Prequels have increasingly become a favored storytelling approach in the entertainment industry, especially in Hollywood’s quest for franchise expansions and recognition of intellectual properties (IPs).These narratives often provide rich context and backstory, allowing audiences to delve deeper into the lives of pivotal characters. However, as viewers engage with these stories, they also confront an unavoidable truth: some characters are fated for tragedy, knowing their eventual demise or downfall. This duality heightens engagement yet also casts a shadow over the narrative arcs.
As Hollywood continues to explore various creative formats, from spin-off television series to films that offer alternative perspectives, the prequel format emerges as a unique method for building franchises from their origins. Nevertheless, one intrinsic challenge persists. Prequel stories must align with established lore, as they work their way toward the events of their original narratives. Unlike stories that can culminate naturally without constraints, prequels tether themselves to the future fates of their characters, creating a compelling yet sometimes melancholic experience for viewers.
10 Natasha Romanoff – Black Widow
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) stands as a towering achievement in cinematic storytelling, featuring a vast array of films and shows populated by hundreds of characters. However, the timeline presents some complexities. Though many films like Captain America: The First Avenger and Captain Marvel explore earlier periods, they integrate these characters into the overarching contemporary MCU narrative. In contrast, Black Widow marked a significant departure, as it debuted post her earlier storyline conclusion in Avengers: Endgame.
Despite Natasha Romanoff’s integral role as a founding Avenger, her solo adventure unfolded after her tragic demise. This retrospective narrative creatively bridged to the ongoing Multiverse Saga by introducing Yelena Belova, Natasha’s sister, who carries the mantle of Black Widow forward.
9 Cassian Andor – Andor
The intricate timeline of the Star Wars saga has further deepened with the addition of various trilogies and standalone films.Rogue One, released between the original and sequel trilogies, tells a gripping story about daring rebels who discover the key vulnerability of the Death Star, ultimately making a monumental contribution to the fight against the Empire.
In a stunning follow-up, the series Andor dives into the poignant backstory of Cassian Andor, exploring both his role as a committed rebel and the sacrifices made for a cause that would lead to a different future. As viewers become invested in his mission, the heavy weight of his eventual fate looms as a constant reminder that sacrifice often accompanies heroism.
8 Norma Bates – Bates Motel
Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film Psycho stunned audiences in 1960 with its exploration of psychological horror through the unsettling lens of Norman Bates. The film poignantly hinted at his troubled relationship with his mother, Norma, and the intricate psychological unraveling that ensues. Jumping forward to 2013, Bates Motel revisits this gothic tale, usefully granting viewers insight into the emotionally charged mother-son dynamic.
Over five seasons, the series delves into the inflection points leading to Norman’s mental decline while depicting a living Norma, enhancing the tension and emotional stakes as the audience knows the tragic end that awaits her character.
7 George Cooper – Young Sheldon
Young Sheldon serves as an engaging prelude to the story of Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory, chronicling his childhood experiences as a gifted young genius amidst a family that grapples to understand his extraordinary intellect. The series continuously alludes to the tragedy of Sheldon’s father, George, who dies when Sheldon is only 14 years old, creating an underlying tension as audiences await this inevitable event.
Interestingly, while the show ultimately diverges from some established details in the original series, the looming presence of George’s eventual fate adds poignant weight to the narrative, culminating in an emotional payoff in the closing season.
6 Rian & Deet – Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance
The enchanting world of Dark Crystal unveils a horror-laden narrative filled with conflict between the Gelflings and the malevolent Skeksis. The prequel series Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance showcases the inspiring journey of three young Gelflings united for their fight against the dark forces threatening their realm.
As these newfound heroes put everything on the line to unite their people, the inherent tragedy of their quest grows evident. Their struggles set the stage for the arrival of Jen and Kira in the original film, yet the story foreshadows the darker paths that Rian and Deet will ultimately face, leaving the audience with a bittersweet understanding of their noble sacrifices.
5 Mufasa – Mufasa: The Lion King
Mufasa remains an iconic figure in animated storytelling, beloved for his strong moral compass and leadership in the Lion King saga. The prequel film, Mufasa: The Lion King, traces his early years—a tale filled with familial bonds and adventures with Taka, later known as Scar. This history, while heartwarming, casts a shadow of inevitability over their relationship.
The poignant narrative depicts Mufasa’s rise alongside Taka, leading to a tragic conclusion wherein Scar’s jealousy ultimately culminates in murder, creating a dissonance between heartfelt storytelling and the dark futures that await the characters.
4 Saul Goodman – Better Call Saul
The critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad set the stage for the spin-off, Better Call Saul, which chronicles the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the morally ambiguous lawyer Saul Goodman. Leveraging innovative storytelling, the series captures Jimmy’s struggles and moral dilemmas, painting a nuanced picture of his character and tragic—and sometimes hopeful—journey.
Despite the glimmers of potential redemption, the series foreshadows Jimmy’s darker choices within the criminal underbelly he chooses to traverse, ultimately leading to a confinement marked by guilt and regret as the original narrative elements converge.
3 Coriolanus Snow – The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes
Coriolanus Snow is introduced in The Hunger Games series as a merciless leader embodying the corrupted power of Panem. The new prequel film, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, takes a unique angle to explore his transformation from a struggling youth to a dictatorial figure.
This backstory reveals his inner vulnerabilities in response to societal pressures, providing a heart-wrenching perspective as he veers down a path shadowed by growing paranoia—ultimately leading to the cold-hearted tyrant viewers recognize in the original films.
2 Anakin Skywalker – Star Wars Prequel Trilogy
The Star Wars saga’s prequel trilogy attempts to provide insight into the origins of Anakin Skywalker, a character profoundly entangled in the fabric of the galaxy’s destiny. From the outset, the films herald Anakin’s eventual transition into the Sith Lord, Darth Vader, highlighting his innate abilities and the deep-seated struggles that plague him.
This foreknowledge creates a compelling tragedy as audiences witness Anakin’s descent, marked by manipulative influences and poor choices, leading him toward an inescapable fate—a cycle of darkness that resonates throughout the franchise.
1 Albus Dumbledore – Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them
The expansive Wizarding World franchise, which began with the adventures of Harry Potter, has grown to include a deep narrative involving many beloved characters. The prequel series, Fantastic Beasts, traces the early exploits of Newt Scamander while also intertwining with the enigmatic story of a young Albus Dumbledore.
Dumbledore’s youthful depiction, intertwined with his complex relationship with Gellert Grindelwald, adds rich dimensions to a character that ultimately emerges as a guiding force for Harry Potter. However, the insight into his earlier years evokes bittersweet reflections, signaling the loneliness and sacrifice that lay ahead for him in the original series.
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