These 9 side characters from TV Shows earned nothing but respect from fans

In television, it's usually the lead characters who are in the spotlight and earn the praise. But every once in a while, there comes a side character who steals the scenes, captures hearts, and commands unwavering admiration from viewers. These characters might not be the show's headliners, but their presence is felt throughout. Through emotional complexity, moral strength, comedic timing, or understated heroism, these characteristics add depth to the story beyond what one might anticipate.

Side characters often have the potential to catch us off guard since, unlike the leads, they are free from the pressure of advancing the plot. This enables them to grow in surprising, frequently more human, ways. Viewers find themselves rooting for them, relating to their flaws, celebrating their victories, and grieving their defeats. Over time, these characters move from mere support to emotional anchors, at times even outshining the protagonists themselves.

This list honors nine such unforgettable supporting characters who, thanks to their brilliant writing and exceptional performances, transcended the typical confines of secondary roles. They may not have always hogged the spotlight, but they have left a mark, gaining not only admiration but even genuine respect from fans around the world.

---

9 side characters from TV Shows earned nothing but respect from fans

1) Dr. Gregory House (House)

Dr. Gregory House, though the central character, wouldn't have been able to function without his reliable counterpart, Dr. James Wilson. Though originally considered the "best friend," Wilson's quiet intelligence and sense of morality tended to be the stabilizing influence on House's life of chaos. Fans admire him for his unshakeable loyalty, balancing his friendship with Dr. House alongside his own personal and professional journey. His development throughout the series, particularly in his interactions and the depth of his personal sacrifices, commanded him great respect. Current analyses of the series tend to favor Wilson's depth of emotion in contrast to the abrasive personality of House.

---

2) Leslie Knope’s "Ben Wyatt" (Parks and Recreation)

Ben Wyatt is the epitome of the side character archetype who gets to carve his own identity in Parks and Recreation through his intellectual capabilities and moral compass. While initially introduced as a love interest, Ben's deep respect for Leslie's drive and ambition made him shine. His integrity as a public official, combined with his dry wit and love for the work involved in government, earned him love from fans. In the last season, his character as a loving father and partner took on a new importance, and Parks and Recreation's recent revival reaffirmed Ben as a quiet yet forceful presence.

---

3) Gus Fring (Breaking Bad)

Gus Fring's calm, composed attitude turned him into a legendary side character for Breaking Bad. As a major villain, he was a seamless blend of businessman and brutal drug lord, which earned him an unusual admiration for his intelligence and unshakable calmness. People respect Gus not merely for his dominance but also the manner in which he held onto his empire in style. The recent spin-off titled Better Call Saul developed his history, and he added dimensions to his character that reveal a tragic figure, increasing the respect of fans for him and highlighting his depth beyond being simply a villain.

---

4) Rory Gilmore's "Lane Kim" (Gilmore Girls)

Lane Kim, Rory's closest friend in Gilmore Girls, was the very definition of determination and devotion. Too often eclipsed by Rory's academic success, Lane forged her own identity as a punk rock rebel with a heart of gold. Brought up in a strict home, her resolve to pursue her dreams, her secret punk band, and her passion for music spoke to many fans. With the revival of Gilmore Girls, Lane's character developed further, showing her to struggle with balancing motherhood and her ambitions, rightfully gaining her more respect as a well-rounded, strong-willed woman who broke the mold.

---

5) Mike Ehrmantraut (Breaking Bad & Better Call Saul)

Mike Ehrmantraut, the taciturn fixer from Breaking Bad, gained huge fan admiration for his unrivaled professionalism, code of ethics, and subtle strength. Originally introduced as a silent tough, Mike's history was enriched in Better Call Saul, disclosing his motivations and values. His relationship with his granddaughter, Kayle, added a human touch to his otherwise toughened character, portraying a more fragile side. Mike's capacity to navigate the gray areas of morality, combined with his quick wit and strategic brilliance, made him one of the most admired and popular characters in the Breaking Bad universe.

---

6) Maya Hawke’s “Robin Buckley” (Stranger Things)

In Season 3, Robin Buckley from Stranger Things instantly became a fan favorite. Her witty charm, intelligence, and bold authenticity set her apart in a sea of stereotypes. Fans admire her not only for facing supernatural forces without a trace of fear but also for being open about her sexuality. With Maya Hawke's performance imbuing Robin with a deep sense of vulnerability, the character became the standout 'side' character, with recent fan conversations continuing to emphasize how important she remains for the purpose of representation in mainstream television.

---

7) "Daryl Dixon" (The Walking Dead)

Daryl Dixon, originally a rough, loner hunter, evolved into one of the most loved and respected characters on The Walking Dead. His journey from lone wolf to gentle leader touches hearts. Why Daryl succeeds is his loyalty, bravery, and ability to grow, proving that even in a zombie-infested post-apocalyptic society, humanity and connectivity are achievable. With recent seasons delving into his relationships with Carol and others, Daryl's character development is always lauded for its emotional richness, and his ongoing significance to the show only enhances fan enthusiasm.

---

8) "Samwell Tarly" (Game of Thrones)

Samwell Tarly, the endearing and clever "coward" of Game of Thrones, earned a lot of respect throughout the series. Originally written off as weak and unsuitable for fighting, Sam's courage, intelligence, and devotion were invaluable in the battle against the White Walkers. His expertise regarding history, medicine, and leadership made him a vital member of the Night's Watch and eventually, the battle against the Night King. Supporters admire his bravery, especially when he acted selflessly, and the current debate tends to center on how he defied society's expectations and demonstrated that there are different ways of being strong.

---

9) "Smee" (Once Upon a Time)

In Once Upon a Time, Smee was a Captain Hook loyal, benevolent sidekick. Unlike his rival, Hook, Smee was a character who possessed a firm moral compass and was therefore popular among fans. His unselfishness, particularly during troubled times, was a contrast to the darker elements of the pirate world. In time, Smee's role changed from being a supporting character to being an endearing figure who was frequently a reminder of goodness and compassion. His humility and kind heart, along with his occasional humor, made Smee an unsung hero in the world of Once Upon a Time, and he gained the admiration of many fans.

---

Conclusion

Though lead characters tend to propel the story, it's the side characters that infuse television shows with heart and a strong emotional core. They're the unsung heroes who support and challenge the lead characters without ever asking for the spotlight. The nine characters listed here have done exactly that. With quiet strength, unshakeable loyalty, and unexpected depth, they've gained more than applause; they've gained our respect. And as fans return to these shows time and again, the respect for these secondary characters grows greater with each rewatch.