The two characters don’t even have a “meet-cute” set against the backdrop of a world that’s suffering the aftermath of a brain-gnawing fungus that brought the world to its knees, but they do, and for twenty years, we get to see how they learn how to live with each other, cut off from the rest of whatever is left of civilization and become the person that the other needed them to be. Bill’s purpose in life was to save Frank’s life and Frank, he was the one who showed Bill what it meant to live the life that he had. They survive together, but they also live and love and they have their arguments and tender moments and everything in between.
One could say that the trope of “burying your gays” which has been very prominent throughout all forms of media is something that gets challenged with these two characters, because yes at the end of it all, both Bill and Frank die, but it’s not as a result of them being gay, it’s a consequence of what happens after they’ve lived a happy life together and that makes a difference.
#4 Magnus & Alec – “Shadowhunters” – by Anjali Savalani:
The second season does not feature a current love story between Louis and Lestat but between Louis and Armand. We see courting, dating, love and arguments – a different relationship to that of Louis and Lestat but still beautiful to witness as someone craving representation for other groups.
Interview with the Vampire fills a gap that was missing in storytelling and entertainment. I cannot wait to see what they do next and I hope to be able to watch and review this series for many seasons to come.
#7 David & Patrick – “Schitt’s Creek” by Cristina Almeida:
David and Patrick’s relationship on “Schitt’s Creek” is a beautiful and groundbreaking portrayal of love that has had a significant impact on the LGBTQ community. Their story is tender, authentic, and refreshingly free of typical television drama, focusing instead on their deep connection and mutual support. David, played by Dan Levy, is known for his high-maintenance personality and penchant for the dramatic, often getting lost in the minutiae of daily life. Patrick, played by Noah Reid, serves as a grounding force for David, gently guiding him to see the bigger picture and appreciate the simpler, more meaningful aspects of life.
From their first meeting, where Patrick helps David navigate the complexities of setting up a business, to their heartfelt moments of vulnerability and growth, Patrick’s steady and patient demeanor balances David’s more flamboyant and anxious tendencies. Their dynamic showcases a loving and supportive partnership where differences are embraced and strengths are highlighted. Patrick’s influence helps David grow, leading him to experience deeper self-awareness and happiness. This portrayal of a healthy, evolving same-sex relationship has resonated deeply with many, providing much-needed visibility and positivity for LGBTQ relationships on mainstream television. Their love story, culminating in a joyous wedding, has inspired and uplifted countless viewers, affirming that love is love, and everyone deserves a happy ending.
#8 Maya & Carina – “Station 19” by Cristina Almeida:
Maya’s initial struggles with vulnerability and intimacy are gently addressed by Carina’s patient and nurturing nature, helping Maya to open up and embrace her emotions. Their dynamic highlights the importance of communication, trust, and mutual support, illustrating a loving partnership where both individuals grow and flourish.
As one of the few lesbian couples on television, Maya and Carina’s relationship provides crucial representation for lesbian women, offering a rare and positive depiction of a same-sex relationship. Their story not only normalizes lesbian relationships but also celebrates them, showcasing the love, challenges, and joys they encompass. This representation has resonated deeply with viewers, providing much-needed visibility and positivity for LGBTQ relationships. Maya and Carina’s journey, filled with both trials and triumphs, has inspired and uplifted many, affirming that love, in all its forms, is powerful and transformative, and that everyone deserves to see their stories reflected on screen.
#9 Hen & Karen – “911” by Valerie LaRoche:
These two are the epitome of love conquers all. At the start of the show, Both Karen and Henrietta (Hen) are already together, however, in the sixth episode of season six, titled Tomorrow, we get the chance to see the early days of their relationship. Fun fact: It was Chimney who brought them together (under the guise of meeting them both for drinks separately and never showing up – good one, Chim!), but they created their love story all on their own. What we love so much about HenRen is that, even though they have their differences, they always find their way back to each other.
What also makes HenRen loved by many is the normalcy of their relationship dynamic. We didn’t need to see the cliche “coming out” storytelling that we have been used to. We didn’t need to have one side of the couple struggling with their sexuality, who they are, and the need to come to terms with it. It’s something that is very refreshing to see on today’s network television. Please let the days of feeling shame, or hiding who you really are be gone.
#10 TK & Carlos – “911: Lone Star” by Valerie LaRoche:
From the moment Carlos asks T.K. to join him to dance in the premiere episode of 9-1-1 Lone Star, they quickly become one of the fan favorites of the series. It did, however, take some time for them to find their footing as a couple. T.K., at the time, was looking for fun after just coming out of a serious relationship whereas Carlos was looking for something real with him. With time and vulnerable conversations (T.K. telling Carlos about his sobriety and Carlos talking about his family dynamic), they found their common ground and have fallen more and more in love with each season.
T.K. and Carlos (Tarlos) are far from perfect though. There was a period of time where they broke up (done off screen) and the writers could’ve done what most shows do; have them try to find other partners to fill the void. Thankfully, that isn’t the direction they took with these two. Instead, we’re shown just how well things can turn out if you work hard for your relationship. Watching Tarlos’ love story and just how quickly people fell in love with them goes to show how important queer representation, and honest queer representation on television is.
Rumors have been swirling around about the possibility of a 9-1-1 Lone Star cancellation, and let’s hope that it’s only that: a rumor. To lose these two just when there’s so much more story to tell (T.K. and Carlos got married in the Season 4 finale) would suck. Not only because we’d miss Tarlos dearly, but we’d be losing out on positive representation for the queer community. A story like T.K. and Carlos’ is too important to not continue.
#11 Cameron & Mitchell – “Modern Family” by Julia Krassnik:
Mitch’s buttoned-up personality perfectly balanced Cam’s dramatic flair and big-hearted nature. This contrast led to many comedic moments and deeply touching scenes that highlighted their unwavering support, love, and commitment to each other. While they faced their fair share of issues like any couple, they always stayed together and always worked things out.
Mitch and Cam’s portrayal deconstructed many stereotypes about gay men, such as the misconception that they are promiscuous and uninterested in long-term relationships. However, certain stereotypes did also get reaffirmed by how the two men are depicted: Cam’s dramatic flair and over-the-top reactions, and their shared interests in theater, art, fashion, and home décor. These traits contribute to the humor and depth of their characters but also align with longstanding stereotypes about gay men. However, it is important to note that “Modern Family” often uses stereotypes to create humor and relatable situations, allowing audiences to see beyond the clichés.
Mitch and Cam’s relationship was depicted with authenticity and depth, showcasing the everyday highs and lows of a committed partnership. It played a crucial role in normalizing same-sex couples on mainstream television, providing much-needed representation and visibility.
#12 Susan & Carol – “Friends” by Julia Krassnik:
Carol and Susan were among the earliest representations of a same-sex couple on American mainstream television. For the most part, their relationship was portrayed as a normal aspect of life, without excessive sensationalism. The show also depicted the progressive and unique dynamic of Ross, Carol, and Susan co-parenting their son Ben, showcasing a blended family long before it was widely accepted.
“Friends” broke new ground with the wedding of Carol and Susan in season two, episode eleven. This episode featured one of the first televised gay weddings, airing many years before same-sex marriage became legal in the state of New York. Despite being banned by a few local TV stations, the episode attracted a staggering 31.6 million viewers. Although it received some complaints, the lesbian wedding episode generally garnered positive feedback, including a GLAAD Award for its impactful representation.
However, the show sometimes struggled to avoid harmful stereotypes. The portrayal of Carol and Susan’s relationship was at times tinged with homophobia, particularly evident in Ross’s reactions. There are episodes where Ross worries that his son is not “manly” enough, expressing concerns that playing with dolls and having two moms might make him gay, as if this were a negative outcome. Ross also feels significant discomfort with his child being raised not just by someone else, but specifically by another woman. Additionally, there are several jokes throughout the show in which Ross is mocked for “turning” his wife gay. These moments highlight the show’s struggle to balance progressive representation of a same-sex relationship with humor.
Despite these issues, Carol and Susan remain trailblazers for LGBTQ+ representation in media. Their presence on a major network sitcom in the 1990s provided visibility for same-sex couples and helped pave the way for more nuanced and respectful portrayals of LGBTQ+ relationships in television and film.
Notable Mentions:
Other many, many famous examples of LGBTQ+ couples over the years from TV shows across all networks include – Nick & Charlie from “Heartstopper”, Emily & Maya or even Emily & Paige from “Pretty Little Liars”, Fifteenth Doctor & Rogue from “Doctor Who”, Hawk & Tim from “Fellow Travelers”, “Toni & Cheryl” from Riverdale, Clarke & Lexa from “The 100”, Eve & Villanelle from “Killing Eve”, Maze & Eve from “Lucifer”, Cosima & Delphine from “Orphan Black”, Nicole & Waverly from “Wynona Earp”, Nick & Charlie from “Heartstopper”, Stede & Ed from “Our Flag Means Death”, Jesper & Wylan from “Shadow and Bone”, Rue & Jules from “Euphoria”, “Brian & Justin” from Queer As Folk, “Mickey & Ian” from Shameless, Sara & Ava from “Legends of Tomorrow” – and these are only still just a glimpse of what representation looks like on television!
There are so many other shows and so many couples who have yet to get together; and even if they’re not “canon” in the very literal sense of the word, but are building towards something, there’s always a story worth exploring, worth being told, worth being experienced – because when we see ourselves represented in the media, it gives us the courage to be true to who we are and at the end of the day, that’s what matters. For every victory that is achieved, there will always be something else to improve upon or even change or adapt to, but strides are being made and we should always do our best to highlight them!
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