2. Gary on 30 Rock
In the pilot of this groundbreaking meta series, Liz Lemon (Tina Fey) is on her way to speak with Gary, her business liaison for her show, when she arrives at what used to be Gary's office and is greeted by a stallion of a businessman who proclaims, "
Gary's dead. I'm Jack Donaghy," and this is the beginning of a beautiful mentor-ship/friendship/television show. Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin) and Liz Lemon's meeting is only possible because of the death of Gary. The series would not have happened if it weren't for his ultimate sacrifice, and it had to be off screen. We don't even get to hear his cause of death. What a shame. Rest in peace, Gary.