TOP 10: Teen Drama Show Crushes
Teen TV dramas have a knack for creating iconic crush-worthy characters who capture our hearts. These characters shaped the emotional landscape of our adolescence, becoming the focus of daydreams and debates alike. Whether it's the sensitive artist, the athletic hero, or the mysterious new kid in town, teen crushes on TV have an undeniable impact on pop culture, defining generations and keeping fans hooked. To pair with our episode devoted to the best teen dramas of the 90s and 2000s, I have compiled a list of the top ten crushable teen drama characters. Don’t agree with me? That’s just fine, these things can be quite personal! Please let me know who you would add to this list in the comments!
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Best Teen Drama Series (1990-2009)
10. Nick Nelson played by Kit Connor (Heartstopper)
Confession, I am a sucker for a “ginger.” As a popular rugby player, Nick breaks the mold of typical high-school jocks by being incredibly compassionate and open-minded. His journey of self-discovery, especially as he navigates his feelings for Charlie, is portrayed with such vulnerability and honesty that it’s impossible not to fall for him. Nick’s unwavering support for his friends and emotional intelligence make him a refreshing and wholesome crush.
9. Paxton Hall-Yoshida played by Darren Barnet (Never Have I Ever)
Paxton is a great mix of classic heartthrob looks and surprising depth. On the surface, he's the quintessential high school jock -- handsome, athletic, and popular. But as the show progresses, Paxton reveals layers of vulnerability and kindness that set him apart. Paxton represents more than a fleeting crush. He's the kind of character teens can admire for his emotional growth.
8. Eric Effiong played by Ncuti Gatwa (Sex Education)
Eric’s bold fashion, vibrant energy, and unapologetic sense of self make him a stand out on our list. His journey of self-acceptance and pride in who he is serves as an inspiration, showing that being yourself is the most attractive quality of all. Eric’s unique blend of humor, resilience, and emotional depth makes him a perfect crush.
7. Archie Andrews played by KJ Apa (Riverdale)
Combining the classic all-American charm, boyish good looks, athletic talent, and musical aspirations, Archie seems to have it all! (Oh, and abs. Jesus, the abs.) His vulnerability, especially as he navigates the dark and mysterious twists of Riverdale, makes him relatable and endearing. Archie is an essential teen crush for anyone who loves a hero with heart. Have I mentioned “gingers”?
6. Blaine Anderson played by Darren Criss (Glee)
As the lead singer of the Warblers, Blaine spellbinds with his smooth voice, sharp style, and glee-club stage presence. But beyond his musical abilities, Blaine is kind, supportive, and always striving to be a good friend and boyfriend. Blaine’s positivity, romantic gestures, and undeniable star power make him swoon-worthy.
5. Vince Howard played by Micheal B Jordan (Friday Night Lights)
We love Vince as a character with grit, resilience, and undeniable heart. Coming from a rough background, Vince’s journey from troubled teen to star quarterback is inspiring, and his drive to overcome the odds is captivating. His growth throughout the series makes him impossible not to root for — and fall for.
4. The Salvatore Brothers played by Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley (The Vampire Diaries)
Damon and Stefan must be paired together as they offer two sides of a teen-crush coin. Stefan, the brooding and soulful "good" vampire, represents the perfect balance of vulnerability and charm. Damon, on the other hand, is the rebellious, impulsive bad boy with a sharp tongue and a hidden heart of gold. The Salvatore brothers satisfy every teenage fantasy of romance, danger, and literal undying devotion.
3. Dawson Leery played by James Van Der Beek (Dawson’s Creek)
Dawson might be controversial for this list. He’s maybe just a little too earnest, but represents the evolution of this trope to the nerd-boy crush. With his wide-eyed optimism and deep love for movies, Dawson is the kind of romantic who believes in grand gestures and soulmates. While some may find his idealism naive, it’s exactly that purity and passion that makes Dawson so endearing.
2. Brandon Walsh played by Jason Preistley (Beverly Hills, 90210)
Don’t laugh. I know, it was abundantly clear Priestley was of advanced age by teen-show standards (but not Andrea Zuckerman old, god no). However, Brandon is a teen-drama ICON and likely contributed to the definition of this trope for a 90’s audience and beyond. As the moral compass of his group, Brandon is the dependable guy who’s always ready to lend a hand, whether it’s handling high-school drama or helping a troubled friend. His boy-next-door appeal is heightened by his kind heart, leadership qualities, and sense of right and wrong.
1. Jordan Catalano played by Jared Leto (My So-Called Life)
Even though “My So-Called Life” only got one season (a crime!), Jordan embodied the mysterious allure of the brooding, misunderstood boy. Jordan is magnetic with his smoldering looks (those eyes), quiet demeanor, and a penchant for leaning against lockers in a way that makes every scene feel iconic. His emotional unavailability adds to the intrigue, making him the ultimate puzzle for viewers and for Angela Chase, who is hopelessly enamored. Jordan's imperfect charm and vulnerability — when you catch rare glimpses of it — make him unforgettable, and the epitome of a teen heartthrob. He represents that classic high-school fantasy of wanting to be the one who "figures him out."
Who are your favorite teen drama crushes? Leave a comment below!