10 Shocking TV Betrayals That Left Fans Furious (And Unforgiving)

Summary

Some TV betrayals were not given enough time to be properly addressed and forgiven, even in the best TV shows of all time.

The characters engaging in betrayals should possess a sound mental state, heightening the impact of their decision to betray loved ones while also highlighting their lack of accountability. Even the most exceptional television characters are not exempt from facing the repercussions of their betrayals, and it is essential that they take responsibility for their actions.

Given the contradictions in life, it may seem easier to overlook the divisive actions of characters. However, there are instances on TV where betrayals were not adequately addressed. When two characters share a strong bond, forgiveness becomes crucial, especially when they have always been reliable. Nevertheless, there are errors that are too significant to move past, and even if forgiveness is possible, they are not given sufficient time to properly heal. It is important for characters to be held accountable for their actions, even in the greatest TV shows.

The need for a more detailed exploration of TV betrayals does not arise from possession or lack of autonomy on the part of the betrayer. For the betrayal storyline to carry weight, the characters involved must be of sound mind and capable of making their own decisions. This amplifies the impact of their choice to betray friends and family and exposes their lack of accountability. Not even the most exceptional TV characters are exempt from this.

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10 Bruce Wayne (Gotham)

In Gotham, amidst the chaos and unpredictability, one constant was the unshakeable bond between Bruce and his loyal butler, Alfred. Alfred played the vital role of a father figure to Bruce, offering unwavering support both before and after the tragic loss of his parents. However, in season 4, Bruce, tormented by the repercussions of mind control and the near-fatality of Alfred, finds himself succumbing to amplified teenage clichés. Engaging in excessive drinking and reckless partying, he impulsively lashes out at Alfred, severing their relationship by firing him. While Bruce does eventually express remorse and apologize, the hasty betrayal of the person who had consistently stood by his side is not given sufficient attention.

9 Neal Caffrey (White Collar)

White Collar centers around the unlikely friendship between a criminal and an FBI agent, naturally leading to betrayals and disagreements. However, Neal's fate in the White Collar finale raises questions. Upon realizing that the FBI will never release him, Neal orchestrates his own death as a ruse. Regrettably, he fails to inform his two closest friends, leaving them to grieve his loss. Eventually, Neal sends them subtle clues that he is indeed alive. While it is understandable that his friends would feel relieved by his survival, their lack of anger towards the pain he caused is surprising.

8 Jesse St. James (Glee)

Glee, one of the most extravagant and extravagant shows in television history, covered every possible storyline. Among the numerous betrayals, one that stood out was the betrayal by Jesse St. James. He portrayed a love interest for Rachel Berry, played by Lea Michelle, and even joined her glee club. However, it was later revealed that he was actually a spy for a rival club and never truly cared for her. Despite this revelation being discussed at length, it felt like everyone quickly moved on, considering the shocking and hurtful nature of the prank.

7 Bobby Nash (911)

Bobby Nash plays a crucial role as a father figure to Buck in 911. However, his excessive protectiveness towards Buck sometimes leads him astray. In the third season, Buck suffers from severe injuries and numerous traumatic experiences, including a ladder truck bombing, an embolism, and a tsunami. Despite receiving clearance from doctors and passing his recertification test, Buck is unjustly prevented from returning to work. It is later revealed that Bobby is responsible for this obstruction, prompting Buck to file a lawsuit. While Buck's actions receive significant coverage over several episodes, the initial betrayal by Bobby is never further explored or discussed beyond its initial mention.

6 Bobbi Morse and Alphonso “Mack” Mackenzie (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.)

Infamous betrayals within Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. include Grant Ward and the Doctor. However, the secret plan devised by Bobbi and Mack to overthrow the S.H.I.E.L.D. leadership for their own division remains unspoken of. Their actions resulted in their own team being forced to go on the run, and their relationships being betrayed. Although the show dedicated half a season to this betrayal, it never delved into their apologies or efforts to make amends. Throughout, Bobbi and Mack truly believed their actions were justified, until season 3 introduced their return as part of the team.

5 Mike Wheeler (Stranger Things)

Stranger Things is no stranger to tumultuous relationships and possessions, but there is one betrayal that cannot be blamed on an otherworldly being. In episode 3 of season 3, titled "Chapter 3: The Case Of The Missing Lifeguard", Mike and Will find themselves having a heated confrontation in the rain. This all starts when Mike and Lucas refuse to participate in Will's Dungeons and Dragons campaign. Instead of immediately apologizing for his behavior, Mike makes a comment about Will's sexuality and argues that Will was mistaken in thinking their friendship could remain the same after they started dating. The story quickly moves on, leaving Mike without an opportunity to truly apologize and leaving their fractured friendship unaddressed.

4 Dean Winchester (Supernatural)

The Winchester brothers have a recurring pattern of claiming the moral high ground, with the roles shifting between them each season. However, amidst this ongoing rivalry, one of Dean's most significant betrayals often goes unnoticed. In season 9, in a desperate attempt to save Sam's life after the trials, Dean employs a deceitful tactic by manipulating Sam into granting permission for an angel to possess him. It is important to note that Sam had previously experienced the possession of Lucifer and was struggling to find his own identity once again. Dean is well aware that his actions constitute a breach of trust. Although the brothers briefly confront this issue, the focus eventually shifts when Dean is marked with the infamous Mark of Cain, diverting attention to the impending apocalypse that lies ahead.

3 Scott McCall (Teen Wolf)

Scott McCall, the resident hero of Beacon Hills, is commonly portrayed as a selfless and lovable character. However, he frequently makes questionable choices that have negative consequences for others, even his closest friend. Stiles Stilinski has been by Scott's side since before he was bitten by a werewolf, yet Scott rarely returns the favor. In Season 5, Stiles was unjustly accused of killing a dangerous individual who was intent on harming him and his father. Although the death was accidental and an act of self-defense, Scott refused to believe Stiles and essentially exiled him from the pack.

2 Nathan Shelley (Ted Lasso)

Ted Lasso revolves around the themes of optimism and second chances, which are generally commendable. However, the magnitude of Nathan Shelley's betrayal towards Ted seems unforgivable. Despite being fully aware of Coach Lasso's struggles with anxiety and panic attacks, Nathan exploited this vulnerability by publicizing it, resulting in a significant backlash from the media. Moreover, he subsequently joined AFC Richmond's rival team as their head coach. While forgiveness may be consistent with the Ted Lasso philosophy, Nathan Shelley failed to take sufficient measures to rectify his wrongdoings and alleviate the pain he inflicted.

1 Rupert Giles (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)

In season 3, episode 12 titled "Helpless", Buffy experiences a gradual loss of her slaying abilities, ultimately rendering her defenseless and vulnerable. Midway through the episode, there is a significant scene where Giles, her mentor and Watcher, administers an injection to Buffy while she is under hypnosis. It is later revealed that Giles is responsible for stripping her powers away. Despite experiencing immense guilt and even confronting the Council, Giles's actions cannot be excused as he proceeds with the plan, leaving Buffy in grave jeopardy. Surprisingly, the episode concludes with Giles being forgiven without any further mention of his betrayal throughout the remainder of the TV series.