There’s nothing quite like a well-crafted romance TV show to make you believe in love, leave you breathless with anticipation, or reduce you to happy (or heartbroken) tears. Whether you’re in the mood for slow-burn passion, whirlwind romances, second-chance love, or enemies-to-lovers tension, the right series can feel like a warm hug for your soul.
From timeless classics to modern obsessions, we’ve curated 25 of the best romance TV shows that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon. Grab your favorite blanket, a box of tissues (just in case), and get ready to fall in love all over again.
Why We Love Romance TV Shows
Romance on screen isn’t just about grand gestures and steamy kisses—it’s about connection, vulnerability, and the messy, beautiful reality of human relationships. Here’s why these shows capture our hearts:
- Escapism with emotional depth – Romance series let us experience passion, heartbreak, and joy from the safety of our couches.
- Relatable struggles – The best love stories explore real issues like trust, communication, and personal growth.
- Chemistry that sizzles – When two actors have undeniable on-screen chemistry, it’s pure magic.
- Feel-good endings (usually!) – Unlike real life, most romance shows deliver satisfying conclusions that leave us smiling.
Now, let’s dive into the ultimate list of romance TV shows you need to watch (or rewatch) ASAP.
Timeless Romance Classics You Can’t Miss
These are the golden oldies that defined romantic TV and still hold up today. If you haven’t seen them, drop everything and start binging.
1. Pride and Prejudice (1995)
Where to watch: BritBox, Amazon Prime Video
No list of romance TV shows is complete without the definitive adaptation of Jane Austen’s masterpiece. Colin Firth’s Mr. Darcy and Jennifer Ehle’s Elizabeth Bennet set the standard for slow-burn romance, witty banter, and that iconic lake scene. The six-episode miniseries stays faithful to the book while making the Regency-era love story feel timeless.
2. Outlander (2014–Present)
Where to watch: Starz, Netflix (select regions)
Based on Diana Gabaldon’s novels, Outlander blends historical drama, fantasy, and one of the most passionate love stories ever told. Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe), a WWII nurse, is transported to 18th-century Scotland, where she meets the dashing Highlander Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan). Their love is fiery, tender, and tested by time itself. With stunning cinematography and a sweeping score, this show is pure romantic escapism.
3. Jane the Virgin (2014–2019)
Where to watch: Netflix
A modern telenovela-style rom-com with heart, Jane the Virgin follows Jane Villanueva (Gina Rodriguez), a devout young woman who becomes pregnant via artificial insemination by accident. The love triangle between Jane, her childhood crush Michael (Brett Dier), and the charming Rafael (Justin Baldoni) is full of twists, humor, and genuine emotion. Plus, the narrator (Anthony Mendez) adds a delightful meta touch.
4. Gilmore Girls (2000–2007)
Where to watch: Netflix
While not a traditional romance, Gilmore Girls is a love letter to mother-daughter bonds, small-town charm, and witty banter. Lorelai (Lauren Graham) and Luke’s (Scott Patterson) will-they-won’t-they dynamic is one of TV’s best slow burns, while Rory’s (Alexis Bledel) love life—from Dean to Jess to Logan—keeps fans debating to this day. The fast-paced dialogue and cozy Stars Hollow vibes make it the ultimate comfort watch.
Modern Romance TV Shows You’ll Binge in a Weekend
These addictive, binge-worthy series prove that romance on TV is better than ever. Expect steamy tension, emotional depth, and relationships that feel real.
5. Bridgerton (2020–Present)
Where to watch: Netflix
From Shonda Rhimes and Chris Van Dusen, Bridgerton is a lavish, scandalous, and utterly addictive Regency-era romance with a modern twist. Each season focuses on a different sibling in the Bridgerton family, but Season 1’s enemies-to-lovers story between Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor) and Simon (Regé-Jean Page) set the bar sky-high. With lush costumes, a killer soundtrack (classical covers of pop hits!), and Lady Whistledown’s gossip, it’s pure escapist fun.
6. Normal People (2020)
Where to watch: Hulu, BBC Three
Based on Sally Rooney’s novel, Normal People is a raw, intimate portrayal of first love between Connell (Paul Mescal) and Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones). The Irish drama captures the push-and-pull of young romance with stunning realism—expect longing glances, intense chemistry, and heartbreaking misunderstandings. It’s short (12 episodes) but leaves a lasting impact.
7. The Summer I Turned Pretty (2022–Present)
Where to watch: Prime Video
Adapted from Jenny Han’s YA trilogy, this sun-soaked, nostalgic romance follows Belly (Lola Tung) as she spends summers at a beach house with her mother and brother, alongside her childhood friends (and love interests) Conrad (Christopher Briney) and Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno). The love triangle is angsty, dreamy, and full of teenage heartache, with a killer soundtrack and gorgeous coastal vibes.
8. Heartstopper (2022–Present)
Where to watch: Netflix
This adorable, heartwarming LGBTQ+ romance based on Alice Oseman’s graphic novels follows Charlie (Joe Locke) and Nick (Kit Connor) as they navigate friendship, first love, and self-discovery. The show is sweet without being saccharine, tackling issues like bullying and mental health with sensitivity. The animation-style transitions and uplifting tone make it a must-watch for hopeless romantics.
9. Love Is Blind (2020–Present)
Where to watch: Netflix
Okay, it’s reality TV—but Love Is Blind is one of the most addictive romance shows out there. Contestants date in pods without seeing each other, then get engaged before meeting face-to-face. The drama, the heartbreak, the “I do” moments—it’s a rollercoaster. Whether you’re here for the love stories or the mess, it’s impossible to look away.
Feel-Good Rom-Com TV Shows for When You Need a Smile
Sometimes, you just want a romance that’s light, funny, and guaranteed to leave you grinning. These shows deliver all the warm fuzzies without the emotional whiplash.
10. Ted Lasso (2020–2023)
Where to watch: Apple TV+
While Ted Lasso is primarily a sports comedy, the romance between Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein) and Keeley Jones (Juno Temple) is one of TV’s best slow burns. Their dynamic—grumpy ex-footballer meets sunny PR whiz—is full of banter, growth, and “I’m here for you” energy. The show itself is a masterclass in kindness and optimism, making it a perfect feel-good pick.
11. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (2015–2019)
Where to watch: Netflix
A musical rom-com with depth, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend follows Rebecca Bunch (Rachel Bloom), a lawyer who moves across the country to pursue her childhood crush, Josh (Vincent Rodriguez III). The show is hilarious, meta, and surprisingly poignant, tackling mental health while delivering catchy songs and over-the-top romance. It’s a love letter to imperfect people finding love in messy ways.
12. Never Have I Ever (2020–2023)
Where to watch: Netflix
Mindy Kaling’s coming-of-age rom-com follows Devi (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan), a first-gen Indian-American teen navigating grief, high school, and love triangles. The will-they-won’t-they between Devi and Paxton (Darren Barnet) is swoon-worthy, but the real heart is in Devi’s relationship with her family and friends. Narrated by John McEnroe (yes, that John McEnroe), it’s funny, heartfelt, and full of romantic chaos.
13. Emily in Paris (2020–Present)
Where to watch: Netflix
If you love glamorous settings, steamy affairs, and over-the-top drama, Emily in Paris is your jam. Emily (Lily Collins), a Chicago marketer, moves to Paris and gets tangled in love triangles with her handsome neighbor Gabriel (Lucas Bravo) and her wealthy client Antoine (William Abadie). The fashion is stunning, the romance is spicy, and the Eiffel Tower views are chef’s kiss.
14. The Mindy Project (2012–2017)
Where to watch: Hulu
Mindy Kaling stars as Mindy Lahiri, a confident (and hilarious) OB/GYN navigating her career and love life. The slow-burn romance between Mindy and Danny (Chris Messina) is full of banter, tension, and “why aren’t they together yet?!” frustration. The show is witty, romantic, and packed with pop-culture references—perfect for fans of The Office who want more heart.
Dramatic & Emotional Romance TV Shows for the Waterworks
If you love angst, passion, and tears, these shows will wreck you in the best way. Keep tissues handy.
15. This Is Us (2016–2022)
Where to watch: Hulu, Peacock
This Is Us is a family drama at its core, but the love stories—especially between Jack (Milo Ventimiglia) and Rebecca (Mandy Moore)—are some of the most heartbreakingly beautiful on TV. The show jumps between timelines, exploring how love, loss, and trauma shape the Pearson family. Be prepared to ugly-cry at least once per episode.
16. The Affair (2014–2019)
Where to watch: Paramount+, Showtime
A complex, nonlinear drama about marriage, infidelity, and perspective, The Affair follows Noah (Dominic West) and Alison (Ruth Wilson) as their extramarital relationship unravels their lives. The show’s dual narratives (each episode shows the same events from different POVs) make it a fascinating study of love, memory, and regret.
17. A Discovery of Witches (2018–2022)
Where to watch: AMC+, Shudder
Based on Deborah Harkness’ novels, this supernatural romance follows Diana (Teresa Palmer), a witch, and Matthew (Matthew Goode), a vampire, as they fall in love despite their worlds being at war. The chemistry is electric, the fantasy elements are rich, and the slow-burn romance will leave you aching for more.
18. The Time Traveler’s Wife (2022)
Where to watch: HBO Max
Adapted from Audrey Niffenegger’s novel, this heart-wrenching love story follows Henry (Theo James), a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel, and Clare (Rose Leslie), his wife who must cope with his unpredictable absences. Their love is beautiful, tragic, and deeply moving—perfect for fans of Outlander who want more time-bending romance.
19. Virgin River (2019–Present)
Where to watch: Netflix
A small-town romance with drama, mystery, and steam, Virgin River follows Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge), a nurse who moves to a remote California town and finds love with the brooding Jack (Martin Henderson). The show is comfort food for romance lovers—cozy, emotional, and full of second-chance love stories.
International Romance TV Shows Worth Watching
Love knows no borders! These non-English romance shows are just as addictive (and often even more passionate) than their American counterparts.
20. Crash Landing on You (2019–2020)
Where to watch: Netflix
A K-drama masterpiece, Crash Landing on You follows Yoon Se-ri (Son Ye-jin), a South Korean heiress who paraglides into North Korea and meets Ri Jeong-hyeok (Hyun Bin), a soldier who hides and protects her. Their forbidden romance is full of humor, tension, and heart-fluttering moments. The chemistry between the leads is off the charts, and the supporting cast adds even more charm.
21. Elite (2018–2024)
Where to watch: Netflix
This Spanish teen drama is like Gossip Girl meets Riverdale, but with way more steam. Set at an exclusive private school, Elite follows a group of wealthy (and troubled) teens navigating love, secrets, and murder. The romances are messy, passionate, and often tragic, but the addictive storytelling will keep you hooked.
22. My Love from the Star (2013–2014)
Where to watch: Viki, Netflix (select regions)
A classic K-drama about an alien (Kim Soo-hyun) who falls in love with a famous actress (Jun Ji-hyun). Their romance is sweet, funny, and heartbreaking, with a mix of fantasy and real-world stakes. The “Do Min-joon’s gaze” became legendary for a reason—this show is pure romantic escapism.
23. Call My Agent! (2015–2020)
Where to watch: Netflix
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