When we immerse ourselves in a television series, it’s nearly impossible not to form a bond with the characters. Their journeys unfold in our living rooms weekly, or, if you’re anything like me, you might find yourself binge-watching entire seasons in one sitting. So when a character we adore meets their end, it can leave us heartbroken. At times, these fictional losses hit harder than real-life farewells.
Character deaths dramatically alter our viewing experience. Even if we anticipate a demise, the emotional toll can be immense—sometimes leaving us too stunned to continue watching for days or even weeks. Yet, just as life continues for the remaining characters, we often find ourselves drawn back to the story.
Certain shows have gained a reputation for their shocking character exits (looking at you, Grey’s Anatomy), and you’d think we’d grow accustomed to such heartbreak. Yet, each new character feels like a fresh wound. It begs the question: do the writers derive some form of twisted pleasure from our agony? Regardless, we keep tuning in for that sweet anguish, year after year. Here’s a look at some of the TV character deaths that still haunt us. Grab those tissues!
Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd, Grey’s Anatomy
Patrick Dempsey’s departure was marked by drastic events, making his exit gut-wrenching, albeit not unexpected.
Dr. Mark Greene, ER
Mark Greene’s passing was my first real encounter with a TV character’s death that struck a chord. Growing up with ER, losing such a pivotal character was heartbreaking. The episode surrounding his demise remains one of the most beautifully tragic moments in television history.
Jack Pearson, This is Us
From the very start, we knew Jack Pearson was dead, but the how kept us guessing. As we uncover the details, the heartbreak resurfaces.
Deb Morgan, Dexter
“SHE DIDN’T DESERVE TO DIE!!!” — Amanda T.
George O’Malley, Grey’s Anatomy
“GEORGE. EFFIN. O’MALLEY. I took a break from watching Grey’s for nearly 9 months after that trauma. I was devastated.” — Alex B.
Jen Lindley, Dawson’s Creek
Dawson’s Creek, a nostalgic favorite for many millennials, shocked viewers when Jen Lindley succumbed to cancer in the series finale—a twist no one saw coming.
Denny Duquette, Grey’s Anatomy
While McDreamy’s exit was harrowing, Denny’s was the first memorable and most heart-wrenching death on Grey’s Anatomy, and it still brings tears to my eyes.
Ziva David, NCIS
Ziva’s character had been absent for several seasons prior to her death, making the off-screen nature of her demise even more devastating, especially knowing she had Tony DiNozzo’s daughter without him ever knowing.
Poussey Washington, Orange is the New Black
In a series centered on prison life, Poussey’s death was unexpected and utterly heartbreaking, especially given the circumstances surrounding it.
Nate Fisher, Six Feet Under
“I’ve never cried as much as when Nate from Six Feet Under died. The entire finale is arguably the best episode of TV ever.” — Peter R.
Glenn, The Walking Dead
One of the most impactful deaths in a show filled with loss, and that’s saying something.
Dr. Lance Sweets, Bones
“I turn into a blubbering mess every time. Booth was away for months, Sweets had just helped Brennan, and then…” — Lisa M.
Will Gardner, The Good Wife
“I kept hoping he had faked his death and would return in every season finale.” — Emily S.
Mr. Hooper, Sesame Street
For many children, Mr. Hooper’s death was a poignant introduction to loss, and it was essential for the show to address the actor’s real-life passing rather than just recasting.
Wes Gibbons, How to Get Away With Murder
Despite the show’s title, Wes’s unexpected murder left viewers heartbroken.
Oberyn Martell, Game of Thrones
“With all the deaths in that series, his was one of the most tragic.” — Sarah L.
Richard Gilmore, Gilmore Girls
The revival of Gilmore Girls inevitably touched on Richard’s death, as the actor Edward Hermann passed away from brain cancer in 2014, leaving a significant void.
Opie, Sons of Anarchy
“I cried for HOURS. Honestly, I’m still not over it.” — Rachel K.
Hodor, Game of Thrones
Among the many losses in GOT, Hodor’s was particularly gut-wrenching.
Finn Hudson, Glee
Cory Monteith’s tragic real-life overdose forced the show to write Finn’s death, and Lea Michele’s rendition of “To Make You Feel My Love” still evokes sobs.
These characters may have exited their respective shows, but they remain alive in the hearts of fans. Which TV character death still lingers in your mind? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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