Why can’t real-life relationships be more like the ones we see onscreen? Here’s our countdown of the nine best fictional boyfriends.
1. Noah from The Notebook (2004)
With his combination of charm, sincerity and adventurous spirit, Noah has all of the ingredients to be the perfect boyfriend. He knows what he wants, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get it, even if that means dangling off a Ferris wheel. Let’s face it: Ryan Gosling in any role is our dream boyfriend.
Memorable quote: “I want all of you, forever. You and me, every day.”
2. Nick from New Girl
From the moment that Jess moved in with the guys, we were already rooting for her and Nick to get together. Although he can be a little grumpy and pessimistic at times, he’s a loyal friend, a great listener and the perfect partner in crime. Who didn’t swoon during that amazing first-kiss scene?
Memorable quote: “I think you’re the kind of girl a guy would come back for.”
3. Jack from Titanic (1997)
Jack Dawson is the ultimate romantic. Come on, the guy froze to death to save the life of the girl he loved! We love his boyish charm, spontaneity and smile that could melt any girl’s heart. Plus, he really knows how to wear a tux.
Memorable quote: “You jump, I jump, remember?”
4. Ben from Parks and Recreation
If “nerdy cute” is your type, then Ben Wyatt is your man. He’s somehow adorable even when talking about Star Wars, and he’s willing go above and beyond to impress a girl. He isn’t afraid of a strong, powerful woman, and he’ll stand by your side through thick and thin. And we’ll admit it, we love his butt almost as much as Leslie does. Almost.
Memorable quote: “I love you and I like you.”
5. Peeta from The Hunger Games (2012)
Gale may be hot, but we’re Team Peeta all the way. Peeta is strong, sweet and adorably protective, with a talent for baking to boot. Unlike your typical collegiate Romeo, Peeta has a way with words, and he’s as honest and straightforward as they come. What’s not to love?
Memorable quote: “Now there’s no way I’ll let you go.”
6. Tom from (500) Days of Summer (2009)
Tom is a hopeless romantic and one of the few guys left who still believes in fate and true love. You would never have to worry about “defining the relationship” with him – if Tom is with you, you can rest easy knowing he’s in it for the long haul. Plus, we love that he has good taste in music and a penchant for running through IKEA stores.
Memorable quote: “I love how she makes me feel. Like anything’s possible… or like life is worth it.”
7. Jim from The Office
Jim and Pam have one of the greatest TV relationships of all time. Jim was willing to wait years for a girl who was engaged to another guy just because he knew they were meant to be together. He’s also hilarious, and he always manages to find the humor in any situation.
Memorable quote: “Four years ago, I was just a guy who had a crush on a girl who had a boyfriend… but I think that even then I knew that I was waiting for my wife.”
8. Chuck from Gossip Girl
With money, class and a smoldering gaze, Chuck Bass is the epitome of tall, dark and handsome. Although he can be kind of a jerk when his cockiness gets the best of him, we can’t help but be drawn to his bad-boy charm. If more college guys dressed as well as Chuck does, the world would be a more beautiful place.
Memorable quote: “I’m sorry I gave up on us when you never did.”
9. Josh from Clueless (1995)
The whole ex-stepbrother thing aside, Josh is the boyfriend we all wish we had. We fell in love with him when he went out and danced with Tai like no one was watching, and we fell even harder when he finally told Cher how he felt. He’s smart, adorable and charmingly witty, and he’s not afraid to call you out when you’re being a little ridiculous.
Memorable quote: “You know you’re gorgeous, alright.”