I've never been a fan of goodbyes. The whole process just seems way too permanent for my taste. So, as a diehard TV addict, you can imagine the emotional distress I felt when it came to losing beloved TV show characters in 2015, whether it be to death, cancellation, or the actor's general departure from the show. Because make no mistake, my friends — a character doesn't have to meet their maker in order for you to lose them forever. While that's certainly the most common reason, there are times you're forced to say goodbye to them because either the show itself has come to an end or the actor has decided to pursue alternative projects.
In some ways, this makes these particular goodbyes even more heartbreaking than death because you know that it could've lasted for so much longer if outside circumstances hadn't gotten in the way. So in honor of all the TV characters that are gone but not dead, I've decided to round up some of my most favorite ones that I'll miss most throughout the coming New Year. 2016 just won't be the same without these colorful personalities. But even though they may be gone, let this tribute prove that they certainly won't be forgotten.
1. Elena Gilbert — The Vampire Diaries
It was a dark day indeed when Nina Dobrev announced to the world that she would be leaving The Vampire Diaries for good at the end of Season 6. And even though Elena didn't end up dying (thank goodness), her departure has left a massive wooden stake hole in our hearts that not even Damon Salvatore can compel us to forget.
2. Hannibal Lecter & Will Graham — Hannibal
Hannibal's cancellation was a devastating blow to those who knew what a precious (and sometimes horrific) jewel this series truly was. Sure, it looked as though these two characters had fallen to their deaths, we all know this wouldn't have been the end to their story if the show had been allowed to continue on. This bromance deserved more time to shine.
3. Lindy Sampson — Eye Candy
Yet another series that came to a close long before its time. Lindy was a force to be reckoned with and proved to be one of the many female badasses 2015 delivered. She will be missed.
4. Kent Galloway — Wicked City
The show itself may have been somewhat lackluster in the storyline department, but did we really have to lose Ed Westwick so quickly? We had only just gotten him back on the small screen. #ChuckBass4Ever
5. The Entire Cast Of Parenthood
I can't even begin to pick a favorite character out of this remarkable family. Truth be told, the series ended on a bittersweet happy note as they all gathered together to play a baseball game in Zeek's honor. (Just like he wanted.) You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll wish these characters could stick around for a little while longer.
6. Coach — New Girl
While it's true he could eventually pop up throughout future seasons, it was still sad to see Damon Wayans Jr. end his series regular arc on the show. The loft definitely won't be the same without him.
7. Roy Harper — Arrow
As much as I've loved seeing Thea take the reigns as one of Oliver's sidekicks, I miss seeing Roy's face amid all those vigilante masks. Team Arrow is great, but it'd be even better if it still had Arsenal among its ranks.
8. Jack Porter — Revenge
I mean, who wouldn't miss that face?
9. Leslie Knope — Parks & Recreation
A life without Leslie Knope seems like a life wasted, honestly. We love you and we like you.
10. Peggy Olson — Mad Men
Mad Men may have started with men leading the advertising industry, but Peggy refused to conform to gender stereotypes and proved to be just as big of an asset as Don Draper ever was. Can we get this girl her own spin-off please?
11. Henry Morgan — Forever
This was by far one of the most puzzling cancellations of the year and further proof that Ioan Gruffudd just can't catch a break. His character was equal parts compelling and charming, but that still wasn't enough to keep the show off the cancellation block. Ironically, Forever wasn't meant to last, well, forever.
Suffice to say, there were some truly amazing characters to come out of 2015. I only wish they had lasted long enough to make their mark on 2016.
Images: Annette Brown/The CW; The CW; NBC (2); MTV; Eric Mccandleuss/ABC; Justin Lubin/NBC; Ray Mickshaw/FOX; Cate Cameron/The CW; ABC; AMC; Patrick Harbron/ABC
