8 LGBTQ+ TV romances to watch this Valentine's Day

‘Tis the season of love – and what better way to celebrate than settling down and enjoying some adorable LGBTQ+ romance stories. Whether you’re with a partner or taking things solo this Valentine’s Day, take the opportunity to enjoy the progress LGBTQ+ representation has made in recent years, and relish in the heartwarming portrayal of love in all its forms.

Charlie and Nick - Heartstopper

The release of Netflix’s Heartstopper in 2022 saw a momentous occasion for young queer viewers – representation of young, happy LGBTQ+ people falling in love, without any trauma-related storylines, overt sexualization, or unhappy endings. At the forefront of these heartwarming tales are Charlie and Nick, the very epitome of pure, unadulterated young love.

Anyone interested in a light-hearted, uplifting escape should try this adorable coming-of-age story. With authentic gay and bisexual representation, it also features powerful coming out scenes, relatable discussions concerning identity, and enough wholesome content to last a lifetime.

Angel and Lil Papi - Pose

Pose broke boundaries in countless ways. Beyond being funny and educational, the show isn’t afraid to delve into lost history, finally telling the stories of a too-often overlooked community. The portrayal of trans lives throughout this programme remains one of, if not the strongest and most authentic representation for the transgender community in television so far.

Perhaps more important than simple visibility, though, was the incorporation of the blossoming romance between characters Angel Evangelista and Lil Papi. Both estranged and looking for companionship, watching the romance storyline between these two slowly bloom is beyond heartwarming. The more positive trans representation like this, the better.

Piper and Alex – Orange is the New Black

Orange is the New Black remains one of the best TV series for LGBTQ+ representation – specifically, sapphic representation. Each relationship portrayed is so multi-layered and unique, taking the time to dive into each character’s mindset and portray them honestly – flaws and all.

The storyline of Piper and Alex gets off to a bumpy start, but as the show continues and developments are made, a heartwarming romance reveals itself at the very heart of the show. Equally funny as it is emotional, the relationship between these two is addictive to watch play out.

David and Patrick – Schitt's Creek

Perhaps a more unexpected romance, the adorable story of David Rose and Patrick Brewer added a whole new layer of characterization to Schitt’s Creek. What starts as a flirtatious back-and-forth business relationship slowly develops into something more serious, when Patrick begins to discover previously unharbored feelings for his friend.

Matched with the beautiful portrayal of David’s pansexuality – a criminally underrepresented identity – this storyline gave an opportunity for a unique and powerful LGBTQ+ love story. Even if you don’t watch Schitt’s Creek for the sweet love story, watch it for the unbelievable wardrobe range David pulls off every episode.

Nomi and Amanita – Sense8

Sense8 is another show with prominent LGBTQ+ representation throughout its main characters. Unafraid to portray various identities, it’s difficult to choose just one couple to celebrate from this show – but Nomi and Amanita deserve particular praise.

Expertly played by Freema Agyeman and trans actress Jamie Clayton, this couple frequently manage to steal the show - which is no mean feat, given the extravagant science-fiction/fantasy plot. With plenty of heartwarming and moving scenes to enjoy, this couple are more than deserving of their place on this list.

Eric and Adam – Sex Education

Ncuti Gatwa deserves all the awards for his portrayal of the fabulous Eric Effiong in Netflix’s Sex Education. Confident, unabashed, excitable, he has cemented himself as one of the most fun and lovable LGBTQ+ characters of all time. Beyond these characteristics though is an empathetic, calm soul who is always prepared to help those in need – even his bullies.

Adam’s story is a little more complex as we see his internal conflict throughout the first couple seasons. Identifying as bisexual, his journey to self-acceptance can be a difficult watch for those who can relate to his situation, but with the touching efforts of Eric, he slowly comes out of his shell.

Villanelle and Eve – Killing Eve

You could cut the tension with a knife – and don’t put it past Villanelle. Phoebe Waller-Bridge's hit show Killing Eve, based on the thriller novel series, inspired one of the most famous and exciting LGBTQ+ pairings in TV history. Action, romance, comedy – they have it all.

You wouldn’t expect such a beloved romance story to be found in the middle of a classic cat-and-mouse chase format, but it works so well. The chemistry between Jodie Comer and Sandra Oh is unmatched, forming an ‘opposites attract’ couple that will be cherished and remembered for many years to come.

Elle and Tao - Heartstopper

Is it cheating to add another from Heartstopper? Elle and Tao are just too sweet not to be included on this list. Played by rising trans star Yasmin Finney, Elle spends so much time supporting her friend Charlie with his romance that she doesn’t even notice her own feelings for her friend at first. Tao (William Gao) is equally distracted by the main duo, so the subtle blooming feelings between these two are a surprise to even each other.

The upcoming movie promises to delve more into their relationship, and if the graphic novels are anything to go by, there are plenty of joyous and gratifying scenes of love and happiness between these two to come. Keep an eye out for more of them soon!