Elton John and Eminem’s unlikely friendship has taken the top spot as the most beloved unexpected duo among Brits, particularly highlighted after their unforgettable Grammy performance in 2001. A recent survey of 2,000 adults also brought attention to other surprising yet cherished friendships, both real and fictional, including GK Barry and Rev Richard Coles, and the deep bond between Han Solo and Chewbacca.
Adding to the list of delightful unexpected pairings is the musical collaboration between Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett, which comfortably secures a spot in the top 15 alongside the camaraderie of TV personalities Sam Thompson and Pete Wicks. The latter duo recently partnered with Twix for its ‘Two is more than one’ campaign, with their collective name cleverly coined as ‘Sam and Pete Twix’.
In a modern twist reminiscent of celebrity couple monikers like ‘Spiedi’, ‘Brangelina’, and ‘Bennifer’, the playful merging of surnames showcases the uniqueness of their friendship. Pete Wicks jokingly shared his thoughts on their relationship, highlighting that despite their differences, they complement each other perfectly. The duo’s ability to always have each other’s backs is what truly cements their bond.
The British public’s all-time favourite duos reflect a rich tapestry of partnerships, with comedy icons Laurel and Hardy leading the pack at 42 per cent. This is followed by TV favourites Ant and Dec at 31 per cent, and the iconic Beatles duo of Paul McCartney and John Lennon at 29 per cent, as reported by the Mirror. These duos resonate with audiences for their ability to bring out the best in each other.
When asked what makes a duo truly iconic, 56 per cent of Brits believe it’s about mutual enhancement, while 24 per cent appreciate the dynamic of polar opposites. The idea that ‘opposites attract’ rings true for 66 per cent of individuals in real-life relationships, with 37 per cent acknowledging the experience of forming unexpected friendships.
A significant number of respondents, 52 per cent, revealed that they have developed strong bonds with individuals who initially seemed dissimilar to them, with one in 10 stating that these individuals have now become their closest friends. Key indicators of a ‘best friend’ status include familiarity with each other’s families, spending quality time together, sharing favourite things, and having a unique way of communicating.
Reflecting on the whimsical nature of duos, Lauren Godfrey, senior brand manager for a chocolate brand, highlighted the joy in exploring the dynamic of iconic pairs like Pete Wicks and Sam Thompson, affectionately known as Sam and Pete Twix. The nation’s fascination with unexpected duos showcases a deep appreciation for the magic that unfolds when seemingly disparate personalities come together.
In a world where partnerships and friendships continue to captivate our imagination, the unexpected alliances that have captured the hearts of the British public remind us of the beauty in diversity and the power of connection. Whether in music, film, television, or real life, these relationships serve as a testament to the richness of human connection and the joy that comes from embracing the unexpected.