Top 10 LGBTQ+ Teen TV Couples
#10: Cyrus Goodman & TJ Kippen “Andi Mack” (2017-19)
We definitely need to give it up to Disney for this one! Though “Andi Mack” has been praised for its accurate representation of teen life, it’s the coming out of young Cyrus and his subsequent budding romance with jock TJ, the Disney Channel’s first gay couple, that truly stands out. Their instant connection and ability to continuously encourage and bring out the best in each other leads to the boys’ mutual growth and maturity. Although they never officially open up about their feelings till the series finale, fans were rewarded with a touching scene that had both characters finally convey their sentiments for each other, with TJ even finding the courage to hold Cyrus’ hand.
#9: Adam Groff & Eric Effiong “Sex Education” (2019-)
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This next couple definitely has many fans of the hit Netflix series divided, but love 'em or hate ‘em, you can't deny the unshakeable connection between the pair. When we first meet Eric, he is the prime target of Moordale’s resident bully Adam, having suffered years through his constant verbal and physical abuse. That is, until a stint in detention reveals his tormentor may have been targeting him for a deeper reason. Instead of leaning into harmful stereotypes or tropes like many thought would happen, we see Adam self-reflect and eventually come to terms with his own demons, enough to publicly open up to Eric and get a chance at love.
#8: Mason Hewett & Corey Bryant “Teen Wolf” (2011-17)
In a town filled with werewolves, supernatural hunters and intrigue, it’s a relief to find a young love as pure and deep as that of fan-favorites Corey and Mason. These two were destined from the start, and despite the massive build up viewers had to endure before their eventual coupling, these two lovers, caught between humanity and Chimera-dom, make their relationship count. Unwaveringly fierce and loyal, both Mason and Corey are willing to put their lives on the line and protect each other at all costs. This is made clear when Mason refuses to let the war against the hunters and the Anuk-ite (uh-NOOOOK-uh-TAY) tear him and Corey apart.
#7: Toni Topaz & Cheryl Blossom “Riverdale” (2017-)
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Beneath its seemingly quaint and wholesome exterior, the town of Riverdale is a hotbed of drama, murder, intrigue and more organized crime than we ever thought possible for the world of Archie Comics. In the middle of all this darkness and chaos however, the residents of Riverdale still seem to find the time to date and fall in love, and there is no couple more in love than the infamous Cheryl Blossom and Southsider Toni. Though initially rivals, Toni quickly sees through Cheryl’s “mean girl” exterior and feels the pain she is hiding within. Not only does she offer her comfort and affection, but also provides rationality and control to her partner’s oftentimes impulsive and emotional actions.
#6: Emily Fields & Alison DiLaurentis “Pretty Little Liars” (2010-17)
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Another classic case of a high school bully taunting the friend she secretly loves, friend is forever infatuated with her tormentor and bully who seemingly dies only to later come back from the dead, all while a mysterious and vengeful villain, who goes by a single letter moniker, continuously terrorizes them and their friends for years. Phew. Despite all that suspenseful drama and their past baggage, Emison still finds a way to make it together in the end. Not only does Alison mature and leave her manipulative ways behind, she also comes to terms with her sexuality, gives birth to twins Grace and Lily, after being inseminated with Emily’s eggs, and we finally see the two give married life a shot.
#5: Adam Torres & Becky Baker “Degrassi: The Next Generation” (2001-15)
This popular Canadian teen drama has rarely shied away from LGBTQ+ issues and romances. Also, while many iconic couples have walked the hallowed halls of Degrassi High, Beckdam was definitely a fan favorite. Starting off as rivals, both teens eventually formed a friendship that quickly turned into a full-fledged romance. Despite their obvious differences, what with Adam being transgender and Becky a hyper-religious conservative, their love for each other is strong, with Becky even learning to overcome her and her family’s religious beliefs, much like how Riley Stavros overcame his own homophobia while dating Zane Park. Unfortunately however, their story ends in heartbreak when Adam dies after a serious car accident.
#4: Jude Adams Foster & Noah Walker “The Fosters” (2013-18)
Everyone knew Jude and Noah were meant to be together after their first encounter at a church youth group. And despite an initial hump where Jude uses Noah to make his ex Connor jealous, the two unite in no time. The two boys deepen their connection through weed, introduced to Jude by Noah, and couldn't seem to keep apart, even when they are banned from seeing each other after both moms caught them blazing. Although they break up briefly in season 5, when Noah accuses his boyfriend of no longer being the boy he fell in love with and acting like a jerk, it is short-lived and Jude comes to his senses and apologizes before they finally kiss.
#3: Willow Rosenberg & Tara Maclay “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1997-2003)
This OG queer couple not only helped pave the way for proper representation of lesbian love on the small screen, but also showcased a loving and commitied pair who fought for each other till the very end. They initially bond through their shared interest in magic, with Tara helping Willow expand her powers as a budding witch. What follows are three seasons of major couple goals, from tackling Tara’s abusive family together to taking care of Buffy’s little sister Dawn by moving into the Summers’ home to help out. Even when things are at their worst, like when Tara leaves Willow because of her addiction to magic, she never hesitates to be there for her when in need.
#2: Kurt Hummel & Blaine Anderson “Glee” (2009-15)
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Arguably one the most beloved couples in the “Glee” universe, Kurt and Blaine’s relationship throughout the run of the series is intense, stormy and ultimately a beautiful thing. Kurt and Blaine seem to fall for each other almost immediately, with Blaine eventually even transfering schools to be closer to his beau in season three. Having broken up and gotten back together multiple times, for reasons of infidelity or just plain not getting along, it just goes to show the relationship is only made stronger after each conflict. Fans were overjoyed when, in season six, they finally decided to tie the knot. The double ceremony takes place with their female couple counterparts, Brittany and Santana. Wow, these couples are all so beloved! It’s great to see the representation increase, especially for teens. Let’s look through some HMs and then we’ll crown our pick for the top LGBTQ+ teen couple in TV Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. Justin Suarez & Austin Marley “Ugly Betty” (2006-10) Nico Minoru & Karolina Dean “Runaways” (2017-19) Elena Alvarez & Syd (ay-LAY-nah al-bah-rezz) “One Day At A Time” (2017-) Tamia "Coop" Cooper & Patience (tuh-MEE-yuh) “All American” (2018-) Casey Gardner & Izzie “Atypical” (2017-)
#1: Ian Gallagher & Mickey Milkovich “Shameless” (2011-)
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Probably one of the most jarring LGBTQ+ couples on TV, Ian and Mickey just can’t seem to quit each other. From their time as bully and victim turned secret lovers (yes that trope again) to their constant on-and-off again shenanigans, these boys have proved time and time again that nothing will tear them apart, including jail, a bipolar diagnosis or a parent who burns down their wedding venue. Although we do see them ride into the sunset as husband and husband, we doubt it’ll be smooth sailing for the two forever. But one thing is for sure, no matter how rough things seem to get, Mickey and Ian always seem to come back to each other in the end.
