The Best (Or My Favorite?) Slow Burn Romances in TV History
disclaimer: all opinions are my own! and they constantly change <3
What makes a good slow burn romance? According to this BookRiot article on slow burns, “a slow burn is when the romantic attraction between characters builds slowly over the course of a novel or series.” There’s a lot of angst and pining. Two people can’t see how perfect they are for each other.
I love a good slow burn. I wasn’t really introduced to the name ‘slow burn’ until I watched Season Two of Bridgerton with Anthony and Kate. Now THAT is a slow burn.
But there are many other incredible and angsty slow burn romances in TV history. Here are a few.
Ross and Rachel (Friends)
Was this a slow burn, or a “will they or won’t they” romance? They were on again, and then off again. They had sweet and intimate moments throughout the show, including during their season-long relationship. Their constant back and forth could definitely be considered a slow burn.
Jim and Pam (The Office)
From quiet glances and inside jokes to the emotional confession that finally brought them together, their romance found in the workplace of Dunder Mifflin epitomized the slow burn — and friends to lovers trope!
Luke and Lorelai (Gilmore Girls)
Raise your hand if you said FINALLY when these two kissed at the end of Season 4? During Seasons 1-3, there was constant back and forth between these two: will they or won’t they? Their banter made fans on the edge of their seats, waiting and wishing for these beloved Stars Hollow residents to admit their feelings for one another. They had incredible chemistry and undeniable connection. Even after that kiss, it seems we were building up to everything this couple had in store, up until that season finale.
Nick and Jess (New Girl)
This was a classic Friends to Lovers story, but one can easily call this a slow burn. Season 1 hid most of their romantic pining for each other and disguised it as two friends growing closer (as friends), but Season 2 featured the slow build up to their intimate kiss and eventual relationship. To me, they are one of my favorite TV couples, up there with Luke and Lorelai. Their breakup episode in Season 3 was truly devastating and unnecessary.
Ben and Leslie (Parks and Recreation)
I have not watched this beloved sitcom, but from all the edits I’ve seen on TikTok, I can say that this is a slow burn? Their slow burn developed naturally. It almost makes me want to watch this show.
Meredith and Derek (Grey’s Anatomy)
Another “will they or won’t they” romance! Their relationship was filled with many ups and downs, twists and turns, but they came back to each other — and made us (the fans) wait for it. Love them <3
Mary and Matthew (Downton Abbey)
Their class differences and personal struggles made their romance an aching, beautifully drawn-out story.
Josh and Donna (The West Wing)
While their relationship was kept professional for many years, their relationship finally evolved into a romantic one in the final season.
Anthony and Kate (Bridgerton)
The slow burn of all slow burns. Season 2 of this show was truly a slow burn — as soon as I thought they were going to get together, something ripped them apart. But the ending made it oh so worth it.
All I’m saying is … bring back men yearning (in romance books and movies and TV shows).