It’s a huge downer to see a beloved TV character get killed off, but it’s even more tragic when the reason for their on-screen death was a real-life loss. When an actor passes away while their show is still running, writers face the difficult task of addressing the loss. Some shows manage the loss with grace and respect, while others incorporate humor to mitigate the impact.
Here are 10 TV characters whose deaths mirrored the passing of the actors who portrayed them.
1. Edna Krabappel (The Simpsons)
Marcia Wallace lent her iconic, lovely voice to Edna Krabappel on The Simpsons. After Wallace’s death from breast cancer in 2013, the show retired Edna, giving her a respectful send-off. In 2021, they used Wallace’s archived voice for one final, touching goodbye.
2. Richard Gilmore (Gilmore Girls)
Edward Herrmann’s portrayal of Richard Gilmore added depth and complexity to Gilmore Girls. It’s hard to wrap one’s head around it, but after Herrmann’s death due to brain cancer in 2014, the show saw a huge revival. Fans witnessed the emotional fallout as Lorelai and Emily grappled with their loss.
3. Dr. Charles Kroger (Monk)
Stanley Kamel played Monk‘s understanding therapist, Dr. Kroger, until his sudden passing from a heart attack in 2008 at age 65. The quirky crime drama honored Kamel by having Monk mourn his therapist deeply, capturing the real grief felt by fans. His absence left a void in the series that no replacement could fill.
4. Finn Hudson (Glee)
Cory Monteith’s overdose on drugs and alcohol in 2013 devastated the Gleeks. Monteith’s substance abuse was almost a perfect reflection of what his character was going through. The show’s tribute episode, “The Quarterback,” left viewers in tears, mourning both Finn and Cory as one.
