Roommates can turn a boring, mundane living situation into an extraordinary adventure. From unexpected friendships to hilarious hijinks, the roommate dynamic has inspired a range of stories. Whether through movies, TV shows, or books, these iconic pairings have entertained and enchanted us. Let’s dive into 11 of the best roommates in media. And hey – you may even want to grab the popcorn bowl, settle down, and watch some of these with your own roommates.

1. Chandler and Joey (Friends)

When it comes to iconic roommates, Chandler Bing and Joey Tribbiani from Friends are at the top of the list. Their apartment was the source of countless laughs, emotional moments, and unforgettable shenanigans. Whether they were sharing their patented “Joey Special” (two pizzas) or playing foosball, Chandler and Joey’s relationship is the perfect example of the joys and challenges that roommate life brings.

Just like all the roommate pairs in Friends, their friendship was genuine and endearing, proving that sometimes, your roommate really can become your family.

2. Laverne and Shirley (Laverne & Shirley)

This dynamic duo from the classic sitcom Laverne & Shirley showcased female friendship in the best way. Living in Milwaukee and working at the Shotz Brewery, Laverne DeFazio and Shirley Feeney’s adventures were full of humor and heart. Their contrasting personalities (Laverne’s boldness and Shirley’s naivete) created a perfect balance, making their apartment the backdrop for countless comedic moments.

3. Bert and Ernie (Sesame Street)

Technically roommates in the realm of children’s television, Bert and Ernie from “Sesame Street” are one of the most beloved on-screen pairs. Their odd-couple dynamic (Bert’s love for order and Ernie’s penchant for chaos) resonates with audiences of all ages – not just children. They teach valuable lessons about friendship, compromise, and the joys of shared living spaces, all while entertaining us with their playful antics.

4. Will and Carlton (The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)

Will Smith’s move from West Philadelphia to Bel-Air brought a cultural clash to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Rooming with his cousin Carlton, Will brought street smarts and humor to their shared space, while Carlton’s uptight demeanor provided endless comedy. Their evolving relationship highlighted the importance of understanding and adapting to each other’s differences. They’re one of the reasons why Fresh Prince is still so beloved by all today.

5. Felix and Oscar (The Odd Couple)

The mismatched roommate trope was perhaps perfected by Felix Unger and Oscar Madison in The Odd Couple. Felix, the fastidious neat freak, and Oscar, the easygoing slob, represented two extremes of the living spectrum. Their constant bickering and eventual friendship showcased the challenges and rewards of living with someone who is your complete opposite.

6. Jess and Cece (New Girl)

In New Girl, Jessica Day’s quirky charm and her best friend Cece Parekh’s savvy and street smarts made for a fantastic roommate pairing. Their deep bond, unwavering support for each other, and shared adventures (from dating dramas to career changes) created a relatable and heartwarming depiction of female friendship. Jess and Cece’s dynamic showed that roommates can be both fun and fiercely loyal.

7. Monica and Rachel (Friends)

Another Friends duo that deserves a mention is Monica Geller and Rachel Green. Their apartment became the meeting spot for the group’s activities, and their evolving relationship was central to the show’s narrative. Monica’s obsessive cleanliness and Rachel’s initial lack of domestic skills created plenty of comedic moments, balanced by their deep, genuine friendship and mutual support. Is it any wonder that Friends is still so popular today?

8. Sheldon and Leonard (The Big Bang Theory)

The Big Bang Theory introduced us to the eccentric world of Sheldon Cooper and Leonard Hofstadter. Rooming with Sheldon tested Leonard’s patience, thanks to his strict routines and social quirks. However, it also provided plenty of laughs. Their contrasting personalities (Leonard’s relatability and Sheldon’s brilliance) created a dynamic that anchored the show and highlighted the real complexities of roommate relationships.

9. Prue, Piper, and Phoebe (Charmed)

The Halliwell sisters from Charmed brought a supernatural twist to the roommate dynamic. Prue, Piper, and Phoebe, later joined by their half-sister Paige, balanced their magical duties with the everyday challenges of living together. Their bond as sisters and roommates was central to their strength, both in battling evil and supporting each other through personal struggles.

10. Nick and Schmidt (New Girl)

New Girl provides another iconic roommate pairing with Nick Miller and Schmidt. Their friendship, marked by Nick’s laid-back attitude and Schmidt’s over-the-top personality, created a hilarious dynamic that lit up our TV screens. From the “Douchebag Jar” to their deep, if often contentious, bond, Nick and Schmidt showcased the ups and downs of living with a best friend.

11. Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia (The Golden Girls)

The Golden Girls brought four unique women together in a Miami home, creating one of the most beloved ensembles in television history. Whether it was Blanche’s romantic escapades, Rose’s St. Olaf stories, Dorothy’s sarcasm, or Sophia’s wisdom, their interactions highlighted the beauty of different personalities coming together. Their bond was a testament to friendship and mutual support, proving that roommates can become family, no matter their age.

Conclusion

From comedic duos to heartfelt friendships, these iconic roommates have left a mark on media. Their stories remind us of the joys, challenges, and deep connections that can come from sharing a living space.

If you’re inspired by these famous roommates and are looking for your perfect match, why don’t you check out SpareRoom? Whether you’re seeking a new friend in NYC, a kindred spirit in Austin, or simply someone to share the rent in Phoenix, SpareRoom can help you find the ideal roommate to create your own iconic moments. Live your own adventure.