9 TV Show Characters Who Only Lasted One Season

Jason DiLaurentis From Pretty Little Liars

In the world of TV shows, casting choices can have a significant impact on the series' success. Jason DiLaurentis, the older brother of the missing Alison, was initially portrayed by Parker Bagley in season 1 of Pretty Little Liars. However, the character was recast with Drew Van Acker in season 2, allowing the showrunners to explore a different creative direction for the character.

Parker Bagley and Drew Van Acker as Jason in Pretty Little Liars

Robin Hood From Once Upon A Time

The character of Robin Hood made a brief appearance in season 2 of Once Upon a Time, portrayed by Tom Ellis. However, the role was later taken over by Sean Maguire, allowing the show to realize their vision for the character as a more integral player in the story.

Tom Ellis and Sean Maguire as Robin Hood in Once Upon a Time

James Kent From True Blood

Luke Grimes initially portrayed James in True Blood season 6, but the role was recast with Nathan Parsons in the show's final season. The recast enabled the creative team to stay true to their vision for the character despite the actor's departure due to creative differences.

Luke Grimes and Nathan Parsons as James in True Blood

Kate Kane From Batwoman

Ruby Rose played the title character in CW's Batwoman series for one season before being replaced by Wallis Day. This change led to the creation of a new character, Ryan Wilder, as Batwoman, and allowed the show to take a different direction.

Ruby Rose and Wallis Day as Batwoman

Reggie Mantle From Riverdale

Ross Butler originated the role of Reggie Mantle in season 1 of Riverdale but was later replaced by Charles Melton due to scheduling conflicts. The recast allowed the show to continue the character's storyline with a new actor stepping into the role.

Ross Butler and Charles Melton as Reggie from Riverdale

Mandy From Shameless

Jane Levy first played the role of Mandy Milkovich in season 1 of Shameless before being replaced by Emma Greenwell in season 2. The recast enabled the show to retain the character despite losing the original actress to a new opportunity.

Jane Levy and Emma Greenwell as Mandy on Shameless

Meg Griffin From Family Guy

Lacey Chabert originally voiced Meg Griffin for Family Guy's first season but was replaced by Mila Kunis in season 2. The character voiced by Kunis has maintained popularity among fans for the majority of the show’s run.

Meg reading a magazine on Family Guy

Daario Naharis From Game Of Thrones

Ed Skrein originated the role of Daario Naharis in Season 3 of Game of Thrones but was replaced by Michiel Huisman in season 4 due to reported 'political differences' with the studio. The recast allowed the show to move forward with the role of a new actor despite the unclear circumstances surrounding Skrein's exit.

Ed Skrein and Michael Huisman as Daario in Game of Thrones

Ann Veal From Arrested Development

Alessandra Torresani initially portrayed Ann Veal in a single first-season episode of Arrested Development. However, Mae Whitman took over the role, transforming Ann from a potentially forgettable character into a memorably odd presence.

Alessandra Torresani and Mae Whitman in Arrested Development