Supporting Character Stole the Show: A main character isn’t a main character without their villains, but they are also not the main character without the people who surround them! Sometimes, however, a show comes along that completely makes us forget the main character and makes us obsess over a supporting character who delivers unforgettable lines, shifts the plot, or simply radiates charisma. These people are crucial to making the show a smash hit and often turn the show from just fine to fabulous!
So, here, we discuss some of those characters who are not just memorable but also fully fleshed-out, scene-stealing powerhouses who elevate the shows that they are in. As these five standout characters have proved time and time again, sometimes it’s the people in the background who leave the biggest impact.
5 Times a Supporting Character Stole the Whole Show
Jamie Tartt – Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)
Ok, I will acknowledge that Jason Sudeikis is simply fantastic as the titular character and makes the show unforgettable. However, Phil Dunster’s Jamie Tartt is a character whose arc has left every single fan of the show simply mesmerised. Jamie’s emotional growth, vulnerability, and hilarious one-liners turned him into a fan favourite by the final season, making his redemption hit harder than expected. His charm and complexity are extremely relatable, and Dunster plays him brilliantly, bringing out every emotion to the screen with 100% clarity.
Ji-yeong (Player 240) – Squid Game (Netflix)
Squid Game‘s Ji-yeong was a memorable character who, despite her limited screen time, left a huge impact. Her quiet bravery throughout the episodes, the tragic backstory during the game of marbles left global audiences heartbroken and obsessed. The emotional weight she carried in one episode separated her from all the characters on the show combined and turned her into an icon. There hasn’t been such a memorable supporting character after that in the series’ three-season run. She’s proof that even short-lived characters can leave permanent impressions sometimes.
Misty Quigley – Yellowjackets (Showtime)
Yellowjackets is one of those shows that is full of compelling characters, but it’s Christina Ricci’s performance as Misty that consistently steals the show. Equal parts unsettling and hilarious, Misty’s erratic character, full of unpredictable decisions, adds layers of tension and humour in equal measure. On top of that, her need to feel loved and valued by others takes sociopathic forms, leaving most viewers shocked at her inability to actually do good in the long term. Misty is a complex character – you will love her or fear her (or sometimes both), but she will own every scene she is in.
John Murphy – The 100 (The CW)
Richard Harmon’s Murphy is introduced in the series as a selfish antagonist but evolves into one of The 100‘s most nuanced characters. Although he starts off as a volatile and sarcastic troublemaker with a quick temper and a tendency toward violence and selfishness, he evolves into an empathetic, vulnerable and kind man who puts his life in danger to save others. His inner turmoil, moments of loyalty hint at a relatable character who has gone through a lot but still chooses to better himself. His journey is complex, but his character arc is equally fantastic and makes him one of the most memorable parts of the show.
Han Ji-pyeong – Start-Up (tvN)
Hit 2020 K-drama Start-Up left most fans on edge, but because everyone was fiercely debating on who Seo Dal-mi should end up with – Han Ji-pyeong or Nam Do-san. However, that is somewhat to be expected because although the primary relationship turns out to be between Dal-mi and Do-san, the series does a fantastic job of creating an extremely impactful character out of Ji-pyeong. He’s complex and charismatic, and most viewers didn’t know he was the second lead until it was too late!
Fans were obsessed with his character and more so because of Kim Seon-ho’s portrayal of him. The actor brings out a certain emotional restraint that turns Ji-pyeong from just another second lead to someone we can’t stop talking about, and that’s probably why the drama felt so magnetic.
Who among these characters is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!
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