32 Unforgettable Platonic Duos That Redefine Friendship in Movies and TV

Hollywood often sets up audiences for the expectation that two main characters who share romantic inclinations and have strong chemistry will end up together in a movie or TV series. However, it’s always nice when these characters maintain their friendship without being trapped in a predictable “will they or won’t they” situation. Here is a heartfelt salute to some of the most memorable platonic couples in pop culture!

Max And Furiosa (Mad Max: Fury Road)

In the fourth edition of his acclaimed series of post-apocalyptic action films, George Miller’s 2015 release, “Mad Max: Fury Road,” introduced a female protagonist who matched Max Rockatansky (played by Tom Hardy) in their road battles. Unlike other action movies, there is no romantic subplot between the two characters, making the film even more highly regarded for its unique approach.

Jerry And Elaine (Seinfeld)

One significant method that set “Seinfeld” apart early on as a pioneering comedy was its decision to avoid the common romantic tension between Jerry Seinfeld (Jerry Seinfeld) and Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), by starting them off as a couple, splitting up before the series began, and instead focusing on their enduring friendship throughout the show. Occasionally, the popular TV sitcom would suggest a potential rekindling of their romance for comedic effect (like when they became friends with benefits or Jerry’s unexpected marriage proposal), but it is clear that they are better off as friends.

Marlin And Dory (Finding Nemo)

Instead of having Marlin and Dory develop a romantic relationship in “Finding Nemo”, which could have been a typical plot twist for a widowed father character, their friendship was kept pure and genuine. This decision is significant as it contributes to the movie’s charm and makes “Finding Nemo” one of Pixar’s most beloved films.

Leslie And Ron (Parks And Recreation)

At the Paley Center for Media, it was revealed by “Parks and Recreation” co-creator Michael Schur that Leslie Knope and Ron Swanson were originally envisioned as the parental figures of the Pawnee Parks Department office, without any plans to develop romantic chemistry between them. The closest these colleagues have ever come to something more than a professional relationship is when Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman playfully simulated kissing for the show’s blooper reel.

Harry And Hermione (The Harry Potter Movies)

In the Harry Potter movies, Daniel Radcliffe’s character is known as “The Boy Who Lived,” but he wouldn’t be able to accomplish all that he does at Hogwarts without the support of his closest friends, Ron Weasley (portrayed by Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson). Unlike many other blockbuster series where the title character often ends up with a romantic interest, it appears that neither Harry nor either of his friends entertain such thoughts. Instead, Hermione and Ron develop feelings for each other over time.

Joey And Pheobe (Friends)

The cast of Friends seemed to have a romantic atmosphere surrounding them, with Ross (David Schwimmer) and Rachel (Jennifer Aniston) having a tumultuous relationship marked by periods of being on and off, Monica (Courteney Cox) and Chandler’s (Matthew Perry) marriage, and Rachel and Joey’s (Matt LeBlanc) flirtation that escalated to trying to be more than roommates. However, Joey and Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow) were like siblings rather than romantic partners, although they did share a kiss when he mistook her for her twin sister, Ursula, and even proposed marriage under the assumption she was pregnant. Fortunately, their relationship never progressed beyond this point.

Hawkeye And Black Widow (Marvel Cinematic Universe)

In contrast to many characters within the Marvel cinematic universe, Natasha Romanoff, also known as Black Widow (played by Scarlett Johansson), and Clint Barton, or Hawkeye (portrayed by Jeremy Renner), have a profound connection that predates their work with the Avengers. This deep bond is most poignantly demonstrated in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, where their unwavering, platonic affection for each other becomes evident as neither is prepared to let the other perish while retrieving the Soul Stone. The climax of this emotional tie occurs when Clint is devastated upon being compelled to bid farewell to Natasha.

Liz And Jack (30 Rock)

Initially, Liz Lemon, the TV writer and creator Tina Fey, and her boss Jack Donaghy (played by Alec Baldwin) seemed to clash in the pilot of 30 Rock. However, they eventually grew into a formidable professional duo. It’s hard to believe that these characters would ever develop romantic feelings for each other, but their unexpected relationship became one of the show’s most compelling comedic aspects.

Bob And Charlotte (Lost In Translation)

In a more straightforward manner, I could say: Although Sofia Coppola’s movie Lost in Translation implies that Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson’s characters develop a deeper relationship by the end, throughout most of the film, their bond is a special friendship that both characters needed and anyone would be fortunate to experience.

Mal And Zoë (Firefly)

One reason why the popular science fiction show Firefly was unexpectedly terminated early was creative interference from Fox executives, including a suggestion that character Zoë (played by Gina Torres) not be married to Wash (Alan Tudyk). This would allow for possible romantic development between her and Captain Mal Reynolds (portrayed by Nathan Fillion). However, the show’s creator, Joss Whedon, resisted such changes and held firm to the concept of the spacefaring crew remaining loyal friends and comrades.

Ripley And Hicks (Aliens)

In the sequel to the Alien film series directed by James Cameron, Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) and Corporal Dwayne Hicks (Michael Biehn) form one of cinema’s most admired platonic pairs. The movie subtly suggests a romantic bond between the Xenomorph survivor and the marine, but unlike many films that might have opted for an overt display of affection, this sci-fi masterpiece leaves their relationship level unclear, avoiding a grand, triumphant kiss.

Don And Peggy (Mad Men)

In the captivating world of ‘Mad Men’, I often pondered if there might be something more between Don Draper (Jon Hamm) and his assistant Peggy Olson (Elisabeth Moss), given his history with the women in his life. However, their relationship was never destined for romance. Instead, Don viewed Peggy as a daughter figure, celebrating her professional triumphs alongside him and sharing heartfelt personal moments during the iconic AMC series’ run.

Daisy And Hoke (Driving Miss Daisy)

1989’s film “Driving Miss Daisy” depicts a lengthy bond between Daisy Werthan, an older woman with a grumpy demeanor (portrayed by Jessica Tandy), and her driver Hoke Colburn (played by Morgan Freeman). This poignant tale of their friendship overcoming racial and age-related barriers in the mid-1900s American South has solidified its status as an inspiring Best Picture Oscar winner, leaving a lasting impact.

SpongeBob And Sandy (SpongeBob Squarepants)

In the world of marine biology, much like Stephen Hillenburg understood, sea sponges do not necessitate mates to reproduce, which might leave one questioning the presence of SpongeBob’s parents in the storyline. However, it’s important to note that a romantic relationship between SpongeBob (Tom Kenny) and his squirrel-like friend, Sandy Cheeks (Carolyn Lawrence), was never intended or implied, despite speculations by some viewers who believed their mutual interest in martial arts might suggest something deeper.

Rey And Finn (The Star Wars Movies)

It wasn’t until 2015, when the Star Wars franchise was rebooted, that the concept of deep friendships between opposite-gender characters without romantic undertones began to be more fully explored. In Star Wars: The Force Awakens, for instance, we see Rey (played by Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega), who start off as strangers, quickly bonding and remaining allies throughout the struggle against the First Order until the end of the sequel trilogy.

Will And Jack (Will & Grace)

During the comeback periods of “Will & Grace”, there were subtle indications suggesting a deepening bond between Will Truman (Eric McCormack) and his friend Jack McFarland (Sean Hayes), which might have developed into a romantic relationship. Yet, such a development would have contradicted the overall tone of the sitcom, as their dynamic was portrayed more like two women in a close friendship rather than boyfriends.

Jimmy And Dottie (A League of Their Own)

As reported by SlashFilm, during the filming of the beloved 1992 sports movie “A League of Their Own,” director Penny Marshall filmed a kiss between Tom Hanks (as Jimmy Dugan) and Geena Davis (as catcher Dottie Hinson). However, this scene was later removed from the final cut, allowing their relationship to remain as a strong bond between a baseball player and her coach.

Ted And Rebecca (Ted Lasso)

In the popular Apple TV+ show “Ted Lasso,” Rebecca Welton (portrayed by Hannah Waddingham) initially brings on board the titular American football coach, Ted Lasso (played by Jason Sudeikis), with the intention that he would damage her ex-husband’s beloved football team. However, she eventually recognizes the positive impact he has on both the team and their dynamic, leading to a blossoming friendship based on trust and affection, both within and beyond the workplace.

Shang-Chi And Katy (Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings)

It could be rephrased as follows: In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Xu “Shaun” Shang-Chi (Simu Liu) and Katy (Awkwafina) may well take over from Black Widow and Hawkeye as the most endearing non-romantic duo. This is evident in the 2021 film, “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.” When Shaun informs his close friend, colleague, and karaoke buddy that he must depart to aid his younger sister, she shows immediate resolve to accompany him without a moment’s delay.

Jake And Rosa (Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg) and Rosa Diaz (Stephanie Beatriz), who trained together at the police academy, have one of the strongest friendships among the cast of Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Uniquely, their bond remains strictly professional and deeply supportive, never developing into a romantic relationship. Eventually, Jake gets married to Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero), while Rosa explores relationships with both men and women, revealing her bisexuality in Season 5.

Drax And Mantis (Guardians Of The Galaxy Movies)

In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, it’s evident that Drax (played by Dave Bautista) has no romantic feelings for Mantis (Pom Klementieff), and he finds the notion of being with her distasteful. However, the Guardians demonstrate a strong bond akin to siblings, particularly when they collaborate to find Peter “Star-Lord” Quill (Chris Pratt) an ideal holiday gift in The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special.

Jack And Chloe (24)

On the series “24”, there wasn’t a stronger ally for Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) than Chloe O’Brian (Mary Lynn Rajskub). At first, their connection was primarily one-sided, but as the show progressed, they transformed into stalwart partners and eventually close friends.

Dredd And Anderson (Dredd)

In simple terms, Judge Dredd (Karl Urban) and Judge Anderson (Olivia Thirlby) from the 2012 film “Dredd” may not have been friends in a traditional sense, but they made an exceptional team as law enforcement partners. Their seamless collaboration was evident while taking down Ma-Ma (Lena Headey), a flamboyant villain, and her drug empire.

Joan And Sherlock (Elementary)

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson are renowned as one of the most enduring and impactful partnerships in pop culture lore. A contemporary, gender-swapped adaptation featuring Johnny Lee Miller as Holmes and Lucy Liu as Joan Watson on CBS, has also been hailed as an unforgettable duo.

Arthur And Iris (The Holiday)

In the well-known romantic comedy “The Holiday,” Iris Simpkins, played by Kate Winslet, develops a romantic interest towards Miles Dumon, who is a film score composer based in L.A., portrayed by Jack Black. However, Iris spends much of her time in the U.S. with an elderly former screenwriter named Arthur Abbott (Eli Wallach), resulting in a delightful relationship that steals the show in Nancy Meyers’ 2006 hit holiday movie.

Lexi And Stefan (The Vampire Diaries)

For centuries, as an ageless being of the night, I, Stefan Salvatore (Paul Wesley), have had numerous lovers. However, among all the characters from “The Vampire Diaries,” there’s one female vampire, Lexi Branson, portrayed by Arielle Kebbel, who I consider a dear friend. Lexi, being another bloodsucker, often serves as my moral guide and we share a deep affection for the music of Bon Jovi.

Edgin And Holga (Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves)

2023’s “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” proved exhilarating, particularly for seasoned players of its originating tabletop game, due to the powerful bond and teamwork displayed among its heroic characters. The film’s cast exemplifies unity at its finest, with none more embodying this trait than Edgin (Chris Pine) and Holga (Michelle Rodriguez). Their unwavering loyalty towards each other from the get-go is a testament to their strong friendship in this thrilling fantasy escapade.

Veronica And Wallace (Veronica Mars)

In the teen mystery drama, Veronica Mars, played by Kristen Bell, initiated her unique friendship with Wallace Fennel (Percy Daggs III) when she freed him from being tied to a flagpole. This life-saving act was their first encounter and not many high school friendships can boast of such a beginning.

Charly And Mitch (The Long Kiss Goodnight)

In the movie titled “The Long Kiss Goodnight“, the character Samantha Caine (played by Geena Davis), who has amnesia, uncovers her hidden past with the assistance of private investigator Mitch Henessey (portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson). This 1996 thriller directed by Renny Harlin transforms into an enjoyable action-packed buddy film as “Samantha” accepts her real identity as Charly Baltimore, a formidable top agent.

Maddie And Simon (School Spirits)

The highly praised original series on Paramount+ titled “School Spirits” is a ghost tale narrated by the ghost character, 17-year-old Maddie Nears (played by Peyton List). Unique among the living, she can’t engage with them… except for one exception. Her indestructible connection with her best friend, Simon Elroy (portrayed by Kristian Ventura), enables him to perceive her, making him the sole individual who can aid in unraveling the enigma surrounding her demise, an event she has no recollection of.

Preston And Denise (Can’t Hardly Wait)

In most lively film narratives about high school parties, the socially awkward hero yearns for the popular girl yet finds himself with his female confidante instead. However, in the movie Can’t Hardly Wait, Preston (Ethan Embry) manages to win over Amanda (Jennifer Love Hewitt), his ideal woman, while Denise (Lauren Ambrose), his best friend, discovers an unforeseen bond with Kenny (Seth Green) after they find themselves accidentally locked in a restroom together.

Meredith And Alex (Grey’s Anatomy)

As a film enthusiast, I found it quite refreshing in the midst of the steamy romantic entanglements often seen on medical dramas, to witness a sincere friendship between two characters from the Grey’s Anatomy cast – Alex Karev, portrayed by Justin Chambers, and Meredith Grey, brought to life by Ellen Pompeo. Their bond was not clouded by romantic complications, making their relationship all the more special.

2025-05-26 20:40