Dawn Summers
Dawn Summers, the controversial character from Buffy The Vampire Slayer, should have met a different fate. Her death at the end of season 5 was a missed opportunity for the show to achieve a darker tone shift. Instead, her character stuck around until the end, resulting in missed narrative potential and repetitive storylines.
Dawn in Buffy
Jaime Lannister
Jaime Lannister's character development in Game of Thrones deserved a more honorable end. His throwaway death in the final season did not do justice to his arc. The Battle of Winterfell would have been a fitting conclusion to his journey, showcasing his honor and growth as a character.
Jaime Lannister Famous For His Swordsmanship
Elena Gilbert
Elena Gilbert's thick plot armor in The Vampire Diaries prevented a bold and shocking twist in the series. Her death in the season 6 finale would have allowed other characters to explore new story angles and move on from her constant need for rescue. A permanent departure would have added depth to the show's narrative.
Elena dead on the Vampire Diaries.
Eleven
Eleven's death in Stranger Things would have been a powerful conclusion to her arc. Losing her powers and then sacrificing herself to save the day would have added emotional depth to the series, emphasizing the consequences of using her abilities as a tool. Her ultimate sacrifice would have resonated with viewers, solidifying her impact on the story.
Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven looking determined in Stranger Things season 4
Glenn Rhee
Glenn's death in The Walking Dead was mishandled, robbing the series of a significant moment. His earlier death, before the cruel bait-and-switch, would have allowed the show to explore different character dynamics and avoid the disappointment of his eventual demise. A more meaningful exit for Glenn would have elevated the storytelling and emotional impact of the series.
Steven Yeun kneeling on the ground as Glenn looking at a baseball bat in The Walking Dead season 7.
Clarke Griffin
Clarke's near-death experience in The 100 should have been a game-changing event for the series. Her death from radiation poisoning would have shaken up the narrative, paving the way for new leadership and story developments. Embracing the shock factor of her demise would have revitalized the show's storytelling and character dynamics.
Clarke and her friendslook upset in a warehouse in The 100
Michael Cordero Jr.
Michael's return in Jane The Virgin detracted from the impact of his supposed death. A permanent departure after his initial death would have allowed Jane to move forward and explore new relationships, without the burden of his return with amnesia. His lingering presence overshadowed the show's progression, missing an opportunity for meaningful character growth.
Michael Cordero's death in the Jane the Virgin episode Chapter 54
Izzie Stevens
Izzie's survival in Grey's Anatomy diminished the potential for a poignant exit. Her death during her cancer treatment would have concluded her storyline on a positive note and freed the characters from the lingering effects of her abrupt departure. A bolder narrative choice would have added depth to the show's emotional landscape and character relationships.
Katherine Heigl as Izzie Stevens in Grey's Anatomy S06E12
Ezra Fitzgerald
Ezra's controversial character arc in Pretty Little Liars warranted a different fate. His death in the season 4 finale would have provided closure and redemption, sparing the audience from his lingering presence. A merciful end to his character would have aligned with the show's tone and character development, offering a more satisfying conclusion.
Ezra talking to Aria on Pretty Little Liars
David Nolan / Prince Charming
David's sacrifice in Once Upon A Time should have been permanent, adding weight to the series. His return detracted from the impact of his heroic act, and a conclusive death would have elevated the show's stakes and character relationships. A more impactful conclusion for David's character would have resonated with the audience, underscoring the significance of his sacrifice.
David Nolan and Mary Margaret in Once Upon A Time