Whether it’s a bizarre death, a gasp-worthy plot twist, or a totally unexplained disappearance, character exits in television can certainly be entertaining. Conversely, they can sometimes cause frustration and heartbreak to those watching. Either way they remind us that for fictional characters, circumstances are always temporary, and for actors, the next gig is just around the corner. Below are eight character send-offs that play on repeat in the minds of TV lovers everywhere.
Some spoilers ahead!
Andy Mientus as Kyle Bishop, “Smash”
May we never forget Kyle Bishop: beloved friend, skillful tenor, fictitious Tony Award winner. Nothing good can come from a tearful nighttime stroll in the city streets. Upon completing his rendition of Jeff Buckley’s “Last Goodbye,” Kyle was instantly hit by a bus. Even though it was fully expected, don’t pretend you didn’t gasp when you watched it live. These wounds will never heal. Rest in peace, “Smash.”
Kate Mara as Zoe Barnes, “House of Cards”
Zoe Barnes’ send-off in the Netflix original “House of Cards” was nothing short of astounding. After finally realizing she’d conspired in the murder of Congressman Peter Russo (Corey Stoll), Zoe heedlessly confronts Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey). What better place to discuss this than a dimly-lit subway station? Frank pushes her in front of a speeding train, kickstarting Season 2 with a terrifying twist. This scene alone is a master class in acting.
Matt Damon as Carol Burnett, “30 Rock”
Season 5, episode 14 of “30 Rock” contains the all-time worst way to end a relationship. Everything was going smoothly for Carol Burnett and Liz Lemon (Tina Fey); despite his name and the fact that he was never around due to his career as a pilot, he was very much real and not at all made-up. Liz is a passenger on his flight in this episode, but after the airplane is grounded for several hours, she and the other irritated travelers begin to riot. It becomes so out of control that Carol points a gun at Liz, who shields herself with an elderly man. Needless to say, they broke up.
James Garner as Frank/Jim Nichols, “Nichols”
Here's some ’70’s television trivia! The late, great James Garner briefly starred in the western “Nichols,” wherein he played a sheriff with unconventional ways of fighting crime. The first season received considerably low ratings, so the producers made a decision: they killed off Garner’s character. However, in hopes that the show would somehow be picked up for a second season, they replaced the character with his “evil twin” so that Garner would be able to continue with the series. Before this episode even aired... the show was cancelled.
Lauren Stamile as Professor Michelle Slater, “Community”
In “Community,” Jeff (Joel McHale) must decide between either Michelle or Britta (played by Gillian Jacobs). This love triangle marks the cliffhanger ending of Season 1, but Michelle does not return for Season 2. In fact, she is never mentioned on the show again.... Now that’s a dramatic exit.