Fantasy TV series are known for their diverse and intriguing characters. However, throughout the genre, some notable figures have remained underdeveloped or mismanaged, ultimately squandering their potential. This is particularly disappointing given the vast array of narrative possibilities in fantasy storytelling, which ranges from morally ambiguous protagonists to unforgettable villains. While some characters have earned their own spinoff series due to their compelling arcs, others seem to exist solely as mechanisms to serve a larger plot. Although this narrative approach isn’t always detrimental—if it enhances the overall story—it often leaves viewers frustrated, especially when it results in the neglect of characters that could have added tremendous depth and richness to the series.
10. Belle French – Once Upon A Time
Once Upon A Time Reduced Belle To A Plot Device
Initially introduced as a pivotal element in Rumpelstiltskin’s narrative arc during season one of Once Upon a Time, Belle’s character took a positive turn when actress Emilie de Ravin was promoted to a series regular in season two. This change offered Belle opportunities for character development in various episodes such as “The Outsider, ””Dark Hollow, ”and “Family Business.”Unfortunately, as the series progressed, her storylines increasingly became focused on Rumpelstiltskin’s development rather than her own.
Despite the extensive cast of characters in the show, Belle’s diminishing agency was noticeable. Later narratives centered heavily on her relationship with Rumpelstiltskin instead of exploring Belle’s own aspirations, effectively sidelining her character. This oversight led to de Ravin’s departure from the series after season six, as Belle’s role was reduced to merely serving the needs of Rumpelstiltskin’s plotline.
9. Princess Bess – My Lady Jane
Bess Never Got A Chance To Shine Before My Lady Jane Was Canceled
In My Lady Jane, Princess Bess, who draws on historical figures like Queen Elizabeth I, plays a minor role in the first season. Initially portrayed as timid and supportive to her sister, her character begins to reveal layers of intrigue when it’s disclosed that she is an Ethian—capable of transforming into an animal. The show’s cancellation prior to a second season left Bess’s character development unresolved, cutting short any explorations into her Ethian identity and the complexities of her relationship with her sister.
8. Caitlyn Kiramman – Arcane
Caitlyn Regressed In Arcane Season 2
Caitlyn Kiramman, initially introduced as a privileged Enforcer within the affluent community of Piltover in Arcane, showcases potential for significant character growth. In season one, she confronts the darker realities of her society and the systemic oppression faced by the people of Zaun. However, the conclusion of season one marks a shift in her narrative.
In season two, Caitlyn’s character is overshadowed by grief after her mother’s death, which transforms her into a revenge-seeking figure. This change sidelines her development; rather than grappling with the complexities of her past relationships, Caitlyn aligns herself with extremist views, contrasting sharply with the growth witnessed in season one. Her regression illustrates a missed opportunity for deeper thematic exploration, leaving audiences longing for the moderation and reconciliation she could have pursued.
7. Hama & Jet – Avatar: The Last Airbender
Hama & Jet Were Victims Of The Fire Nation
In Avatar: The Last Airbender, despite its brilliant character development, both Hama and Jet fade into the background, illustrating a lack of depth. Jet emerges as a compelling character in season one but suffers a hurried downfall by season two when he becomes a victim of the Dai Li, symbolizing the harsh repercussions of his militant endeavors.
Meanwhile, Hama’s tragic backstory enriches her character; she seeks revenge against the Fire Nation due to the trauma she endured. Yet, rather than presenting her actions as a reflection of her suffering and desires for justice, the narrative simplifies her character arc and ultimately sidelines her into a prison once more, negating the complexities of her experiences.
6. Kira Yukimura – Teen Wolf
Teen Wolf Often Ignored Kira & Her Potential
Kira Yukimura stands out as a unique and powerful character introduced in Teen Wolf. Although heralded as a Thunder Kitsune, her storyline suffers from consistent neglect, relegating her to a secondary role within the narrative. Her fascinating supernatural abilities are only explored in limited capacities, ultimately sidelining her character following a brief arc.
Despite Arden Cho’s talent and unique portrayal of Kira, the narrative fails to delve deeply into her origins or her ties to the broader supernatural world, ultimately wasting the opportunity for a rich exploration of her character. Frustrations peaked when Cho declined the invitation to participate in the upcoming Teen Wolf movie, citing inequality in compensation.
5. Laena Velaryon – House of the Dragon
Laena Played A Much Bigger Role In Fire & Blood
In House of the Dragon, Laena Velaryon’s character is underutilized, despite her significant role in the source material, Fire & Blood. The narrative reduces her to an afterthought, portraying a young girl entranced by an older relative rather than an empowered individual with her own storyline.
The complexity of Laena’s relationships, particularly her bond with Rhaenyra Targaryen and her role in the larger familial narrative, are significantly minimized. By neglecting her agency and depth, the show ultimately fails to present a character that could have added richness and nuance throughout the series.
4. Lydia Branwell – Shadowhunters
Lydia Should Have Returned To New York
Shadowhunters saw the introduction of Lydia Branwell, a character with great promise rooted in the books. Initially established as a formidable leader and a serious member of the Shadowhunters, Lydia’s potential is squandered as she is primarily used to serve the romantic subplot involving Alec and Magnus.
Despite being presented as a capable ally within the story, Lydia’s character was abruptly sidelined in the second season, thwarting any advancements that could have taken place within the broader narrative regarding her lineage and abilities. The show missed the chance to develop her into a more significant figure within the ongoing conflict.
3. Matthias Helvar – Shadow & Bone
Matthias’ Prison Storyline Hindered His Character
Matthias Helvar, initially introduced in Shadow & Bone, is positioned as a key player but ends up wasted due to being incarcerated for the majority of the series. His relationship with Nina, while important, could not salvage the repetitiveness of his narrative, which felt like pointless delays before the anticipated Six of Crows spinoff.
The cancellation of the series after season two left Matthias with little development and minimal contributions to the overarching story, significantly undermining the intricate interactions and potential that could have arisen in follow-up narratives.
2. Pema – The Legend of Korra
Pema Has No Personality Outside Of Tenzin’s Wife
Pema, while introduced as a noteworthy addition in The Legend of Korra, fails to embody independent character traits beyond her role as Tenzin’s wife and mother to his children. Despite moments where her character could shine, she is largely restricted in agency and context, particularly in Season 1, where her ties to Korra create a very superficial storyline involving romance rather than character depth.
Later seasons, while offering glimpses of her potential contributions, still reduce Pema’s character to only serving narrative functions rather than allowing her to evolve as a standalone figure outside her familial obligations.
1. The Women of House Martell – Game of Thrones
Game Of Thrones Changed House Martell’s Purpose
The portrayal of the women from House Martell in Game of Thrones showcases a significant mismanagement of characters that could have offered rich storytelling. Following Oberyn’s death, the power dynamics shift, but instead of exploring the complex relationships among characters like Ellaria and the Sand Snakes, the narrative opts for a shallow vengeance-driven portrayal.
This choice turned them into caricatures of vengeance rather than fully realized characters with distinct motivations. By sacrificing depth for drama, the series missed opportunities to explore the more nuanced, maternal instincts of Ellaria and the unique personalities of her daughters, ultimately relegating them to the role of stock characters in a plot underscored by revenge.
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