10 TV Characters Derailed by Their Own Evolution

Most TV shows feature characters who evolve throughout the series, but not all changes are for the better. Each show typically has a central storyline that develops over time, often revolving around the main characters. While some shows may explore a specific setting or time period, it ultimately comes down to how the characters drive the narrative forward and undergo personal growth.

Although many character developments aim to make them more appealing, there are instances where characters become worse as the series progresses. Whether they take on a villainous role that alienates viewers or simply become more irritating, these characters exhibit negative growth. However, if this change aligns with the overall story, it can still be engaging and draw viewers in to see how it all unfolds.

Walter White

Breaking Bad

Bryan Cranston as Walter White looking at Larry Hankin as Old Joe in Breaking Bad season 5

In Breaking Bad, Walter White is a prime example of how a character's development can benefit a show. The series is widely regarded as one of the best ever written, with a gripping storyline that keeps viewers hooked. However, Walter's character doesn't exactly improve as the show progresses. While he gains a backbone to confront those who wronged him, he also descends into becoming a drug lord, engaging in violent acts and neglecting his family.

Toby Cavanaugh

Pretty Little Liars

Keegan Allen as Toby Cavanaugh looking mysteriously on Pretty Little Liars

Pretty Little Liars is known for its characters undergoing drastic changes from season to season without much explanation. Toby Cavanaugh, Spencer Hastings' boyfriend, is a prime example of this. Throughout the show, Toby went from being a caring and protective boyfriend to becoming aloof, angry, and unpredictable. By the end of the series, he even turned against the girls and became a police officer, making him a character that many viewers found unlikeable.

James Olsen

Supergirl

James Olsen In Supergirl Gryffindor

In the comics, Jimmy Olsen is known as Superman's best friend, usually depicted as a young and unassuming guy. However, in Supergirl, the character is reimagined as an older, successful businessman who takes on the role of a protector and defender of others. Despite forming a friendship with Kara Danvers, aka Supergirl, Jimmy sometimes comes off as overprotective and controlling towards her. He may not be very likeable in the beginning, but he eventually steps up to become a hero in his own right, fulfilling his desire to help and defend those in need.

Eric Forman

That '70s Show

Eric Sitting at the Kitchen Table and Looking Scared in That '70s Show - Eric Forman

In the early episodes of That '70s Show, Eric and his neighbor Donna start a romantic relationship and fall in love. They become known as the perfect couple throughout most of the series. However, towards the end, Eric begins to doubt himself and seeks meaning in other aspects of life. He ends up leaving his friends, family, and Donna behind to explore the world. While it was important for him to find himself, he did so without considering the feelings of those he cared about, neglecting to communicate with them beforehand.

Jess Day

New Girl

Jess (Zooey Deschanel) with a triangle in a bathroom stall in New Girl - Jess Day

In the TV show New Girl, Jess Day's character goes through a journey of self-confidence. She starts off feeling low after a breakup but gains confidence with the support of her roommates. However, the series seemed to face challenges in maintaining her character development. Jess later regressed, becoming less confident and sometimes sidelined to focus on other characters' stories.

Rory Gilmore

Gilmore Girls

Rory Doing A Review in Gilmore Girls - Rory Gilmore

Rory Gilmore and her mother, Lorelai, had a special bond in Gilmore Girls. They always encouraged each other to strive for the best. Rory, being very smart, took on a lot of responsibilities at home while her mom worked hard as a single parent. However, this sometimes took a toll on Rory, causing her to struggle with failures, rejections, and making decisions about her own future. Rory often let the opinions of those around her, especially her mother, influence her choices, even if it meant sacrificing her own happiness.

Andy Bernard

The Office

Ed Helms as Andy Bernard in The Office

Andy Bernard first joined The Office when Jim transferred to the Stamford branch. At first, he was a bit irritating with his quirky habits, but as he integrated into the Scranton team, he became a fan favorite. However, Andy faced challenges that led to a midlife crisis, causing him to act out in negative ways. It wasn't until the final episodes that he found redemption after hitting rock bottom.

Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock

Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes, sitting and looking up in the BBC Sherlock Season 4 Finale

Sherlock initially started off as a character who was hard to like, but eventually started opening up to his friends. However, in the final season, it seemed like much of that progress was undone. Even though Sherlock only had four seasons and 15 episodes, his character underwent significant changes. He transitioned from being self-centered and indifferent to showing a bit of compassion, only to regress in the last season by prioritizing puzzles over people. Despite frequently hurting those who care about him the most, they continue to overlook his flaws and stand by his side.

Britta Perry

Community

Britta Looking Dishevelled in Community - Britta Perry

Britta is portrayed as a complex character in the TV show Community. She struggles with finding her place and often tries too hard to fit in by following trends. This desire for approval leads her to make poor decisions, causing frustration and pain for her friends and distancing her from those around her. While she does have moments of redemption, Britta is more often seen as a problem that her friends must deal with or steer clear of, as her character tends to exhibit negative growth throughout the series.

Gregory House

House

Hugh Laurie as Gregory House in House

Gregory House, a character in the show House, starts off as a brilliant doctor with some quirky habits. However, as the series progresses, he becomes more toxic. Unfortunately, he ends up pushing away all the good things in his life and causing resentment among those around him. His dependency on vicodin also worsens over time. While he may save lives, his behavior inflicts pain and suffering on his friends. This eventually leads to him losing his medical license, spending time in prison and psychiatric hospitals, and struggling to maintain healthy relationships.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the dynamic nature of character development in TV shows, highlighting both positive and negative transformations. While some characters evolve for the better, becoming more relatable and inspiring, others take a downward trajectory, alienating viewers or becoming unlikeable. The examples provided showcase the nuanced ways in which characters can grow or regress, emphasizing the impact of their actions on the narrative and audience engagement.

Overall, the article underscores the importance of character development in driving the plot and connecting with viewers. It demonstrates that both positive and negative changes can be compelling, as long as they align with the overall story and resonate with the audience. The examples of Walter White, Toby Cavanaugh, and Gregory House illustrate the complexities of human nature, showcasing characters who make both admirable and questionable choices, ultimately shaping the overall narrative of their respective shows.