8 TV Shows That Killed The Main Character Early
5. Doctor Who - The Ninth Doctor (Lifespan: One Season)
While it’s true The Doctor never “dies” exactly, when Doctor Who makes the switch from one actor to another it is, in effect, killing that version of the character. Perhaps the most surprising early exit was Christopher Eccleston, who took over when the show was rebooted (regenerated?) in 2005.
Eccleston’s whimsical take was an instant hit with audiences and (most) fans, with the chemistry between him and Billie Piper being a big reason viewers were drawn back to the show. But Eccleston made it clear he was only staying for a season, and in the final episode The Ninth Doctor absorbs lethal energy from a time vortex (long story) to save his companion Rose, leading to a David Tennant shaped face-lift.
A solid reason for Eccleston’s departure has never been given, with everything from an exhausting filming schedule to creative differences being cited. Despite this the show continued to be a huge success following his demise with Tennant, Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi all making their mark on the character.