Movies

TV Characters Who Had Disappointing Endings

BBG News

It’s particularly painful when a cherished television character doesn’t receive a fitting farewell that matches their significance.

Fans devote significant portions of their lives to following the narratives of their preferred TV characters, sharing in their emotional highs and lows. It’s disheartening when these cherished characters receive unsatisfying or even distressing final acts.

Alas, this is exactly what happened to characters from so many TV shows.

Warning: Spoilers below!

The main character from “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,” the teenage witch Sabrina, experiences death and subsequently goes to Hell in her final season, as a matter of fact.

Later, we have Carl Grimes from “The Walking Dead”, who was unexpectedly taken, leaving a gap as he was about to fully transition into maturity.

Here are some TV characters who deserved a more positive and fulfilling conclusion to their stories compared to what was portrayed on-screen:

1. Walter White (Breaking Bad): Despite his transformation from a high school chemistry teacher into a ruthless drug lord, many viewers felt that Walter’s tragic demise was too harsh, considering the immense sacrifice he made for his family.

2. Tony Soprano (The Sopranos): The final scene of this iconic series left fans questioning whether Tony had actually died or not. Regardless, the ambiguous ending seemed to disappoint many viewers who wanted a clear resolution to Tony’s struggles with mental health and the Mafia lifestyle.

3. Dexter Morgan (Dexter): Despite his attempts at redemption, Dexter was ultimately forced to face justice for his crimes. While it made sense from a narrative standpoint, many viewers felt that Dexter deserved a less tragic ending given his unique circumstances and the show’s moral gray areas.

4. Omar Little (The Wire): Known as “the stick-up kid,” Omar was a complex character who defied traditional notions of good and evil. His untimely death at the hands of a sniper left many viewers feeling frustrated that such a fascinating character didn’t get a more satisfying conclusion.

5. Ned Stark (Game of Thrones): One of the most beloved characters in the series, Ned Stark’s beheading shocked and saddened fans. Many felt that his story deserved a happier ending given his unwavering sense of honor and loyalty to his family and the Seven Kingdoms.

These characters’ stories have left lasting impressions on audiences due to their complexities and the emotional investments viewers made in their journeys. While some may argue that their fates were fitting, many feel that these characters deserved a more hopeful resolution to their struggles.

Sabrina Spellman, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

Netflix’s series, “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,” spanned two seasons from 2018 to 2020, culminating in an ending that left several viewers with a sense of discomfort: The lead character, Sabrina herself, meets her end by the story’s conclusion.

From the outset, Sabrina Spellman, a teenage witch who unknowingly is the offspring of Lucifer, sought a means to coexist in both the human and supernatural realms.

As a cinephile, I can’t help but reflect on the poignant moment when Sabrina makes the selfless choice to give up her life for those she cherishes and the greater good, only to find herself ascending to the throne of Hell. Yet, in this position of power, she seems to have lost her personal freedom, making her a captivating yet tragic figure.

Regrettably, it seems she was intended for a comeback in the third season, but unfortunately, the series was unexpectedly terminated instead.

Daenerys Targaryen, Game of Thrones

Throughout the eight-season span from 2011 to 2019, Daenerys Targaryen, affectionately known as Dany, emerged as one of the most captivating and adored characters on the hit show “Game of Thrones.

In a surprising twist, the resolute, mostly fair, and compassionate character appeared set to transform from a determined hero into the legitimate queen of Westeros. However, fate had other plans as she unwittingly became the antagonist in her own tale, ultimately slain by her lover, Jon Snow, following her coronation as queen.

Instead of concluding a well-developed character journey that aligned with her established traits and progression, Daenerys succumbed to a swift decline during the last few episodes, ultimately falling prey to the presumed “madness” associated with her ancestry.

Up until now, numerous fans are convinced that the last moments and decisions portrayed by Daenerys as the “Mad Queen” negated all her achievements, resulting in an emotionally charged and disappointing conclusion, which the actress who embodied her character has also criticized.

Raj Koothrappali, Big Bang Theory

Over the past two decades, The Big Bang Theory has been widely recognized as a major sitcom success. Spanning 12 seasons from 2007 to 2019, most of the series’ characters experienced satisfying conclusions… with one exception, as some viewers believe.

A true romantic, Raj Koothrappali was left single at the end of the series.

In a turn of unfortunate events, he found himself on the brink of a blissful conclusion as he prepared to relocate to London to be with his girlfriend Anu. However, his friend intervened, thwarting any prospects of a romantically satisfying conclusion.

Additionally, it wasn’t just on this occasion that Raj’s portrayal faced criticism from viewers.

Some spectators felt his character wasn’t as fully fleshed out compared to other principal characters, leading some fans to find the absence of a satisfying romantic storyline disappointing. However, others interpreted his solitary ending as a reflection of his personal growth towards self-acceptance and love.

Dani Clayton, Haunting of Bly Manor

In 2019, the second installment of Netflix’s horror anthology series, titled The Haunting of Bly Manor, was broadcast for a single season. This production primarily revolved around Dani Clayton, who took on the role of an au pair for the Wingrave family.

From the start, this grim narrative often depicted characters experiencing unjust deaths or losing their cherished ones.

In this new phrasing, I’ve attempted to maintain the original meaning while making it easier to read and more natural-sounding.

Sadly, after fleeing the manor, Dani tries to create a new life away from the mansion, but ultimately takes her own life due to a vengeful ghost from Bly Manor being laid to rest. This allows the spirit to find peace and enables Dani to protect those she cares about.

Making her story even sadder, Dani leaves behind the love of her life, Jamie.

Betty Draper, Mad Men

In the television series “Mad Men,” running from 2007 to 2015, Betty served as Don Draper’s spouse.

Throughout her screen career, Betty encountered numerous hurdles such as her spouse’s infidelities, feeling aimless, and harboring bitterness about her role as a mother.

While her life was full of suburban discontent, her death marked the pinnacle of a tragic life.

Betty’s terminal lung cancer ultimately led to her passing, concluding what appeared to be an incomplete chapter in her life.

Eddie Munson, Stranger Things

Enthusiasts of “Stranger Things,” the series that debuted in 2016 and concluded in 2025 following five seasons, haven’t easily let go of the way Eddie Munson was mistreated by the show.

In the fourth season, the audience fell in love with the endearing heavy metal enthusiast, whose gentle disposition concealed beneath a rough exterior made him stand out among the many captivating characters on the show, adding another layer of complexity to an already rich ensemble.

Unfortunately, Munson met an untimely demise at the conclusion of the series, having selflessly given his life to protect the other children. This premature end denied him the chance to develop a deeply satisfying character progression or see resolution for the mistreated teen.

Fiona Gallagher, Shameless

During the 11-year span of Shameless, from 2011 to 2021, Fiona Gallagher served as a reliable pillar for her family, the Gallaghers.

However, her departure from the show came as a rather divisive send-off for many viewers.

In Season 9, Fiona struggled with alcohol addiction as she learned that her partner was hiding a family of his own.

Despite managing to transform her life and earning a significant sum of $100,000 following the termination of a failed investment, her TV series concludes with her estrangement from her presumed ungrateful siblings. These family members fault her for her past alcohol issues, despite her leaving them a substantial $50,000 inheritance.

Many fans believed she deserved more for her swan song.

Taystee Jefferson, Orange Is the New Black

Netflix’s hit Orange Is the New Black ran for seven seasons from 2013 to 2019.

Throughout its broadcast, the series garnered numerous praises from critics. However, many viewers felt profound sadness due to the way inmate Tasha Jefferson, also known as Taystee, was concluded at the end of the show.

In the last season of the show, Taystee – a character known for her kindness, intelligence, and relentless work ethic – is wrongfully given a life imprisonment for a crime she didn’t actually commit.

The sad conclusion left a bitter aftertaste for many spectators, but was softened somewhat by Taystee discovering a sense of meaning in educating fellow prisoners about financial management.

Carl Grimes, The Walking Dead

The Walking Dead was a massive phenomenon for many of its 11 seasons from 2010 to 2022.

Sadly, it didn’t just offer a multitude of triumphant moments; it also included numerous heartbreaking character conclusions, such as the farewell of Rick and Lori’s son Carl Grimes, who unexpectedly passes away shortly after finding peace with the brutal environment he lived in and mastering its navigation.

As a cinephile, I can’t help but reflect upon that heart-wrenching moment when his character met an untimely demise, felled by a sudden, shocking zombie bite – a scene that left me feeling utterly desolate among the throngs of viewers.

Rory Gilmore, Gilmore Girls

From 2000 through 2007, the show “Gilmore Girls” was one of the defining and highly-watched programs of the early 21st century.

Among its main characters, Rory Gilmore, one of them, has garnered less favorable opinions in more recent times. Nevertheless, this doesn’t justify the somewhat unsatisfying conclusion her character experiences at the end of Netflix’s 2016 revival, “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life.

The four-part series overlooked Rory’s past character evolution and progression, placing her as a pregnant woman without a secure career and involved in an affair with her ex-boyfriend who was already taken. This development largely undid the efforts and sacrifices made by her mother Lorelai to provide Rory with a more enriched life filled with greater opportunities.

Sitcom Moments That Were Surprisingly Dark

The Simpsons: When Homer Pushed a Co-Worker Too Far

As a diehard fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the groundbreaking humor of “The Simpsons,” particularly in the episode titled “Homer’s Enemy.” In this gripping tale, we meet Frank Grimes, a new employee at the Springfield Power Plant. However, his work life quickly turns sour as he grows increasingly frustrated with Homer’s lackadaisical attitude. This escalates to a tragic climax when, in a fit of anger, Frank seizes hold of live wires without protective gear, leading to his untimely demise.

Seinfeld: When Susan Died From Wedding Invitations

One of the most somber instances in the sitcom “Seinfeld” unfolded in the 1996 episode titled “The Invitations.” In this episode, George is entrusted with selecting wedding invitations for Susan and himself. Being cost-conscious, he opts for the least expensive ones, unaware that the glue on the envelopes was toxic. Heartbreakingly, Susan passes away after licking the envelope glue while preparing to mail their invitations.

South Park: When Cartman Fed Scott Tenorman His Parents

In Season 5 of “South Park,” an episode titled “Scott Tenorman Must Die” showcases one of the most unsettling scenes in the series. The narrative revolves around Cartman’s quest for revenge against student Scott Tenorman, after he discovers that his money has been pilfered. In a shocking turn of events, Cartman decides to carry out an appalling act: He murders Scott’s parents, transforms their bodies into chili, and subsequently serves it to Scott. The impact of this action on Scott is intense, and the episode continues to challenge boundaries even today.

BoJack Horseman: BoJack’s Near-Death Experience

As a film enthusiast, I found myself deeply moved by the heart-wrenching episode, “The View From Halfway Down,” in this captivating series. In this episode, my beloved character BoJack faces a harrowing near-death experience. A poignant scene from the episode features Secretariat, another equine character, reciting a poem about his remorse for leaping off a bridge and ending his life through suicide. This powerful moment resonates profoundly with BoJack’s actions as he delves into the complexities of his self-destructive tendencies, making this show truly unforgettable.

M*A*S*H: When Hawkeye Had a Breakdown

The final episode of the TV series M*A*S*H, titled “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” is not just about saying goodbye; it also delves into the devastating impact of war on an individual. In a poignant scene towards the end, the character Hawkeye, known for his wit, is shown to have suffered a mental breakdown as a result of a harrowing experience. It’s subsequently revealed that Hawkeye witnessed a mother suffocate her child to conceal their position from enemy troops.

Malcolm in the Middle: When Malcolm Almost Dies

In “Malcolm’s Car,” from Season 6 of “Malcolm in the Middle,” Malcolm disregards his family’s warnings and buys a run-down vehicle. Eventually, this car malfunctions, leaving him stuck inside. Trapped within a confined garage, the still-running car emits smoke, placing Malcolm in a perilous life-or-death predicament. Fortunately, he is saved at the last minute, but for a brief moment, things become alarmingly tense.

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia: When Charlie’s Play Reveals Childhood Abuse

In one of the wackiest TV shows, “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” known for its offbeat humor, presents one of its most somber episodes titled “The Nightman Cometh.” In this installment, Charlie tries to pop the question to a waitress by staging a play. However, within the performance, it is disclosed that Charlie had a troubled upbringing marked by abuse, and hints are dropped suggesting he was molested by an uncle, resulting in one of the series’ more serious and intense scenes.

The Golden Girls: When Rose Is Exposed to AIDS

In “The Golden Girls”, they skillfully combined humor with poignant scenes. An instance of this blend was evident in the episode titled “72 Hours”, which dealt with a serious topic – Rose learning that a blood transfusion she had years ago might have been tainted with HIV. This revelation prompted a heartfelt conversation between Rose and Blanche, where Rose expressed her belief that such a thing shouldn’t happen to people like her. Their ensuing argument highlighted the prejudice and fear surrounding AIDS during the peak of the U.S. AIDS epidemic, a topic the show bravely addressed ahead of its time.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air: When Will’s Dad Leaves Him Again

In “Papa’s Got a Brand New Excuse,” one of the famous episodes from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” Will’s long-absent father reappears, this time claiming he’s ready to be a father figure. Regrettably, he disappoints Will once more by departing again, resulting in a poignant and emotional scene where a heartbroken Will questions Uncle Phil about his dad not wanting him around.

Superstore: When Mateo Gets Arrested by ICE Agents

In the fourth season episode titled “Employee Appreciation Day,” the narrative focusing on Mateo’s citizenship status in the U.S. takes center stage as ICE agents storm the store and apprehend him. This event triggers a heartfelt and frustrating scene where Mateo is held, highlighting the intricacies of the immigration system.

Boy Meets World: When Cory and Shawn’s Friend Is Being Abused at Home

In the TV series “Boy Meets World”, several deep topics were tackled throughout its duration, but one particularly intense episode was “Dangerous Secret”. This is when Cory and Shawn found out that their classmate, Claire, was suffering domestic abuse at the hands of her father. The boys’ discovery led to a moving scene where they confided in Cory’s parents, who then reported Claire’s home situation to the authorities.

Home Improvement: Randy’s Cancer Scare

In the fifth season’s episode titled “The Longest Day,” a visit to the doctor leaves Randy fearing he may have cancer. Overwhelmed by this shocking news, Randy becomes emotional and even states his desire not to die. However, it is later discovered that Randy does not actually have cancer. This grim moment serves as a stark contrast to the humorous episodes that were more common in earlier seasons.

King of the Hill: Trip Larsen’s Gruesome Death

As I sat down to review the latest episode of “King of the Hill,” titled “Pygmalion,” I found myself drawn into a tale that was as intriguing as it was unexpected. In this installment, our beloved Luanne finds herself in a romantic entanglement with Trip Larsen, the proprietor of a sausage factory. The relationship takes an ominous turn when Larsen becomes overbearing and demands marriage from Luanne.

The tension reaches its boiling point at the factory, where Larsen, in a fit of rage, attempts to force both himself and Luanne into matrimony. However, things don’t go as planned for our antagonist. In a tragic turn of events, Larsen impales himself, bringing about his own demise. Meanwhile, Luanne manages to escape unscathed, leaving us with a sense of relief and a newfound appreciation for her quick wit and resilience.

This episode of “King of the Hill” offers a gripping storyline that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The characters are well-developed, and the plot twists keep you guessing until the very end. If you’re looking for an engaging watch with a dash of suspense, this is definitely an episode worth checking out!

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2025-07-03 19:57

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