of Sex Education, Lily and Otis embark on a mission to have intercourse, with Lily hoping to finally lose her virginity and Otis aiming to conquer his fear of sex. However, their interaction is filled with excruciating awkwardness and ultimately fails to achieve its intended goal. Fortunately, Otis and Lily opt to remain friends instead, with Otis providing support to Lily as she navigates her thoughts about sex and eventually manages her vaginismus.

Despite initially appearing as a mere fling, Dan's significance grows throughout Sex Education. However, his involvement with Jean is far from pleasant. In the series' first episode, Jean and Dan engage in a casual encounter. Nonetheless, Dan's true importance lies in his role as Joy's father, a revelation made by Jean in the fourth season. Despite this revelation, Jean and Dan's relationship lacks true affection and passion, highlighting their incompatibility.

22 Michael & Gloria

21 Lily & Octoboy

Another example of an adult relationship lacking love can be seen between Michael and Gloria in Sex Education season 4. Gloria develops an interest in Michael and invites him on a date. Although he hesitantly accepts, he soon realizes that their sexual desires are not aligned. Their partnership appears to be completely out of sync, and their initial chemistry fades away swiftly. However, Gloria's advances serve as a valuable reminder for Michael that he is still not over Maureen.

After Lily's unsuccessful encounter with Otis, she finally fulfills her desire to have her first sexual experience with a boy known as Octoboy. The two share a common fascination with extraterrestrial beings and physical intimacy, making them appear ideal for each other. Nevertheless, their relationship is not without flaws. Lily comes to realize that she experiences vaginismus with Octoboy, a condition that causes discomfort during intercourse. Moreover, she also discovers that her interest in men is not as strong as she initially thought. This realization proves to be significant but unfortunately dampens the romantic aspect of their relationship.

20 Eric & Oba

Another captivating love story that brought a breath of fresh air was the fiery romance between Eric and Oba. Their passionate affair unfolded during the third season of Sex Education when Eric embarked on a journey to Nigeria. It was impossible for Eric not to be mesmerized by Oba's unwavering confidence, and the connection they shared was undeniably electrifying. However, their intense love affair also brought to light a painful realization for Eric – that he could no longer be with Adam. This newfound awareness proved to be transformative for Eric, although it also plunged him into a heart-wrenching and challenging predicament.

19 Viv & Eugene

Viv and Eugene, a couple from the Sex Education series, initially seemed to have a generally stable relationship. However, their romance took center stage in season 3 when they started exchanging explicit messages during Moordale's trip to France. Viv found Eugene's medieval times fetish peculiar at first, but she eventually found him very attractive and impressive in person. Surprisingly, the end of their relationship was rather uneventful, turning out to be a more compelling plotline than a captivating romance.

18 Aimee & Steve

17 Eric & Rahim

: Aimee and Steve's relationship in Sex Education was just another average one. After ending things with Adam, Aimee started dating Steve, who was incredibly kind and gave Aimee the space she needed. However, their relationship lacked passion, and when Aimee was assaulted on the bus, their connection completely fell apart. Ultimately, they had a pleasant bond, but one that was destined to be short-lived.

Rahim, Eric's initial partner in Sex Education, introduced him to the thrill of openly embracing a homosexual relationship. Regrettably, their religious disparities hindered their compatibility, leading Eric to ultimately opt for Adam. As such, this relationship exemplifies a conventional narrative within Sex Education.

16 Joanna & Dan

Though Jean and Dan lack a strong connection, Jean's sister Joanna seems to be a perfect match for Dan. They both share a deep love for Lord of the Rings and have similar aspirations of settling down. However, their relationship takes a drastic turn when Jean unexpectedly discloses that Dan is Joy's biological father. This revelation creates a seemingly insurmountable obstacle that prevents Joanna and Dan from being together, which is truly unfortunate. Hence, their relationship ultimately ends up being mediocre and unsatisfying.

15 Maeve & Jackson

Maeve and Jackson, one of the initial couples in the series Sex Education, showcased distinct interests. In spite of their differences, Jackson pursued Maeve with relentless determination, resulting in an official romantic relationship between the two. Unfortunately, their disparities eventually created a rift, but Jackson's unwavering devotion towards Maeve was truly praiseworthy. Furthermore, it was heartening to witness their friendship endure, even after Maeve shattered Jackson's heart.

14 Otis & Ola

Though Otis and Ola are yet another couple that didn't work out, what they briefly had was endearing and delightful. The pair initially started as friends and gradually developed a romance towards the end of season 1. Their connection was characterized by clever banter and mutual understanding. However, in season 2, Ola's feelings for Lily ended up disrupting their relationship. Ultimately, their breakup was for the best, as they realized they were better off as friends and had romantic feelings for other people.

13 Ruby & Otis

In Sex Education season 3, Otis's relationship with Ruby stands out as another failed attempt at love. Their unconventional bond begins in season 2 with a one-night stand that unexpectedly develops into a formal relationship. Otis compellingly uncovers Ruby's vulnerable side, adding depth to her character. However, their love is unbalanced, with Ruby ultimately having stronger feelings for Otis than he does for her, resulting in their eventual breakup. Despite the end of their relationship, the romance between Ruby and Otis remains a memorable highlight of the later seasons.

12 Maeve & Isaac

In season 3, Maeve embarks on a delicate love story with Isaac. Unlike her relationship with Jackson, Maeve and Isaac appear to be a perfect match due to their shared cynicism and similar upbringings. However, similar to what transpired with Ruby and Otis, Maeve's affections seem to lean more towards Otis than Isaac, resulting in their separation. Although Isaac harbors some bitterness towards Otis, overall, their relationship was a tender one that Maeve truly deserved.

11 Colin & Emily

Not only the teenagers, but also the characters of Sex Education have delightful relationships. Colin, the acapella instructor, and Emily, the English teacher at Moordale College, portrayed an adorable couple throughout the series. Despite facing challenges, their relationship remains mostly hassle-free, and their presence in season 4 is exceptional. Without a doubt, they are one of the most enjoyable couples in the series.

10 Abbi & Roman

9 Cal & Aisha

Abbi and Roman, the newest couple in Sex Education, are the epitome of popularity at Cavendish High School. They quickly become an integral part of the Moordale crew, forming close friendships along the way. Despite encountering their fair share of obstacles, their irresistible chemistry keeps us captivated. Ultimately, the joy of witnessing their reunion in season 4 is immensely gratifying. While Abbi and Roman may not tug at our heartstrings, their on-screen presence is undeniably entertaining.

In season 4, a fresh and blossoming romance blossoms between Cal and Aisha. Initially, their connection may seem unlikely due to Aisha's existing partner. However, Aisha surprises everyone by revealing her polyamorous nature, which allows her and Cal to grow closer. Although Cal faces some challenges in their transition, their moments of intimacy are incredibly enjoyable and exhilarating.