Exploring the Supporting Characters in Popular TV Shows

When it comes to enjoying a TV show, many viewers are both captivated and entertained by the main characters. However, it is the supporting characters that often provide depth, intrigue, and a richer storyline. In this article, we will delve into the significance of supporting characters in different TV shows and explore why they can sometimes overshadow the leads.

Beyond the Leads: The Case of Bran Stark and Sansa Stark from Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones is a prime example of how supporting characters can become just as compelling as the leads. Bran Stark, a bastard son of Bran the Broken, is a character who stumbles into the center of the action after a fall from a tower. Initially, Bran is the overlooked, underestimated character. However, his journey allows us to explore themes of destiny, wisdom, and the complexity of human emotions. Similarly, his sister Sansa Stark transforms from a naive and bullied character into a queen, making her one of the most powerful and intelligent female characters in the show’s universe. This transformation not only adds depth to her character but also shifts her from a supporting role to a central one.

Image credit: HBO

The Boarding School Los Cumbres: A Case Study

The show The Boarding School Los Cumbres presents an interesting exploration of secondary characters. The main focus is on Mario, who, despite his occasional involvement in the main storylines, has a significant impact on the other characters. Mario's mystery and the hints at his deeper personality add layers to the narrative. However, many fans, like myself, wish for more exploration into his backstory and personal life. This desire to know more about him showcases the importance of secondary characters in driving the emotional and narrative arcs of the show.

Heartstopper: A Relatable Focus

Another series to consider is Heartstopper, where characters like Elle and Tao are given a lot of gravitas and relatability. Their depth and substance make them more interesting compared to the lovestruck protagonist Charlie. Unlike many shows, where the main characters are often center stage, Heartstopper allows secondary characters to shine, highlighting their importance in the narrative.

Exploring Anime and Live-Action Shows

While anime often provides a wealth of compelling secondary characters, there are numerous examples in live-action and other anime series as well. For instance, in Sword Art Online, episodes without Kurito are notably better, and Asuna is a more rounded character due to the absence of Kurito. In Gate, Rory Mercury is arguably the best character, surpassing the lead protagonist Itami. In Date A Live, Kurimi Tokisaki and Origami Tobiichi are more interesting than Shido, due to their distinct personalities.

In Attack on Titan, characters like Levi provide notable depth, with his natural swagger and strength. In Straw Devil and Snake (SDS), Escanor’s natural swagger and other side characters (versus Meliodas) are more engaging. Similarly, in Naruto, Itachi’s character design is very much like the previous examples. Gojo and Fushirguro in DEVILMAN CITY SURFERS are fascinating characters, and in The Sopranos, Silvio’s intelligence stands out, making him a memorable supporting character. Even in Invincible, Omni Man is a compelling psychopath, adding an interesting dynamic to the show.

Conclusion

In conclusion, secondary characters in TV shows are crucial for adding depth, intrigue, and complexity to narratives. They can often provide more relatable and relatably nuanced portrayals than the main characters. A well-developed supporting cast can elevate the overall quality of a show, making it more engaging and memorable for viewers.