With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, many of us will either be spending time with a loved one, wishing we were, or a third secret option—enjoying the season of love, decorating our flats with pink and red hearts, and watching the best romance TV has to offer. Now, this varies depending on personal taste and one’s current romantic situation. But fear not—I am here with my personal Valentine’s Day episode recommendations, with something for everyone.
New Girl, “Operation Bobcat”, Season 6
Starting off strong with my personal favourite, New Girl’s midseason Valentine’s episode follows Winston as he rushes to plan a momentous proposal for his girlfriend under time constraints. With the episode portraying the gang’s desire to find time for love between their busy lives and work, this one’s perfect if you need a break from uni stress and enjoy one of the best sitcoms to exist.
The Office, “Blood Drive”, Season 5
This episode perfectly melds the show’s iconic wit with a classic Cinderella-esque storyline while presenting us with both soppy, happy couples and a certain broken-hearted Dunder Mifflin regional manager.
Friends, “The One with the Birthing Video”, Season 8
If you’re a sucker for a TV classic, or feeling less romantic than you might expect, this one’s for you. With two main storylines—one centring on Joey’s heartbreak and depression, and the other on a comedic video mix-up—this episode is what it says on the tin: it focuses on friendship and camaraderie over romance.
Gilmore Girls, “A Vineyard Valentine”, Season 6
In this episode, we see how Rory has grown into a (more-or-less) balanced adult who is thriving in her domestic Valentine’s getaway, whilst Lorelai’s relationship continues to crumble beneath her. This moment is pivotal in their mother-daughter dynamic and offers a sobering reality check for the older Gilmore girl.
Abbott Elementary, “Valentine’s Day”, Season 2
This episode’s key Valentine’s storyline follows Janine as she navigates a student giving her Valentines and unwillingly stumbles upon some information that may change her romantic life forever.
Modern Family, “My Funky Valentine”, Season 1
As it often does, the show manages to create endearing and unique storylines that match each persona. This episode follows each couple’s somewhat misguided attempt to revitalise their love lives, ultimately finding solace in their partners.
Gossip Girl, “Crazy, Cupid, Love?”, Season 5
Even my dislike of the cursed Dan/Blair pairing can’t curtail my love for drama. And that’s exactly what this episode is. Taking place right after the midseason finale, the storylines weave Valentine’s themes into the chaotic aftermath of the previous episode. A classic, for sure.
Glee, “Silly Love Songs”, Season 2
This one’s for my Gleeks—I know you’re out there. This one’s a classic for me: the pressures of teenage high school romances are accentuated not only by the holiday but also by Sugar Motta’s V-Day party—a sure recipe for some pure drama.
The Big Bang Theory, “The Tangible Affection Proof”, Season 6
In this episode, we follow the gang as they explore their troubles with relationships, Valentine’s Day gift dilemmas, and chronic loneliness.
Never Have I Ever, “Had a Valentine”, Season 3
Last, but definitely not least, this show had to make an appearance on this list. It’s cringey and insufferable, but somehow heartfelt. The main character in this episode feels stuck when confronted with the fact that her mortal enemy might just be her perfect match.
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