There's no shortage of stories to tell about marriage. Since the beginning of television, nearly every series has dealt with the trials and tribulations of marriage at some point, whether in groundbreaking, funny, dramatic, or tragic ways. Whether you've vowed to never get married, you're thinking about getting married, or you've been married for years, sometimes the best way to understand such an endlessly complex institution is to watch how others deal with it. In our current age of television, the best shows about marriage tell utterly compelling, human stories that can go from heartbreaking to empathetic to hilariously satisfying all in one episode. Shows about marriage can be therapeutic for those in a long-term relationship, but they can also be cathartic and just plain entertaining for everyone else. The best shows about marriage differ from those about plain old dating because, compared to marriage, dating is a walk in the park. On this list of shows about marriage, we're focusing on stories that are primarily about getting married and staying married. From dramas to comedies to cartoons to HBO nudity-fests, the shows on this list all manage to say something unique about marriage and show the variety of ways that a marriage can affect us and those around us. Whether these shows are simply about a loving couple or manage to show the maddening complexities of long-term love, these TV series about being married all understand what makes a marriage compelling and are able to turn that union into endlessly riveting television. What are television's best marriage shows? Vote up the shows about marriage you think are the best and see where your favorite shows about being married rank.
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Modern Family, a comedic gem, shines a light on the rollercoaster ride of marriage and parenthood with delightfully relatable characters. Its stellar ensemble cast gives life to contemporary relationships by showcasing a variety of family dynamics, ultimately challenging traditional stereotypes and breaking down barriers around same-sex marriages.
I Love Lucy, the iconic sitcom that made history with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, seamlessly weaves together humor and heart. Amidst their zany antics, Lucy and Ricky Ricardo showcase the endearing challenges that arise in a marriage, proving that laughter may very well be the secret ingredient to a successful union.
Home Improvement, a lighthearted comedy, captures the amusing misadventures of Jill and Tim Taylor, played by Patricia Richardson and Tim Allen. Despite their contrasting personalities, the Taylors manage to conquer life's ups and downs together, making it a beloved portrait of a marriage grounded in love, acceptance, and understanding.
The Dick Van Dyke Show, a delightful romp, offers us a glimpse into the marriage of Rob and Laura Petrie, portrayed by the inimitable Dick Van Dyke and Mary Tyler Moore. Their union brims with humor, tenderness, and a genuine understanding of each other's quirks, demonstrating that a good marriage can thrive on laughter, love, and just a soupçon of silliness.
Everybody Loves Raymond showcases the humorous, razor-sharp banter between Ray and Debra Barone, brilliantly portrayed by Ray Romano and Patricia Heaton. The show unapologetically highlights the pitfalls of meddling in-laws and the triumphs of a loving, if at times tempestuous, marriage, resonating with viewers from all walks of life.
Bewitched, a magical classic, casts a spell with its enchanting and enduring love story between Samantha and Darrin Stephens, portrayed by the mesmerizing Elizabeth Montgomery and Dick York. Their bewitching marriage demonstrates the power of love and understanding in overcoming supernatural challenges and otherworldly chaos.
The Addams Family, a macabre yet endearing classic, oozes charm and quirkiness, as it explores the elegant, unconventional bond between Gomez and Morticia Addams. John Astin and Carolyn Jones embody the electric chemistry of this bewitching couple, drawing viewers into their mysterious world. It's no surprise that this dark and delightful show has left a lasting impact on the way we view marriage on television.
Married... with Children, a trailblazing comedy, pushed boundaries with its offbeat portrayal of the Bundy family, led by Ed O'Neill and Katey Sagal. Often marked by biting sarcasm and brutal honesty, Al and Peggy's tumultuous relationship gives rise to a refreshing take on the institution of marriage, proving love can thrive even in the most unlikely of circumstances.
This Is Us captivates viewers with its authentic and heartfelt portrayal of the Pearson family, exploring the joys and challenges that arise in longstanding relationships, particularly between Jack and Rebecca, played by Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore. Amidst life's trials and tribulations, the Pearsons embody the resilience and vulnerability inherent in the journey of marriage.
Mad About You delves into the idiosyncrasies of married life through the whip-smart humor and irresistibly genuine chemistry of Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt. Their characters, Paul and Jamie Buchman, navigate the complexities of matrimony with wit and heart, setting a brilliant example for the countless sitcoms that followed in their footsteps.
The King of Queens, a witty and relatable sitcom, smartly captures the humorous daily challenges faced by Doug and Carrie Heffernan, portrayed by Kevin James and Leah Remini. Their authentic banter and undeniable chemistry bring to life the unique and endearing combination of laughter, love, and compromise that defines a successful marriage.
The Middle, a heartwarming comedy, chronicles the wholesomely chaotic marriage of Frankie and Mike Heck, played by Patricia Heaton and Neil Flynn. Their union, albeit imperfect, is inundated with love, support, and the joint pursuit of happiness, making it a true-to-life representation of the essence of matrimony.
According to Jim delivers the comical exploits and banter of Jim and Cheryl, brought to life by Jim Belushi and Courtney Thorne-Smith. Entrenched in the heart of suburbia, the obstacles they face as a married couple give them a relatable, down-to-earth charm that emphasizes the importance of understanding, support, and laughter in marriage.
WandaVision, an innovative Marvel miniseries, pushes the boundaries of traditional TV storytelling. Featuring the beloved characters Wanda (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany), this critically acclaimed show depicts marriage in a surreal blend of comedy and drama. By interweaving superhero action with a deep exploration of marital love and loss, WandaVision will leave you pondering the true meaning of commitment.
Last Man Standing, an undeniably entertaining sitcom, navigates the lighthearted and poignant aspects of Mike and Vanessa Baxter's marriage, as portrayed by Tim Allen and Nancy Travis. Their union exemplifies the limitless strength and flexibility required to maintain a successful marriage in a world full of change and unpredictability.
Fawlty Towers, a timeless British comedy, stars Monty Python alum John Cleese as Basil Fawlty and his wife, Sybil (Prunella Scales), as they run a less-than-stellar hotel. With their comical banter, this hilarious couple demonstrates the valuable lesson of compromise and teamwork in the face of adversity, making Fawlty Towers a classic reminder of the strength and humor found in love and marriage.
Downton Abbey, a period drama that stole the hearts of millions globally, brings to life the intricate relationships between various couples in a post-Edwardian world. With memorable characters like Lord and Lady Grantham, power couple Mr. Bates and Anna, and Lady Mary with her numerous suitors, the series examines the societal impact of marriage and the sacrifices made by those who uphold its traditions.
The Simpsons, a landmark animated sitcom, boldly irradiates the trials and tribulations of American family life through the eyes of lovable, yet flawed, characters. In spite of being a somewhat unorthodox couple, Homer and Marge's enduring marriage resonates with viewers, proving that love can indeed conquer all, even in the zaniest of situations.
Roseanne, a groundbreaking sitcom, masterfully showcases the blue-collar marriage of Roseanne and Dan Conner, played by Roseanne Barr and John Goodman. Their robust, unfiltered rapport and ability to resolve marital issues with humor make them one of television's most genuine and relatable couples.
Ghosts, a whimsical and spirited comedy, brings to light the unique challenges and rewards of Alison and Mike Cooper, played by Charlotte Ritchie and Kiell Smith-Bynoe. Together, they embrace their ghostly companions and prove that love and marriage can thrive in even the most unexpected of places and circumstances.
Rules of Engagement, a sitcom that aired from 2007 to 2013, delves into the diverse experiences of three couples: Adam and Jennifer, Jeff and Audrey, and Russell and his many dates. With a stellar cast led by David Spade, Megyn Price, and Patrick Warburton, the show sheds light on the different stages of marriage, touching on relevant themes like trust, communication, and friendship.
George Lopez, a sitcom fueled by the comedian's self-deprecating humor, introduces us to the Lopez household spiraling through relatable challenges. George and his wife, Angie (played by Constance Marie), navigate the complex yet comical waters of marriage, parenting, and extended family. The sitcom offers a heartwarming and humorous portrayal of the importance of love and loyalty in the face of life's many curveballs.
The Goldbergs, a family-centered feel-good sitcom, teleports viewers back to the glory days of the '80s. Following the lives of married couple Beverly (Wendi McLendon-Covey) and Murray (Jeff Garlin) and their children, the show highlights the struggle of maintaining harmony in the household while simultaneously growing as partners. It's a nostalgic, poignant gem for those who treasure the enduring power of love and family.
Mad Men, a captivating period drama, transports us to the tumultuous 1960s through the lens of the advertising industry. Among this stylish ensemble, we witness the challenges and triumphs faced by Don and Betty Draper, played by Jon Hamm and January Jones. Their tumultuous marriage serves as a window into the shifting societal norms of the era, offering viewers a gripping, gritty portrayal of love in a rapidly changing world.
The Americans, a suspenseful spy drama, elevates the concept of "for better or for worse" to dizzying heights. Stars Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys play Cold War-era Soviet spies who must balance an arranged marriage with their high-stakes mission. As the stakes rise, viewers witness the gripping transformation of a arranged partnership into a compelling, true love story.
Black-ish takes a comedic yet profound look at the complexities of modern marriage. Starring Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross as Andre 'Dre' Johnson and Rainbow Johnson, this smash-hit sitcom follows their lives as they navigate contemporary family life and cultural identity. Airing since 2014, the series not only entertains with its laugh-out-loud humor but also adds valuable insight into the evolving roles and expectations within a loving marriage.
Parenthood, an ensemble drama, tugs at the heartstrings as it delves into the lives of the Braverman family, including the marriages of three siblings. Dax Shepard, Peter Krause, and Erika Christensen deliver outstanding performances as the series explores the ups and downs of marriage and parenting. With enthralling storylines and rich, believable characters, Parenthood is a beautiful testament to the resilience of the family bond.
Soap, an innovative and satirical take on classic soap operas, catapulted the careers of Billy Crystal and Katherine Helmond. With its controversial portrayals of relationships and baffling plot twists, this show broke barriers and challenged societal norms surrounding marriage. Prepare to laugh, cry, and ponder over this trailblazing series that still resonates with audiences today.
Catastrophe, a British sitcom, takes viewers on a whirlwind journey through a modern marriage. Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney, who also co-wrote the show, play a couple brought together by an unexpected pregnancy. Masterfully intertwining humor with the raw, all-too-relatable realities of navigating marriage in a complicated world, Catastrophe leaves a lasting impact on the hearts of the audience.
Fresh Off the Boat, a delightful comedy featuring a Taiwanese-American family, tells the story of parents Louis (Randall Park) and Jessica (Constance Wu) adapting to their new life in the U.S. Through a delicate balance of humor and heartfelt storytelling, this series showcases the beauty and strength found in a multicultural marriage, while offering countless nuggets of wisdom about love and family.
Curb Your Enthusiasm, featuring the hilarious antics of Larry David playing himself, offers an unvarnished lens into his relationship with on-screen wife Cheryl Hines. This comedic powerhouse of a show, full of uproarious situations and absurd social faux pas, serves up an offbeat take on a modern marriage struggling to cope with the eccentricities of its partners.
Santa Clarita Diet is epitome of "till death do us part," so to speak. Starring Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant as a suburban couple who must adapt to their new undead reality, this darkly comedic series redefines the concept of marital devotion. The witty banter and unique challenges these two face make this an unapologetically unusual - but wholly entertaining - portrayal of love and commitment.
Desperate Housewives, a dramedy phenomenon created by Marc Cherry, delves into the lives of four suburban women navigating the tumultuous side of marriage. Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman, Marcia Cross, and Eva Longoria portray the titular characters, each grappling with relationship issues ranging from infidelity to loss. This classic series is a searing portrayal of love, betrayal, and the insatiable search for happiness.
Big Love is a gripping drama that boldly portrays the unconventional marriage of Bill Hendrickson (Bill Paxton) and his three wives, portrayed by Jeanne Tripplehorn, Chloë Sevigny, and Ginnifer Goodwin. This captivating series shatters long-held beliefs about polygamy and examines taboo themes, exploring fidelity, loyalty, and the intricacies of family relationships.
Life in Pieces, a family comedy, stitches together a colorful tapestry of marriages and relationships within the Short family. Through its innovative storytelling, featuring short stories from different family members' perspectives, the show offers refreshing insights into the power of love, commitment, and the family structure that binds them all together.
Outnumbered, a British sitcom, peeks into the chaotic life of married couple Pete and Sue Brockman, brilliantly played by Hugh Dennis and Claire Skinner. Focused on the couple's daily battles with their three astute and unpredictable children, Outnumbered keeps viewers on their toes with a mix of scripted and improvised dialogue, underscoring the bond shared by couples weathering the storm of raising a family together.
Us, the mini-series adaptation of David Nicholls' novel, explores the dynamics of a marriage in crisis. Tom Hollander and Saskia Reeves portray a couple grappling with the desire for change and the reality of an empty nest. Intimate, raw, and intricately crafted, Us delves into the depths and complexities of marriage, serving as a testament to the power of love and self-discovery.
George & Tammy, a miniseries based on the tumultuous marriage of legendary country singers George Jones and Tammy Wynette, offers a scorching portrayal of love, jealousy, and ambition. With Jessica Chastain and Michael Shannon taking on the titular roles, this series delves into the raw and turbulent bond shared by two iconic figures in the music industry.
Happy Endings, a hilarious sitcom, shines a light on the lives of six friends—one being a recently broken-up couple. Elisha Cuthbert and Zachary Knighton, playing the now-separated Alex and Dave, reveal the challenges of moving on from a failed relationship while maintaining friendships. The series combines contemporary wit and warmth, exploring the evolution of romantic connections in a fast-paced world.
Lucky Hank, starring Bob Odenkirk, follows the tumultuous journey of Professor Hank Devereaux, an English department chairman at an underfunded Pennsylvania college, as he teeters on the brink between midlife crisis and complete meltdown. Filled with dark humor and unforgettable characters, this American black comedy-drama series explores the chaos and eccentricity that unfolds in both Hank's personal and professional worlds.
The Mess You Leave Behind, a Spanish thriller-drama, revolves around Raquel (Inma Cuesta), a teacher who delves into the mysterious death of her predecessor. As she dives deeper into darker secrets, her marriage becomes entangled with the threads of the twisted narrative, making for a gripping exploration of the resiliencies—and fragilities—of her relationship.
Up All Night, a sitcom that documents the joyous chaos of new parenthood, features Christina Applegate and Will Arnett as a married couple struggling to adapt to life with a newborn baby. This hilarious, heartfelt show will have viewers reminiscing about the trials of balancing work, love, friendships, and the unrelenting rollercoaster that is family life.
Scenes From A Marriage, an Ingmar Bergman classic that has been adapted and reimagined by director Hagai Levi, delves into the passionate and volatile marriage between Mira (Jessica Chastain) and Jonathan (Oscar Isaac). This riveting reimagining of the 1973 original explores the depths of human connection and the tests that push marital boundaries.
Julia focuses on the life of Julia Child, the legendary culinary figure known for her innovative passion for food. As Julia's journey unfolds, the series is set to explore her relationship with her husband, Paul, played by David Hyde Pierce, delving into the evolution and power of a marriage rooted in support and shared passions.
Wolf Like Me, an unconventional love story, delves into the gripping lives of Gary (played by Josh Gad) and Mary (Isla Fisher) as they struggle to navigate the complexities of their unique relationship. Set to debut in the Australian television landscape, this series promises to explore a wholly unexpected twist on love and marriage, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
Sex/Life, an erotically charged series, unravels the tangled lives of Billie (Sarah Shahi) and Cooper (Mike Vogel) in a steamy and very modern tale of marriage. The show explores Billie's past relationships, her present marital struggles, and the complications that arise when her desires collide, making for an intensely gripping watch.
Friday Night Dinner is a British gem that has built a loyal following over the years. Centers around the Goodman family, the show highlights the married couple Jackie and Martin (Tamsin Greig and Paul Ritter). Taking viewers on a culinary rollercoaster ride, this sitcom reveals the undeniable strength and humor that binds a couple together despite life's absurdities.
Bless This Mess, a heartwarming sitcom with an ensemble cast led by Lake Bell and Dax Shepard, follows a newlywed couple who leave the big city behind to start a new life on a rundown farm. With its charming yet quirky characters and witty repartee, this show is a delightful dive into the world of love, sacrifice, and adaptation—proving that marriage is anything but boring.
Splitting Up Together stars Jenna Fischer and Oliver Hudson as a married couple who decide to divorce but continue living together for the sake of their children. This unconventional arrangement forces the ex-spouses to navigate the turbulent waters of co-parenting and dealing with new relationships. The series balances on a tightrope between comedy and heartache, highlighting the complexities of modern-day marriages and breakups.
The Cage, a thriller series, brings to life a twisted web of relationships as Detective Eve Ronin navigates the dark underbelly of a terrifying case. This bold narrative takes dramatic twists and turns, intersecting with her personal life and marriage, leading to jaw-dropping discoveries that redefine allegiances and commitment.
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