13 TV Show Endings That Left Fans Devastated
Some TV shows ended in ways that deeply upset fans, either by killing off main characters, creating unresolved storylines, or delivering unexpected conclusions.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Television shows often build emotional connections with viewers, so a disappointing or painful ending can feel personal. Some finales ignored long-standing character arcs or contradicted the story’s tone. These 13 show endings left fans heartbroken, angry, or completely unsatisfied.
1. Game of Thrones
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The final season felt rushed, with major plotlines wrapped up too quickly. Many fans were shocked by Daenerys’ sudden descent into violence. Beloved characters had abrupt or unearned conclusions. The ending sparked petitions for a remake and remains controversial.
2. How I Met Your Mother
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After nine seasons of buildup, the mother dies shortly after being introduced. The story pivots back to Ted and Robin, undoing years of development. Fans felt betrayed by the twist. The alternate ending on the DVD was better received than the original.
3. Lost
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The final episode revealed that much of the mystery was about the characters’ spiritual journeys. Many viewers wanted clear answers to the island’s secrets. The emotional closure wasn’t enough for some fans. The finale caused a deep divide in the fanbase.
4. Dexter (Original Ending)
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Dexter faked his death and became a lumberjack, avoiding real consequences. Fans felt this was a weak conclusion for such a complex character. It lacked emotional impact and resolution. The backlash was so strong that a sequel series was later made to fix it.
5. The Sopranos
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The screen went black mid-scene, leaving Tony’s fate unknown. Some praised it as artistic; others found it frustrating. The lack of closure upset fans who wanted answers. It remains one of the most debated finales in TV history.
6. Roseanne (Original Finale)
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In a twist, the show revealed that the final season was a fictional version written by Roseanne’s character. Major events, including Dan’s survival, were retconned. The emotional ending felt like a betrayal to fans. It changed the entire tone of the show.
7. Two and a Half Men
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The finale took a strange turn, focusing more on mocking Charlie Sheen than resolving character arcs. Charlie’s return was teased but never happened. Instead, the show ended with a piano crushing someone. Viewers were left confused and disappointed.
8. Seinfeld
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The main characters were arrested and sent to prison after a trial. Many fans thought the episode was cold and out of touch with the show’s humor. It didn’t provide growth or redemption for the characters. Critics and fans were mostly underwhelmed.
9. Scrubs (Season 9)
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The original finale in Season 8 was emotional and well-received. However, Season 9 returned with new characters and a different tone. Fans didn’t accept it as part of the original story. The show ended quietly and without proper closure.
10. That ’70s Show
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The final season suffered from cast changes, especially the absence of key characters. The finale brought Eric back, but it felt too late. Many storylines were left unresolved or rushed. The series didn’t end with the same charm it started with.
11. Pretty Little Liars
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The final reveal of “A” was confusing and unsatisfying to many fans. The plot twists felt forced, and the explanation didn’t align with earlier clues. Viewers felt the ending was overcomplicated. The long-running mystery ended without real payoff.
12. Gossip Girl
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The reveal that Dan was Gossip Girl made little sense in context. His past actions didn’t align with the reveal. Fans felt the ending was done for shock value. It made viewers question the entire show’s logic.
13. True Blood
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The final season felt disconnected from earlier plotlines. Sookie’s ending was vague and didn’t offer closure. Key characters were written off or killed without much meaning. Fans felt let down by a show that once had strong emotional impact.