10 Saddest Character Deaths In Movie History

Stephen King isn't a writer usually associated with pulling on the heart strings, but despite being widely known for horror he's always been a writer first and foremost interested in exploring the psychology of his characters. The results are sometimes surprisingly touching.

One such character fans of movies were instantly endeared towards was John Coffey, the gentle giant played by Michael Clarke Duncan in Frank Darabont's adaptation of The Green Mile. Incarcerated on death row for the rape and murder of two girls, his supernatural powers soon become apparent to prison officer Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks), who comes to realise his innocence - both in regards to his double murder charge and his outlook on life itself.

Inevitably Coffey must face the execution chair, and we feel every step as he takes the walk to his death, reassuring everyone else that he'll be alright. His compassion for others and his kindness and simplicity, combined with his childlike fear of the dark, makes his passing one guaranteed to bring a tear to your eye.