5 Iconic TV Characters Who Found Happiness While Staying Single
What constitutes a happily ever after in television narratives? Traditionally, this often translates to romantic fulfillment—whether through a long-awaited union, an emotional reunion, or a serendipitous late-series connection. These storylines frequently deliver powerful emotional resonance for audiences.
However, not every character requires a romantic partner to achieve completeness. For some television personalities, being their own fabulous selves represents the ultimate achievement. This narrative choice can signify that a character's growth arc has reached its natural conclusion, with the future beyond the final credits brimming with limitless possibilities.
Celebrating Memorable Characters Who Embraced Singlehood
In recognition of this alternative path to fulfillment, here are five memorable television characters who concluded their series journeys happily single:
- Mary Richards from The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Portrayed by Mary Tyler Moore, the titular character began her seven-season arc as a thirty-year-old single woman relocating to Minneapolis following a broken engagement. Throughout the series, she cultivated meaningful friendships, established a successful career, and experienced various romantic relationships. Yet, by the show's conclusion, Mary remained without a permanent love interest, demonstrating that professional and personal fulfillment could exist independently of romantic partnership.
- Alexis Rose from Schitt's Creek
Played by Annie Murphy, Alexis navigated multiple relationships across the show's six seasons, eventually committing to earnest veterinarian Ted (Dustin Milligan). Despite genuine efforts to sustain their connection, the couple mutually decided to part ways during the final season. Their breakup scene, while emotionally poignant, was characterized by mutual respect, love, and gratitude—showcasing that ending a relationship doesn't equate to failure.
- Joey Tribbiani from Friends
As the beloved series concluded its ten-season run, other main characters found romantic closure: Chandler with Monica, Ross with Rachel, and Phoebe with Mike. Joey (Matt LeBlanc), however, remained single. This narrative choice potentially avoided overly tidy resolutions while emphasizing that friendship itself could provide profound fulfillment. Additionally, television industry insiders suggest this decision maintained Joey's single status for his subsequent spinoff series, Joey.
- Samantha Jones from Sex and the City
While Samantha (Kim Cattrall) concluded the original six-season series in a relationship with Smith, the subsequent films revealed her realization that independence held greater value. Her character arc ultimately celebrated self-sufficiency, as she sincerely wished Smith well while embracing her autonomous lifestyle.
- Carrie Bradshaw from And Just Like That...
The Sex and the City franchise's central character initially achieved her "married happily ever after" conclusion, only to become a sudden widow in the HBO reboot. Across three seasons, Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) explored potential romantic connections, including a rekindled relationship with Aiden. Ultimately, she learned to embrace the possibility of indefinite singlehood, finding contentment within herself.
These characters collectively demonstrate that television narratives are evolving to recognize diverse paths to happiness. Their stories validate that personal growth, professional achievement, and meaningful friendships can provide complete fulfillment without romantic partnership, offering viewers alternative models of successful, satisfying lives.
