S1
E1
E1
Our Cup Runneth Over
David and the Rose family arrive in Schitt's Creek after losing their fortune, beginning their journey of reinvention.
David Rose
92
Character Arc
David Rose begins as the pampered, anxious, and fashion-obsessed son of Johnny and Moira Rose, forced to relocate to the tiny town of Schitt's Creek after his family loses their fortune. Accustomed to a life of gallery openings, designer labels, and superficial relationships, David is utterly unprepared for small-town life and initially treats his new surroundings with undisguised contempt.
As the series progresses, David undergoes one of television's most satisfying character transformations. Stripped of material wealth, he slowly discovers that genuine human connection is far more valuable than the shallow world he left behind. His friendship with Stevie Budd and his relationship with business partner-turned-boyfriend Patrick Brewer become the catalysts for his growth.
David's journey toward opening Rose Apothecary — a "general store but also very specific" — represents his transition from a person defined by consumption to one who creates. The store becomes his identity in a way that wealth never could, giving him purpose, community, and self-worth.
David and Patrick's love story is widely celebrated as one of the most positive and authentic LGBTQ+ relationships in television history. Their wedding in the series finale is a joyous culmination of David's arc — a man who once believed he was unlovable finding lasting love and a place where he truly belongs.
Key Episodes
S4
E6
E6
Open Mic
Patrick sings Tina Turner's "Simply the Best" to David at an open mic night, a defining moment for their relationship.
S5
E11
E11
Meet the Parents
Patrick comes out to his parents, and David supports him through one of the series' most emotionally resonant episodes.
S5
E13
E13
The Premiere
David and Patrick get engaged in a romantic proposal at the store they built together.
S6
E14
E14
Happy Ending
David and Patrick's wedding serves as the series finale's emotional centerpiece, with David choosing to stay in Schitt's Creek.
Fan Ecosystem
Videos & Content
David Rose - Simply the Best Moments
David and Patrick - Love Story
David Rose's Best Outfits
Fan Heat Index Breakdown
Engagement
94
Social Activity
90
Meme Velocity
93
Fan Art Density
88
Fandom Longevity
91
Memorable Quotes
"I'd kill for a good cinnamon bun right now."
— David Rose, Season 1 - various
"I like the wine and not the label."
— David Rose, Season 4, Episode 9 - Housewarming
"Ew, David!"
— David Rose, Recurring catchphrase from Alexis (about David)
Trivia & Fun Facts
- Dan Levy created the show and starred as David, drawing on his own experiences as a gay man for the character.
- David's black and white wardrobe was a deliberate choice to reflect his guarded personality.
- Dan Levy insisted that David's pansexuality would never be treated as a source of conflict on the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dan Levy plays David Rose in Schitt's Creek. Levy also co-created the series with his real-life father Eugene Levy and served as a writer, producer, and showrunner. He won multiple Emmy Awards for the show's final season.
David Rose is pansexual. In one of the show's most celebrated scenes, David explains his sexuality to Stevie using a wine analogy: "I do drink red wine, but I also drink white wine. And I've been known to sample the occasional rosé. And a couple of merlots." He likes "the wine and not the label."
Rose Apothecary is the general store David opens in Schitt's Creek with Patrick Brewer. Described as "a general store, but also very specific," it sells locally sourced products and artisanal goods. The store represents David's personal growth and his commitment to his new community.
Yes, David and Patrick get engaged in the Season 5 finale and marry in the series finale ("Happy Ending," Season 6, Episode 14). Their wedding, despite weather complications, is one of the most beloved moments in the entire series.