The first on-screen kiss was shared between actors Marguerite Gautier and William C. deMille in the 1896 film "The Widow Jones." However, it wasn't until the 1920s and 1930s that on-screen kisses became more common, often used to convey romance and passion. Over the years, the portrayal of lip-to-lip kisses has evolved, reflecting changing social norms and cultural values.