9 Darkest Moments in CW Shows That Shocked Audiences

Esther Performs a Gruesome Spell (The Vampire Diaries)

In The Vampire Diaries, Esther Mikaelson returns with a plan to gather her children in one place and kill them through a Linking spell. What makes this episode dark is not only Esther's approach to ending the family bloodline but also how her children are largely unaware of her plans.

Esther performs spell

Esther's dark intentions are further emphasized as she draws Elena's blood and ignites it in flames for the spell, creating an unsettling and chilling atmosphere.

Esther draws Elena's blood

Clarke's Devastating Decision (The 100)

In The 100, Clarke is faced with a difficult decision when she pulls a lever that transmits radiation from outside through the vents, effectively killing everyone in Mount Weather. This moment is particularly dark because much of the blame is put solely on Clarke, and it continues to haunt her throughout the series.

Bellamy and Clarke walk into dining hall of deceased Mount Weather people

Lex's Vulnerable Moment (Smallville)

In Smallville, Lex Luthor's darker side is revealed when he sends a hitman after his own brother, Grant Gabriel. This moment sets up Lex's villainous journey for the remainder of the series and provides a vulnerable look at the character, portrayed brilliantly by Michael Rosenbaum.

Lex screaming while rain pours down on him

Ontari's Ruthless Victory (The 100)

In The 100, Ontari's ruthless actions shock everyone as she takes a different approach to becoming the next Commander. By killing the other Nightbloods and holding up the head of a deceased child, she solidifies her role as the new Commander, continuing the theme of doing whatever it takes to survive in the series.

Ontari holds up head of deceased child

Stefan's Dark Transformation (The Vampire Diaries)

In The Vampire Diaries, Stefan's transformation into a Ripper is a stark contrast to his usual moral character. To save his brother, he agrees to return to his violent ways, showcasing a darker and more intense side that affects the entire series.

Stefan with blood pouring from his mouth

Octavia's Ruthless Reign (The 100)

In The 100, Octavia's dramatic character arc leads to her becoming known as Blodreina, showcasing a ruthless leadership style. Her time as the fierce leader adds darkness to her character and affects her relationship with others, particularly her brother Bellamy.

Octavia as Blodreina

Dean's Brutal Torture (Supernatural)

In Supernatural, Dean and Sam face brutal torture from a family that hunts people, a shocking twist as their enemy unexpectedly turns out to be humans. The human element of their torture makes this episode stand out from others in the series as being one of the darkest.

Dean captured by human family

Savitar's Devastating Deception (The Flash)

In The Flash, Savitar's deception leads to a devastating moment when he kills H.R. Wells, disguising himself as Iris. This twist is partly relieving but still dark, adding emotional ups and downs to the storyline.

HR Wells' Death

Bloody Mary's Haunting Encounter (Supernatural)

In Supernatural, the encounter with Bloody Mary takes a dark turn as Sam is taunted about the guilt he feels, adding another element of darkness to the storyline. The episode's approach to the urban legend and the haunting encounter with Sam makes it particularly dark.

Evil version of Sam looking through the mirror at vulnerable and emotional Sam