Top 10 Legendary TV Character Deaths That Left a Lasting Impact

Article Overview

Heroic TV deaths vary greatly, but the best ones feature beloved characters and excellent execution.

The heroism of a character's death is determined by the execution and the way the character is viewed prior to their demise.

In television history, numerous deaths have been regarded as heroic, as these characters selflessly sacrifice themselves to protect others, redeem themselves through acts of selflessness, and have a profound influence on the overall narrative.

TV shows often portray numerous heroic deaths, making it challenging to determine the most honorable sacrifices depicted within this medium. Heroism takes on various forms, and characters may sacrifice themselves for a multitude of reasons. Whether their selfless actions serve the greater good or aim to protect their loved ones, frequently, prominent TV characters meet their end valiantly.

The level of heroism found in a TV character's demise relies on how it is presented and the audience's perception of the character prior to their death. If a character sacrifices themselves to save the world, yet this moment remains unseen, it may not evoke as much heroism as if their death were showcased on-screen. Similarly, if a villain perishes while saving others, it is likely viewed as an act of redemption rather than heroism. Clearly, heroic deaths in TV shows differ significantly, with the best ones involving cherished characters and skillful execution.

10. Danny Whizz-Bang From Peaky Blinders

Dies Saving Tommy's Life

Peaky Blinders

Release Date: September 12, 2013

Cast: Annabelle Wallis, Ian Peck, Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson, Cillian Murphy, Ned Dennehy, Aimee-Ffion Edwards, Sam Neill, Sophie Rundle, Tony Pitts, Joe Cole

Genres: Crime, Drama, History, Thriller

Rating: TV-MA

Seasons: 6

Danny Whizz-Bang is a beloved character whose death in Peaky Blinders is considered one of the best. In season 1, Tommy fakes Danny's execution, and in return, Danny sacrifices his life by taking a bullet to save Tommy during the Blinders' confrontation with Billy Kimber. This moment is emotionally impactful, especially because earlier in the season it seemed that Danny had escaped death. Danny's act of heroism reflects the strong bond formed by the Small Heath Rifles during World War I, making it even more significant.

9. Father Beocca From The Last Kingdom

Takes An Arrow For Young Uhtred

The Last Kingdom

Release Date: October 5, 2015

Cast: Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Ian Hart, Eliza Butterworth, Eva Birthistle, Mark Rowley, Cavan Clerkin, Tobias Santelmann, David Dawson

Genres: Action, Drama, History

Seasons: 5

In The Last Kingdom, the character Father Beocca tragically meets his demise while shielding Uhtred's son, Young Uhtred, from an arrow. Father Beocca holds a special place in the hearts of viewers as he serves as a paternal figure to the protagonist, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. His selfless act of sacrificing himself to protect Uhtred's son is a poignant way for him to pass away, although it is undoubtedly difficult to accept. Although Beocca's bravery is unquestionable, the unexpected nature of this event suggests that better planning could have been employed. Additionally, saving a character of lesser significance prevents him from being ranked amongst the highest in the show.

8. T-Dog From The Walking Dead

Sacrifices Himself To Save Carol

The Walking Dead

Release Date: October 31, 2010

Cast: Steven Yeun, Andrew Lincoln, Chandler Riggs, Laurie Holden, Jeffrey DeMunn, Sarah Wayne Callies, Melissa McBride, Norman Reedus, Jon Bernthal, Iron E. Singleton

Genres: Horror, Thriller, Drama

Seasons: 11

Although T-Dog may not be considered a crucial character in The Walking Dead, his selfless act of sacrificing his life to save Carol during season 3 is truly heroic. Finding themselves without ammunition in a prison overrun by walkers, T-Dog chooses to stay behind and buy Carol some precious time. This particular death stands out as one of the best in The Walking Dead due to the significant impact Carol has in the subsequent storyline. Furthermore, the show effectively sets up T-Dog's demise in a heartbreaking manner, adding to its heroic nature. However, it can be said that T-Dog's sacrifice lacks the profundity achieved by certain other characters.

7. Portgas D. Ace From One Piece

Dies Saving Luffy

One Piece

Created by Eiichiro OdaFirst Film One Piece: The MovieFirst TV Show One PieceCast Kazuya Nakai, Akemi Okamura, Kappei Yamaguchi, Hiroaki Hirata, Ikue Ôtani, Yuriko Yamaguchi

Portgas D. Ace, the brother of Luffy D. Monkey in the popular One Piece anime, valiantly sacrifices himself in order to save his brother's life. This selfless act has a monumental effect on Luffy, transforming him into an even greater hero as the series progresses. The moment of Ace's demise takes place during an intense battle with Admiral Akainu, when he fearlessly jumps in front of his brother, shielding him from Akainu's scorching magma attack. The incredible heroism displayed in this tragic sacrifice is truly heart-wrenching to witness, and its profound impact on the story solidifies it as one of the most memorable and heroic deaths in the history of television.

6. Tess From The Last Of Us

Stays Behind To Buy Joel & Ellie Time

The Last Of Us

Release Date January 15, 2023Cast Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Gabriel Luna, Anna Torv, Merle Dandridge, Nick Offerman, Jeffrey PierceGenres Drama, Horror, AdventureSeasons 1

5. Theon Greyjoy From Game Of Thrones

The death of Tess in the first season of The Last of Us is not only emotionally challenging to witness but also serves as a crucial turning point in the story. In a selfless act, Tess sacrifices herself by detonating an entire infected-infested building, ensuring the safety of the main characters, Joel and Ellie. Despite her inevitability due to injuries inflicted by the infected, Tess's decision to remain behind and risk a horrifying demise before triggering the explosion showcases her heroism.

Dies Protecting Bran From The Night King

Game of Thrones, released on April 11, 2011, features an incredible cast including Emilia Clarke, Lena Headey, Richard Madden, Michelle Fairley, Kit Harington, Maisie Williams, Alfie Allen, and Peter Dinklage. This thrilling series spans across eight seasons and explores elements of drama, action, and adventure.

Theon Greyjoy's redemption arc in Game of Thrones is widely regarded as one of the greatest on television. His heroic death at the hands of the Night King, while protecting Bran, beautifully concludes his journey. Although Theon charging at the Night King seemed futile, he had already come to terms with his impending demise, and his decision to face death standing up is commendable. Furthermore, Theon's final moments provide Arya with the crucial time she needs to position herself and ultimately eliminate the Night King, thus saving Winterfell and all of Westeros. For these reasons, Theon's sacrifice stands as one of the most courageous deaths ever depicted on TV.

4. Charlie Pace From Lost

Dies Saving Desmond And The Others

Lost

Release Date: September 22, 2004

Cast: Evangeline Lilly, Naveen Andrews, Henry Ian Cusick, Daniel Dae Kim, Harold Perrineau, Dominic Monaghan, Emilie de Ravin, Jorge Garcia, Josh Holloway, Michael Emerson, Terry O'Quinn, Matthew Fox, Ken Leung, Elizabeth Mitchell, Yunjin Kim

Genres: Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Supernatural

Rating: TV-14

Seasons: 6

One of the most beloved characters in J.J. Abrams' popular series, Lost, is Charlie. His death in the show is both heroic and heartbreaking. Charlie sacrifices himself by swimming down to the Looking Glass Station and locking himself in the communications room, saving Desmond from drowning. He also leaves a crucial note on his hand for Desmond, revealing that the approaching boat is not Penny's. The show beautifully builds up Charlie's sacrifice, making his death incredibly impactful.

3. Bjorn Ironside From Vikings

Dies Inspiring His People In Battle

Vikings

Release Date: March 3, 2013

Cast: Travis Fimmel, Katheryn Winnick, Gustaf Skarsgård, Jessalyn Gilsig, Clive Standen, George Blagden

Genres: History, Drama, Action

Seasons: 6

Bjorn, a prominent character in Vikings, meets a legendary demise during season 6. Despite sustaining a severe injury in a battle against his brother Ivar, Bjorn displays immense resilience as he mounts his horse and leads his people back into the fray. With everyone believing Bjorn to be deceased, his unexpected appearance on a white horse to confront the Rus army inspires his people to rekindle their fighting spirit and ultimately save Norway. Bjorn's death, a remarkable spectacle, honorably preserves his country, solidifying it as one of the most heroic deaths in television history.

2. Eddie Munson From Stranger Things

Dies Fighting Demobats In The Upside Down

Stranger Things is a fantasy, horror, and drama series that had its release on July 15, 2016. The cast includes Finn Wolfhard, Joe Keery, Jamie Campbell Bower, Brett Gelman, Caleb McLaughlin, Maya Hawke, David Harbour, Matthew Modine, Priah Ferguson, Gaten Matarazzo, Winona Ryder, Charlie Heaton, Sadie Sink, Millie Bobby Brown, Joseph Quinn, Dacre Montgomery, Natalia Dyer, and Noah Schnapp. The series has a total of four seasons.

1. Hodor From Game Of Thrones

is a beloved character on one of the most popular TV shows. Although his time on the show is brief, his popularity quickly grows. The heartbreaking news of Eddie's death in season 4 is made somewhat easier to bear due to his courageous sacrifice. Eddie valiantly fights a horde of Demobats so that his friends can find a way to save Hawkins and protect Eleven from Vecna's destructive plans. The moment when Eddie dies in Dustin's arms is undeniably one of the most poignant scenes in Stranger Things. Despite the sadness, Eddie's heroism leaves a profound impact.

1. Hodor From Game Of Thrones

Game Of Thrones

Game of Thrones' Hodor's demise stands as the epitome of heroic television deaths. His selfless act of rescuing Bran, a pivotal figure in the battle against the White Walkers, coupled with the masterful execution of the moment, solidifies its status. The shocking revelation that Hodor's name is an abbreviation of "Hold the Door" ranks among the greatest plot twists in television history, amplified by its extensive buildup. Through his sacrifice, Hodor ultimately saves Westeros in the most gallant manner imaginable. While numerous daring deaths grace our screens, none can rival the unparalleled heroism displayed by Hodor.

Editor's P/S

1. Peaky Blinders: Danny Whizz-Bang's death in Peaky Blinders is one of the most iconic and memorable moments in the show. In season 1, Tommy fakes Danny's execution, and in return, Danny sacrifices his life by taking a bullet to save Tommy during the Blinders' confrontation with Billy Kimber. This moment is emotionally impactful, especially because earlier in the season it seemed that Danny had escaped death. Danny's act of heroism reflects the strong bond formed by the Small Heath Rifles during World War I, making it even more significant.

2. The Last Kingdom: Father Beocca's death in The Last Kingdom is another heartbreaking moment that left a lasting impact on fans. In season 2, Father Beocca tragically meets his demise while shielding Uhtred's son, Young Uhtred, from an arrow. Father Beocca holds a special place in the hearts of viewers as he serves as a paternal figure to the protagonist, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. His selfless act of sacrificing himself to protect Uhtred's son is a poignant way for him to pass away, although it is undoubtedly difficult to accept. Although Beocca's bravery is unquestionable, the unexpected nature of this event suggests that better planning could have been employed. Additionally, saving a character of lesser significance prevents him from being ranked amongst the highest in the show.