Why Lead Character Deaths Define These Top TV Shows

Several television series have made the narrative decision to kill off their main lead character. This plot device has been used across various genres and has had a significant impact on the storylines and audiences of those shows.

Main News

The HBO series “Game of Thrones” is widely noted for the execution of its lead character, Ned Stark, at the end of its first season. The event established the show’s reputation for unpredictable and high-stakes storytelling.

In “The Good Wife,” the central character, Will Gardner, was killed by a client in a courtroom shooting. This event occurred in the fifth season and drastically altered the direction of the series and its protagonist’s journey.

The long-running medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy” featured the death of Dr. Derek Shepherd, known as McDreamy. He died in season 11 after saving victims of a car crash but then being hit by another vehicle himself.

“The 100” killed its male lead, Finn Collins, in its second season. He was executed by the Grounders to prevent a larger conflict, a decision made by his love interest, Clarke Griffin.

Summary

The practice of killing a main character is a notable trend in television storytelling. Such decisions often serve as a pivotal turning point for a series’ plot.

Shows like “Game of Thrones” and “The Good Wife” used these deaths to redefine their narrative landscapes and challenge audience expectations. The events had lasting consequences for the remaining characters.

In series like “Grey’s Anatomy” and “The 100,” the loss of a lead character forced the story and other characters to evolve in new directions. These narrative choices are often remembered as defining moments for the shows.

FAQs

Which main character was killed in “Game of Thrones” season one?
Ned Stark was the main character killed at the end of the first season. He was executed by beheading in King’s Landing.

How did Derek Shepherd die in “Grey’s Anatomy”?
Dr. Derek Shepherd died after a car accident in season 11. He successfully helped other crash victims but was himself hit by another vehicle while crossing the road.

Why was Finn killed in “The 100”?
Finn was executed by the Grounder clan in season two to atone for his killings of their people. This act was to prevent a full-scale war against Skaikru.