Alright, let’s be real. This season of television has definitely brought fourth some tragedies. 2016 was not a good year for a lot of fan favorite characters, and I for one am still pretty bitter about our losses. Some characters died, others were written off the show, and one even turned into a tree.
So before our shows return from hiatus and a new year of television starts, let’s take a look back at some of the saddest character exists of 2016.
Poussey Washington – Orange Is the New Black
Poussey was probably the purest and most beautiful soul on Netflix series, Orange is the New Black. Her kind heart and her relationship with Brook touched fans all across the world. She was truly a bright spot in the show and a character as unique as her is not easy to find in current day television. Poussey’s brutal and tragic death by the hands of an officer left me in shock, and months later I am still not over it. And by still not over it, I mean I cannot even watch or think about the scene without feeling sick. I’m actually starting to feel it right now. In other words: Poussey Washington deserved better.
Kira Yukimura – Teen Wolf
Kira first made her appearance halfway through Season 3 of Teen Wolf. While new to Beacon Hills High School, Kira quickly became a member of the pack when she formed a strong bond with Scott and was later revealed to be a Thunder Kitsune. Her quirky, sweet, and confident personality brought something special to the series…not to mention she was a serious badass. Kira was written off the show in the Season 5 finale when she decided to stay with the Skinwalkers to learn how to manage her powers. It’s fine, I’m not bitter at all (she said sarcastically). Kira Yukimura, you are missed.
Lexa – The 100
Just looking at how happy she was makes me want to cry. Commander Lexa’s death was definitely one that hit fans hard this year. Because of Alycia Debnam-Carey’s leading role in Fear the Walking Dead, Lexa was killed off in this year’s season of The 100. After following her heart and deciding to start a new legacy of peace, Lexa was accidentally shot by her own advisor with a bullet meant for Clarke. After a final appearance in the Season 3 finale, Lexa’s time on the show came to an end. Although I’m still not ready to accept the loss of such an amazing character, it has become clear that the spirit of the commander will continue to live on forever through the people she’s touched (both on and off of the show). Lexa, you are truly an inspiration.
Amberle Elessedil – The Shannara Chronicles
No matter what the show tells me, I for one officially refuse to accept Amberle’s fate. Amberle was one of the most determined characters on television, and she always wanted to keep people safe despite the consequences it may have on her. In order to quite literally save the world, Amberle became a sacred tree known as the Ellcrys sacrificing her life with her friends and her only chance at happiness. Shannara I’m begging you, untree-ify Amberle 2k17.
Wes Gibbins – How to Get Away with Murder
In a show quite literally called How to Get Away with Murder it’s obvious that no one is ever really one hundred percent safe. I do think it’s safe to say however, that fans everywhere were shocked and heartbroken when Wes was revealed as dead in the show’s mid-season finale. Yup, I was and still am not okay with this. Fans took to their social media accounts expressing their disdain, after Wes appeared to be the person underneath the sheet all along. With Wes’ cause of death still a mystery, How to Get Away with Murder has some serious explaining to do next year.
Lincoln – The 100
Out of all the deaths on The 100, Lincoln’s was by far one of the worst. Like Lexa, Lincoln’s death was a result of him wanting peace between the Grounders and the Sky Crew. Although we know Ricky Whittle left the show because of some behind the scenes drama, Lincoln’s murder left me feeling somehow empty and angry at the same time. His compassion has been a constant since Season 1, and his kind and peaceful ways made his death feel especially sad and messed up. After being literally forced down on his knees, Lincoln was shot in the head while Octavia was hidden away and forced to watch. Lincoln, I don’t know how anyone of the characters are going to get through Season 4 without you by their side.
Glenn Rhee – The Walking Dead
Television lost an actual sunshine this year and I don’t even want to talk or think about it ever again. Glenn Rhee was truly an inspiration who always put the needs of others before the needs of himself. Glenn’s very first appearance in the series was when he put his life in danger for Rick, a man that at the time, he didn’t even know. Right before meeting his end Glenn’s last words were “Maggie, I’ll find you.” My heart is officially broken along with Maggie’s. Glenn, The Walking Dead won’t be the same without you.
Laurel Lance – Arrow
Dinah Laurel Lance, always trying to save the world. For those of you who’ve read my Arrow recaps, you’ll know that I, along with other fans, took the Black Canary’s death especially hard. Although the Winter Finale of Season 5 seemed to imply a possible return, the Arrow writers stated multiple times after her murder that Laurel is really and truly dead. I’ve tried to get over it and tried to move on, but every time Laurel appears as either the Black Siren or as a dream I’m reminded that I can’t. I just don’t want to accept an Arrow without a Laurel Lance. Please Laurel I’m begging you, come back.
