Entertainment is supposed to be light-hearted. We tend to watch TV shows and films in order to relax and enjoy some escapism. But not every single storyline exists for this purpose. TV shows have presented many an unhealthy relationship to audiences over the years. Here are some of the ones that I believe are the worst of them all.
Aria and Ezra – Pretty Little Liars
Though they were a favourite of mine when I first watched Pretty Little Liars when I was 12, this relationship was beyond inappropriate. Between the age gap, the power imbalance and Ezra’s stalker tendencies, I can’t name a single reason as to why Aria and Ezra should have been together. This couple could’ve been a great way to get through to younger viewers the dangers of being groomed, but the longevity of their relationship only emphasizes the opposite.
Carrie and Mr. Big – Sex and the City
Carrie settled for Mr. Big. He gave Carrie plenty of opportunities to run, and she never quite did. Between his casual attitude to dating, his roster of women at times, his unwillingness to be exclusive, his secretiveness and, on top of that, the way he treated Carrie in basically every episode, Mr. Big possesses almost every single red flag a guy could have. All that time writing a column about dating, and Carrie ended up with one of the worst men she could find.
Sandy and Danny – Grease
Summer romance. We all dream of it. However, not all summer romances deserve to be carried into the next season. Sandy and Danny both showed impressionable viewers that it’s okay to change yourself completely in order to win the affection of someone else. But I can’t argue with the fact that Olivia Newton John looked absolutely stunning in her greaser outfit.
Jessica and Felix – Too Much
I feel as though this is an unpopular opinion. But I hated this show, and I hated this couple. Both of them had way too many personal issues to work through before getting into relationships. Jessica was fresh out of a breakup and completely obsessed with her ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend, whilst Felix clearly had deep-rooted commitment issues. A recipe for disaster.
Stephen and Lucy – Tell Me Lies
Another couple I initially liked (I know, mistakes were made). As the show has progressed, so has Stephen’s control and use of Lucy. Their relationship is notably toxic and unhealthy. When sex, especially rough sex, defines the foundations of a relationship, is there really anything romantic there?
Cady and Aaron – Mean Girls
Aaron is the unfortunate one here. He was led on by Regina as part of a revenge plan, and then ended up with someone just as manipulative. The unhealthy origins of their relationship definitely laid the foundations for an early college breakup between the two.
Nate and…everyone – Euphoria
Nate is manipulative, abusive and has racked up a long list of crimes over the years. The character is a walking red flag, whom anyone would be unfortunate to have dated.
Robin and Kevin – How I Met Your Mother
I couldn’t write this article without finding a couple from my favourite TV show. There are plenty, but I went for Robin and Kevin. Cheating, infertility, commitment issues and the circumstances of their relationship are exactly why they didn’t work. I mean, he was her therapist…I think that says it all.
So, although these couples don’t quite live up to the standard that they should, love is not lost. This Valentine’s Day, find better role-models to follow the example of!