10 TV Characters Who Underwent Dramatic Transformations in Their Show's Last Season

TV characters don't always undergo drastic changes, but some TV shows transform their characters beyond recognition. Unlike movies, TV series are not typically centered on change. Since many shows are designed to run indefinitely, it is not beneficial for the writers if the characters quickly resolve their issues. If a character overcomes their main flaw too soon, the show can become boring because there is no natural progression for their development. However, this is just one approach to creating a TV series, as some shows focus on telling stories of characters gradually evolving.

In some TV shows, characters undergo significant transformations by the time the final season airs, as it can be challenging to maintain freshness throughout. Characters may find themselves caught up in these major changes. Some character developments are intentional and planned from the start, while others may arise as the writers discover new and intriguing directions for the show. Regardless of the reason, the contrast in how a character behaves from their initial to final appearance can be quite surprising. Even if a character's evolution is slow and gradual, the stark difference can still be jarring.

Peggy Olson

Played by Elisabeth Moss in Mad Men (2007-2015)

Peggy Olson (Elizabeth Moss) on Mad Men - Played by Elisabeth Moss in Mad Men (2007-2015)

In the first episode of Mad Men, Peggy starts her journey as a secretary at Sterling Cooper. Joan bluntly informs her that her main duty is to please the male copywriters, hinting that her only way to success is to marry one of them. However, Peggy has bigger dreams and by the end of the series, she has risen through the ranks. No longer just Don Draper's secretary, she is now seen as his intellectual equal based on her own achievements.

Eve Polastri

Played by Sandra Oh in Killing Eve (2018-2022)

Sandra Oh as Eve in Killing Eve - Played by Sandra Oh in Killing Eve (2018-2022) - Eve Polastri

Meet Eve, a dedicated British spy who becomes captivated by a dangerous assassin named Villanelle. Eve's fascination with Villanelle pushes her to question her mundane life, but she soon realizes she's in over her head. Tragedy strikes when a friend is pushed off a building and her husband meets a gruesome end, causing Eve to adopt a more reckless and impulsive approach to her work.

Jamie Tartt

Played by Phil Dunster in Ted Lasso (2020-2023)

Phil Dunster looking shocked as Jamie Tartt in Ted Lasso - Played by Phil Dunster in Ted Lasso (2020-2023)

Jamie thinks that he's above everyone else at AFC Richmond, and it takes a long time for him to eventually buy into Ted's optimistic worldview.

Daenerys Targaryen

Daenerys Targaryen is initially introduced as a vulnerable young woman who is controlled by her abusive brother, Viserys. Despite her difficult circumstances, she gradually transforms into a powerful and determined leader. Daenerys' journey is marked by her growth from a timid girl into a fearless queen who is unafraid to challenge the status quo. Through her experiences, she learns to trust her own instincts and embrace her true identity as the Mother of Dragons.

Played by Emilia Clarke in Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

Daenerys Targaryen right before she attacks King's Landing on Game of Thrones - Played by Emilia Clarke in Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

Eleanor Shellstrop

Eleanor Shellstrop undergoes significant growth and transformation throughout the series "The Good Place." She begins as a self-centered and morally questionable individual who mistakenly ends up in the afterlife's "Good Place." As she navigates this new world, she learns the value of selflessness, compassion, and personal growth. Eleanor's journey is a testament to the power of redemption and the possibility of change, even in the afterlife.

Played by Kristen Bell in The Good Place (2016-2020)

Shocked Eleanor with a Wine Glass in The Good Place - Played by Kristen Bell in The Good Place (2016-2020) - Eleanor Shellstrop

Sophie Chapman

Eleanor works in a call center that preys on elderly people, making it challenging for her to overcome her questionable morals. Her time in The Bad Place serves as a wake-up call for her, leading to a significant transformation. Among all the characters in The Bad Place, Eleanor stands out for her dedicated efforts towards self-improvement. Her relationship with Chidi in The Good Place plays a crucial role in her personal growth journey, teaching her to prioritize others over herself.

Played by Olivia Colman in Peep Show (2003-2015)

Mark and Sophie's wedding in Peep Show - Played by Olivia Colman in Peep Show (2003-2015) - Sophie Chapman

Matthew "Rickety Cricket" Mara's transformation on It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a prime example of a character who undergoes drastic changes for the worse. Initially introduced as a mild-mannered priest, Cricket's life takes a sharp turn for the worse after encountering the Gang. From being set on fire to losing an eye, Cricket's physical and mental well-being deteriorates rapidly throughout the series. By the later seasons, he is often seen living on the streets and engaging in various criminal activities, highlighting the destructive influence of the Gang on his life.

Played by David Hornsby in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005-)

Charlie taking to Cricket on the sidewalk in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. - Played by David Hornsby in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005-) - Matthew "Rickety Cricket" Mara

David Rose

David Rose is a well-respected priest with a stable job, but unfortunately, he is acquainted with the rowdy gang at Paddy's Pub. Making appearances in some of the most memorable episodes of It's Always Sunny, we witness the gradual decline of his life. Referred to as "Rickety Cricket" by the gang, he loses his job and home, leading him to seek solace in drugs. Despite the chaos they bring into his life, the gang still rely on Cricket for tasks like hunting or serving as a test subject for their wild schemes.

Played by Dan Levy in Schitt's Creek (2015-2020)

David in a field with a huge pitchfork in Schitt's Creek. - Played by Dan Levy in Schitt's Creek (2015-2020) - David Rose

Ross Geller

The entire Rose family has to adapt during their stay in the town of Schitt's Creek, but none of them change quite as profoundly as David. Although he is initially a spoiled, image-obsessed socialite, the town's folksy charm wins him over. He learns to care deeply about other people, and this even reshapes how he interacts with his own family. David becomes much less snobby and much more authentic over time. He finds a way to carve out his own niche in Schitt's Creek, even if his first impulse was to get out as soon as he possibly could.

Played by David Schwimmer in Friends (1994-2004)

Ross Geller wearing Frankie Say Relax t-shirt in Friends. - Played by David Schwimmer in Friends (1994-2004)

Ross undergoes a significant transformation throughout the 10 seasons of Friends. While every character evolves in their own way, Ross's change is the most drastic. Initially portrayed as shy and neurotic, his breakup with Rachel triggers a shift in his behavior. Suddenly, he starts displaying moments of comedic rage and engaging in slapstick humor. Ross transitions from being the serious one in the group to being just as quirky and wacky as his friends.

Walter White

Played by Bryan Cranston in Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Bryan Cranston as Walter White in his tighey whiteys with a gun in Breaking Bad - Played by Bryan Cranston in Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Breaking Bad was a groundbreaking show that dared to explore change rather than staying the same. The main character, Walter White, starts off as a regular chemistry teacher struggling in his personal and professional life. However, after being diagnosed with cancer, Walter's journey takes a dark turn towards violence and power. Transforming into the ruthless drug lord Heisenberg, Walter seeks to control and dominate others. Through some of his memorable quotes in Breaking Bad, we witness the gradual corruption of his character as he embraces his new life.

Editor's P/S:

This article delves into the captivating transformations undergone by characters in various TV shows. It showcases how these individuals evolve significantly throughout the series, often experiencing radical shifts in their personalities, motivations, and life circumstances. The examples provided highlight the power of storytelling to explore the complexities of human nature and the potential for profound change. It is intriguing to observe how writers can craft characters who initially appear one-dimensional but gradually reveal hidden depths and unexpected dimensions through their journeys.

The article's exploration of character development also raises questions about the nature of change and the factors that drive it. It suggests that while some transformations may be intentional and planned, others may arise from unforeseen circumstances or the discovery of new directions for the show. This underscores the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the creative process, where characters often take on a life of their own and evolve in ways that surprise even their creators.