Television has a unique way of drawing us into its stories by creating characters that feel like old friends or even reflections of ourselves. The most relatable characters evoke a sense of “that’s so me!” as they stumble through challenges, revel in small victories, and process the chaos of everyday life. Whether they’re navigating complicated relationships, pursuing dreams, or dealing with insecurities, these TV characters resonate deeply because of their authenticity.

Here’s a list of some of the most relatable TV characters of all time and why they speak directly to our hearts.

1. Jim Halpert – The Office

Jim Halpert (John Krasinski) epitomizes the everyman who feels stuck in a monotonous job while yearning for something more meaningful. Whether it’s his hilarious pranks on Dwight or his quietly intense longing for Pam, Jim’s blend of wit, awkwardness, and emotional vulnerability feels deeply familiar.

His interactions reflect the day-to-day absurdities of office life, but it’s his relatable dreams and aspirations that make him unforgettable. Jim’s pursuit of Pam, even as he wrestles with self-doubt and fear of rejection, strikes a chord with anyone who’s hesitated to take a leap of faith. His enduring optimism reminds us all that it’s possible to find pockets of happiness, even in mundane routines.

2. Issa Dee – Insecure

The lead character from Insecure, Issa Dee (Issa Rae), captures what it’s like to be navigating the messy, unpredictable realities of adulthood. From struggling with her career to figuring out her romantic life (and occasionally sabotaging it), Issa is an example of how we can be our own worst enemy even while we try to improve ourselves.

What makes Issa so relatable is her imperfections. She’s messy, flawed, and constantly learning from her mistakes, all while balancing insecurities and the pressures of growing up. Her internal monologues, often delivered via rap lyrics in the bathroom mirror, add an undeniable charm while reminding us of our own inner pep talks.

3. Fleabag – Fleabag

Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag is chaotic, vulnerable, and unapologetically flawed—qualities that make her deeply relatable to anyone who’s experienced personal loss or self-sabotage. Through witty fourth-wall breaks and brutally honest storytelling, Fleabag navigates grief, toxic relationships, and emotional isolation while masking her pain with humor.

Despite (or because of) her mistakes, Fleabag resonates as a character who’s trying to piece her life together in the aftermath of heartbreak. Her vulnerability and unapologetic humanity remind us of the beauty found in even the messiest parts of our journeys.

4. Jess Day – New Girl

Adorkable, quirky, and full of optimism, Jessica Day (Zooey Deschanel) is someone you can’t help but root for. Jess is relatable because she embraces her weirdness while navigating relationships, career setbacks, and the challenges of turning her friends’ apartment into her sanctuary.

Her dorky humor and unwavering belief in love and friendship are badges of honor for anyone who feels a little out of place in a fast-paced world. Whether she’s making up songs about mundane activities or confronting her insecurities, Jess inspires us to be unapologetically ourselves, even when life isn’t going as planned.

5. David Rose – Schitt’s Creek

When we first meet David Rose (Dan Levy), he’s a materialistic socialite forced to adjust to small-town life after his family loses everything. What unfolds is an incredible transformation that’s as touching as it is hilarious.

David’s character is relatable not just for his dry humor and iconic fashion sense but for his vulnerability and growth. Whether he’s navigating awkward romantic situations or learning to create a meaningful career, David shows that self-discovery isn’t linear. His open heart and emotional honesty remind us of the power in leaning on our loved ones and being brave enough to try.

6. Rory Gilmore – Gilmore Girls

Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel) is a character many viewers have grown up with, following her from her teenage years in Stars Hollow to her struggles as an adult finding her place in the world. Rory’s passion for reading and academics makes her a beacon for anyone who’s ever worked hard to pursue their dreams—but her flaws make her even more relatable.

From navigating awkward romantic entanglements to making mistakes in her personal and professional life, Rory isn’t always perfect, which only makes her more human. Her relationship with her mom and her determination to figure out her purpose are reflections of the trials we all face during our coming-of-age years and beyond.

7. Rebecca Pearson – This Is Us

Rebecca Pearson (Mandy Moore) is the glue that holds her family together in This Is Us, and she’s one of the most layered TV moms to hit the screen. Her struggles as a young mother, her moments of self-doubt, and her acts of resilience mirror the challenges faced by many parents trying to balance their family’s needs alongside their own aspirations.

Rebecca’s story arc is full of relatable ups and downs, from pursuing a singing career to juggling marriage, parenting, and loss. Through it all, her imperfections and unwavering love remind us that being a hero doesn’t mean being perfect; it means showing up for the people you love, even on the hardest days.

8. Nick Miller – New Girl

Nick Miller (Jake Johnson) from New Girl might not have it all figured out, but that’s precisely what makes him so relatable. He’s a lovable underachiever who struggles with responsibilities, financial stability, and finding his direction in life.

What earns Nick a spot on this list is his big heart and the way he quietly supports his friends, even while dealing with his own insecurities. His hilarious one-liners and moments of emotional vulnerability remind us that it’s okay to not have everything sorted out—that life can still be full of love and laughter even in its imperfections.

9. Pam Beesly – The Office

While Jim Halpert’s optimism is inspiring, Pam Beesly (Jenna Fischer) represents a quieter form of relatability. Pam’s life story reflects the experience of feeling stuck, whether it’s in an uninspiring job or in a stagnant relationship. Her longing to follow her artistic dreams resonates with anyone who’s wanted more out of life but felt hesitant to go after it.

Pam’s slow and steady growth across multiple seasons is what makes her truly relatable. She’s proof that it’s never too late to take a leap of faith, and she encourages viewers to trust themselves even when the future feels uncertain.

10. Ruth Langmore – Ozark

Ruth Langmore (Julia Garner) from Ozark is a character whose scrappy determination wins over audiences. Growing up in a challenging environment, Ruth is constantly underestimated because of her background. Yet her fierce intelligence, loyalty, and ambition make her one of the most compelling characters in modern television.

Ruth’s struggles with her family, her need for acceptance, and her desire to rewrite her story make her deeply relatable. She’s a reminder that resilience and grit can carry you through, even when the odds feel stacked against you.

Why Relatable Characters Stick With Us

Relatable TV characters aren’t just entertaining; they reflect pieces of ourselves. Through their challenges, flaws, and personal triumphs, they give us permission to laugh, cry, and grow alongside them. These characters remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles and that life’s imperfections are what make the story worth telling.