When Writers Destroyed Perfect Couples, And Fans Never Forgave Them

We’ve all watched a TV couple endure longing stares, tearful confessions, and at least one dramatic airport scene, only to have the relationship abruptly end. Sometimes it’s fate. Sometimes it’s the writers pressing the big red “Plot twist!” button because someone said good shows absolutely need to subvert expectations (they don’t).

Here are ten romances that we all believed were headed towards success, but the plot unexpectedly diverted them into conflict.

Barney & Robin — How I Met Your Mother

The finale speeds up the divorce of Barney and Robin, following an entire season built around their wedding, character growth for two commitment-phobes, and some wonderful vows. Watching them choose each other felt like the whole point. Hitting “reset” so the show could revisit its French horn gag made the grand gestures feel like practice drills for a game no one asked to replay.