9 Morally Complex Characters Who Evolve From Gray to Hero or Villain

Walter White From Breaking Bad

Walter White, the iconic character from Breaking Bad, embarks on a transformational journey that takes him from a morally gray antihero to an undeniable villain. Initially driven by a cancer diagnosis and the need to provide for his family, Walter's descent into the criminal underworld leads to increasingly sinister actions.

Bryan Cranston as Walter White talks on the phone in Breaking Bad

As the AMC series progresses, Bryan Cranston's character becomes complicit in unspeakable acts, including allowing the torture of his former partner and orchestrating the deaths of allies and children. This chilling evolution culminates in Walter's transformation into a ruthless and cold-hearted villain, painting a haunting portrait of moral decay.

Walter White Wearing a Green Shirt and Holding a Gun in the Breaking Bad Pilot

The Hound From Game Of Thrones

The Hound, initially perceived as a villain in Game of Thrones, undergoes a profound change of heart, transitioning from a morally ambiguous figure to a complex antihero. Despite a history of violence and brutality, his actions, such as protecting Arya Stark and aiding in the battle against the White Walkers, reveal a nuanced moral compass.

Rory McCann as the Hound ready to face the Mountain in Game of Thrones season 8

His transformation into one of the show's 'good guys' is solidified when he imparts wisdom to Arya, emphasizing the importance of living life rather than seeking revenge. This captivating evolution challenges traditional perceptions of character morality, adding depth and complexity to his narrative arc.

Lexa sits on her throne in The 100

Lexa From The 100

Lexa, a product of her Grounder upbringing in The 100, initially embodies a morally complex persona, embracing ruthless leadership and a vengeful mindset. However, her encounters with Clarke propel her towards a transformative journey, inspiring a shift towards a more peaceful and benevolent path.

Clarke and Lexa from The 100 looking at each other

Her pivotal decision to prioritize her people's safety over vengeance marks a significant turning point, solidifying her evolution from a morally ambiguous antihero to a beacon of hope and leadership. Lexa's profound transformation showcases the power of influence and the capacity for change within morally complex characters.

Lexa looks worried with black paint on her face in The 100.

Prince Zuko From Avatar: The Last Airbender

Prince Zuko, initially portrayed as a villain in Avatar: The Last Airbender, defies conventional character archetypes by embodying shades of gray from the outset. Despite his allegiance to the Fire Nation, glimpses of inner goodness and conflict within Zuko foreshadow his eventual transition from a morally ambiguous antagonist to a true hero.

Zuko in Avatar The Last Airbender

His decision to join Team Avatar in the series' later seasons marks a pivotal moment, symbolizing his redemption and transformation into a beacon of heroism. Zuko's compelling evolution challenges the notion of fixed morality and showcases the potential for profound character growth.

Zuko and Aang learn the Dragon Dance in Avatar The Last Airbender

Jax Teller From Sons Of Anarchy

Jax Teller, the complex protagonist of Sons of Anarchy, embarks on a tumultuous journey from an antihero driven by good intentions to a morally ambiguous figure teetering on the edge of villainy. Initially motivated by a desire for a better life for his child, Jax's questionable actions gradually erode his moral compass.

Charlie Hunnam as Jax Teller on Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014)

As the series unfolds, his descent into darkness becomes pronounced, culminating in ruthless acts and a cruel demeanor that starkly contrasts with his initial aspirations. Jax's transformation serves as a stark portrayal of the thin line between heroism and villainy within morally complex characters.

Sawyer From Lost

Sawyer, a captivating character from Lost, undergoes a captivating evolution from an antagonistic figure to an influential leader. Initially driven by self-interest and a prickly exterior, Sawyer's interactions with his fellow survivors lead to a profound shift in his demeanor and moral compass.

Josh Holloway as Sawyer looking sad and tired in Lost

His remarkable turnaround, marked by a transformation into a compassionate and authoritative figure, challenges traditional character arcs and offers a compelling exploration of moral complexity and growth. Sawyer's evolution serves as a testament to the transformative power of human connection and empathy.

Marty Byrde From Ozark

Marty Byrde, the morally complex character from Ozark, embarks on a gripping journey from questionable morals to outright villainy. His involvement in money laundering for a drug cartel sets the stage for a gradual descent into moral darkness, marked by increasingly ruthless and unforgivable actions.

Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) looking surprised in Ozark

As the Netflix series unfolds, Marty's willingness to sacrifice others for self-preservation solidifies his transformation into an undeniable villain, challenging perceptions of character morality and portraying the harrowing consequences of unchecked ambition.

Din Djarin From The Mandalorian

Din Djarin, initially a morally gray character in The Mandalorian, undergoes a remarkable evolution from self-serving interests to unwavering heroism. His journey, marked by a growing connection with Grogu, catalyzes a profound shift in his priorities and actions, transforming him into a steadfast and honorable guardian.

The Mandalorian season 2 episide 6 Din Djarin

Throughout The Mandalorian's compelling narrative, Din Djarin's evolution challenges preconceived notions of character morality, offering a poignant exploration of redemption and the transformative power of genuine connections.

Daenerys Targaryen From Game Of Thrones

Daenerys Targaryen, a central figure in Game of Thrones, navigates a morally complex path that culminates in a dramatic transformation from hero to villain. Her initial acts of liberation and benevolence are overshadowed by increasingly ruthless and questionable decisions, leading to a descent into darkness.

Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen looking at the Iron Throne in Game of Thrones season 8.

The pivotal moment of her transformation into the 'Mad Queen' challenges traditional perceptions of character morality, offering a poignant exploration of the complexities of power and the capacity for individuals to embrace their darker impulses.

Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones.

Loki From Loki

Loki, a dynamic figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, undergoes a compelling evolution from oscillating between villainy and antiheroism to embracing heroism. His transformative journey, marked by pivotal choices and sacrifices, solidifies his transition from morally ambiguous to unequivocally heroic.

Tom Hiddleston As God Loki Reaching Out Amongst The Strands Of The Multiverse In The Loki Season 2 Finale

The conclusion of Loki's arc in the Marvel franchise challenges established character dynamics, highlighting the potential for profound growth and redemption within morally complex individuals.