If you’re a fan of on-screen fireworks turning into sparks of romance, check out these TV shows rocking the classic enemies to lovers trope!
Think about classic tales like Pride and Prejudice, where the initial disdain between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy transforms into a deep and passionate love. This character dynamic is a crowd-pleaser because it adds this crazy mix of tension and excitement. It’s like watching a rollercoaster of emotions – you start off thinking, “Wow, these two can’t stand each other,” and by the end, you’re rooting for their love story.
The constant bickering and unexpected chemistry keep us hooked, making enemies to lovers one of the most fun dynamics on TV.
On this list, we’ve divided the shows into the fantasy and non-fantasy realms, so get ready for a wild ride!
Enemies to Lover Couples in Fantasy Shows
Buffy Summers and Spike (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)
In Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Buffy Summers, a vampire slayer, and Spike, a charismatic yet villainous vampire, have a complex dynamic.
Initially sworn enemies, their relationship takes a wild turn as Spike’s feelings for Buffy evolve into genuine love. Amidst battling supernatural forces, their connection becomes a focal point, with Spike transitioning from foe to a devoted ally. This unexpected romance adds a layer of emotional depth to the show as it shows how a redemption arc can actually be possible.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer combines supernatural action with nuanced character narratives, and the Buffy-Spike saga is a standout example of the ‘enemies to lovers’ trope in the realm of vampire-slaying adventures.
Emma Swan and Killian Jones (Once Upon a Time)
Once Upon a Time blends fairy tales and modern life, and Emma Swan, a bail bonds person with a tough exterior, finds herself entangled with Killian Jones, aka Captain Hook.
Starting as adversaries, their relationship unfolds with witty banter and unexpected twists. Killian’s charming pirate persona clashes with Emma’s guarded nature, creating a dynamic filled with tension and eventual attraction.
As the series weaves together classic fairy-tale characters living in a cursed modern town, Emma and Killian’s evolving connection becomes a captivating element, showcasing how love can bloom even in the midst of magical mayhem.
Lady Jane Grey and Lord Guildford Dudley (My Lady Jane)
Lady Jane Grey and Lord Guildford Dudley in My Lady Jane are one of those couples that start with an arranged marriage—and a lot of snark.
Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and royal drama, this pair goes from begrudgingly married strangers to something much deeper.
Jane is sharp, intellectual, and far more interested in books than romance, while Guildford is a brooding nobleman with his own rebellious streak. Initially, they can’t seem to stand each other. Jane is unimpressed by Guildford’s attitude, and Guildford sees Jane as a challenge. But as they’re forced into close proximity, their witty banter softens into something more tender.
The slow realization that they might actually be perfect for each other, despite all the political chaos around them, is pure magic. Watching these two navigate love amid courtly intrigue makes their relationship one of the most endearing enemies-to-lovers stories on TV.
Sookie Stackhouse and Eric Northman (True Blood)
True Blood certainly takes the vampire genre to the next level!
It’s set in a world where vampires live openly alongside humans, which is a fitting background for the dynamic between Sookie Stackhouse, a telepathic waitress, and Eric Northman, a powerful vampire sheriff.
Initially at odds due to their contrasting natures and Sookie’s ambivalence towards the vampire’s habits, their relationship transforms from skepticism to undeniable attraction. Sookie’s ability to hear thoughts and Eric’s vampiric charisma add a unique layer to their connection.
Amidst supernatural conflicts, political intrigue, and steamy moments, True Blood delves into the complexities of relationships in a world where vampires, humans, and other supernatural beings coexist.
Damon Salvatore and Elena Gilbert (The Vampire Diaries)
In The Vampire Diaries, a supernatural drama centered around the town of Mystic Falls, love stories between many of the main characters take center stage, but one in particular had viewers on the edge of their seats: the one between Damon Salvatore, a charming yet initially antagonistic vampire, and Elena Gilbert, a compassionate and human girl.
Damon starts off as the bad-boy vampire with a penchant for chaos, creating tension with Elena, who has a complex history with Damon’s brother, Stefan.
As the series unfolds, however, Damon and Elena’s relationship transforms into a rollercoaster of passion, sacrifice, and genuine love.
Niklaus “Klaus” Mikaelson and Caroline Forbes (The Vampire Diaries)
Another very interesting, and honestly quite unexpected (at least, at first) love story in The Vampire Diaries was the one between Niklaus “Klaus” Mikaelson, a powerful and often ruthless vampire-werewolf hybrid, and Caroline Forbes, an initially human but later vampire, with a heart of gold.
Klaus starts off as a major antagonist but as the series progresses, his complex layers are revealed. His dynamic with Caroline shifts from animosity to a surprising and passionate romance.
Despite Klaus’s dark reputation, his connection with Caroline adds depth to his character, showcasing often surprising moments of vulnerability and genuine affection.
Jon Snow and Ygritte (Game of Thrones)
In the epic fantasy series Game of Thrones, set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, Jon Snow is a noble and honorable member of the Night’s Watch, and Ygritte is a fiery and skilled wildling.
Initially on opposite sides of the conflict between the Night’s Watch and the Free Folk, Jon and Ygritte’s relationship evolves amidst the harsh landscapes and political intrigue of Westeros. Ygritte’s catchphrase, “You know nothing, Jon Snow,” even became pretty iconic!
The harsh realities of war, loyalty, and forbidden love make Jon and Ygritte’s arc a classic aspect of the complex and often brutal world in the show.
Sara Lance and Ava Sharpe (Legends of Tomorrow)
In the DC Comics-inspired series Legends of Tomorrow, a group of misfit heroes travels through time to prevent temporal aberrations and save the world.
A love story blossoms between Sara Lance, a skilled assassin turned leader of the Legends, and Ava Sharpe, a stern time bureau agent. Initially at odds due to their differing approaches to protecting the timeline, Sara and Ava’s dynamic shifts from professional clashes to a deep and genuine romantic connection.
The complexities of time travel and superhero missions add depth to their relationship, making Sara and Ava’s love story a captivating and heartfelt one.
Chloe Decker and Lucifer Morningstar (Lucifer)
Lucifer sees the enemies-to-lovers trope weaving its magic between Chloe Decker, an LAPD detective, and Lucifer Morningstar, the Devil, who decides to take a break from Hell.
The show revolves around Lucifer assisting the LAPD in solving crimes while navigating celestial and earthly challenges, while Chloe initially sees Lucifer as a charming but irritating criminal consultant. However, their dynamic evolves as they work together, revealing deeper emotions and undeniable chemistry.
The juxtaposition of celestial and human elements, combined with witty banter and a touch of the supernatural, makes their love story truly such a joy to watch unfold!
Nick Burkhardt and Adalind Schade (Grimm)
The supernatural drama Grimm follows Nick Burkhardt, a homicide detective with a unique ability to see creatures known as Wesen.
Here, viewers meet Nick and Adalind Schade; initially on opposing sides due to Adalind’s allegiance with sinister forces, their relationship takes a drastic turn after a series of intense and magical events. As Nick grapples with his responsibilities as a Grimm and Adalind’s complex history unfolds, their connection shifts from animosity to romance.
In a world where mythological creatures exist alongside humans, Nick and Adalind’s evolving relationship adds layers of unexpected tenderness.
Clarke Griffin and Lexa (The 100)
The 100 is a post-apocalyptic series that centers around a group of young survivors returning to Earth from a space station.
Clarke Griffin is a resilient and compassionate leader, and Lexa is the stoic and powerful commander of the Grounders. Initially representing conflicting interests and facing the complexities of leadership, their relationship is the epitome of the enemies-to-lovers dynamic and ends in a deep and intense connection.
The show explores themes of survival, morality, and the consequences of tough decision-making in a harsh new world.
Nina Zenik and Matthias Helvar (Shadow and Bone)
Shadow and Bone, a fantasy series based on Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse novels, is set in a war-torn world divided by a monstrous shadow called the Shadow Fold.
It introduces Nina Zenik, a passionate and spirited Grisha, and Matthias Helvar, a disciplined soldier with a deep mistrust of Grisha, who initially find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. As they navigate through the dangerous and magical world, their relationship loses its hostility to make way for a complex and heartfelt connection.
The show combines elements of magic and political intrigue, and Nina and Matthias’ evolving love story adds a compelling and emotional layer to it all.
Qimir and Osha (The Acolyte)
In The Acolyte, the dynamic between Qimir and Osha evolves from adversaries to a complex partnership.
Initially, Osha, a former Jedi Padawan, seeks to confront her twin sister Mae’s mysterious master, who is revealed to be Qimir, a Sith Lord. Their interactions are charged with tension as Qimir attempts to seduce Osha to the dark side, exploiting her vulnerabilities and past traumas.
As the series progresses, Osha’s disillusionment with the Jedi Order and personal losses draw her closer to Qimir.
By the season finale, Osha embraces the dark side, becoming Qimir’s apprentice, adding another compelling layer to the narrative filled with manipulation, shared ambition, and enemies-to-lovers undertones.
Enemies to Lovers Couples in Non-Fantasy TV Shows
Sam Malone and Diane Chambers (Cheers)
In the classic sitcom Cheers, a love story unfolds between Sam Malone, a charming bartender and former baseball player, and Diane Chambers, an intelligent and sophisticated waitress.
The show is set in the Cheers bar in Boston, where a diverse group of characters gathers for a good time with friends. Sam and Diane’s dynamic kicks off with witty banter fueled by their polar opposite personalities. Sam, the laid-back ladies’ man, clashes with Diane, a highbrow academic.
Their rocky relationship evolves into a rollercoaster of romantic tension, adding a comedic and heartfelt touch to the bar’s daily shenanigans.
Richard Castle and Kate Beckett (Castle)
Castle is a crime dramedy centered around Richard Castle, a best-selling mystery novelist, and Kate Beckett, a talented NYPD detective.
The enemies-to-lovers narrative unfolds as Castle tags along with Beckett to gather inspiration for his novels. Initially annoyed by Castle’s playful demeanor, Beckett sees him as a nuisance. However, as they solve homicides together, their dynamic transforms from professional tension to a slow-burning romantic connection.
The show seamlessly weaves crime-solving, humor, and a dash of romance. Castle and Beckett’s banter, chemistry, and the evolution of their relationship add a delightful layer to the overarching murder mysteries.
Blair Waldorf and Chuck Bass (Gossip Girl)
Gossip Girl revolves around the glamorous lives of wealthy teens in New York City, where the titular anonymous blogger spills their secrets.
The journey between Blair Waldorf, a socialite with a penchant for scheming, and Chuck Bass, a wealthy and charismatic bad boy, was one that had all fans hanging on for dear life. Initially entangled in a tumultuous relationship filled with manipulation and power plays, Blair and Chuck’s dynamic transforms into a deeply passionate and enduring love story.
Amidst the Upper East Side drama, their connection becomes a central focus, showcasing the complexities of love in the world of privilege and scandal.
Veronica Mars and Logan Echolls (Veronica Mars)
Veronica Mars follows the life of Veronica, a sharp-witted and resourceful high school student turned private investigator in the fictional town of Neptune.
Veronica Mars and Logan Echolls, the couple at the center of the series, were introduced as characters on opposite ends of Neptune’s social divide, with Logan being the epitome of a wealthy bad boy with a troubled past. However, as they find themselves entangled in mysteries, conspiracies, and each other’s lives, they surpass these societal restrictions and fall in love.
The evolution of their relationship is marked by intense banter, shared hardships, and unexpected moments of vulnerability, which fans were happy to see continue from high school to adulthood.
James Beaufort and Ruby Bell (Maxton Hall)
James Beaufort and Ruby Bell from Maxton Hall bring the classic enemies-to-lovers trope to life with intense chemistry and dramatic tension.
James, the epitome of wealth and privilege, is the king of Maxton Hall, while Ruby is a determined, hardworking girl with no time for his elite antics.
From the moment their paths cross, sparks fly—and not the romantic kind. James represents everything Ruby despises: arrogance, entitlement, and a life handed on a silver platter. Meanwhile, Ruby’s fierce independence and strong moral compass challenge James like no one else. But as their rivalry deepens, so does their undeniable attraction.
It’s a rollercoaster of misunderstandings and the irresistible pull of opposites attracting. Watching James and Ruby go from heated enemies to lovers is the kind of emotional journey we live for in TV romances.
Anthony Bridgerton and Kate Sharma (Bridgerton)
Bridgerton is a highly entertaining period drama set in Regency-era London, where high society is captivated by scandalous gossip from the mysterious Lady Whistledown.
Each season focuses on one Bridgerton child’s pursuit of love, and the relationship between Anthony Bridgerton and Kate Sharma unfolds in the second season.
Anthony, the eldest Bridgerton sibling, is determined to marry for duty, but his path crosses with Kate, a sharp-witted and independent newcomer. Initially at odds due to their conflicting personalities, their dynamic evolves into a passionate and complex love story – made complicated by Kate’s younger sister’s infatuation and promised betrothal to Anthony!
Eve and Villanelle (Killing Eve)
Killing Eve is a thrilling and darkly comedic spy drama following the cat-and-mouse game between Eve Polastri, an MI6 agent, and Villanelle, a skilled and enigmatic assassin.
The relationship between Eve and Villanelle is complex, marked by obsession and a magnetic pull. Eve becomes fascinated by Villanelle’s elusive nature and unique approach to her deadly profession. In turn, Villanelle develops a dangerous obsession with Eve. Their dynamic shifts from hunter and prey to a twisted and ambiguous connection, blurring the lines between love and obsession.
Killing Eve explores the intricate and sometimes perilous relationship between two of the most compelling characters on television.
Ian Gallagher and Mickey Milkovich (Shameless)
Dramedy series Shameless follows the tumultuous lives of the Gallagher family in a working-class neighborhood in Chicago.
The relationship between Ian Gallagher and Mickey Milkovich is a central storyline throughout the show. Ian, a member of the Gallagher family, is openly gay, while Mickey initially struggles with his own sexuality. What began as a secret affair eventually develops into a complex and genuine love story.
Faced with societal expectations, family dynamics, and personal growth, Ian and Mickey navigate the challenges of being in a same-sex relationship in their often chaotic and unpredictable world.
Leslie Knope and Ben Wyatt (Parks and Recreation)
It’s hard to pull off a great mockumentary sitcom, but Parks and Rec is definitely one of the greats.
The show centered around the Parks and Recreation Department of the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana, with the heartwarming relationship between Leslie Knope, an ambitious and optimistic government employee, and Ben Wyatt, a state auditor, being one of the highlights of the series.
Initially, their connection is professional, but it blossoms into a deep and genuine love story. Their journey from colleagues to friends and eventually a married couple adds a delightful layer to the humorous and heartfelt narrative of Parks and Recreation.
Joey Potter and Pacey Witter (Dawson’s Creek)
Classic 90s teen drama series Dawson’s Creek follows the lives, friendships, and romantic entanglements of a group of friends in the fictional town of Capeside.
The relationship between Joey Potter and Pacey Witter is a central focus of the show. Initially, Joey is the childhood friend of Dawson Leery, the show’s protagonist, but her romantic journey takes an unexpected turn with Pacey, Dawson’s best friend.
Filled with ups and downs, their dynamic explores themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and the complexities of young love.
Ted Mosby and Zoey Pierson (How I Met Your Mother)
How I Met Your Mother is a sitcom that follows Ted Mosby recounting his life to his children, detailing the events that led him to meet their mother.
Zoey is an activist, and Ted becomes romantically involved with her despite her opposing the construction of the GNB headquarters he’s designing. Their dynamic is marked by clashes over conflicting interests but also moments of genuine connection.
As Ted navigates various relationships on his quest for true love, his time with Zoey adds a layer of complexity and introspection to his journey.
David Addison and Maddie Hayes (Moonlighting)
Moonlighting is a dramedy series revolving around the dynamic between David Addison and Maddie Hayes, who run a detective agency together.
David is a charming and witty private investigator, while Maddie is a former model turned savvy businesswoman. Their dynamic evolves from a professional partnership to a complex and often up-and-down romance.
Filled with banter, sexual tension, and witty repartee, their relationship navigates the ups and downs of work and personal life as they solve cases and confront their feelings for each other.
Lady Mary and Matthew Crawley (Downton Abbey)
Downton Abbey is a historical drama series set in the early 20th century, following the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants at the fictional Downton Abbey estate.
Lady Mary Crawley is the eldest daughter of the Crawley family, while Matthew is a distant cousin who unexpectedly becomes the heir to Downton Abbey.
Their love story is filled with obstacles, including societal expectations, personal struggles, and the First World War, and it also explores themes of class, duty, and the pursuit of happiness in a rapidly changing world.
Steven Hyde and Jackie Burkhart (That ’70s Show)
A classic sitcom with equally classic characters is That ‘70s Show, which is set in the 1970s and follows a group of teenagers living in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin.
Hyde is a rebellious and non-conformist member of the group, while Jackie is a popular and materialistic cheerleader. Initially, they have little in common and clash frequently due to their contrasting personalities and backgrounds. However, over time, they develop mutual respect and understanding.
Their relationship evolves from disdain to a surprising and genuine connection, though I was always a Jackie-Kelso fan myself!
The Professor and Lisbon (Money Heist)
The popular Spanish heist series Money Heist follows the meticulously planned robberies orchestrated by a mysterious figure known as The Professor and his team of skilled criminals – who all use city names as their pseudonyms.
The relationship between The Professor, whose real name is Sergio Marquina, and Lisbon, whose real name is Raquel Murillo, is central to the series.
Initially, Lisbon is a police inspector tasked with capturing The Professor, but their dynamic evolves into a complex and deep connection as she falls in love and eventually joins his heist crew.
Sam Puckett and Freddie Benson (iCarly)
In the teen sitcom iCarly, Carly Shay is a teenager who creates her own web show with her best friends, Sam Puckett and Freddie Benson.
The show follows their adventures as they navigate teenage life and the challenges of producing a successful web series. Initially, Sam and Freddie have a love-hate dynamic, often teasing and pranking each other. However, as the series progresses, their relationship evolves into a complicated and at times romantic connection.
Amidst the banter and jealousy, Sam and Freddie’s interactions bring a strong core to the series.
Devi Vishwakumar and Ben Gross (Never Have I Ever)
Never Have I Ever is a coming-of-age comedy-drama series created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher.
The show follows Devi Vishwakumar, a first-generation Indian-American teenager navigating the ups and downs of high school life while dealing with the recent loss of her father. The relationship between Devi Vishwakumar and Ben Gross is initially a very contentious one, marked by bickering and rivalry.
However, as the series progresses, their rivals-to-lovers dynamic evolves into a complicated and sometimes romantic connection amidst the chaos of adolescence.
Niles & C.C. Babcock (The Nanny)
The Nanny is a classic 90s sitcom that follows Fran Fine, a witty and outspoken woman from Queens who becomes the nanny for the wealthy Sheffield family.
The relationship between Niles, the sarcastic butler, and C.C. Babcock, Mr. Sheffield’s business associate, is always rife with the enemies-to-lovers dynamic, filled with snarky remarks and playful banter.
While Niles often teases and mocks C.C., there are moments of genuine affection and camaraderie between them that certainly make things complicated but also so endearing!
Dr. Perry Cox and Jordan Sullivan (Scrubs)
The medical drama Scrubs follows the lives of the staff at Sacred Heart Hospital, particularly focusing on the experiences of the medical interns and their mentors.
Perry Cox is a gruff and sarcastic attending physician, while Jordan Sullivan is his ex-wife and the mother of his child. Their relationship is characterized by constant bickering and sarcasm, but there is an underlying affection and understanding between Perry and Jordan.
Their dynamic adds depth and humor to their journey of navigating the challenges of co-parenting and their complicated feelings for each other.
Quinn Pensky and Logan Reese (Zoey 101)
The last show on the list is a teen dramedy, Zoey 101. The show follows the adventures of the titular Zoey Brooks and her friends at the fictional Pacific Coast Academy boarding school.
Quinn is a quirky and intelligent student known for her scientific experiments, while Logan is the school’s resident bad boy with a smooth demeanor. Initially, Quinn and Logan have little in common and often clash due to their contrasting personalities.
However, as the series progresses, their dynamic evolves to become filled with moments of humor, misunderstandings, and unexpected chemistry.