Over the past eleven years, Showtime's Shameless hasn't shied away from the harsh realities of living on the South Side. The extensive cast of characters has been in some of the toughest and most awkward situations, but they usually manage to come out alive. Their constant struggle to survive doesn't leave them with much time for friendship, but the relationship-driven show still gives the characters a chance to branch out.
Most of the Gallaghers' best friends are their own siblings, but their regular scams and frequently changing jobs allow them the chance to meet new people. However, being from a lower financial and social class means that people don't always trust the Gallaghers. They often find themselves being swindled, used, or exploited, so it can be hard to make meaningful friendships in their neighborhood.
Frank & Mikey
Who would've thought that Frank Gallagher would ever make a real friend? Mikey O'Shea is the first person Frank meets who can match him in some way. Naturally, the two click - but only after an intense and unfriendly rivalry.
Because it's Frank, most things about this friendship are toxic - but fans still warmed to this comedic duo. Most of the time, Frank and Mikey team up to perform some scam or other, and their partnership is the most trusting relationship Frank has in the show.
Kermit & Tommy
Tommy and Kermit have one of the most stable relationships in the whole show. They are Kevin's most consistent customers at the Alibi, and they are always there to offer their opinions on Frank and his petty schemes.
They may be flawed, but they are always entertaining to watch. Kermit is known for his trademark wry humor and cluelessness, while Tommy is vocal and a little rough around the edges. In any case, they make a dynamic duo.
Fiona & Nessa
Though short-lived, this is one of Fiona's most wholesome and fulfilling friendships in the series. Nessa spends time with Fiona because she enjoys her company, not because she needs something or feels sorry for her.
The two women quickly see that they understand each other. They build a natural rapport and each other where they can, for no other reason than they want to see each other happy. Some fans even saw the potential for them to become a romantic couple in the future.
Nick & Carl
Carl doesn't have many friends during his time on Shameless, but Nick is one of them. They meet in juvenile prison and continue their friendship on the outside. Nick rarely ever speaks to anyone, which makes their relationship somehow deeper.
It's free of judgment and not quantifiable. Carl gives Nick a place to live, and Nick protects Carl and accompanies him wherever he goes. Unfortunately for Carl, this friendship ended up getting cut short as Nick gets himself incarcerated once more, only this time for murder. Fans couldn't help but be disappointed for Carl.
Lip & Youens
Youens is one of the first people to really believe in Lip. More than that, he pushes Lip to achieve his full potential - even when the young man seems determined to sabotage his future. When Lip matures, he understands how much Youens has done for him and wants to return the favor.
Neither one is really under any obligation to do everything for one another. They simply do it because it's the right thing and they care about each other. When Lip learns that Youens has done similar things for many other people, it's a heartbreaking realization for him. He thought he was special, but the reality is that Youens is just a good person who wants to help others.
Fiona & Kev
Fiona and Kevin's friendship is one of the most underrated relationships in the show. Everyone knows about Kev and V, or Fiona and V, but many overlook the heartfelt moments between Fiona and Kevin.
The two are almost more like family than friends, and Kevin proves that there's no length he wouldn't go to for his friend. From telling her how to check her breasts for lumps to helping her out at the laundromat, expecting nothing in return, Kevin proves his love and loyalty to Fiona, even when she's at her lowest points.
Lip & Brad
Brad starts out as Lip's sponsor. Although he's rather harsh at first, many fans feel that it's something Lip needs at that time in his life. The two slowly grow to become good friends and, eventually, family.
Their lives become increasingly intertwined, and they can always go to each other if things get too out of hand. They have a similar sense of humor, are interested in the same line of work, love women from the same family, and genuinely one another, no matter what happens.
Lip & Ian
Lip and Ian transcend brotherhood. They have each other's backs unlike any of the other Gallaghers do. Lip is the first person who learns that Ian is gay, and also tries to help him whenever he gets into trouble. He doesn't even get too mad when Ian impersonates him and then steals a helicopter.
Lip and Ian are always first to hear about the other one's struggles. They are each other's confidants, biggest ers, and harshest teachers. They also always go to each other for advice before approaching anyone else.
Fiona & V
Their relationship may be a little rocky at times, but it's still one of the most consistent things about Shameless. Fiona and V are so much a part of each other's lives that they may as well be family.
V takes care of Fiona's siblings like they're her own children, and the two of them are always popping in and out of each other's houses for things like showers, kitchen appliances, and chats. They are both brutally honest with each other, but they also know what the other one needs based on her mood.
Ian & Mandy
Ian and Mandy are a fan-favorite duo and for good reason. Their friendship starts off early in the show, and in a rather unlikely way. While Mandy expresses a romantic interest in Ian at first, the two eventually become close friends when Ian tells her he is gay. They pretend to date, but they enjoy each other's company so much that it feels natural (emotionally).
As the show progresses, the two see each other less and less, but in their toughest moments, the two can always turn to each other. Mandy really loves Ian and wants a good life for him, and she's not upset in the slightest when she realizes he and Mickey have secretly been seeing each other. Likewise, Ian would do anything for Mandy, going as far as to risk prison time to protect her.
