Today, I want to celebrate fictional married couples in movies. Most films usually focus on the journey to happily ever after, often neglecting what happens after the happy ending. In reality, the end of a movie is just the beginning of a relationship. Many cinematic relationships might not work well in real life, which is why I find it interesting to see films that explore what comes after marriage. Finding the right person is just the start; maintaining a long-term relationship requires hard work and commitment, but it doesn’t have to be boring.
The couples on this list show that there’s still plenty of love, humor, affection, and happiness after saying “I do.”
20 Fictional Married Couples (with minor spoilers, in no particular order):
1. Lucy and Ricky Ricardo in I Love Lucy (1951-1957)
Lucy and Ricky are iconic, both in the show and in real life. Despite their differences and constant bickering, their love for each other is always evident.
2. Joe and Megan Dayton in Return to Me (2000)
The Daytons, though secondary characters, stand out. Their long-term marriage is marked by comfort and an unspoken daily rhythm, drawing others into their love and joy.
3. Adam and Millie Pontipee in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954)
Adam may not be the perfect husband, but Millie’s strength and determination help transform their relationship for the better.
4. Nick & Nora Charles in The Thin Man Series (1934-1947)
This detective couple is known for their playfulness, teamwork, and mutual respect, setting relationship goals for many.
5. Adam and Amanda Bonner in Adam’s Rib (1949)
This couple knows how to handle conflict well, balancing their professional rivalry with deep mutual respect.
6. Paul and Corie Bratter in Barefoot in the Park (1967)
These newlyweds learn to bridge their personality differences through love and compromise.
7. Matt & Christina Drayton in Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967)
The Draytons handle their daughter’s interracial marriage announcement with love and respect, showcasing years of a strong bond.
8. Henry & Claire in The Time Traveler’s Wife (2009)
Their love withstands the challenges of involuntary time traveling, demonstrating a commitment to staying together.
9. Ian and Toula in My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (2016)
This sequel shows a couple navigating the complexities of blending families, raising children, and dealing with intrusive relatives.
10. Jack Campbell & Kate Reynolds in The Family Man (2000)
Jack learns that his marriage to Kate is more valuable than power and money, offering a glimpse into an alternate universe where love prevails.
11. Paul & Julia Child in Julie and Julia (2009)
Paul and Julia support each other’s passions and enjoy a marriage full of fun and mutual respect.
12. Dr. Gerald and Beverly Boyer in The Thrill of it All (1963)
This couple navigates the challenges of Beverly’s new career while maintaining respect and affection for each other.
13. John & Beverly Clark in Shall We Dance (2004)
Despite initially leading separate lives, they reconnect and affirm the importance of being witnesses to each other’s lives.
14. Alex & Isabel Whitman in Fools Rush In (1997)
After an unexpected pregnancy, these two strangers marry and work hard to create a home together, sacrificing personal desires for the sake of their family.
15. Sir Robert and Lady Gertrude Chiltern in An Ideal Husband (1999)
Despite Gertrude’s high expectations, their marriage is a safe haven marked by genuine affection and trust.
16. Mark and Joanna Wallace in Two for the Road (1967)
This film portrays a troubled marriage facing infidelity and diverging life plans but also highlights the power of forgiveness and commitment.
17. George and Nina Banks in Father of the Bride (1991) and Father of the Bride II (1995)
Despite the surprises of their daughter’s engagement and a late-life pregnancy, George and Nina remain loving and patient with each other.
18. Michael and Alice Green in When a Man Loves a Woman (1994)
Michael’s commitment to Alice during her struggle with alcoholism reflects a deep dedication to their marriage and family.
19. Leo & Paige in The Vow (2012)
Inspired by a true story, Leo’s unwavering love helps Paige rediscover their bond after losing her memory, embodying their wedding vows.
20. Travis & Gabby in The Choice (2016)
Despite tragedy striking their happy marriage, Travis’s dedication to Gabby highlights the enduring strength of their love.
What are some of your favorite fictional married couples? Do you wish there were more depictions of what comes after the ‘happily ever after’ in movies?
