15 TV Shows That Kill Off The Main Character

In some television series, main characters are always protected from harm, whereas others dare to conclude the protagonist’s journey on-screen. These choices might occur at the climax of the series or unexpectedly in the beginning, altering the entire plot thereafter, but ultimately a character’s demise significantly shapes the narrative of the show.

This list gathers television series where the main character meets their demise within the narrative, whether it’s at the end, during a crucial episode midway through, or in a standalone episode that contributes to the overall continuity. For each title, you will discover explicit details about who perishes, when this event takes place in the storyline, and how the show handles the subsequent consequences.

‘Breaking Bad’ (2008–2013)

In the final episode of ‘Breaking Bad’, Walter White meets his end by being shot in a lab setup that not only frees Jesse but also dismantles a criminal organization that had seized control of his enterprise. His journey, which initially aimed to ensure his family’s financial security, culminates with this fatal gunshot wound.

In the concluding episode, it’s evident how Walter’s choices impact the other characters, resolving ongoing disputes. The authorities are hot on his trail, and there’s no room for doubt that this is Walter’s final appearance on-screen.

‘Dexter: New Blood’ (2021–2022)

In the final episode of ‘Dexter: New Blood’, it’s Harrison who ends up taking his father’s life after discovering the shocking truth about his killing spree. The events in Iron Lake show Dexter violating his own moral code, a crucial moment that ultimately leads to his demise.

In this series, the character’s journey reaches its conclusion with their demise, providing a final resolution. Furthermore, it depicts Harrison’s immediate post-departure experiences, ultimately wrapping up the lengthy narrative of the forensic analyst who was also a serial killer in a decisive manner.

‘Sons of Anarchy’ (2008–2014)

In the final moments of ‘Sons of Anarchy’, Jax Teller meets his demise as he crashes his motorcycle into a truck on the highway. Prior to this tragic event, he resolved outstanding issues, bid farewell to his family, and secured the club’s future without his presence.

In simpler terms, the final scenes portray his death as the culmination of a brutal cycle of events. Subsequently, the series illustrates the journey of the club members and those close to him, as they navigate life without their leader and crucial focal point.

‘Spartacus’ (2010–2013)

In the closing conflict with Roman troops, as depicted in ‘Spartacus’, the title character meets his end. The narrative chronicles the rebellion’s progression right up to its climactic finale, mirroring the authentic account of Spartacus, the gladiator who spearheaded the revolt.

In the wake of events, it’s evident that surviving comrades are fleeing, as Rome regains authority once more. The finale pays tribute to the rebellion’s influence by remembering its slain leader and his legacy.

‘Game of Thrones’ (2011–2019)

At the conclusion of the first season of ‘Game of Thrones’, Eddard Stark meets his end through execution in the city’s heart. Being the primary character in the early scenes, his demise profoundly alters the political terrain and sets numerous plotlines in motion.

After this incident, the Stark clan splits up and fresh power battles ignite throughout the kingdom. As the show goes on, it centers around a diverse group of characters, but it’s Ned’s demise that initiates the prolonged conflict.

‘Vikings’ (2013–2020)

In ‘Vikings’, Ragnar Lothbrok meets his end after being taken prisoner by King Aelle, who subsequently executes him. The show depicts his final moments in a snake-filled pit, thus marking the conclusion of the journey and exploits of the fearless explorer and marauder whose deeds significantly shaped the early parts of the series.

Following Ragnar’s passing, the focus of the story shifts towards the aspirations of his sons as they engage in battles and form strategic partnerships. The series employs Ragnar’s absence to ignite fresh conflicts and to delve into the enduring impact he has left on those around him.

‘Power’ (2014–2020)

As a devoted admirer of the Power series, I must admit that the final season left me utterly shaken – much like the character of Ghost (James St Patrick) himself, who met his untimely end in his own nightclub. The identity of the shooter remains cloaked in mystery throughout the gripping finale, adding a layer of suspense and intrigue that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

In those final episodes, we witness Ghost’s death send shockwaves through the delicate balance of alliances and rivalries, creating chaos and upheaval within the drug-laden underworld. The series masterfully depicts how one man’s life can have such a profound impact on an entire community, making it impossible not to feel the weight of his loss.

Despite Ghost’s demise, Power continues to deliver gripping performances, intricate plotlines, and unpredictable twists that will undoubtedly leave fans craving for more. If you haven’t already dived into this gritty drama, I highly recommend it – but be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions!

As I delve deeper into the narrative, I find myself navigating the repercussions of Ghost’s criminal empire and political ambitions unfold, touching lives of various characters associated with him. His demise not only marks a turning point in the storyline but also sets off a chain of events that continue to unfold with fresh leads taking center stage.

‘House of Cards’ (2013–2018)

In the opening of the last season of ‘House of Cards’, it’s revealed that Frank Underwood has passed away off-camera. This event sends ripples through the upper echelons of government, sparking speculation about who might profit from his departure and what implications his death could have on the political landscape.

The story explores the aftermath of his death, outlining both legal and personal repercussions such as disputes over his inheritance and authority in leadership. It positions his death as an unsolved puzzle, shifting attention towards individuals who seize power in the ensuing power void.

‘Boardwalk Empire’ (2010–2014)

In the last episode of ‘Boardwalk Empire’, Enoch Thompson, also known as Nucky Thompson, meets his end when he’s fatally shot on the very boardwalk where his journey began. It’s none other than Tommy Darmody who takes his life, a revelation that ties the finale to a family lineage long hurt by Nucky’s actions in years gone by.

In simpler terms, the finale incorporates flashbacks to reveal how previous decisions culminated in the current situation. By concluding with the protagonist’s demise at a location emblematic of his triumph as well as his fall, the show wraps up its exploration of crime and politics.

‘Bates Motel’ (2013–2017)

In the final episode of ‘Bates Motel’, Norman Bates is fatally shot by his brother Dylan in an act of compassion. As Norman’s multiple personalities disintegrate and the authorities approach, the narrative circles back to the family’s grim past, mirroring their enduring tragic legacy.

In the final sequences, we witness how Dylan and others deal with the aftermath of the events. The series skillfully employs this event to connect its contemporary adaptation with the legendary lore that influenced it, while providing a definitive conclusion to Norman’s narrative.

‘Penny Dreadful’ (2014–2016)

At the finale of ‘Penny Dreadful’, Vanessa Ives meets her end when Ethan takes aim and fires, an action aimed at averting a disaster rooted in otherworldly powers. Her choice and the subsequent event manage to check the encroaching shadows, effectively resolving the main storyline conflict.

In the final scene, we see the group scattering and paying tribute to her memory. The show portrays Vanessa’s demise as the culmination of the conflict that initially brought all characters together, and as the instance that ushers in a delicate truce.

‘Narcos’ (2015–2017)

In the television series ‘Narcos’, infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar meets his end on a rooftop in Medellín, following a relentless manhunt that unfolds over two seasons. Colombian law enforcement and military forces, employing advanced surveillance systems and informants, persistently tracked him until they successfully cornered him.

After Escobar’s demise, the narrative of the show transitions to depict the emergence of a new power hierarchy. It delves into how authorities and competing drug dealers swiftly reorganize the illicit drug market in his absence.

‘Prison Break’ (2005–2017)

In the final episode of ‘Prison Break,’ titled ‘The Ultimate Escape,’ Michael Scofield selflessly gives up his life to rescue Sara. The storyline reveals that this was his meticulously planned strategy, with a lethal electrical mishap being the unfortunate consequence that ensured her freedom from a highly secure predicament.

Later on, it becomes clear that he managed to live on, albeit in a different way due to circumstances, but during the initial series, his death served as the conclusive end. The narrative explores the landmarks where his friends and family paid tribute, emphasizing their belief that he was no longer among them.

‘Lost’ (2004–2010)

In the final episode of ‘Lost’, Jack Shephard passes away following his successful reactivation of the island’s energy core. His final moments occur within the grove of bamboo, a place that marked the start of his odyssey, gazing up at the heavens as the plane carrying his companions soars into the sky.

In the end, it alternates between depicting his last moments and wrapping up other characters’ plots. The series concludes with Jack’s demise, serving as a conclusion to the leadership role he held during the survival storyline.

‘Supernatural’ (2005–2020)

In the concluding season of ‘Supernatural’, Dean Winchester meets his end during a perilous chase, an event that proves fatal for him. The story unfolds as we witness his heartfelt dialogue with Sam beforehand, and subsequently, we find ourselves delving into Dean’s afterlife experiences. Later on, in this mystical realm, he is reunited with his brother, Sam.

In the final sequences, we follow Sam’s life as it progresses through the years and comes to an end. The series employs Dean’s demise as a means to depict the conclusions of both brothers and to provide a conclusive ending to their lengthy journey.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d love to hear your recommendations on series where they offed a major character. Drop them down below and let’s exchange thoughts!

2025-08-29 18:47