10 TV Couples Everyone Shipped but Never Happened
Some of the most memorable TV couples had strong chemistry and loyal fans, but they never became an official romance.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
Television has given viewers many character pairings that felt natural and compelling. Their interactions built tension and hope, but the writers never allowed them to become a true couple. These missed relationships left audiences with a lasting sense of what could have been.
1. Buffy and Spike (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
Patrick Lee on Wikimedia Commons
Buffy and Spike shared a complicated relationship that moved from hostility to respect and a deep connection. Their chemistry was undeniable, with moments of real intimacy and trust. Despite this, Buffy never fully embraced him as a partner. Fans were left with a bond that felt unfinished and unresolved.
2. Sherlock and Molly (Sherlock)
RanZag on Wikimedia Commons
Molly’s love for Sherlock was clear throughout the series, shown in small but powerful moments. She understood parts of him that others often missed. Viewers hoped Sherlock would one day acknowledge her feelings. The story never allowed their connection to turn into a real romance.
3. Daryl and Carol (The Walking Dead)
Angela Natividad on Wikimedia Commons
Daryl and Carol’s relationship was built on trust, survival, and mutual care. Their friendship grew stronger with each season, and the bond between them felt like the start of something deeper. Fans often hoped they would take the step into romance. The writers kept their relationship platonic, leaving viewers divided.
4. Rory and Jess (Gilmore Girls)
Warner Bros. Television on Wikimedia Commons
Rory and Jess connected through their shared interests, especially books and intellectual conversations. Their chemistry was clear from the beginning, making many believe Jess was her true match. The relationship ended before it could fully develop. Many fans were left wishing they had been given another chance.
5. Dean and Castiel (Supernatural)
Supernatural on Wikimedia Commons
Dean and Castiel shared one of the strongest bonds in the series, built on loyalty and sacrifice. Their closeness often suggested a deeper connection than friendship. Viewers invested heavily in the possibility of them becoming more than allies. The series never confirmed the relationship as romantic, disappointing many fans.
6. Stiles and Lydia (Teen Wolf)
MGM Television on Wikimedia Commons
Stiles’ feelings for Lydia were present since the earliest episodes. Over time, Lydia began to see his value and care for him as more than a friend. Their relationship seemed to be building toward romance. The development was delayed for so long that many felt the story ended too abruptly.
7. Mulder and Scully (The X-Files)
William Tung on Wikimedia Commons
Mulder and Scully spent years working together with deep trust and loyalty. Their partnership had emotional weight and hinted at unspoken feelings. Fans hoped the relationship would eventually become romantic. For most of the series, this never happened, despite the obvious bond between them.
8. Pacey and Joey (Dawson’s Creek)
Sony Pictures Television on Wikimedia Commons
While the show initially focused on Dawson and Joey, Pacey and Joey’s connection grew stronger with time. Their interactions showed chemistry, support, and care. Many fans thought their relationship should have been explored more fully. The writers delayed their pairing, leaving viewers uncertain about their future.
9. Janet and Jason (The Good Place)
Universal Television/NBC on Wikimedia Commons
Jason and Janet shared a unique relationship that blended humor and sincerity. Their dynamic stood out because Jason helped bring out Janet’s more human qualities. Fans were drawn to their unusual but genuine connection. The series never gave them a lasting resolution, leaving their story incomplete.
10. Will and Grace (Will & Grace)
National Broadcasting Company on Wikimedia Commons
Will and Grace had one of the strongest friendships on television. Their partnership was filled with loyalty, care, and mutual understanding. Some fans thought their connection could have worked as a romance. The show chose to keep them as friends, keeping their relationship as one of possibility but not reality.