It’s no secret that television shows often portray relationships, both good and bad. While some on-screen couples exemplify love and support, others showcase toxicity and dysfunction. Here, we take a look at the seven most toxic couples in television history that had viewers cringing at their behavior.
1. Tony and Carmela Soprano (The Sopranos)
Tony and Carmela Soprano’s marriage was riddled with infidelity, manipulation, and violence. Despite their lavish lifestyle, their toxic dynamic left viewers questioning if their love was genuine or simply a facade.
2. Chuck and Blair (Gossip Girl)
Chuck and Blair’s relationship was filled with power struggles, betrayal, and emotional abuse. Their toxic behavior towards each other and those around them made them a couple that fans loved to hate.
3. Ross and Rachel (Friends)
While Ross and Rachel’s on-again, off-again romance was a central plotline of Friends, their constant jealousy, lack of communication, and unresolved issues painted a picture of a toxic relationship that left many viewers frustrated.
4. Cersei and Jaime Lannister (Game of Thrones)
As siblings engaged in an incestuous relationship, Cersei and Jaime’s toxic bond was further tainted by betrayal, manipulation, and violence. Their dysfunctional dynamic contributed to the overall dark tone of Game of Thrones.
5. Don and Betty Draper (Mad Men)
Don and Betty Draper’s marriage was characterized by lies, deceit, and emotional neglect. Their inability to communicate effectively and Don’s infidelity created a toxic environment that ultimately led to their divorce.
6. Ted and Robin (How I Met Your Mother)
Ted and Robin’s on-again, off-again relationship throughout How I Met Your Mother was marked by codependency, unresolved feelings, and conflicting life goals. Their toxic connection hindered their ability to move on and find happiness with other partners.
7. Walter and Skyler White (Breaking Bad)
Walter and Skyler White’s marriage deteriorated as Walter delved deeper into the criminal underworld. Lies, manipulation, and Skyler’s complicity in Walter’s illegal activities created a toxic environment that had viewers questioning who the real villain was.
While these toxic couples may have kept viewers glued to their screens, they also served as cautionary tales about the dangers of unhealthy relationships. As audiences continue to dissect and analyze these fictional dynamics, it’s essential to remember the importance of recognizing and avoiding toxic behavior in real-life relationships.
References:
– https://thoughtcatalog.com/molly-burford/2025/06/the-7-most-toxic-couples-in-television-history/
