TV’s 20 best slow-burn romances

Norma (Peggy Lipton) and Ed (Everett McGill) were never supposed to happen. They couldn’t. The laws of Twin Peaks dictate Norma and Ed must sacrifice their happiness for the good of the town. He must care for his wife, Nadine (Wendy Robie), because he shot her eye out, a decision that dooms Norma to a marriage with Hank (Chris Mulkey). Twenty-five years later, as the universe of Twin Peaks folds in on itself, Nadine finally shovels herself out of the shit and gives Ed the all-clear to live his authentic life. After selling her Double R franchise, Norma, too, was finally ready. They were both free of the negativity in their lives and with Otis Redding’s “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” playing on the soundtrack, the show gives its fans what they’ve craved. In a season full of despair, David Lynch and Mark Frost rewarded their most patient characters with their happiest ending. [Matt Schimkowitz]