Whether it’s drama, comedy or something in between, TV show writers have never been afraid to surprise audiences with a memorable character death.
Back in March 1975, M*A*S*H became a TV death pioneer when Lieutenant Colonel Henry Blake (McLean Stevenson) died in the season 3 finale. The character was headed home after being honorably discharged from the army, but before he could make it, he was killed by enemy fire.
Some 21st-century shows, however, make M*A*S*H‘s surprise death look tame.
Lost, which ran from 2004 to 2010, became known for its shocking twists before the first season was even finished. In the April 2005 episode “Do No Harm,” viewers were devastated when Boone (Ian Somerhalder) died after a plane fell on him in the jungle, and his passing was just the beginning.
Manifest, You, Game of Thrones and more hit series have also thrown fans for a loop by killing off fan favorites.
Scroll down for a look back at some of the most shocking deaths in TV history — and remember, spoilers ahead!