10 Darkest Buffy The Vampire Slayer Moments

In the final season, Buffy and the gang have to face the First Evil – a mysterious entity which can take the form of the dead. Caleb – a psychotic priest – is the physical vessel of the First Evil with immense strength and endurance.

During the climax of Episode 18, our heroes (including the Potential Slayers) enter Caleb’s stronghold and attempt to bring him down. Their mission is a complete failure, though. Two of the Potentials are murdered, and at the end of the battle, Xander’s eye socket is crushed by Caleb. Blood streams down his face as he yells in pain, and though Spike prevents Caleb from landing a fatal blow, Xander’s eye is damaged beyond repair.

As well as the gore factor, this moment is particularly dark because Xander is such a likeable character. Sure, he can be a bit immature from time to time (particularly in the earlier seasons), but he’s one of the most relatable and kind-hearted characters in the show. As such, watching him suffer so much pain is horrible to witness.