19 TV Characters Who Defied the Odds
Some TV characters faced impossible challenges and still came out on top. Their stories of survival and resilience kept us on the edge of our seats. Here are 19 unforgettable characters who beat the odds.
1. Jesse Pinkman – “Breaking Bad”
Originally, Jesse Pinkman was meant to be killed off during the first season of “Breaking Bad.” However, Aaron Paul’s compelling performance and the character’s chemistry with Walter White made the show’s creator, Vince Gilligan, rethink this decision. Jesse went on to become a beloved, complex character throughout the show’s acclaimed run, deeply involved in its most pivotal moments.
2. Carol Peletier – “The Walking Dead”
In the early seasons of “The Walking Dead,” Carol Peletier was a relatively minor character who seemed unlikely to last long in a world overrun by zombies. However, as the seasons progressed, Carol transformed into a resourceful and resilient survivor, outliving many other characters who were initially considered more integral to the storyline.
3. Jack Shephard – “Lost”
“Lost” had a knack for keeping viewers guessing, and Jack Shephard’s fate was no exception. Initially, Jack was to die in the pilot, passing the leadership baton to Kate. However, the creators decided to keep Jack alive, making him the central hero of the series and a key figure throughout its complex narrative.
4. Steve Harrington – “Stranger Things”
Steve Harrington started off as the typical high school antagonist in “Stranger Things.” Planned to be killed off in the first season, his character arc took a turn for the better as he evolved into a fan-favorite ‘babysitter’ and protector of the younger main characters, showcasing significant growth and heroism.
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5. Spike – “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”
Spike was introduced in the second season of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” as a villain meant to be killed off. However, his popularity with fans and dynamic with the main cast led to him becoming a series regular, a complex anti-hero, and even a love interest for Buffy.
6. Castiel – “Supernatural”
The angel Castiel was initially intended for a short arc in the fourth season of “Supernatural.” Yet, Misha Collins’ portrayal won over fans, and Castiel became an indispensable ally to the Winchester brothers, remaining a major part of the series until its final season.
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7. Hodor – “Game of Thrones”
Hodor, known for his singular word “Hodor,” was initially a minor character in “Game of Thrones.” His tragic and heroic story arc, culminating in the revelation of why he says “Hodor,” made him a memorable and much-discussed character, far outlasting his originally planned brief appearance.
8. Bronn – “Game of Thrones”
Another “Game of Thrones” character, Bronn, was supposed to have a much shorter run. His pragmatic, witty personality and survival skills, however, made him a favorite among viewers and writers alike, keeping him around until the series’ end.
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9. Ben Linus – “Lost”
Ben Linus was another character on “Lost” who was meant to be temporary. Initially cast for a few episodes, Michael Emerson’s portrayal impressed the producers so much that Ben became a central figure, deeply entwined in the island’s mysteries and power struggles.
10. Chuck Bass – “Gossip Girl”
In the “Gossip Girl” book series, Chuck Bass is a peripheral character without much depth. On the TV show, however, Chuck’s character was expanded, and he survived throughout the series as a flawed but key character in the dramatic twists and turns of the Upper East Side’s elite.
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11. T-Dog – “The Walking Dead”
T-Dog was supposed to be killed off in the first season of “The Walking Dead.” His perseverance made him a beloved character among fans, and he survived until the third season, proving his worth and bravery in a post-apocalyptic world.
12. Paul “Jesus” Monroe – “The Walking Dead”
Another character from “The Walking Dead,” Jesus was planned to have a shorter arc. His martial arts skills and strategic mind, however, made him a fan favorite and a pivotal part of the group’s dynamics, extending his life span on the show.
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13. Mike Ehrmantraut – “Breaking Bad”
Mike Ehrmantraut was another “Breaking Bad” character who was supposed to exit the series early. His calm, professional demeanor and complex moral code resonated with viewers, leading to not only an extended role in “Breaking Bad” but also a significant part in the prequel series “Better Call Saul.”
14. Desmond Hume – “Lost”
Desmond Hume’s mysterious introduction on “Lost” was originally meant to be short-lived. However, his story became central to the series’ time-travel and existential themes, making him one of the show’s most important characters.
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15. Tara Chambler – “The Walking Dead”
Tara Chambler was expected to have a brief stint on “The Walking Dead,” but her likability and moral compass helped her survive several seasons, playing a crucial role in the development of the group and its strategies for survival.
16. Theodore “T-Bag” Bagwell – “Prison Break”
T-Bag from “Prison Break” was another character intended for a short run. His cunning and ruthless nature, however, made him a compelling antagonist who continued to influence the story throughout the series.
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17. Morgan Jones – “The Walking Dead”
Initially appearing in the first episode of “The Walking Dead,” Morgan was expected to appear only briefly. His character, however, returned several times, evolving into a main character whose journey was explored in depth, particularly his struggles with loss and morality.
18. Screech – “Saved by the Bell”
Screech was meant to be a side character in “Saved by the Bell,” providing comic relief. His popularity with the audience quickly made him a mainstay of the series, endearing him to fans for his quirky and lovable personality.
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19. Aria Montgomery – “Pretty Little Liars”
Aria Montgomery was another character who transcended her initial plot limitations. Originally intended to be more of a background character, Aria became one of the central figures in “Pretty Little Liars,” involved in many of the show’s key mysteries and dramas.
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