The Best Duos of All Time
The greatest duos of all time can exist independently of each other, but totally shouldn't. These are combinations and famous duos whose whole value is greater than the sum of their parts. For instance, you can have cheese (and it will be glorious) and you can separately have ham (and it will be succulent), but put them together and boom: ham and cheese and delicious. These famous male and female partners in history, siblings, delicious food pairings, famous movie duos, and famous TV duos need each other like peanut butter needs jelly. You might even say the following pairs are dynamic duos who should never be separated. But could some be considered iconic duos?
Some of the best fictional and celebrity couples that ever were find themselves among the best duos ever, but it's not just people that can make this list of the best pairings ever. Things like popcorn & movies, baseball & peanuts, and even Christmas & snow are all better together. Among some of the best sports duos, the top TV couples, video game pairs, cartoon duos, and the greatest food pairings are the top duos of all time, and they've been compiled here in this list of the great duos for you to vote on. While fictional characters dominate the list, the tastiest food combinations are also competing for the top spot.
Who are the top duos of all time? Many of the answers to this question can be found here on this popular duos list, featuring the best pairings ever. If your favorite combination/duo isn't listed, make sure to add it. (Then go vote for the best trios!)
- 1
Scooby Doo & Shaggy
Solving mysteries and unmasking villains, Scooby Doo and Shaggy have been an inseparable duo since their first appearance on American television in the late 1960s hit series Scooby Doo, Where Are You?. As perhaps the most beloved members of the mystery-solving gang, they are best known for their comedic antics, insatiable appetites, and uncanny ability to stumble upon clues while trying their best to avoid spooky encounters. This dynamic duo graced both our televisions and the silver screen, starring in a multitude of series adaptations and live-action films. No matter the medium, fans can't help but root for this hapless, lovable pair as they work together to save the day and satiate their stomachs.
An archetypal cat-and-mouse rivalry turned classic comedic duo, Tom and Jerry have been trying to outwit one another since their inception in 1940. With their slapstick humor and intricate planning, the cartoon's titular duo has captivated all ages through its decades-long run and further appearances in films, such as the 1992 Tom and Jerry: The Movie and the recent 2021 live-action adaptation. What makes this chase-centric duo so unforgettable is their endearing, often unspoken camaraderie, despite Tom's constant attempts to capture and eat Jerry, they often find themselves teaming up to overcome larger obstacles, leaving audiences questioning whether they are truly enemies or just misunderstood friends. One thing is for sure: watching their antics unfold is bound to keep us entertained throughout the generations.
- 3
Shrek and Donkey
This unlikely friendship sprouted from DreamWorks' 2001 animated film Shrek and continued to amuse audiences through its sequels, giving us a pair that's truly larger than life. Their chemistry blossomed over time, with Shrek's grumpy, introverted ogre nature being challenged and changed by Donkey's energetic, optimistic, and downright hilarious outlook on life. While they initially clashed over territories and personal boundaries, they eventually became the best of friends and went on countless adventures together, fighting off evil knights, enchanted creatures, and pretentious royalty in the fairytale world of Far Far Away. Their witty banter, heartfelt moments, and lovable quirks have made them a duo that audiences will treasure for years to come.
- 4
Spongebob & Patrick
Living under the sea in the colorful world of Bikini Bottom, the humble sea sponge Spongebob Squarepants and his dim-witted yet lovable starfish best friend Patrick Star have left an indelible mark on the world of animation with their antics in the long-running TV show SpongeBob SquarePants. Their seemingly endless enthusiasm and optimism make them a joy to watch, whether they're flipping Krabby Patties at the Krusty Krab, embarking on wild adventures, or just goofing around together. The show's ability to connect with multiple generations has also been enhanced by their quotable catchphrases and charming, sometimes absurd humor. No matter the situation, Spongebob and Patrick's unwavering friendship reminds us of the importance of finding enjoyment in life's simple pleasures, even when faced with the occasional jellyfish sting.
- 5
Mario and Luigi
Widely recognized as two of the most iconic video game characters ever created, Mario and Luigi made their debut together in 1983 with the Nintendo game Mario Bros.. Hailing from the Mushroom Kingdom, these super powered Italian plumber brothers work together to save Princess Peach from the clutches of the dastardly Bowser, traversing fantastical worlds filled with colorful characters, challenging enemies, and inventive obstacles. As a duo, they have starred in countless video games, from main series adventures to spin-offs like Mario Kart and Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, and even ventured into other media, such as the 1993 film "Super Mario Bros." and the 2023 animated smash hit The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The success of these mustachioed heroes is undoubtedly rooted in their incomparable teamwork, appealing designs, and the pure joy they bring to millions of fans worldwide.
- 6
Woody and Buzz Lightyear
The magic of friendship was truly brought to life with the iconic pairing of cowboy sheriff Woody and space ranger Buzz Lightyear in the groundbreaking 1995 Pixar film Toy Story. Originally starting off as rivals fighting for their child owner Andy's attention, the two toys soon discovered a mutual respect and camaraderie that would carry them through multiple sequels and adventures. Their journeys are filled with heartwarming moments, such as Buzz learning to accept that he is a toy, and Woody realizing his own resilience and ability to adapt to change. This animated duo not only symbolizes the importance of friendship and collaboration but also captures our childhood imagination and the lasting impact our favorite playthings can have on our lives.
