10 Horrifically Violent TV Character Deaths That Traumatised The Fans

7. Dexter: Rita's Blood Bath

Throughout Season 4 of Dexter, Dexter faced off against Arthur Mitchell, aka the Trinity Killer, played magnificently by John Lithgow. Dexter was so focused on killing Mitchell and satisfying his own desires that he was being incredibly reckless, avoiding the very real danger to his family from Trinity. His recklessness culminated in the death of his wife, Rita, in what may be the show's greatest shock in its run. Though Rita's death was off screen, viewers saw firsthand how Mitchell killed the first victim of his cycle in the Season 4 opener; how he stripped them naked and stayed in the bath with them as they slowly bled out. For the most part, Rita was a much loved character and Dexter Morgan's saving grace. She was living proof he could find love and lead a normal life. Knowing she died the way she did is bad enough, but the real kicker is seeing their son, Harrison, sitting next to the bathtub covered in his mother's blood. One can only imagine how Rita felt as her baby watched her die. It was a very tragic juxtaposition between Dexter and Harrison as well a brutal punishment for Dexter's irresponsible neglect.