While some TV characters receive their just rewards, whether positive or negative, others endure unfortunate events they truly don’t deserve. The world of television is filled with complex characters whose fates are often determined by the whims of the writers and the demands of the plot. From shocking character deaths proving no one is safe to heart-wrenching tragedies, these characters’ untimely ends have left a lasting impact on the shows they inhabited.

In some cases, their fates served as turning points for larger narrative arcs, while in others, they simply felt like a cruel twist of fate. These characters serve as reminders that fictional universes can be just as unpredictable and unforgiving as the real world. Their undeserved fates leave viewers grappling with the emotional fallout and questioning the choices made by the writers who brought them to life. Exploring the stories of these characters and the circumstances surrounding their unfortunate ends reveals television’s power to evoke strong emotions and spark meaningful discussions about the nature of storytelling.

10

Bob Newby (Sean Astin)

Stranger Things (2016-2025)

Bob Newby’s untimely demise in Stranger Things was a tragic end for a character who had quickly become a beloved figure. His genuine kindness, support for Joyce and her family, and his innocent enthusiasm made him an endearing presence in the show. Despite his limited screen time, Bob managed to have a significant impact with his warmth and selflessness.

His death at the hands of the Demodogs, while bravely assisting in the rescue of Hopper and the others, felt unnecessarily cruel given his inherently good nature. Bob’s character brought a sense of normalcy and stability to the chaos surrounding the Byers family, and his loss left a void that was never quite filled. Although his sacrifice played a role in advancing the plot, Bob Newby remains a shining example of a character whose fate seemed undeserved given the purity of his intentions and the depth of his heart.

9

Lexa (Alycia Debnam-Carey)

The 100 (2014-2020)

Lexa’s abrupt and shocking death in The 100 is a fate that came as a heavy blow, cutting short a compelling character arc that had only begun to scratch the surface. The timing of her ending, moments after a tender and intimate scene with Clarke, felt particularly egregious and insensitive. This narrative choice not only robbed Lexa of the opportunity to further develop her relationship with Clarke, but also deprived the show of a complex and nuanced character whose presence added depth and intrigue to the storyline.

Lexa’s role as a powerful and influential leader, combined with her personal struggles and the exploration of her identity, made her a vital part of the series. Her sudden and seemingly unnecessary death served no greater purpose, and left a void in the show that could not be easily filled. Lexa deserved better than to be reduced to a plot device, and her character warranted a more thoughtful and respectful resolution.

8

Tara Thorton (Rutina Wesley)

True Blood (2008-2014)

Tara’s journey in True Blood began with immense potential, introducing a character grappling with deep-seated issues of identity and belonging. However, as the series progressed, Tara found herself trapped in a relentless cycle of trauma and abuse, with each new hardship compounding the last. Her transformation into a vampire against her will serve as yet another instance of her agency being stripped away, relegating her to the role of a perpetual victim.

Despite the strength and resilience Tara displayed in the face of adversity, the show’s writers never allowed her character to grow beyond her suffering, denying her the opportunity for redemption or personal development that was afforded to other characters. One of the harsh realities of rewatching True Blood is that her pain was exploited for the sake of advancing the narratives of those around her. Tara existed primarily as a vehicle for trauma, rather than a fully realized character deserving of happiness.

7

Bobby Singer (Jim Beaver)

Supernatural (2005-2020)

Bobby Singer’s death at the hands of a leviathan marked a devastating loss for the Winchester brothers and the Supernatural series as a whole. As a steadfast father figure and ally, Bobby was a constant source of support, wisdom, and guidance for Sam and Dean throughout their tumultuous lives. His gruff exterior belied a heart full of love and loyalty, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a word of advice when the boys needed it most.

His sudden and violent death left a gaping hole in Sam and Dean’s lives, robbing them of the one person who had consistently been there for them through every challenge and hardship. The impact of Bobby’s loss extended far beyond the immediate narrative, serving as a reminder of the relentless and unforgiving nature of the supernatural world they inhabited. His death was a gut-wrenching blow to the fabric of the show, forever altering the dynamic of the series.

6

Pops Maellard (Sam Marin)

Regular Show (2010-2017)

Pops’ selfless sacrifice in the Regular Show series finale marked a bittersweet and controversial end for the beloved character. Throughout the series, Pops stood out as a beacon of innocence and kindness, his gentle demeanor and childlike wonder setting him apart from the chaos that often surrounded him. His pure-hearted nature and genuine appreciation for life’s simple joys made him an endearing presence, a much-needed counterbalance to the mischief and mayhem perpetrated by his fellow characters.

Pops’ decision to sacrifice himself alongside his evil twin brother, Anti-Pops, to save the universe felt strangely at odds with his established character. It was a jarring departure from the gentle soul who had captured the hearts of viewers. While his actions were undeniably heroic, the abruptness and finality of his death left many feeling unsatisfied and questioning the necessity of such a drastic narrative choice. Pops’ demise seemed to serve more as a plot device to facilitate the separation of Mordecai and Rigby, rather than a natural and fitting conclusion to his own character arc.

5

Poussey Washington (Samira Wiley)

Orange is the New Black (2013-2019)

Poussey Washington’s shocking and undeserved death dealt a significant blow to Orange is the New Black, both in terms of its narrative and its overall success. Her fate left a gaping hole in the series, depriving it of one of its most compelling and beloved characters. Poussey was a fan favorite, and her absence was keenly felt by those who had grown to love and admire her. Orange is the New Black’s decision to kill off such a vital character in such a brutal and unjust manner left many reeling.

While the show’s handling of Poussey’s death and its aftermath was undoubtedly powerful and thought-provoking. Despite this, it also alienated a portion of the audience who felt that her character had been sacrificed for the sake of shock value and social commentary. The abruptness and finality of the event, coupled with the fact that it came at the hands of a broken and unjust system, left a bitter taste in the mouths of many viewers, who felt that the show had crossed a line in its pursuit of gritty realism.

4

Charlie Pace (Dominic Monaghan)

Lost (2004-2010)

Charlie Pace’s unexpected death in Lost marked a turning point in the series. Considered one of Lost’s best main characters, Charlie’s struggle with addiction and his tireless efforts to redeem himself had become a central part of the show’s narrative. His selfless sacrifice in the underwater DHARMA station, while crucial to the plot, felt like an abrupt end to a story arc that still had untapped potential.

The decision to have Charlie meet his end while other, less likable characters continued to survive raised questions about the show’s narrative priorities. His final message served as a bittersweet reminder of the depth of his character and the impact he had on those around him. Charlie Pace’s untimely demise stands as a significant moment in Lost‘s history, a narrative choice that had far-reaching consequences for the series and its characters.

3

Robb Stark (Richard Madden)

Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

The Red Wedding in Game of Thrones, which claimed the life of Robb Stark, remains one of the most shocking and emotionally devastating moments in television history. As the young King in the North, Robb had shouldered the burden of leadership during a time of great upheaval, his actions guided by a strong sense of duty and honor. While his decision to break his vow to marry a Frey daughter undoubtedly contributed to his downfall, the brutal nature of his death was far beyond what his mistakes warranted.

Witnessing the murder of his pregnant wife, Talisa, and then being killed in front of his own mother, Catelyn, was a scene of unparalleled cruelty. While Robb Stark’s fate was undeniably tragic and undeserved, it remains a pivotal moment in the history of Game of Thrones, showcasing the show’s ability to deliver shocking twists. His story, cut short by betrayal and violence, is a powerful testament to the unforgiving nature of the world created by George R. R. Martin.

2

Ashtray (Javon Walton)

Euphoria (2019-)

The scene of Ashtray’s death during the police raid in Euphoria season 2 was one of the most emotionally charged moments in the series. As the youngest member of Fez’s unconventional family, Ashtray has become a beloved character. Watching him desperately fight back against the overwhelming odds, his small frame engulfed by the chaos and violence, was a brutal reminder of the harsh realities faced by the characters in the show.

Fez’s anguished pleas for Ashtray to surrender added an extra layer of tragedy to the already devastating scene. The bond between the two, forged through shared struggles and an unshakable sense of family, made Ashtray’s final moments all the more poignant and painful to witness. Ashtray’s death served as a sobering reminder of the toll that violence and trauma can take on even the most resilient individuals. His loss left a profound impact on the characters, forever altering the dynamics of the show and the lives of those who had come to rely on his strength and support.

1

Tanya McQuoid (Jennifer Coolidge)

The White Lotus (2021-)

Tanya McQuoid’s shocking drowning in the season 2 finale of The White Lotus was a fate that not many saw coming. As the sole returning main cast member from season 1, Tanya had become a beacon of continuity amidst the major cast changes, her eccentric charm making her incredibly charming. The abrupt end to her story, just as she was on the cusp of unraveling the mystery surrounding her husband Greg’s suspicious behavior, felt like a brutal twist of fate.

Tanya’s journey of self-discovery and growth resonated with viewers, her struggles with mental health and relationships striking a deeply personal chord. The realization that her narrative would remain unresolved was a difficult one to process. As The White Lotus prepares for season 3, the void left by Tanya McQuoid will undoubtedly present a significant challenge.