In terms of LGBTQ+ representation, TV and cinema have come on leaps and bounds in recent years. Lovingly-created queer characters have won our hearts, and critical acclaim alike. But when it comes to representations of great relationships on screen, in-depth research is often required in order to unearth the true gems. Luckily for you, dear reader, we’ve done that research and compiled nine of the very best queer couples to grace our TV and cinema screens.

So, grab the popcorn, get comfy and add these films and TV series with solid queer couples to your must-watch list.

1) Héloïse and Marianne from Portrait of a Lady on Fire 

Let’s be real, this list simply would not be complete without the heartbreakingly glorious pairing that is Portrait of a Lady on Fire‘s Héloïse and Marianne. Céline Sciamma’s visually striking period film follows portrait painter Marianne, who has been employed to paint the wealthy, but lonely, Héloïse so that she may attract a suitor. The film is directed entirely for the female gaze, and that comes through on camera, making Portrait of a Lady on Fire a must-watch.

2) Nomi and Amanita from Sense8

It’s perhaps unsurprising that sci-fi series Sense8‘s representation of trans characters is both thoughtful and empowering, given the fact that it was created by the Wachowski sisters. One of the show’s standout characters is Nomi (Jamie Clayton), a trans hacker, activist and blogger who lives with her girlfriend, Amanita (Freema Agyeman). Their dedication to one another is something to behold, with Amanita standing by Nomi through thick and thin, in times of peril and joy alike.

3) David and Patrick from Schitt’s Creek

When he developed the concept for Schitt’s Creek, Dan Levy wanted to create a world free from homophobia as a form of resistance against LGBTQ+ tragedy tropes, and this proved to be the ideal space for David (Daniel Levy) and Patrick’s (Noah Reid) romance to bloom. Throughout their arc, the duo learn valuable lessons from one another and emerge as one of the strongest pairings on the show.

4) Hen and Karen from 9-1-1

In this gripping TV series following the lives of first responders, one particular couple stands head and shoulders above the rest. I’m talking, of course, about Hen (Aisha Hinds) and Karen (Tracie Thoms). Throughout the series, they step up for one another, rising to whatever challenge comes their way, whether that’s fertility issues, loss or everyday workplace drama.

5) Tara and Darcy from Heartstopper 

Heartstopper has no shortage of queer storylines, but what sets Tara (Corrina Brown) and Darcy’s (Kizzy Edgell) apart is their communication style. Positive and mature with plenty of mutual understanding, this sets the bar for representations of queer relationships – particularly for younger audiences – high, and we’re so here for it.

6) Ray and Kevin from Brooklyn 99

The forever-formal, always endearing Captain Holt (Andre Braugher) of Brooklyn 99 became even more beloved when audiences were introduced to his long-term partner, the equally serious Kevin (Marc Evan Jackson). Whether it’s hosting a carefully curated dinner party, or raising their fur baby Cheddar, Ray and Kevin light up our screens anytime we’re in the mood for a Brooklyn 99 re-watch.

7) Harper and Abby from Happiest Season

Tis the season after all, so cuddle up on the sofa and prepare to fall in love with this certified queer Christmas classic. Happiest Season follows the loved-up Abby (Kirsten Stewart) and Harper (Mackenzie Davis) as they navigate a semi-closeted Christmas experience with Harper’s wealthy, conservative family. The cast is star-studded with Aubrey Plaza, Alison Brie and Daniel Levy all making appearances.

8) Robert and Sol from Grace and Frankie

It’s never too late to find love, or indeed come out, as Robert (Martin Sheen) and Sol (Sam Waterson) only know too well in the witty, campy series Grace and Frankie. In the series, these two married men come out as gay, much to the surprise of their wives, who also happen to be best friends. Now, this pairing is divisive in the Grace and Frankie fandom, but love them or hate them, the premise of the show could not exist without them.

9) Laila and Khanum from Margarita with a Straw

While most queer couples in movies and TV are able-bodied, this film is a must-watch as it depicts the story of Indian teenager Laila living with cerebral palsy. During a semester in New York, Laila (Kalki Koechlin) falls in love with activist Khanum (Sayani Gupta), a girl of Pakistani-Bangladeshi descent who is blind. Their relationship helps Laila accept her bisexuality and, though they might not be destined to be with each other forever, their relationship plays a vital role in Laila’s journey to independence.

Need even more queer couples on film and TV? Us too! We regularly cover the best in LGBTQ+ representation on our site and our socials, so keep an eye out and you might just find your next watch.

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