15 Most Memorable TV Proposals

Television often explores love stories, and nothing signifies a romance's peak like a heartfelt proposal. Even in comedies, these moments often stand out as the most touching and memorable parts of a show. They provide a satisfying resolution to character arcs and elevate relationships to new heights. Even when relationships don't last, the proposal remains a cherished moment. Across dramas and sitcoms alike, proposals consistently deliver some of TV's most iconic emotional beats.

Niles Crane and Daphne Moon (Frasier)

Niles Crane (David Hyde Pierce) had long harbored feelings for Daphne Moon (Jane Leeves), who remained unaware of his affection for years. When the couple finally became official in Season 8, Niles prepares an elaborate proposal in the Season 9 episode "The Proposal," complete with a gourmet meal by Wolfgang Puck. Though Daphne falls ill, Niles focuses on the most important part: asking her to marry him. She joyfully accepts, highlighting their enduring love. The couple's legacy is further remembered in the 2023 "Frasier" revival through their son.

Monica Geller and Chandler Bing (Friends)

While Ross may have had the first proposal in "Friends," Monica (Courteney Cox) and Chandler's (Matthew Perry) proposal surpasses all others. In the sixth season finale "The One with the Proposal," Chandler plans to propose amid the complications of Monica's ex, Richard Burke (Tom Selleck), revealing lingering feelings. The proposal itself is a surprise from Monica, culminating in a slow dance to Eric Clapton's "Wonderful Tonight," creating a deeply romantic moment and showcasing some of Perry's finest work.

Michael Scott and Holly Flax (The Office)

Though Jim and Pams romance is beloved, the most memorable proposal goes to Michael Scott (Steve Carell) and Holly Flax (Amy Ryan). In the Season 7 episode "Garage Sale," Michael guides Holly through the office, recalling key moments in their relationship before proposing with the staff holding candlesaccidentally triggering the sprinkler system. Their playful Yoda-inspired dialogue makes this a heartfelt and humorous climax to their love story.

Miranda Bailey and Ben Warren (Grey's Anatomy)

After a rocky courtship following Miranda Baileys (Chandra Wilson) divorce, Ben Warren (Jason George) finally secures her acceptance in the Season 8 finale "Flight." Mirandas reluctance about a long-distance engagement adds realism to the proposal, and her eventual joyful acceptance demonstrates their deep, earned connection, with both understanding and accepting each others flaws.

Leslie Knope and Ben Wyatt (Parks and Recreation)

Leslie (Amy Poehler) and Ben (Adam Scott) start dating in Season 2, and in the Season 5 episode "Halloween Surprise," Ben proposes while Leslie prepares to cancel her lease. She pauses to savor the moment before saying yes, reflecting their thoughtful, patient relationship and delivering one of the series most heartwarming moments.

Mitch Pritchett and Cam Tucker (Modern Family)

After California legalized same-sex marriage, Mitch (Jesse Tyler Ferguson) and Cam (Eric Stonestreet) find themselves proposing to each other spontaneously during a flat-tire mishap in Season 5s "Suddenly, Last Summer." Their understated yet heartfelt exchange symbolizes a long-awaited milestone in their relationship, culminating in a joyful wedding later that season.

Mary and Matthew Crawley (Downton Abbey)

In the British period drama, Mary Crawley (Michelle Dockery) and Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens) face obstacles including scandal, war, and prior engagements. Their proposal in the 2011 holiday special "Christmas at Downton Abbey" finally allows them to commit, despite past tragedies, providing a deeply emotional and hard-earned romantic moment.

Maggie Green and Glenn Rhee (The Walking Dead)

Glenn (Steven Yeun) proposes to Maggie (Lauren Cohan) at the end of Season 3s "This Sorrowful Life," using a ring retrieved from a zombie. Even in a post-apocalyptic world, their love is celebrated traditionally, with Glenn asking Maggies father for permission and cementing one of the series most touching relationships.

Mike Ross and Rachel Zane (Suits)

Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams) professes his love and proposes to Rachel Zane (Meghan Markle) in the Season 4 finale "Not Just a Pretty Face." With heartfelt words and his grandmothers ring, the proposal cuts through the couples season-long drama and solidifies their bond, setting up further storylines for the pair.

Schmidt and Cece Parekh (New Girl)

After a turbulent relationship, Schmidt (Max Greenfield) matures enough to propose to Cece (Hannah Simone) in the Season 4 finale "Clean Break." By removing reminders of past mistakes and referencing their first meeting, Schmidts proposal is both romantic and deeply meaningful, cementing their love story.

Jake Peralta and Amy Santiago (Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

In the Season 5 episode "HalloVeen," Jake (Andy Samberg) creatively incorporates a championship belt into his proposal to Amy (Melissa Fumero). Their playful and heartfelt moment is characteristic of their relationship, blending humor and romance in a quintessential "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" way.

Barry Allen and Iris West (The Flash)

Barry Allen (Grant Gustin) proposes twice to Iris West (Candice Patton) in Season 3. First, using his great-grandfathers ring, and later with a musical gesture after a series of time-travel complications. These proposals highlight both the emotional and heroic aspects of their relationship, solidifying them as the Arrowverses central love story.

Jane Gloriana Villanueva and Michael Cordero (Jane the Virgin)

Jane (Gina Rodriguez) takes the initiative in her engagement to Michael (Brett Dier) in Season 2s "Chapter Thirty-Six," after previously breaking up due to complications. By listing the reasons she loves him, Jane creates a memorable and heartfelt proposal, showcasing the strength of their relationship despite past challenges.

David Rose and Patrick Brewer (Schitt's Creek)

Patrick (Noah Reid) proposes to David (Daniel Levy) during a scenic hike in Season 5s "The Hike," presenting a set of rings. Davids cautious question and Patricks immediate affirmation reflect their mutual growth and trust, marking a pivotal moment in their journey from self-centeredness to shared love.

Randall Pearson and Beth Clarke (This Is Us)

Randall (Sterling K. Brown) and Beth (Susan Kelechi Watson) experience a layered romance in "This Is Us." In Season 3s "R & B," Randall quickly proposes once Beth signals she is ready, calling back to his preparedness from their first disastrous date. The moment combines patience, understanding, and lifelong commitment, embodying the shows emotional depth.

Author: Natalie Monroe