12 Most Epic Character Introductions In TV History
1. President Bartlett - The West Wing
President Jed Bartlett's debut on The West Wing was what this article was made for and it stands as was the most memorable introductions in TV history. It's ironic to think that the President of the United States was supposed to be a recurring character (like the First Lady) in the show, with the drama focusing on the staff beneath him; predominantly Rob Lowe's Sam Seaborn.
But then the magic of Aaron Sorkin's writing met the dynamic performance of Martin Sheen and the show changed direction forever. Watching the pilot, it's easy to see where the show originally intended to go. President Bartlett is referred to through the episode but he doesn't make his big introduction until the end. As Josh Lyman, CJ Cregg and Toby Ziegler struggle to deal with Christian activists - led by ice-cold Mary Marsh - over a blunder he made in a televised debate, in sweeps Bartlett, spouting the First Commandment, winning a theological debate and attacking Christian pols for not denouncing a fringe group. In the space of a couple of minutes, Jed Bartlett succeeds where his staff have not and shows the audience and everyone why he is the President.
With a powerful statement 'break's over' to his senior staff, he takes command of the show and the audience for the next seven years. Never was an entrance of one character been presented with such epic grace and stature and it will be hard to beat.
Agree with this list, or is there an introduction we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments below.