TV Shows That Handled Breakups with Maturity and Growth

We often see messy, dramatic breakups on TV for entertainment. However, some shows take a different approach, portraying the end of relationships with sensitivity and understanding. These stories focus on how people cope with heartbreak while still treating each other with respect and growing as individuals. The shows below prove that even after a romance ends, a meaningful connection can still remain.

‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015–2020)

Alexis Rose and Ted Mullens demonstrate that breaking up can actually be a loving choice, not a defeat. They end their relationship because their careers are taking them to different countries, and importantly, neither one asks the other to give up their dreams to stay together. This mature decision shows how much Alexis has grown as a person throughout the series, and their breakup is considered one of the most poignant and respectful in recent sitcom history.

‘Insecure’ (2016–2021)

Issa and Lawrence’s story feels very real because it shows how people can drift apart over time. They struggle with hurt feelings and uncertainty for years before finally understanding each other. The show realistically portrays how difficult it is to truly move on, and that getting closure isn’t always quick or easy. Ultimately, they reach a point where they can genuinely be happy for each other, without wanting to control or be controlled by the other. Their journey highlights the complicated but important process of growing emotionally.

‘Parks and Recreation’ (2009–2015)

After Ann and Chris broke up, it took them a while to adjust, but they eventually became close friends – a relationship that became a central part of the show. The writers made a deliberate choice to avoid a typical, angry breakup storyline, instead highlighting the values they still shared. This strong base allowed them to reconnect later on in a positive and realistic way, suggesting that good timing is just as crucial as being a good match.

‘The Good Place’ (2016–2020)

Eleanor and Chidi break up not because they stop loving each other, but because it’s the only way to save the universe. Chidi decides to erase his memory, and Eleanor understands and accepts his difficult choice. The show explores the sadness of their separation with thoughtful philosophical ideas, showing that sometimes the most ethical thing to do is to let go. It’s a heartbreaking but ultimately hopeful example of prioritizing the well-being of everyone over personal feelings.

‘Fleabag’ (2016–2019)

Fleabag and the Priest share a powerful and emotionally complicated connection. Despite falling deeply in love, they both understand a lasting relationship isn’t possible, as he prioritizes his religious calling. Fleabag handles this heartbreak with dignity, and her final look directly at the audience shows she’s prepared to move forward independently. Their story beautifully illustrates that loving someone doesn’t always mean you can – or should – be with them.

‘Normal People’ (2020)

Marianne and Connell experience a complex relationship, drifting in and out of each other’s lives with mixed results. Though they ultimately part ways, they deeply value the impact they’ve had on each other, acknowledging that their connection helped them grow and move forward. The story ends without a definitive resolution, hinting at a lasting emotional bond despite their physical separation, and beautifully captures the profound effect of a first love.

‘Ted Lasso’ (2020–2023)

Ted and Michelle are going through a difficult divorce, but they remain respectful and kind to each other. Ted understands that staying together would ultimately be more damaging than separating, and he gives Michelle the room she needs, even though it’s painful for him. The show highlights the value of successfully co-parenting and treating each other with respect, especially for the children involved. It challenges the negative perceptions of divorce, presenting it as a positive and courageous move towards a happier future for everyone.

‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ (2017–2023)

Midge and Joel Maisel begin the series with a difficult breakup, but over time, they grow into strong supporters and dedicated co-parents. Joel eventually recognizes Midge’s talent as a comedian and actively helps her career. Though their romantic relationship ends, they develop a deep, lifelong understanding and become allies. Their story shows that even after a marriage fails, a successful and supportive family can still thrive.

‘Master of None’ (2015–2021)

Dev and Rachel’s story realistically portrays how relationships can fade gradually. It’s not a dramatic breakup with big fights or betrayals; they simply grow apart and realize they have different goals for the future. The show beautifully captures the subtle sadness of falling out of love while still caring for each other, and it suggests that wanting to pursue personal growth is a legitimate reason to end a stable relationship.

‘Broad City’ (2014–2019)

At the heart of the show is the close friendship between Abbi and Ilana. The finale handles their decision to live apart with the same emotional weight usually reserved for romantic breakups. They both understand they need space to grow and become fully independent. Though their goodbye is sad, it highlights how strong and lasting their connection is, showing that female friendships can be incredibly powerful and endure even when life takes them in different directions.

‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ (2015–2019)

For years, Rebecca Bunch believed finding love would fix her emotional problems. But in the show’s final episode, she decides to prioritize her own mental health and stop searching for a romantic partner. She understands that true happiness comes from self-love, not from a relationship. Thankfully, the men she’s been involved with support her decision and her path to finding herself, which is a refreshing twist on the usual romantic comedy ending.

‘Better Things’ (2016–2022)

Sam Fox approaches both raising her daughters and dating with a practical, no-nonsense attitude. She doesn’t hesitate to end relationships that aren’t working, valuing her self-respect and her children’s well-being. The show depicts dating after middle age as a process of trying things out, rather than desperately searching for someone to complete her. Sam is strong and self-sufficient, whether she’s in a relationship or not, and sets a positive example of resilience and independence for her daughters.

‘Jane the Virgin’ (2014–2019)

Jane and Rafael face many challenges and breakups before finally getting together. For a long time, they successfully co-parent while dating other people, always offering each other support. The show emphasizes how much effort it takes to rebuild trust after a relationship ends. Their eventual romance feels real because they both grow and change over several years, proving that being ready and having the right timing are key to a strong, lasting relationship.

‘New Girl’ (2011–2018)

Nick and Jess’s first breakup happens because they want different things for their lives. Over several years, they mature and learn to communicate as friends. When they get back together, it feels natural and well-deserved because they’ve had time to work on the issues that separated them before. Their story shows that you can meet someone special even if you’re not fully ready for a relationship yet.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–Present)

Nancy Wheeler ends her relationship with Steve Harrington when she realizes her feelings aren’t as strong as his. Steve then develops from a typical high school athlete into a genuinely supportive friend, and he handles Nancy’s relationship with Jonathan with maturity and respect. This personal growth transforms him into a protector for the whole group and makes him a fan favorite, changing him from what could have been a negative character into one of the most well-liked on the show.

‘Sex Education’ (2019–2023)

Otis and Ruby’s romance was short-lived, ending when Ruby developed stronger feelings that Otis couldn’t reciprocate. Ruby bravely shared her emotions for the first time, and Otis was honest about not being in love with her. Despite their age, they broke up with a lot of maturity and honesty. The show portrays teenage heartbreak as a real and important experience, and emphasizes that being truthful is better than protecting someone’s feelings with dishonesty.

‘Grace and Frankie’ (2015–2022)

The story centers around two women who are left by their husbands—who fall in love with each other. Though the separation is painful at first, everyone eventually learns to get along. The show realistically portrays the challenges of separating lives that have been intertwined for years. Ultimately, the families—both old and new—find a way to coexist peacefully, proving that forgiveness is possible at any age.

‘Please Like Me’ (2013–2016)

Josh and Arnold try an open relationship, but ultimately realize they want different things. Their split is handled gently and shown with a raw, honest feel. Both acknowledge that their personal struggles with anxiety and mental health led to the breakup, and the show avoids blaming either of them. It’s a touching portrayal of an LGBTQ+ relationship and the challenges of mental health.

‘Catastrophe’ (2015–2019)

Rob and Sharon’s marriage began unexpectedly with a pregnancy, and they’ve always been incredibly open about its challenges. They don’t shy away from talking about divorce or the difficulties of being in a committed relationship, and they’re refreshingly honest about their struggles. They’ve chosen to stay together through hard work and dedication, not because of fairytale romance. The series ends without a clear resolution, but it emphasizes their lasting connection and the fact that maintaining a relationship requires constant effort and a daily choice.

‘Love’ (2016–2018)

Mickey and Gus have a complicated and often unhealthy relationship, marked by frequent breakups and reconciliations as they struggle with addiction and rely too much on each other. The show concludes with them choosing to get married, even though they know it could be difficult. They embrace their imperfections and commit to navigating life’s challenges as a couple. It’s a refreshingly honest portrayal of two flawed individuals trying to build a life together.

‘High Fidelity’ (2020)

Rob reflects on her past five breakups, trying to figure out why she keeps getting left. She finally finds peace with her former fiancé, Mac, by realizing he’s moved on with his life. The show explores how people become fixated on heartbreak and the desire to understand why it happened. Rob discovers that dwelling on the past is holding her back from finding happiness in the future. Ultimately, her story is about learning to accept herself, not about trying to win back lost love.

‘Girls’ (2012–2017)

I’ve watched Hannah and Adam’s relationship for years, and it was always intense – a real rollercoaster. They eventually split up because Adam couldn’t handle Hannah’s choice to be a single mom. It was a painful but clear moment when they both realized they wanted different things and were heading in separate directions. It really showed me that even strong love isn’t always enough to make a relationship work. In the end, the breakup allowed Hannah to fully focus on and embrace being a mother, and it felt like the right thing for her.

‘BoJack Horseman’ (2014–2020)

As a total movie buff, I always felt so much for Princess Carolyn and Ralph. They genuinely loved each other, and it wasn’t some dramatic, messy split. It was heartbreaking because they worked – they were good for each other! But Ralph really wanted a traditional family, and Princess Carolyn, with her incredibly demanding career and her own unique path to having a child, just couldn’t give him that. She prioritized her ambitions and her own way of building a family, and ultimately, that meant they had to go their separate ways. It really drove home the point that even when two people are compatible, life circumstances can still pull them apart. It’s a really mature and realistic portrayal of a breakup, honestly.

‘Big Little Lies’ (2017–2019)

Madeline and Ed are working through the pain caused by infidelity and a loss of intimacy in their marriage. They’re attending therapy and having tough conversations, determined to rebuild their relationship. The show honestly portrays the effort required to forgive and choose to stay together, refusing to ignore the hurt that was caused. Their story offers a positive outlook on the possibility of restoring trust after it’s been broken.

‘Six Feet Under’ (2001–2005)

Nate and Brenda’s relationship is a complicated one, marked by affairs and health issues. They repeatedly separate and get back together while dealing with their own personal struggles. The show honestly depicts their eventual marriage and the difficulties they face, and it thoughtfully explores how death and loss affect love. Ultimately, it’s a moving and realistic look at the complexities of human connection and vulnerability.

‘Mad Men’ (2007–2015)

Don and Betty Draper’s divorce was a long time coming, fueled by years of dishonesty. Betty ultimately decides she needs to be independent and leaves a marriage that was holding her back. The show presents this split as a freeing experience for her. Despite being divorced, they remain connected through their children, and the story realistically shows how divorce was viewed and handled during that time period.

‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006–2011)

Matt and Julie face challenges as they grow up and deal with being apart. They split up because Matt needs to stay and look after his grandmother, while Julie wants to experience more independence. This time apart lets them both grow as individuals before they realize they’re meant to be together. The show portrays their teenage love with the same seriousness as it does adult romances, and their eventual reconciliation feels genuine because they’ve both matured.

‘Parenthood’ (2010–2015)

Sarah and Mark deeply care for each other, but their relationship is complicated by their different ages and where they are in life. Sarah decides to end the relationship so she can prioritize her grown children, while Mark wants to build a family of his own. It’s a difficult but loving choice, made with the other person’s happiness in mind. The breakup is sad but peaceful, and it perfectly illustrates how even a strong connection can be derailed by unfortunate timing.

‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022)

Kevin and Sophie repeatedly attempt to rekindle their childhood romance, but ultimately discover they’re better suited as supportive friends as they move forward with their lives. The show wisely avoids pushing them together just for the sake of old times. Both characters find happiness in new relationships, while still valuing the bond they share. It’s a realistic and thoughtful portrayal of accepting that first loves don’t always last.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–Present)

Jackson and April faced immense hardship together, losing a child and going through a divorce. Even after separating, they prioritized co-parenting and maintained a close friendship. Ultimately, they chose to relocate and work together running a foundation. Their relationship transformed over time – from romantic partners to dedicated partners, and finally to a deep connection that wasn’t easily defined. Their story demonstrates how shared difficult experiences can ultimately bring people closer.

‘Gilmore Girls’ (2000–2007)

Rory and Jess ended their relationship because Jess wasn’t emotionally available enough for what Rory needed. After leaving town, Jess returns as a successful writer and acknowledges Rory’s positive influence on him. When Rory feels lost, he encourages her to rediscover who she truly is. Their relationship evolves from the typical drama of young love into a connection built on shared intelligence and admiration. It shows how former partners can actually help us understand and grow as individuals.

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997–2003)

Buffy and Angel understand their love can’t work because of Angel’s curse and Buffy’s responsibilities as the Slayer. Angel chooses to leave town, hoping Buffy can have a normal life. Their goodbye is incredibly sad, as they both put her future happiness ahead of their own feelings. The show uses fantastical elements to tell a relatable story about making difficult sacrifices. It’s a classic example of doing what’s best, even when it hurts.

‘One Tree Hill’ (2003–2012)

Brooke Davis and Lucas Scott come to terms with the fact that they work better as friends than as a couple. Brooke makes the mature decision to let Lucas pursue Peyton, prioritizing her friendship with Peyton and her own self-respect over trying to win Lucas back. This choice is a key moment in Brooke’s journey towards becoming a confident, independent woman. The three of them remain close friends, and their bond is a central part of the show going forward.

‘Dawson’s Creek’ (1998–2003)

Joey and Pacey face challenges as they transition into adulthood after high school. Their relationship hits a rough patch, culminating in a breakup at prom, which symbolizes their anxieties about what lies ahead. They spend several years living separate lives and becoming successful on their own, before eventually reconnecting. This time apart allows them to overcome their personal insecurities, and it’s a situation where they needed space to discover if their connection would endure.

‘The O.C.’ (2003–2007)

Seth and Summer go through a tough time and briefly break up as Summer becomes deeply involved in environmental activism. She transforms from someone focused on appearances into a dedicated activist and needs to figure things out on her own. Seth supports her journey, even though it means they have to spend time apart. They do eventually get married, but only after they’ve both had a chance to grow as individuals. Their story shows that personal growth is more important than just maintaining a high school relationship.

‘Superstore’ (2015–2021)

Amy and Jonah split up when Amy gets a job opportunity in California, realizing their lives are heading in different directions. It’s a sad breakup, but it’s more about practical challenges and their careers than a loss of feelings. They get back together in the final episode when the timing is right. The show portrays a realistic view of relationships, acknowledging that sometimes life and work have to come first.

‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013–2021)

Rosa and Marcus end their relationship because Rosa realizes she isn’t ready to get married. She’s honest and straightforward with him, admitting she can’t give him the commitment he’s looking for and doesn’t want to lead him on. The show highlights her strong emotional boundaries and self-awareness, presenting a rare example of a character who clearly understands her own limits and needs.

‘Never Have I Ever’ (2020–2023)

It was tough to watch Devi and Paxton go their separate ways, but honestly, it made so much sense. She finally realized she’d built him up in her head and needed to focus on loving herself first before she could be truly happy with anyone. I really admired Paxton for understanding and respecting her decision – they’re still friends, which is great! The show does a fantastic job of showing us that the ‘perfect guy’ fantasy isn’t real, and that you really need to love yourself before you can have a healthy relationship. It’s a really important message.

‘The Mindy Project’ (2012–2017)

Mindy and Danny face challenges because of traditional expectations about gender and work. They initially split up when Danny pressures Mindy to stop working and focus on being a mother. Mindy prioritizes her career and independence, and the show clearly supports a woman’s right to make her own choices. They only get back together once Danny understands and respects her professional goals.

‘Happy Endings’ (2011–2013)

Dave and Alex’s story begins with a brief romantic attempt that doesn’t quite work out, but thankfully doesn’t ruin their friendship. They then try to date other people while still remaining close, which creates some awkward moments and forces them all to grow up quickly to keep their friend group together. Eventually, they try dating each other again, but ultimately realize they’re better suited as just friends. It’s a really good example of how to maintain a strong friendship even after a romantic relationship ends.

‘Scrubs’ (2001–2010)

J.D. and Elliot’s relationship is a long and complicated one, unfolding throughout their years as medical residents. They explore other relationships and learn to work together as friends and colleagues before eventually becoming a committed couple. The show highlights their individual journeys of personal growth, showing them overcoming their insecurities. Ultimately, they become mature adults ready for a healthy partnership, demonstrating that some couples simply need time to grow and develop before they can truly commit.

‘Community’ (2009–2015)

Jeff and Annie have a clear romantic connection, but their different ages and where they are in life create obstacles. Though they share a kiss in the finale, they acknowledge Annie needs to follow her career goals. Jeff surprisingly encourages her to go, prioritizing her ambitions over his own desires. This selfless act is particularly meaningful coming from a character often seen as self-absorbed. The ending is both sad and satisfying, and it feels true to the development of both characters.

‘Modern Family’ (2009–2020)

Haley Dunphy and Andy have one of the most stable relationships she experiences. They eventually break up because their careers take them in different directions, making a long-distance relationship unsustainable. Though it’s a difficult and sad decision for both of them, they handle it with maturity and respect. While Haley ultimately marries Dylan, her time with Andy helps her understand what a truly supportive partnership feels like, and shows her that even wonderful relationships don’t always last forever.

‘The Office’ (2005–2013)

Darryl and Val split up because Darryl decides he wants to move away from Scranton. He initially tries to end things gently to avoid hurting Val, but they eventually have an open and honest talk. They both realize they want different things and decide to go their separate ways. The show handles this awkward breakup with humor, showing how sometimes relationships simply end naturally, even in the workplace.

‘Search Party’ (2016–2022)

Dory and Julian’s breakup is portrayed as one person watching the other struggle with difficult changes. Even after they split, Julian acts as a voice of reason and continues to care about Dory, but he won’t support her unhealthy choices. Their relationship evolves from a romance into one where he’s a concerned friend trying to help, offering a realistic and mature depiction of watching an ex go through a tough time.

‘Shrinking’ (2023–Present)

The show follows Jimmy as he copes with the loss of his wife and cautiously begins dating again. He’s figuring out how to end new, casual relationships gently while still grieving. It honestly portrays the complicated emotions – like guilt and confusion – that come with moving forward after a significant loss. The characters are surprisingly open about their own emotional readiness for relationships, and the show emphasizes that healing isn’t linear – it’s a messy journey that impacts everyone involved.

‘Trying’ (2020–Present)

Nikki and Jason face challenges as they go through the adoption process, and it tests their relationship. They struggle at times with the pressure, but they make a point of talking things through instead of withdrawing. The show highlights how much strength it takes to stay connected during difficult life changes, and it’s a heartwarming example of a couple working on the problem, rather than turning on each other.

‘Lovesick’ (2014–2018)

Dylan receives a chlamydia diagnosis and realizes he needs to reach out to his former partners. The show then uses flashbacks to reveal the reasons behind each past breakup, allowing Dylan to understand his own patterns in relationships – specifically, his difficulty with intimacy and poor communication. Importantly, each ex-partner is portrayed as a complex individual, not just someone who exists to move the plot forward. Ultimately, it’s a story about owning your romantic past and learning from it.

‘Easy’ (2016–2019)

This series tells different couples’ stories as they deal with the challenges of love and relationships today. One episode focuses on a married couple trying an open marriage to work through their problems, while another shows a long-term couple peacefully deciding to separate because they’ve grown apart. The show doesn’t offer easy answers or take sides, but instead explores the complicated nature of relationships and presents a variety of believable outcomes.

Celebrity splits can actually show us healthy ways to move on from a relationship. Tell us about TV couples who handled their breakups with grace in the comments below!

2026-01-26 16:22