Best TV Boyfriends: Top 5 Most Dateable Characters

The Best TV Boyfriends – These are the 5 most date-able guys from your favorite shows

Movies, especially of the romantic comedy variety, create this picture-perfect idea of relationships that, let’s face it, isn’t realistic. But TV shows can do the same thing. Sometimes, to an even greater extent as we see a longer sample of this screen-embellished relationship. Still, it can be fun to think about finding someone who fits the mold created by screenwriters.

With that in mind, here are my top 5 picks for the TV characters that would make the BEST boyfriends (or husbands). As Elaine would say, the guys that would be deemed “sponge-worthy.”

Best TV Boyfriends

1. Phil Dunphy – Modern Family

First up, we have Phil Dunphy from Modern Family. Phil is a fantastic husband to Claire and a great father to their three kids.

As a dad, he’s the fun, laid-back, and easy-going counterpart to Claire’s uptight mothering. He’s the kind of dad with an endless supply of dad-jokes and an adorably dorky demeanor. He’s sweet and good-natured, but protective and able to be stern when necessary. Basically, the epitome of dad-goals.

As a husband, he’s equally wonderful. He’s always supportive of Claire and takes the time to try and keep the romance alive in their marriage. Not to mention the fact that he’s affectionate and playful and it’s this goofy, fun-loving spirit that makes him the perfect match for the more neurotic Claire.

2. Mike Hannigan – Friends

Next up we have Mike Hannigan, also known as Crap Bag to fans of the show. Though not one of the main characters on Friends, Mike is the one that stands out the most in terms of dateability.

Of the three male protagonists on Friends, Chandler is the only one I’d even consider dating. He’s funny and sweet, but only to Monica (have we forgotten how shitty he was to Janice. I mean, sure, she was annoying – but, honestly, he had to lie and tell her he was going to Yemen? Kind of a dick move.)

Mike, though, is a sweet and loving boyfriend to Phoebe. He completely accepts her for who she is, quirks and all. In fact, he loves her all the more for it. When she comes to meet his parents, he makes it clear that he doesn’t expect or want her to change for anyone. He’s also not afraid to defend her, telling his snobby parents off after they judge her harshly.

Finally, he’s willing to get married again after Phoebe makes it clear that it’s important to her. That ability to listen and make sacrifices for your partner makes him Grade A boyfriend material.

3. Ted Mullens – Schitt’s Creek

Gorgeous, sweet, and intelligent, Ted Mullens is a stand-out on Schitt’s Creek.

As a vet, he’s an animal-lover (always a plus) and he’s a total gentleman. Not to mention the fact that he’s always there for Alexis. Even after they break up, Ted remains a loyal friend – giving her a job at his vet clinic and encouraging her to go back to school.

I won’t give any spoilers here for those who haven’t seen the show’s finale, but let’s just say that he’s one hell of a thoughtful man.

4. Jim Halpert – The Office

Alright, y’all. You knew this one would be on the list. Jim Halpert from the Office.

So many Tinder profiles say things like, “I’m just Pam looking for my Jim” and it’s easy to see why. He’s funny, charming, and completely smitten with Pam. Now, in some of his other relationships on the show (ahem, Karen), he may not have been great, but let’s be honest. We’re rooting for Pam anyway, so he can get a pass.

He’s completely supportive of Pam’s goals, encouraging her to go to art school in New York regardless of how that impacts him (are you sensing a theme here yet? Good boyfriends are supportive of their partners). He’s also willing to give up his own dream job in Philadelphia once he realizes how much it’s hurting his marriage.

5. Marshall Eriksen – How I Met Your Mother

Arguably the best of the best, we have Marshall Eriksen – aka, Big Fudge, Marshmallow, or Judge Fudge.

I know How I Met Your Mother is Ted’s story, but Ted’s not all that great. He constantly bemoans about wanting to find a wife and settle down, but on countless occasions, he acts like a total fuckboy.

Marshall, on the other hand, is a total sweetheart – kind to everyone and loyal AF to Lily. As a lawyer, he’s also smart and ambitious, but he’s moral and optimistic, choosing to go into environmental law because of his passion for conservation.

He’s also endlessly supportive and adoring of Lily. Where Ted is idealistic in his vision for a wife (and Barney is avoidant to a T), Marshall is genuine and realistic. He does adore Lily, but he also understands how real, lasting relationships work and is willing to make the effort.

Best TV Boyfriends Conclusion

So there you have it. The top 5 male TV characters I’d want to date IRL. Leave a comment below and let me know who’s on your list!