Ozark: Ranking Every Main Character Worst To Best

Tom Pelphrey joined the cast in the third season and instantly became a standout. Ben is Wendy's brother and forms a close connection with Jonah. He struggles with bipolar disorder and is off his medication for the majority of the season. This leads him to be erratic and spontaneous which proves difficult to live with once he discovers his sister and brother-in-law launder money for the cartel.

Ben is a compassionate individual which is displayed when he falls for Ruth. The two develop a tender and genuine relationship even if Ruth is apprehensive at first due to Ben's seemingly odd behaviour at times.

Ben is a good person and cares deeply about his family and Ruth. This puts him into conflict with Helen Pierce who he makes the foolish decision of outing as a cartel lawyer in front of her teenage daughter. Tom Pelphrey is exceptional in the role and his bleeding frustration at Helen's lack of morality is powerful.

In the end, Helen puts a hit out on Ben and Wendy tries to escape with him. Unfortunately, Ben keeps making matters worse for himself as he attempts to call Helen to apologise. Wendy realises she can't save her brother and let's Helen know where he is.

Ben's death shapes the season and it is so effective thanks to Pelphrey's committed performance. His execution is likely to have dire consequences and effects on Wendy, Ruth, Jonah and the rest of the Byrdes in the final season.