10 Best TV Redemption Arcs Of All Time

10. Mickey - Shameless

Calling any character from Shameless a "good person" may not be the most accurate thing to say, as the show is inherently built around people who don't conform to what a regular law-abiding citizen would call decent.

However, there is a clear morality to the Gallagher family that sets them apart from the rest of the cast.

A life of crime can be tough to escape, but being born into it is even worse. This is evident in Mickey Milkovich, the violent and dirty street thug who antagonises Ian and has an evident penchant for violence. He comes across like a disgusting young man who revels in all things crime and seems to be a chip off the old block from his horrifying father, Terry.

However, part of what makes Mickey's redemption arc so moving is its connection to LGBTQ roots. You learn early on that he's hiding his sexuality, and all of his rampant homophobic behaviour is a front. But, he eventually comes out, and through a relationship with Ian Gallagher, and a long road to change, becomes a far better person.

It's a beautiful evolution that shows how being true to yourself can help you escape a toxic past, if you are brave enough to fight for it.