17 Toxic TV Couples That Were Total Shipwrecks
Television has long been a mirror to our societal norms and fantasies, often glamorizing romantic relationships in a way that blurs the line between affection and toxicity. On the surface, many TV couples are depicted through a lens of humor and captivating scenes, making their interactions appear charming and desirable.
However, a closer look often reveals a troubling picture: these relationships frequently embody unhealthy dynamics, such as manipulation, lack of consent, and emotional abuse. These portrayals, while entertaining, risk normalizing toxic behaviors, offering skewed perspectives on what healthy partnerships should entail. This narrative has significant implications on how relationships are perceived and emulated in real life.
Here are 17 TV couples that looked funny but were, in fact, completely toxic!
1. Tom and Lynette (Desperate Housewives)
Tom and Lynette’s relationship in “Desperate Housewives” is a classic example of a glamorized toxic relationship on television. Their dynamic often centered around Tom’s neglect of household responsibilities, which put an unfair burden on Lynette.
This imbalance was evident in numerous instances, such as when Tom sought intimate relations without considering Lynette’s exhaustion from handling their five children all day. The lack of appreciation for her efforts was a recurring theme, while also blaming her for not keeping the spark.
Furthermore, Tom’s assumption that Lynette would give up her career to raise their children without a mutual discussion is a significant red flag. This expectation reflects a deep-seated lack of respect for her aspirations and autonomy.
Moreover, Tom’s numerous clueless comments further underscored how little he appreciated Lynette’s hard work and dedication to their family. This disregard for her contributions to their household and family life was a stark example of the lack of transparency and responsibility in their relationship.
The decision to glamorize such a dynamic on television can send mixed messages to the audience. On the one hand, it’s portrayed as part of the comedic elements of the show, but on the other, it subtly endorses a relationship dynamic where one partner’s efforts are consistently undervalued and overlooked.
2. Lucas and Brooke (One Tree Hill)
The relationship between Lucas and Brooke in “One Tree Hill” is another instance of a toxic relationship being portrayed in a glamorous light. Central to their relationship issues was Lucas’s infidelity and lack of commitment, particularly highlighted by his actions with Peyton. Lucas’s decision to kiss Peyton while still in a relationship with Brooke was a clear betrayal and displayed a stark lack of respect for Brooke. Lucas was clearly a red flag!
In addition to his infidelity, Lucas often neglected Brooke, failing to pay attention to her needs or take initiative in their relationship. His actions, such as submitting Peyton’s comics and consistently choosing her over Brooke, further exemplified his lack of commitment and respect towards Brooke.
Despite these glaring issues, Brooke continued to pursue the relationship, embodying the “pick me” archetype. This term refers to someone who desperately seeks validation and acceptance from a partner, often at the expense of their self-respect and dignity.
Brooke’s continual efforts to hold onto the relationship, despite Lucas’s evident lack of commitment, reflects a problematic narrative. It glorifies the idea of fighting for a relationship, regardless of the emotional cost and the lack of mutual respect and commitment. This portrayal can be damaging, as it suggests that persisting in a dysfunctional relationship is a sign of strength or devotion, rather than recognizing the importance of self-respect and mutual respect in a healthy relationship.
3. Bella and Edward (Twilight Series)
The relationship between Bella and Edward in the “Twilight” series is often romanticized, yet it presents several concerning aspects regarding power dynamics and safety. A critical point of contention is the significant age difference; Edward is over a century old, while Bella is a minor in the first movie. This age gap alone raises questions about the balance of power and influence in their relationship.
The element of danger in their relationship is also a recurring theme. Instances like Edward inviting Bella to his house, where she is surrounded by vampires, including the newly transformed Jasper, highlight the risks Bella is exposed to. Another example is their baseball outing, which directly leads to the villain Victoria targeting Bella. These scenarios demonstrate a lack of consideration for Bella’s safety and wellbeing.
Furthermore, the relationship profoundly impacts Bella’s emotional state. Edward’s disappearance sends Bella into a deep depression, and she is later forced to sever ties with her family. The most extreme example is Bella’s near-fatal pregnancy in “Breaking Dawn,” further emphasizing the perilous nature of their relationship. The glamorization of such a dynamic overlooks these serious concerns, portraying a hazardous and imbalanced relationship as a romantic ideal.
4. Meredith and Derek (Grey’s Anatomy)
Meredith and Derek’s relationship in “Grey’s Anatomy” is often seen as a quintessential TV romance, but it contains several toxic elements. Meredith frequently assumes the role of a “pick me” character, constantly seeking Derek’s approval and affection, even when he is dishonest and manipulative. For instance, Derek hides the fact that he is still married and is not transparent about his past, creating a foundation of lies and deceit in their relationship. To avoid having the same experience, it might be worth asking him a few questions before getting too involved.
Additionally, Derek often prioritizes his work over Meredith, implicitly suggesting that her career and aspirations are of lesser importance. This imbalance creates a dynamic where Meredith’s needs and ambitions are constantly overshadowed by Derek’s. The glorification of this relationship on television neglects to address these issues of honesty, respect, and mutual support, instead presenting a skewed image of what a healthy relationship should entail.
5. Ross and Rachel (Friends)
Ross and Rachel’s relationship in “Friends,” while iconic, is fraught with problems like jealousy, poor communication, and immaturity. A prime example of these issues is Ross’s infamous “We were on a break” excuse, used to justify his infidelity. This incident highlights not only a lack of communication but also a failure to respect the boundaries and feelings of his partner.
Furthermore, Ross often struggles with maturity and being there for Rachel when it matters. His inability to handle situations with emotional intelligence and understanding contributes to the tumultuous nature of their relationship.
The show’s portrayal of their relationship, with its ups and downs, often overlooks these significant issues, instead focusing on the drama and humor they provide. This depiction can inadvertently send the message that such tumultuous relationships are normal or even desirable, rather than highlighting the importance of trust, communication, and emotional maturity in a healthy partnership.
6. Carrie and Mr. Big (Sex and the City)
Carrie and Mr. Big’s relationship in “Sex and the City” is characterized by its on-and-off nature, riddled with commitment issues and infidelity, and marked by emotional manipulation, particularly from Mr. Big’s side. The tumultuous nature of their relationship, often portrayed as passionate and intense, glosses over the serious issues underlying their interactions. Mr. Big’s inability to commit and his tendency to manipulate Carrie emotionally, whether intentionally or not, created a dynamic that was often more harmful than romantic. All together, it ended up leading to their wedding being called-off.
The glamorization of this relationship in popular culture fails to address the deeper implications of such a turbulent partnership. Instead of promoting a healthy, stable relationship, the show often presents their drama and unpredictability as thrilling and desirable, overlooking the emotional toll it takes on both characters.
7. Chuck and Blair (Gossip Girl)
The relationship between Chuck and Blair in “Gossip Girl” is another example of a toxic TV romance. From the beginning, their relationship is steeped in manipulation, lies, power plays, and emotional abuse.
Scene examples include instances where Chuck manipulates Blair for his gain or Blair lies to Chuck to maintain the upper hand in their relationship. Their dynamic often revolves around who can outmaneuver the other, leading to a relationship that is more about power than about mutual respect and love.
The portrayal of their relationship is problematic as it normalizes and even romanticizes manipulation and emotional abuse as components of a passionate relationship. This representation can send misleading messages about what constitutes a healthy relationship, ignoring the importance of honesty, respect, and genuine care.
8. Piper and Alex (Orange Is the New Black)
Piper and Alex’s relationship in “Orange Is the New Black” is tumultuous and often toxic, driven by lies, cheating, and involvement in criminal activities. Their relationship frequently crosses the boundaries of what constitutes a healthy partnership. The constant deceit and betrayal between them, along with their involvement in criminal acts, create an unstable and dangerous environment, both emotionally and physically.
The series often portrays their relationship as intense and exciting, but this overlooks the serious issues at its core. By glamorizing such a dysfunctional dynamic, the show fails to convey the importance of trust, honesty, and stability in a relationship.
9. Walter and Skyler White (Breaking Bad)
In “Breaking Bad,” the relationship between Walter and Skyler White drastically deteriorates as Walter descends into criminality. His lies and secretive behavior put Skyler in incredibly difficult positions, leading to a relationship that becomes grounded in deceit and fear. As Walter becomes more involved in illegal activities, the trust and honesty that are essential to a healthy relationship erode, leaving Skyler to cope with the consequences of his actions.
This relationship dynamic is particularly troubling as it showcases how one partner’s decisions can drastically affect the other, leading to a relationship that is fraught with fear, uncertainty, and a loss of autonomy. The show’s portrayal of this dynamic, while critical of Walter’s actions, still often fails to fully address the damaging impact his behavior has on Skyler and their relationship.
10. Jenny and Nate (Gossip Girl)
In “Gossip Girl,” the relationship between Jenny and Nate is fraught with issues of manipulation and an unsettling age gap. Jenny, being significantly younger and less mature, is often manipulated in the relationship.
This age difference raises serious concerns about the dynamics of consent and the balance of power in their interactions. Additionally, Jenny’s tendency to resort to lies complicates the relationship further, adding a layer of deceit and mistrust.
The portrayal of this relationship in the show often overlooks these critical issues, instead focusing on the drama and excitement of their interactions. This depiction can inadvertently send a message that such relationships, despite their problematic nature, are acceptable or even desirable.
11. Elena and Damon (The Vampire Diaries)
Elena and Damon’s relationship in “The Vampire Diaries” is marked by manipulation and control, especially from Damon. His use of compulsion to make Elena forget certain events is a significant violation of her autonomy and consent. Furthermore, Damon’s obsession with Katherine, and the danger this obsession poses to Elena, highlights his selfishness and lack of regard for Elena’s safety and wellbeing.
The glamorization of their relationship often overshadows these significant concerns. Instead of a healthy, respectful partnership, their relationship is characterized by manipulation and a lack of genuine care for Elena’s autonomy and safety.
12. Phoebe and Cole (Charmed)
The relationship between Phoebe and Cole in “Charmed” is a tale of impossible love, marred by deception and betrayal. Cole, being a demon, continually lies to Phoebe and sells her a future that is not real. His attempts to separate her from her sisters and even turning her against her nature at one point highlight the destructive nature of their relationship.
This portrayal of a relationship that is fundamentally based on lies and manipulation undercuts the importance of honesty and genuine connection in a healthy relationship. The romanticization of their tumultuous and dangerous dynamic can mislead audiences about what constitutes a loving and supportive partnership.
13. Aria and Ezra (Pretty Little Liars)
In “Pretty Little Liars,” the relationship between Aria and Ezra is problematic on multiple levels. First, Ezra is Aria’s teacher, which already sets up a dynamic with serious power imbalances and ethical concerns. The fact that he encourages Aria to hide their relationship from her parents further complicates the situation, adding elements of secrecy and deceit.
Moreover, Ezra’s involvement in the central mystery of the show as “A” and his decision to spy on Aria for a true-crime book about Alison’s disappearance are deep betrayals of trust. These actions show a complete disregard for Aria’s privacy and autonomy, framing their relationship in a context of manipulation and exploitation.
The show’s portrayal of this relationship often glosses over these critical ethical and moral issues, instead framing it as a complicated but passionate romance. This narrative can be misleading, as it fails to adequately address the problematic power dynamics and the importance of trust and respect in a healthy relationship.
14. Renesmee and Jacob (Twilight)
The relationship between Renesmee and Jacob in the “Twilight” series is controversial, primarily due to the imprinting aspect. Jacob imprints on Renesmee when she is still a baby, which raises serious concerns about the nature of their future relationship.
The concept of imprinting on a child, regardless of the fictional context, is problematic as it suggests a predetermined romantic future without the child’s consent or understanding. This aspect of the story overlooks the importance of consent and autonomy in relationships, instead promoting a narrative where such critical elements are predetermined and uncontrollable.
15. Callie and Brandon (The Fosters)
In “The Fosters,” the relationship between Callie and Brandon is troubling due to the dynamics of their situation. Callie is Brandon’s foster sister, and she is dealing with trauma. Instead of providing her with the support she needs in her vulnerable state, Brandon lets her get involved with him romantically.
This dynamic is problematic as it adds confusion and complexity to Callie’s already challenging situation. The relationship could potentially exploit her vulnerability and trauma, failing to provide the stable, supportive environment she needs.
The portrayal of this relationship raises questions about the responsibility of individuals in positions of relative power, especially in the context of providing care and support to those who are vulnerable.
16. Rory and Dean (Gilmore Girls)
The relationship between Rory and Dean in “Gilmore Girls” deteriorates due to Dean’s jealousy and possessiveness. His pressure on Rory to say “I love you” before she is ready, and his attempts to guilt-trip her by referencing the car he built for her, are signs of emotional manipulation. Additionally, Dean lies about finalizing his breakup with his wife to sleep with Rory, which is a significant betrayal and deceit.
These aspects of their relationship highlight issues of consent, honesty, and respect, which are crucial for a healthy and supportive partnership. The show’s portrayal of these issues often fails to adequately critique Dean’s manipulative behavior, instead focusing on the drama of their relationship.
17. Allie and Noah (The Notebook)
Allie and Noah’s relationship in “The Notebook” is often romanticized, but it includes problematic elements. Their relationship involves physical and verbal fights, which are then resolved through passionate reconciliations. This cycle can be unhealthy, as it normalizes the idea that intense conflict is a natural or even desirable part of a romantic relationship.
Furthermore, Noah’s behavior when Allie initially refuses to go out with him, where he threatens to harm himself, is manipulative and coercive. This action, while portrayed as charming and persistent in the context of the film, is concerning in real-life scenarios.
It reflects a lack of respect for boundaries and consent, which are fundamental to any healthy relationship. The glamorization of such behavior can send misleading messages about what constitutes romantic pursuit versus manipulation.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.