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15 Best TV Friendships
There’s no doubt that one of the greatest components to making a TV show likable and relatable is the chemistry of the characters whether that’s through friendships or relationships.
Although let’s be honest, not every friendship portrayed on TV is truly successful. But when it is, it has the potential of becoming a cultural phenomenon, when audiences begin calling each other the peanut butter to their jelly (except substitute ingredients with character names).
Here’s our list of the 15 best friendships on TV that do just that and make us all yearn for that mischief, love, and laughter everyone needs in a best friend. Don’t forget to comment down below any of your favorite TV friendships!
1. Abbi and Ilana (Broad City)
Abbi and Ilana on Broad City. Photo Courtesy of Comedy Central.
It’s quite rare that on-screen best friends are just as close in real life. However, Ilana and Abbi’s friendship on and off the show is probably one of the cutest most cherishing friendships ever.
Sure, at times they’re probably overly co-dependent– when they’re not hanging out IRL, they’re Facetiming– but that kind of relationship is a must if you’re looking to survive New York City. The chemistry between the two is truly off the charts, and when people talk about friendship love, they’re certainly referring to this iconic duo.
2. Cristina and Meredith (Grey’s Anatomy)
Cristina and Meredith on Grey’s Anatomy. Photo Courtesy of ABC.
The Twisted Sisters are the greatest love story on the show, any true fan knows this. Their continued friendship even beyond Cristina’s exit is what keeps these two on every list.
The grueling challenges of medical residency and their careers created an unbreakable bond, not to mention all the traumas and tragedies they experienced together including a plane crash and shooting. Between their dance parties and moments of petty judgment, they make a great team.
3. Jen and Judy (Dead to Me)
Jen and Judy on Dead to Me. Photo Courtesy of Netflix.
Friendship doesn’t always mature linearly, and Jen and Judy are the best depiction of this. Despite Judy’s original guilt acting as a catalyst for their friendship, as truths are outed they slowly build a deep friendship.
The secrets they eventually have to share pull them closer together, and no matter how unhealthy that may seem, it works for them. Judy’s spirituality perfectly balances Jen’s pessimism and that seems like the ideal formula of any duo.
4. Callie and Mariana (Good Trouble)
Callie and Mariana on Good Trouble. Photo Courtesy of Freeform.
Sister from another mister, literally. But who says your sister can’t be your best friend? Mariana and Callie’s friendship has blossomed considerably on their spinoff TV show Good Trouble. Their sibling dynamic allows for a different level of closeness. The way they can criticize each other or get angry with each other is definitely a level only reserved for sisters.
Similar to Abbi and Ilana, Maia Mitchell and Cierra Ramirez are close in real life and that depth truly translates to the screen. When they have secrets to keep from their moms or have new gossip on one of their other siblings, confiding in the other provides a built-in therapist.
5. Otis and Eric (Sex Education)
Otis and Eric on Sex Education. Photo Courtesy of Netflix.
These two are just adorable. As both are faced with the challenges of high school and puberty, they lean on each other to get through the hard times. Although they have their flaws, as does every friendship, it keeps things realistic. And no matter what, the other is there to fight back against any bullies that may try and take them down.
Even as they grow separately through relationships and first times, their friendship never suffers. They always come back together to discuss and process the big moments.
6. Penelope and Derek (Criminal Minds)
Derek and Penelope on Criminal Minds. Photo Courtesy of CBS.
The fun and flirtatious friendship between these two FBI agents is what makes their friendship so loving. Derek’s pet names for Penelope including “baby girl” warms the heart and because they never pass the friend boundary, it makes it even more special.
Genuinely, the work they do requires close friendships and people who really understand the difficulties of catching serial killers. Arguably, they are the sweetest pairing on the show, even as they become romantically involved with other people. Garcia’s the nerdy computer girl, while Derek’s the attractive cool boy, an unlikely pairing, but one that works because of this.
7. Miriam and Susie (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel)
Miriam and Susie on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Photo Courtesy of Amazon Prime.
This comedic pairing’s banter is the bread and butter of their friendship. Though they lead completely different lives, it somehow works. Susie keeps Miriam grounded and helps her along with her dream of being on stage. They’re not your typical friends all warm and fuzzy, but they’re adult friends who lead separate lives, yet support each other’s careers.
8. Sutton, Jane, and Kat (The Bold Type)
Jane, Kat, and Sutton on The Bold Type. Photo Courtesy of Freeform.
This trio can never be separated, they’re a single unit. They may be the best representation of friendships that transcend the office. As they climbed the career ladder together at Scarlett and began using the fashion closet as a secret quiet corner, their bond became unbreakable.
They don’t always give each other the best advice or the best ideas, but they get in trouble together and that’s what matters. Through heartbreaks, new relationships, and sexual awakenings, they are always lifting each other up.
9. Annie and Fran (Shrill)
Annie and Fran on Shrill. Photo Courtesy of Hulu.
Annie and Fran represent the close bonds you can make in college and how they develop and change into adulthood. Shrill explores the nuances in an interracial friendship as well when Annie receives backlash for an article and Fran has to confront Annie for her white privilege.
These young women are simply trying to find their identities, while relationships and careers are put to the test. The only thing they can truly rely on is each other, but by the end, they have to identify whether or not their friendship is stunting their personal growth.
10. Tully and Kate (Firefly Lane)
Tully and Kate on Firefly Lane. Photo Courtesy of Netflix.
One of the oldest friendships on this list, Tully and Kate have been best friends since childhood. However, the dynamic holds its own challenges as Kate has always lived in the shadows of Tully, while Tully has always envied Kate’s life.
There are obvious toxicities between the two, but they’ve always been each other’s rocks when life wasn’t smooth. Despite their ended friendship revealed in the finale, we know that the second season will explore the elements that led up to this division. Plus, these two will make up, there’s no doubt about it.
11. Ted and Marshall (How I Met Your Mother)
Ted and Marshall on How I Met Your Mother. Photo Courtesy of CBS.
The entire show highlight’s an entire group of friends, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t branches. Ted and Marshall happen to be the oldest branch and thus their friendship is probably the deepest. While Marshall has his forever person, Ted is always striving to find his own.
Ted’s the official third wheel to Marshall and Lily, but somehow Marshall still makes time for his best friend. Barney’s always trying to make his presence known in the friend group as Ted’s best friend, but he knows deep down that Marshall will always take that spot.
12. Liza and Maggie (Younger)
Liza and Maggie on Younger. Photo Courtesy of Paramount+.
Most might assume Liza and Kelsey are the friends of the show, but you can’t forget about Liza’s friendship with Maggie. Maggie’s always there to support Liza and push her to do great things. After all, she’s the one who suggested she lie about her age.
They portray a middle-aged friendship in a beautiful way. As they both navigate singledom and the dating world, they always know the other will be home to comfort them. When Liza’s life seems to be falling apart when people find out her real age, Maggie’s there to help pick her up.
13. Emily and Hannah (Pretty Little Liars)
Emily and Hannah on Pretty Little Liars. (ABC Family/Eric McCandless)
Now, this one might be influenced by Buttabenzo (Shay Mitchell and Ashley Benson’s friendship name), but if you rewatch the show, you’ll see Hannah and Emily always held a stronger connection.
Emily stayed with Hannah while her parents were away. But also, Aria and Spencer always just felt worlds away in their own drama, and Hannah and Emily were left in the dust finding their own ways to stay safe from A.
14. Kate and Anne (Workin’ Moms)
Anne and Kate on Workin Moms. Photo Courtesy of CBC.
Friends since college and now making their way through motherhood together, Anne and Kate keep each other on solid ground. As they are pulled in separate directions in life by careers, husbands, and children, they still manage to stay in close contact.
As they’re in a stage in life when family takes over their entire life and it seems like friendships fall by the wayside, they’ve made sure to never lose sight of each other. When one needs advice or to vent about the weird new habit their child has picked up, the other is on the other end ready to listen.
15. Gary and Eddie (A Million Little Things)
Gary and Eddie on A Million Little Things. Photo Courtesy of ABC.
Let’s be honest, Gary’s the most loyal friend in general no matter who he’s paired with. But, because Eddie’s struggled so much with his addiction and his car accident, Gary’s had to step up as his only form of support, while Eddie’s marriage with Katherine is falling apart simultaneously.
Gary’s the Godfather of Theo and he knows how special that is. And although Eddie’s his best friend, he recognizes Eddie’s flaws and is somehow still able to be there for Katherine. Get you a best friend that can do both!
It was bittersweet saying goodbye to plenty of shows in 2021, but the plus side is that it made room for a handful of new shows that are gearing up for their highly-anticipated premieres.
There are plenty of shows that we’re excited about, but since it’s too much for anyone person to take in, we’ve condensed it to a list including the best of the best.
These are all the shows already garnering and generating buzz in 2022 — even before they’ve premiered.
Check out our list of shows (mostly new, but also a few final seasons) that should be on your radar:
How I Met Your Father – Hulu
Fans of How I Met Your Mother can re-live all the magic with a new group of friends with Hilary Duff at the helm. It’s also giving us some Younger vibes, so call it the best of both worlds.
The gender-reversed comedy premieres Tuesday, Jan. 18 with the first two episodes and then on a weekly basis.
House of the Dragon – HBO Max
Even if the final season of “Game of Thrones” left a bad taste in your mouth, don’t worry, the prequel is here to serve as a palate cleanser. Set 200 years before GOT, it’s based on George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and focuses on the a civil war within House Targaryen. There is no premiere date as of yet, but that hasn’t stopped us from holding our breath.
BEL-AIR – Peacock
Revivals get a bad rap, but they aren’t always terrible. We’ve seen success with Saved by the Bell and Roswell, so fingers-crossed that Bel-Air, a comedy reimagined as an hour-long drama, will deliver in the same way. Will Smith has signed on for the project alongside the original creators. Jabari Banks stars as Will, a young man who moves into the gated mansion of Bel-Air in modern-day America, and explores plenty of conflicts and biases. It has been picked up for two seasons prior to the premiere on Sunday, Feb. 13 with the first two episodes and then weekly episodes.
Ozark – Netflix (Fourth and final season)
We’re crossing the finish line on Ozark this year, which is arguably a good thing because I don’t know how much more my nerves could handle. And the end is likely something the Byrde family definitely wants after getting too wrapped up in a messy situation with the Mexican cartel. Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, and Julia Gardner all make this series an intoxicating binge from beginning to end, even if the fourth and final season is split up into two parts with the first half arriving on Netflix on January 21.
She-Hulk
Disney+ saw massive success with their Marvel shows, so it’s not a surprise that there’s a palpable excitement for She-Hulk starring Orphan Black’s Tatiana Maslany, a lawyer who has one small favor to ask: don’t make her angry. She’s the less-angry-but-just-as-green cousin of Bruce Banner, the Hulk, played by Mark Ruffalo, who is expected to make an appearance. No premiere date has been announced yet.
Inventing Anna – Netflix
Shonda Rhines is making her mark on Netflix with a series based on the true and shocking story of fashionable grifter Anna Delvey who faked being a German heiress to scam New York New Yorker’s into thinking she was a German heiress. Ozark’s secret weapon, Julia Gardner, works miracles as Delvey. The cast also stars Scandal’s Katie Lowes and Orange is the New Black’s Laverne Cox. This is a can’t miss limited series that hits Netflix on February 11.
Lord of the Rings – Amazon Prime
This is a big one for fans of the LOTR films! The television adaptation is a prequel set thousands of years before the events of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings and features an ensemble cast — both new and familiar — as they confront an evil unlike ever before in the Second Middle Age. It will make its mark on Amazon Prime on September 22.
Stranger Things – Netflix
We’ve paid our dues waiting to catch up with the residents of Hawkins, Indiana. Only this time, the action will take us to California and Soviet Russia (because, yes, Hopper is alive — spoiler) as the group of friends tries to stop the supernatural entities of the Upside Down once and for all. A premiere date (for the fourth and possible final season) announcement is likely on the horizon, but our money is on late spring or early summer. After all, we’ve waited long enough!
Obi-Wan Kenobi – Disney+
Disney and Star Wars go hand-in-hand, and with the success of the recent The Book of Boba Fett and The Mandalorian, it only makes sense that they would dive into Jedi master Obi-Wan Kenobi. The series is set a decade after the events of Star Wars: Episode III—Revenge of the Sith. In a real treat, Ewan McGregor will reprise the titular role, while Hayden Christensen will return as Darth Vader. No premiere date has been announced.
Nancy Drew is a brilliant teen detective. That’s how they’ve marketed her for years, so we have no choice but to love her.
The CW’s version, portrayed by Kennedy McMann, is a modern-take on the character who is driven and determined, yet impressively aware of her flaws and imperfections. She owns them like a badge while going after what she wants wholeheartedly and using her particular set of skills to solve mysteries — both human and supernatural in nature — along the way.
Since Nancy carries the series, it’s hard not to paint her as the best of the best.
But we’re lucky that in The CW version of the series, the Drew Crew has no shortage of incredible characters in addition to Nancy.
However, there’s no denying that one character stands out amongst the others for being equally as developed… and that’s Ace (played by Alex Saxon).
Puppy dog eyes aside (don’t you just want to give him a hug), Ace started off as a one-dimensional character that was around for quick laugh, but he quickly evolved into the heart of the series thanks to a plethora of great qualities, including serving as the backbone of the Scooby squad.
We’re breaking down some of the other reasons that we love Ace below:
Nancy Drew — “The Demon of Piper Beach” — Image Number: NCD304a_0251r.jpg — Pictured (L-R): Alex Saxon as Ace and Leah Lewis as George — Photo: Jeff Weddell/The CW — © 2021 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
He’s Always There for His Friends
Ace’s theme song should be Toy Story’s “You Got a Friend In Me” because Ace is the teddy bear you can call up whenever you’re having a bad day and need a hug, a piece of advice, or a reality check.
There has never been a time where Ace left a friend in need. Whenever anyone from the Drew Crew needs him, Ace is right there to offer assistance and support. He’s provided a shoulder to cry on for Nick, he assisted Nancy no matter how dangerous the situation, and he’s even been a “get out of a bad date” call for Bess. Ace is there when you need him most, whether you know it or not.
He Never Turned His Back on Carson Drew
Speaking of friends and being there for them… Ace has an unmatched level of loyalty. When the whole town painted Carson Drew as the villain, Ace made it a point to visit him and make sure he was okay. Throughout the seasons, he’s always had Carson’s back even when it would’e been easier to side with Nancy and let him be. It’s yet another point that re-affirms that Ace is “ride or die” friend.
Credit: The CW/ Nancy Drew
He Does the Right Thing No Matter How Difficult It Is
Ace has really great judgment, especially in social situations. He tried to befriend Bertram Bobbsey simply because he believed that everybody deserves a second chance and because he wanted to do right by his girlfriend, Amanda Bobbsey. But the minute he realized something sketchy was going on, he took a step back. And when Carson informed him that they needed to find Bertram otherwise he would go down as an accomplice for a crime, he followed Amanda and ensured that her father was put away behind bars where he couldn’t hurt anyone else (including Amanda) again. While it was a difficult decision on his part, Amanda made it clear that her priority was her father, and Ace knew that he had to do the right thing no matter how much it hurt her or ended their relationship.
His Advice
Part of what makes Ace such a great friend is that he’s able to foresee everyone’s needs often before they even know what they need themselves. This allows him to dish out incredible advice (see reason #1) that makes him appear wise beyond his years.
Nancy Drew — “The Legend of the Murder Hotel” — Image Number: NCD207a_0520r.jpg — Pictured: Aadila Dosani as Amanda Bobbsey and Alex Saxon as Ace — Photo: Colin Bentley/The CW — © 2021 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
He’s a Hard Worker
When he’s not assisting Nancy and the crew with solving supernatural mysteries, he’s putting in the hours at the Claw. For a little, it seemed as though he was the only employee who actually worked any kind of shift at all.
He Knows How To Be Vulnerable
Not only is he vulnerable, but he is empathetic and intuitive, which are all very desirable characteristics for a man that’s in-tune with himself and his feelings. He’s a genuinely good human, and that genuineness trickles down to everyone he comes in contact with. His most vulnerable was hunting down his step-brother and getting to know him while also protecting his father’s secret and his mother from being hurt by the truth.
Nancy Drew — “The Mark of the Poisoner’s Pearl” — Image Number: NCD110a_0114b.jpg — Pictured (L-R): Anthony Natale as Thom and Alex Saxon as Ace — Photo: Bettina Strauss/The CW — © 2020 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
His Relationship with His Dad Is One to Be Admired
Despite a few hiccups here and there, Ace has a pretty sweet relationship with his father. He’s a caring son that always prioritizes his father’s needs. Plus, it’s awesome to see ASL portrayed on television and naturally weaved into a storyline.
He’s An Accomplished Hacker
Mr. Robot doesn’t have anything on Ace. He’s been able to assist in many supernatural mysteries simply by being the tech-guru that can crack any code and decipher any message. His skills have come in handy on many occasions! Unfortunately, most recently, they also got him caught up in a pretty uncanny situation — a parallel universe!
His Stroke of Comedic Genius
Ace has some of the best one-liners, and he delivers them without missing a beat, usually in the most serious and significant situations. The unexpected nature of his commentary typically catches everyone off-guard, which also allows for some really hilarious reactions that Ace is usually oblivious to. The only other person who rivals Ace with this witty quips and comedic-timing is Bess, but we have enough room in our hearts to stan them both.
He Doesn’t Take Himself Too Seriously
With everything that’s going on around him and almost dying on several accounts, Ace is incredibly chill. It’s impressive that he can manage to keep things so low-key and zen when the ghostly spirits have set their sights on Horseshoe Bay, and usually, him and his friends. See the previous point about being trapped in a parallel universe, which would be cause for concern for anyone.
He Has Pretty Eyes
This one is pretty self-explanatory… and it leads into…
The Love Interest
Of course, there’s no denying that Ace is beloved by many because he’s a love interest for Nancy. While she’s had her fair share of romances throughout the seasons, Ace is a constant in her life. He loves her for her wins and her flaws, he’s her biggest supporter, and as time progresses, Nancy has come to realize just how much she values Ace’s presence in her life. While many argue that they have a great friendship dynamic that shouldn’t be messed with, their romance is a slow burn. Admittedly, that’s working wonders for the show as it is keeping audiences on their toes and will make the moment so much better when they do finally give into those feelings that have been bubbling up riiiiight under the surface. Both Nancy and Ace haven’t had luck in the romance department, so maybe they’ll both finally find someone that’s worthy of their love and affection.
What’s your favorite thing about Ace on Nancy Drew?
Is he your favorite character? If not, who is? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
2021 was a strange year in TV. The production of so many shows was sidetracked by the pandemic, but we still somehow made it to the finale. So with the end of the year coming up in a couple of weeks, it seems only fitting to give a proper send-off to 9 TV shows that we’re sad to leave behind in 2021. Some ended too early, while others ended at the perfect time, but all will be greatly missed.
1. Younger (Paramount+)
This past summer we said a tearful goodbye to the cast of Younger. Originally, its producer, Darren Star had unofficially ideated Season 7 as its final season, and then it came true. Thankfully, it’s available to stream, so you can repeatedly enjoy this show in its full glory. Younger is about Liza Miller, a 40-year-old woman who resorts to lying about her age in order to return to the workforce after raising her daughter. It’s an entertaining rom-com that highlights ageism and sexism in the workplace, while also beautifully capturing the importance of friendship.
2. Insecure (HBO Max)
Insecure is a dramedy that focuses on the Black narrative, particularly Black women and the unrealistic expectation of confidence. Issa Dee’s just trying to survive and thrive in her personal and professional life. However, in order to get there, she must learn to overcome her insecurities and flaws. With the help of her best friend Molly, the two take on life in Los Angeles together all while overcoming a period of liminality.
3. Dickinson (Apple TV+)
A fantastic comedy that puts a modern twist on the mid-1800s, Dickinson, is not what you’d expect. Hailee Steinfeld leads the series as the outspoken feminist Emily Dickinson, as she strives to become the infamous poet we know and praise today. You don’t have to be an English major to enjoy this one. As long as you love a good romance, fight against the patriarchy, and maybe a little Wiz Kalifa, you’re sure to find this 3 season show, delightful.
4. Feel Good (Netflix)
Mae Martin’s original comedy, Feel Good on Netflix is a much-needed LGBTQ+ representative show. The show is a short two seasons but they sure pack quite the punch. It centers on Mae, a standup comedian who swaps her drug addiction for love. During her time in England, Mae meets and falls in love with George, a baby queer. The show dissects the qualms of their relationship, all of course, with a healthy dose of humor.
5. Shrill (Hulu)
A young journalist struggles to jumpstart her career until she begins to write about her greatest insecurity–weight. Shrill shares the life of Annie Eaton as she learns to find confidence in being unapologetically herself. Navigating the world of romance and privilege, she runs into problems and makes countless mistakes. Its three-season run feels short, but once you make it to the end, you’ll feel appreciative of the journey.
6. Kim’s Convenience (Netflix)
Kim’s Convenience is a Canadian show about a Korean-Canadian family and their acclimation to both the Canadian culture and the evolving generation. An endearing comedy about the pressures and tension between the children of immigrants and their parents. Its five-season run was the perfect length, but we will surely miss this cast.
7. The Bold Type (Freeform)
The Bold Type is a show about three fearless friends who bond over their careers at Scarlet Magazine. It has hints of Sex and the City, but with a more diverse and feminist perspective. It’s a bit more drama than comedy and includes the typical search for love, self-identity, and everything in between. The show’s fluidity was affected by the pandemic but still managed to end on a sweet note in its fifth season.
8. Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (NBC)
This NBC show was cut way too short, but thankfully Roku picked it up for a movie to tie up some loose ends. Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist centers on a unique premise. Following a CT scan, Zoey starts hearing people’s inner song-alogues. The power initially seems useless and annoying, but she later learns to use it for the better.
9. Atypical (Netflix)
Atypical is a sweet family comedy about Sam, a teenager who falls on the autism spectrum. The show follows his quest to find independence, love, and the meaning of life. And while his family plays a large role in his life, his newfound autonomy especially puts his mother on a new life journey–one without the constant supervision of her son. It’s a family affair, and you’ll be sure to invest in every character and the family dynamic by the end.
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