8 Best Men-Women Platonic Friendships On TV (4 of 5)

Elliot Stabler & Olivia Benson (Law & Order: SVU)

When actor Christopher Meloni left Law & Order: SVU after 12 seasons, it left a deep void. The chemistry he had with Hariska Hargitay in their roles as NYPD detectives Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson, respectively, was so evident that they were termed “work husband and wife,” even by Elliot’s actual wife Kathy. When their jobs called for them to be serious—especially when they were working undercover—they could be counted on to work as a team. But at the same time, they shared moments of humor and clearly cared for each other. Most importantly, they were secure enough in their work relationship to call each other out without it becoming personal.

Derek Morgan & Penelope Garcia (Criminal Minds)

Shemar Moore’s departure from Criminal Minds disappointed fans who couldn’t get enough of Morgan (Hot Stuff) and Garcia’s (Baby Girl) flirtatious banter. Although their relationship never ventured into romantic territory (Garcia described Morgan as her most beloved friend), it doesn’t mean they weren’t a bit jealous of each other from time to time. However, they never concealed their love for each other, even if it was purely platonic.