Binge-watching TV shows is like hanging out with old friends. The characters are familiar, their struggles relatable, and their growth ever so inspiring. Even years after having devoured a show, simply hearing the opening theme or stumbling upon a social media edit can take us back to those cozy nights when we stayed up eagerly wanting to consume episode after episode of our favorite TV show.
But what makes these fictional worlds so irresistible and absorbing? It’s simple — the characters. While great star-studded comedies like Friends and How I Met Your Mother are testaments to the power of ensemble chemistry, there’s magic that happens when just two actors share the screen and deliver an electric on-screen spark. From smoldering gazes to playful banter, they leave you craving more. This list celebrates 20 pairs of actors who left an indelible mark on the small screen with their charm and off-the-charts chemistry.
On the one hand, there are epic sitcom romances and addictive crime-stopping teams, and on the other, devilishly relatable sibling banter and iconic survival duos. These familiar stars show that when actors click well, it’s no surprise that their shows become so iconic and famous.
20 The Vampire Diaries — Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev
Set in the fictional town of Mystic Falls, The Vampire Diaries follows the life of Elena Gilbert, an ordinary teenager whose life is turned upside down after both her parents die in a tragic car accident. She soon finds herself drawn to a gentle and kind-hearted young man named Stefan Salvatore. But when Stefan’s dangerous and passionate brother Damon enters the mix, Elena is pulled into a supernatural saga involving werewolves, witches, and town politics.
The Only Enemies-To-Lovers We Approve Of
While Elena Gilbert and Damon Salvatore had a sharp intensity between them which built to a love-hate relationship, it was the chemistry between actors Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev that anchored the show’s emotions.
The actors grew so close that they even dated for three years, making all the sparks between them on screen real and vivid. Dobrev cites Somerhalder as one of her biggest inspirations during filming of the long-running show.
Stream The Vampire Diaries on Max
19 Scrubs — Zach Braff and Donald Faison
Scrubs
- Release Date
- October 2, 2001
Steering away from medical dramas that have you reaching out for tissues every other episode, Scrubs is a lighthearted sitcom that balances its highs and lows in a timeless manner. It introduces you to the medical interns at Sacred Heart Hospital, where newcomer J.D. is taken under the wing of his mentor, Perry Cox. As he navigates the pressures of medical school and bonds with his quirky co-workers, J.D. learns (and teaches) plenty of valuable life lessons.
Bromance At Its Finest
In Scrubs, J.D. and Turk showcase the beauty of male friendships and platonic affection without ever making it too sweet or too serious. Their natural humor and ability to play practical jokes on one another is as hilarious as it is authentic, and it all started when Zach Braff and Donald Faison met for the first time during the reading of Scrubs. It goes without saying that the two actors share a golden friendship off-screen for over 20 years now, even starting a podcast together.
18 The X-Files — David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson
The X-Files
- Release Date
- September 10, 1993
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
The X-Files is a phenomenal science fiction drama that follows two FBI Special Agents, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, who investigate cases that were deemed unsolvable due to the presence of supernatural elements. While Mulder was almost too enthusiastic about the idea of paranormal existence, alien life, and government conspiracies, Scully was more pragmatic and approached each case with her knowledge of science and medicine at the forefront.
A Chemistry That Shifted Generations
Over nine seasons and two additional reboots, the complex relationship between Dana and Fox evolved from distrust to mutual care. The one thing binding them together was their determination to find the truth. Throughout the ‘90s, David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson shared a palpable chemistry on screen which led millions of fascinated viewers to root for them.
In real life, Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny have had ups and downs over the many years, with Anderson once comparing their relationship to a marriage. There were disagreements, but also many moments where they seem like absolute best friends.
17 Killing Eve — Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer
Written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge using her signature wit and humor, Killing Eve is a stylish spy thriller that introduces us to Eve, a bored MI5 security officer who is recruited for an undercover mission to hunt the brilliant and mercurial assassin Villanelle. Eve first had a chance encounter with Villanelle in a hospital bathroom, but with the stakes of her mission higher than ever, their toxic obsession with one another spirals into a deadly game of cat and mouse across Europe.
They’re Too Deliciously Twisted to Resist
Needless to say, Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer ignite all the small screens with their heart-in-your-mouth tension and sizzling chemistry. Whether it is their explosive scenes together or shared moments of longing gazes, there is a palpable heat between them that is impossible to look away from.
What’s interesting is that their respect and support for one another translates to their real life friendship as well, with Oh acknowledging it in an interview with The Sun, saying “Jodie and I have a profound relationship.”
16 The Americans — Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys
During the Cold War, Elizabeth and Philip Jennings got married and had children. Even though they reside in Washington D.C. and appear to be a typical married couple, the truth is that they were placed there by the KGB as deep undercover agents to spy on the American government.
The Americans captures the period of the Reagan administration, when war and politics were escalating. All the Jennings wanted out of it was to keep their lives hidden and fulfill their duty to their country.
Truly A Match Made In Heaven
As Elizabeth and Philip, Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys shared a connection that felt incredibly authentic. Even though their layered and complex characters were always torn between duty and desires, it was in the moments of compassion that their relationship truly blossomed.
Outside of the show, they developed a romance in 2013 and were eventually married in 2021, and have three children together. With humor and patience, they made this marriage take command of their captivating roles.
15 Hannibal — Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy
By far the best iteration of Thomas Harris’ psychopathic serial killer, Mads Mikkelsen’s Dr. Hannibal Lecter plays the forensic psychiatrist in this show. He’s later asked by the FBI to join a criminal profiler named Will Graham in his investigations and help him catch cold-blooded murderers. Lecter uses his talents to get into the head of criminals while also indulging in his private life of cannibalism. Throughout the series, we witness him forming a fascinating and transformative relationship with Graham.
A Morbid Yet Mesmerizing Friendship
Hannibal perfectly casts Mads Mikkelsen as the monstrous lead. Known for playing several troubled protagonists, the actor exudes menace with silky grace. Hugh Dancy matches him as the tormented yet internally sharp Will Graham.
When they are together, the atmosphere becomes eerily enticing, and the psychological game of manipulation and violence looks extremely effortless. Mads Mikkelsen and High Dancy first appeared together on screen in 2004’s King Arthur and their friendship is rooted in respect, appreciation, and trust for one another.
14 This Is Us — Sterling K. Brown and Susan Kelechi Watson
Chronicling the ups and downs in the life of the Pearson clan, This Is Us is an emotionally resonant glimpse into what a family goes through as a whole. We follow twins Kevin and Kate, their adoptive brother Randall, and their parents Jack and Rebecca, as they navigate the joys and frustrations through various stages in life.
The show uses a non-linear narrative to dive into certain definitive aspects of their relationships, but ultimately, the Pearsons learn who they are.
Hands Down the Healthiest On-Screen Marriage
While Mandy Moore and Milo Ventimiglia are absolutely wonderful as Jack and Rebecca, the heads of the Pearson family, it is Randall and Beth, played by Sterling K. Brown and Susan Kelechi Watson that steal the spotlight. As a couple they radiate beauty and comfort.
Every time they share a scene, their relationship pulses with thoughtfulness, care, humor, honesty, and a unique sense of admiration and understanding towards each other. It helps that they are great friends in real life, too.
13 Shameless — Cameron Monaghan and Noel Fisher
Created by Paul Abbott, Shameless is a family drama known particularly for its authentic, flawed, and complex characters. At the center of it all is Frank Gallagher, the alcoholic absentee father of the dysfunctional Gallagher household. His eldest daughter, Fiona, steps up to take care of her five siblings and supports the family through high school and beyond, navigating relationships and challenges in Chicago’s chaotic South Side.
Only The Best Couple On Shameless
Throughout the 11 seasons of Shameless, several relationships are made and broken, leaving wounds and scars that still sting. However, the intense and fiery bond between Ian Gallagher and Mickey Milkovich is among the most fondly remembered of the show.
Cameron Monaghan and Noel Fisher nail their roles as neighbors-turned-lovers-turned-husbands. From their snappy banter and traumatic lives to their willingness to care for each other, every bit of their feeling is infused with love and affection.
12 Good Omens — David Tennant and Michael Sheen
An astonishingly addictive fantasy comedy, Good Omens centers around the angel Aziraphale and the demon Crowley, who have grown rather fond of Earth after living on it for nearly 6000 years. When both heaven and hell decide to get the apocalypse going, the long-time friends decide to team up and prevent the arrival of the Antichrist, and hence Armageddon.
Heaven Meets Hell In An Exciting Story
Based on Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s 1990 novel of the same name, Good Omens feels more tailor-made for the new generation than ever. The show’s sense of style and humor is nothing if not addicting.
A huge credit for its success goes to David Tennant and Michael Sheen, whose comedic synergy as long-time collaborators and close friends brings Crowley and Aziraphale to amusing life. Known to always make lighthearted fun of each other, their chemistry ensures only the highest form of entertainment on screen.
Stream Good Omens on Prime Video
11 Brooklyn Nine-Nine — Andy Samberg and Melissa Fumero
At the 99th Precinct of the NYPD, crimes get solved and perps get caught, but always with a dash of laugh-out-loud moments, much to the chagrin of steady Captain Holt.
Under his leadership, New York’s finest and most eccentric detectives, like Jake, Boyle, Roza, Amy, Terry, Hitchcock and Scully, live for busting bad guys and indulging in their individual quirks. With new cases each week, Brooklyn Nine-Nine cemented itself as a beloved ensemble comedy.
Chemistry As Genuine As It Is Goofy
Amid the many dynamics that made the show iconic, the one that generated non-stop hilarity with their contagious charm was Jake Peralta and Amy Santiago, played wonderfully by Andy Samberg and Melissa Fumero.
With impeccable comedic timing and a knack for looking foolish, they brought out each other’s funniest sides and became the world’s favorite romantic goofballs. None of it would have been possible without the close friendship Samberg and Fumero formed during the eight-year run.
Stream Brooklyn Nine-Nine on Peacock Premium
10 Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. — Iain De Caestecker and Elizabeth Henstridge
Taking you to the world of superheroes, where those with unusual powers are protected and scrutinized by a singular spy agency, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. had viewers hooked from the very start. At the heart of the central group are scientists and agents Leo Fitz and Jemma Simmons, who solve mysteries and save lives through their technical knowledge and unparalleled teamwork. Through isolation, exile, and more than one near-death experience, their relationship evolves to be one of the greatest on television.
A Collaboration Like No Other
Iain De Caestecker and Elizabeth Henstridge infuse the characters of Fitz and Simmons with an endearing charm, wit, empathy, and care. What started as an affectionate friendship turned into a bond made of lingering glances and inside jokes. Every time they came to the screen, the result was infectious. Off-screen too, they balance their special connection with sincerity and made their journey a fan favorite.
Stream Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. on Disney+
9 Sex Education — Emma Mackey and Aimee Lou Wood
Sex Education has become a mirror to modern relationships, healthy friendships, and overcoming the most embarrassing hardships of the age. Set in the quaint fictional town of Moordale, a socially awkward high school teenager named Otis Milburn opens an underground sex clinic with the rebellious Maeve Wiley in order to help students with their intimacy problems.
Women Who Support Other Women Are the Best
Sex Education graced our small screens with a bunch of friendships that formed the core of its relevant and relatable coming-of-age narrative. There’s Adam and Ola, Eric and Otis, and Jackson and Vivian. But the vulnerable and sincere portrayal of friendship between Emma Mackey and Aimee Lou Wood stood out as the best. The sparks of caring, being curious, and relying on one another as Maeve and Aimee in the show extend in real life too, because Emma and Aimee are simply bestie-coded.
Stream Sex Education on Netflix
8 New Girl — Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson
New Girl
- Release Date
- September 20, 2011
The ultimate show when you need a little pick-me-up, New Girl follows the high-spirited and optimistic Jessica Day, who is dumped by her long-term boyfriend. Now in search of an apartment, Jess finds herself moving in with three single guys — Nick, Wilson, and Schmidt. As an eccentric elementary school teacher, the odds of finding a romance are against her, but she brings out the best in each of her loft-mates.
Nick And Jess Really Melted Our Hearts
New Girl became a hilarious drama that taught many life lessons, and the meaning of true friendship. And while Max Greenfield and Lamorne Morris played endearing characters themselves, there was always something special between Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson’s characters, Jess and Nick, that blew us away.
With one glance or a subtle touch, they displayed constant tension from the very first moment together, and it was way too satisfying when they finally got together as a couple, thanks to their irresistible chemistry.
7 Schitt’s Creek — Dan Levy and Annie Murphy
Despite being extremely hilarious and heartwarming, Schitt’s Creek remains underappreciated. The story of this six-season-long sitcom, written and created by Dan and Eugene Levy, sees the formerly wealthy Rose family losing all their fortune and estate.
The only thing left (besides their children) was the small town of Schitt’s Creek that Johnny once bought as a joke for his son, David. Forced to take refuge there, the Rose family struggles to find a footing among the town’s welcoming residents.
Constantly Bickering Siblings Bonded By Love
At its core, Schitt’s Creek is about a family’s journey to rediscovering themselves and finding joy in each other’s company. The feeling, however, doesn’t translate easily between siblings David and Alexis. With their perfect comedic timing and subtle rivalry, they carried the show to the most iconic status.
The characters are played by Dan Levy and Annie Murphy, who share a friendship that runs deeper than blood and their support for one another could even give David and Alexis a run for their money. Fans adored their banter a lot, especially when Alexis uttered “Ew, David!” any chance she got.
6 Stranger Things — Joe Keery and Gaten Matarazzo
Netflix’s most globally successful property Stranger Things takes you to the mysterious town of Hawkins, Indiana, where a young boy named Will Byers suddenly disappears one night. His mother Joyce, the town sheriff Jim Hopper, and his friends Mike, Dustin, and Lucas band together and form a search party, desperately setting out into the woods. Meanwhile, a young girl, El, is on the run from some bad men.
Harkening back to classic ’80s movies that shaped a generation, Stranger Things follows the kids of Hawkins as they battle evil and try to stay together while growing up.
An Instant Mentor Friendship
Stranger Things boasts a stellar cast of actors like Milly Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, David Harbour, and Sadie Sink, each of whom bring levity and heart to the show. An unlikely duo that formed during production is that of Steve and Dustin, played by Joe Keery and Gaten Matarazzo.
Keery’s character of Steve wasn’t intended to stay past the first season, but his remarkable charm won audiences over, making him one of the best characters on the show. And Steve’s mentor-like friendship with the younger Dustin becomes an unexpected and praised relationship. Keery’s big-hearted personality paired with Matarazzo’s witty lines creates a dynamic like no other. Off-screen too, Keery regards Matarazzo as the “60-year-old uncle that [he] never had.”
Stream Stranger Things on Netflix
5 The Office — John Krasinski and Jenna Fischer
The Office (U.S.)
- Release Date
- 2005-00-00
- Cast
- Steve Carell , Jenna Fischer , John Krasinski , Ellie Kemper , Rainn Wilson , Angela Kinsey , Melora Hardin , Rashida Jones , Mindy Kaling , Creed Bratton , B.J. Novak , Ed Helms , Brian Baumgartner
Inspired by the BBC series created by Ricky Gervais and adapted for American television by Greg Daniels, The Office is a workplace mockumentary that follows a bumbling Michael Scott, the manager of the Scranton branch of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, along with a bunch of other quirky employees who clock in each day for their routines and shenanigans. Along the way, they grow softly into a family.
TV’s Most Rewarding Best Friends-To-Lovers
A workplace comedy with no romance angle would be a missed opportunity. Thankfully, The Office stays consistently immersive with its iconic characters, two of which fuel the show’s narrative with their sublime chemistry. From the very beginning, Jim and Pam are portrayed as work best of friends, sharing jokes, communicating vast emotions and devising plans with just a look.
Their eventual romance a promise built on an achingly slow burn. Interestingly enough, John Krasinski and Jenna Fischer followed parallel paths in real life. Though they never became a couple, the two married their respective spouses, Emily Blunt and Lee Kirk, in the same year.
Stream The Office on Peacock Premium
4 The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel — Rachel Brosnahan and Luke Kirby
Written and created with the same quick-witted synergy and oddly adorable charm as Gilmore Girls, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is another triumph for creator Amy Sherman-Palladino. This time capturing the audience with its period drama setting, the show takes you to 1950s New York and introduces Miriam “Midge” Maisel, who has a seemingly perfect life — a good husband, two kids, and an Upper West Side apartment.
But her true destiny comes knocking when Joel leaves her, and, devasted and grieving, she accidentally stumbles into a downtown club and performs her first set as a comedian.
Will-They-Won’t-They Improvised To Perfection
Released on Prime Video in 2017, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel had a lot going for itself. From its depiction of an era when women were believed to be fit for only certain roles to its ability to blend wit, emotional nuance, and rich comedy, the show left fans delighted.
What was more enticing was the restrained yet intense relationship between Midge and Lenny Bruce. In every interaction, there was a palpable affection and a hanging question — is this a risk worth taking? Rachel Brosnahan and Luke Kirby are dynamite together in their portrayals, and there’s no denying that they kept viewers on their toes until the very end.
Stream The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Prime Video
3 The Last Of Us — Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey
Adapted from Naughty Dog’s video game franchise, The Last Of Us is a post-apocalyptic drama set in a world twenty years after a pandemic, where a fungal infection turned modern civilization into zombie-like creatures who kill each other just for the sake of it.
Among the survivors is Joel, a smuggler hired to escort 14-year-old Ellie out of the quarantine zone. Being immune to the infection, she may be the survivors’ only hope, but the journey ahead is brutal.
A Bond Based On Unshakeable Trust
After breaking out on HBO’s Game of Thrones, it was certainly captivating to watch Bella Ramsey imbue Ellie with a tender vulnerability as well as intense focus. Her co-star, Pedro Pascal, has handled all sorts of material with brilliancy before, and even starred on Game of Thrones as well.
Together, Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey are fabulous together. The reluctant-dad role of Joel paired with snarky Ellie is played to perfection by both actors. Their growing familiarity and trust is sweet and endearing, and wouldn’t work as well if the actors didn’t seem to get along so well too. The two leads have each other’s backs completely on- and off-screen.
2 Fleabag — Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Andrew Scott
Quirky, heartbreaking, and incredibly funny, Fleabag sees Phoebe Waller-Bridge at her very best. In the show, she plays the titular character who ran a café in London with her best friend, Boo, until her friend is tragically killed.
The unnamed character must then deal with the grief over losing her best friend, the dysfunction within her family, and many, many messy romances. All while breaking the fourth wall to share uncensored snippets, accompanied by a snarky grin, with the audience.
Their Smoldering Chemistry Left Us In Pieces
In just two seasons, PWB portrayed the kind of pain, humor and intimacy that viewers couldn’t look away from. Especially in the second season, when she was accompanied by Andrew Scott’s character, known only as the Hot Priest.
Scott complemented her thoroughly with his wit, allure, and restrained depth. Their electric will-they-won’t-they dynamic on screen was handled with care. Beyond that, the two actors carry profound respect for one another’s talent, with Waller-Bridge calling Scott the “greatest actor of our time.”
1 Normal People — Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal
Normal People is a tender romance miniseries that chronicles the relationship between Marianne and Connell, spanning from high school to their lives as adults. They both grew up in a small town in Ireland, with complex families and distinct social statuses. However, their connection was one built on mutual understanding and compelling frustration. The show is based on Sally Rooney’s novel of the same name.
An Intimacy So Simple It’s Exquisite
It’s been three years since Normal People embraced viewers with open arms into its heartbreaking yet magical and hope-filled story. The main characters were played by Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal, who delivered their characters with consistency, strength, and honesty.
What Connell and Marianne share cannot be described in words, and the subtlety of their raw and achingly beautiful adult lives ensures viewers that they too will eventually find peace and happiness.
This story originally appeared on Movieweb
