Even before dynamic duos like ‘AgathaRio’ and ‘CaitVi’ graced our screens, the world of women-loving-women (WLW) pairings thrived on the keen eyes and creativity of sapphics who could turn the subtlest subtext into epic tales of romance in fan-fiction form.
Recently, sapphics have been treated to a renaissance of representation, with artists like Chappell Roan, Billie Eilish, and Reneé Rapp delivering music that celebrates lady-loving-ladies. Meanwhile, films such as Drive-Away Dolls, Bottoms, Chuck Chuck Baby, and Love Lies Bleeding, along with TV gems like I Kissed A Girl, Agatha All Along, and Arcane have filled our screens with much-needed visibility.
Sadly, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing for sapphic fans. We’ve weathered the storms of queerbaiting, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it representation, and the dreaded “bury your gays” trope that has seen countless queer female characters meet unnecessary ends.
It’s no wonder, then, that lesbians turn to shipping non-canon couples, bringing to life the romances they long to see. A glance at the top WLW ships on platforms like AO3 confirms that many are fan creations, driven by the hopes and dreams of dedicated shippers.
In honor of Galentine’s Day (February 13th), the unofficial holiday celebrating female friendship popularized by Parks and Recreation, we’re taking a nostalgic look at some fan-favorite sapphic ships. These pairs, billed by their creators as nothing more than platonic, truly deserved that magical on-screen kiss.
Rachel Berry and Quinn Fabray – Glee
Though Santana Lopez and Brittany Pierce, known as ‘Brittana’, were the undisputed sapphic couple on Glee, another potential pairing captivated fans’ imaginations: Rachel Berry and Quinn Fabray, affectionately termed ‘Faberry’.
Enemies to lovers? Check. Rivals over a boy (Finn), with the possibility of underlying attraction to each other? Absolutely. Rachel’s line to Quinn, “You’re a very pretty girl. The prettiest girl I’ve ever met... but you’re a lot more than that,” left audiences wondering if there wasn’t something more between them than just competition.
Emma Swan and Regina Mills – Once Upon a Time
Once Upon a Time brought a fairytale world to life, yet it was the chemistry between Emma Swan and Regina Mills, a.k.a. The Evil Queen, that ignited the fandom’s imagination. Despite the chaos of the show’s later seasons, the spark between them was undeniable, leading fans to dream of a more romantic resolution to their relationship.
Becca Mitchell and Chloe Beale – Pitch Perfect
Pitch Perfect won hearts everywhere with its music, humor, and brilliant female cast. From the moment Chloe walked in on Becca in the shower, ‘Bechloe’ was born in the minds of fans. Even the film’s stars, Anna Kendrick and Brittany Snow, advocated for a deeper connection between their characters, going so far as to film an alternate kiss scene that fans eagerly lapped up.
As rumors swirl about a possible fourth installment, we hope the creators give ‘Bechloe’ the romance it deserves.
Kara Danvers and Lena Luthor – Supergirl
In Supergirl, the bond between Kara Danvers (Supergirl) and Lena Luthor captured viewers’ hearts. With lines like, “I will always be your friend and I will always protect you, I promise,” it’s no surprise fans saw potential for a love story. Lena’s actress, Katie McGrath, known for playing queer characters, only added fuel to the fire with her compelling performance.
Wednesday Addams and Enid Sinclair – Wednesday
Since its debut on Netflix, Wednesday has enchanted audiences. Fans have noted the electric dynamic between Wednesday Addams and her colorful roommate Enid Sinclair, leading to the birth of ‘WenClair’. With hints of a deeper connection, their opposite personalities make them a perfect ship in the eyes of many.
As we celebrate Galentine's Day, let’s honor these beloved on-screen friendships and the fans who continue to envision them as the romances they could have been.
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