10 Iconic TV Kisses That Still Make Us Tear Up

10 Iconic TV Kisses That Still Make Us Tear Up

Television has given us countless memorable moments, but few are as universally cherished as the perfect on-screen kiss. These moments encapsulate years of storytelling, character development, and emotional investment. Through skillful writing and acting, TV kisses can make us laugh, cry, and everything in between.

From sitcoms to dramas and even supernatural series, these kisses often serve as emotional peaks, providing audiences with heart-stopping, unforgettable scenes. Each moment is unique, yet they all share a common ability to resonate deep within us, reminding us of love’s complexities and beauty. Join us as we revisit ten of the most iconic TV kisses that continue to evoke tears and memories.

1. Noah and Joanne – Nobody Wants This

In Nobody Wants This, the kiss between Noah and Joanne is a crescendo of unspoken words and shared glances. Their relationship, fraught with misunderstandings and conflicting ambitions, finds clarity in this intimate moment.

The embrace is not just a kiss; it is a meeting of two souls who finally understand each other. This scene is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the courage it takes to open one’s heart.

Viewers are left breathless, witnessing the collision of passion and peace in this beautifully charged encounter. It’s a pivotal point that changes everything for them.

2. Ross and Rachel — Friends

In the heart of Central Perk, Ross and Rachel’s first real kiss marked a turning point. It was more than just a romantic gesture; it was the culmination of seasons filled with tension and near misses. Finally, viewers witnessed their favorite couple’s barriers fall away.

The timing was impeccable, as Ross found out Rachel’s feelings, leading to this long-awaited moment. Fans around the world sighed in relief and joy. This kiss encapsulated the essence of a classic “will-they-won’t-they” trope, delivering an emotionally satisfying payoff that resonated deeply with audiences.

The scene remains a testament to the power of patience and storytelling.

3. Jim and Pam — The Office

The moment Jim kissed Pam in “Casino Night” was both a surprise and a revelation. In the quiet of the office, Jim’s heartfelt confession followed by a kiss changed the narrative. It was an intimate scene, raw and real, displaying vulnerability and courage.

For fans, this was the moment when The Office transcended its comedic roots to embrace emotional storytelling. Jim’s actions reflected his deep-seated feelings, and Pam’s response was equally poignant.

This kiss wasn’t just about romance; it was about authenticity and the courage to take a leap of faith. It solidified their place as one of TV’s most beloved couples.

4. Meredith and Derek — Grey’s Anatomy

Meredith and Derek, known as McDreamy by fans, shared countless kisses, but the one in the elevator stands out. Amidst the chaos of the hospital, their kiss was a beacon of longing and love. It was a bittersweet moment, symbolizing the stormy yet passionate nature of their relationship.

The elevator setting added to the intimacy, emphasizing their connection amidst the clinical coldness of the hospital. Each kiss told a different story, but this one was particularly loaded with emotion.

This scene became iconic for embodying the unpredictability and passion that defined their love story, leaving an indelible mark on fans.

5. Buffy and Angel — Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Buffy and Angel’s relationship was fraught with obstacles, and their kiss in “Becoming, Part Two” remains unforgettable. It was a moment filled with passion, tragedy, and impending loss. This kiss was no ordinary romantic gesture; it was a prelude to pain and sacrifice.

The moment encapsulated the heartache of knowing that love sometimes demands impossible choices. As Angel was about to lose his soul, their kiss carried the weight of what was to come.

This scene became symbolic of the bittersweet nature of young love, where intense emotions often lead to inevitable heartbreak and sacrifice.

6. Damon and Elena — The Vampire Diaries

The kiss between Damon and Elena was electric and long-awaited. For years, viewers watched their chemistry build, and when they finally kissed, it was like a spark igniting a fire. This moment wasn’t just about love; it was about acceptance and realizing that even the flawed can be right.

Their dynamic had been charged with tension and near misses, making this scene all the more satisfying. It was a defining moment, not just for the characters but for the series itself.

This kiss symbolized a new beginning, showing that sometimes, the unexpected path leads to the greatest rewards.

7. Jack and Kate — Lost

In the turbulent world of Lost, Jack and Kate’s goodbye kiss was loaded with emotion. On a show filled with survival and mysteries, their kiss was a poignant reminder of human connection. It was a moment filled with longing and unspoken words.

The backdrop of chaos and uncertainty made their kiss even more impactful. It was a farewell kiss, not just to each other, but to the possibility of a future together.

This scene highlighted the series’ themes of sacrifice and love, leaving a lasting impression that some stories, no matter how beautiful, don’t always have happy endings.

8. Allie and Noah — The Notebook

Though technically a film, The Notebook’s rain-soaked kiss between Allie and Noah has become a TV rewatch staple. It’s the epitome of cinematic romance, filled with raw passion and emotion. The rain added a dramatic flair, making it visually unforgettable.

This kiss is more than just a romantic scene; it’s an emblem of enduring love that defies time and obstacles. It set the gold standard for on-screen kisses, inspiring countless reenactments in pop culture.

The moment captures the essence of youthful, unrestrained love, reminding audiences of the beauty and intensity of first loves.

9. Nick and Jess — New Girl

Nick and Jess’s kiss in New Girl was unexpected yet thrilling. The tension had been simmering, and when Nick finally kissed Jess mid-argument, it was explosive. This unexpected act of passion left fans cheering.

Their dynamic had always been playful, but this kiss changed everything, adding a new layer of complexity to their relationship. It was a moment that showcased the unpredictable nature of love.

The scene was both comedic and heartfelt, encapsulating the show’s quirky charm and emotional depth. It was a turning point that fans had eagerly anticipated, sparking a new chapter for the duo.

10. Mulder and Scully — The X-Files

After years of subtext and tension, Mulder and Scully’s kiss in “Millennium” was understated yet monumental. It wasn’t about fireworks, but about trust and partnership. For long-time fans, this kiss was a long-awaited reward.

Their relationship had always been built on mutual respect and understanding, and this moment was a natural progression. It was a slow burn, a testament to the power of patience and subtlety.

The scene was a quiet celebration of their bond, offering a glimpse into the depth of their connection. It was a moment that exemplified the beauty of a long-term journey together.