8 Amazing TV Characters That Were Only Supposed To Appear In One Episode

When you think of Twin Peaks, it's impossible to not picture Laura Palmer's iconic prom photo. Palmer's character - even in a still image - is so important to not only the plot of the series but its overall vibe, and all that has to do with actress Sheryl Lee, who brought the doomed teen to life (or death, I guess).

Considering her impact on the series and pop culture as a whole though, it's hilarious to realise just how little thought David Lynch and co. put into casting her. See, originally Palmer was only supposed to be a conduit for the plot - her death a driving mystery that was never supposed to be solved but would facilitate other stories - and with that in mind it makes sense that the filmmakers just picked someone at random from a pool of local girls to come in, be wrapped in plastic, and take a few photos.

Over the course of shooting though, Lynch saw something in Lee, and after performing her single scene in the pilot, called her back for another, and then ended up casting her as Maddy, Laura's cousin, in the series proper.

That didn't stop Palmer from appearing in future episodes as well though, as well as headlining the prequel film Fire Walk With Me. Not bad for Lee, who Lynch cast without even knowing if she could act.