The 12 Most Satisfying Redemption Arcs for TV Anti-Heroes

Anti-heroes on TV captivate us with their messy, human struggles, often starting as deeply flawed characters who seem beyond saving. Their journeys toward redemption, filled with setbacks and growth, make for some of the most unforgettable moments in television.

These 12 anti-heroes, pulled from shows across decades, stand out for their gripping transformations. From cold-hearted criminals to self-centered brats, their paths to change prove that redemption is tough but always compelling to watch.

12. ‘Shameless’ (2011-2021) – Mickey Milkovich

Mickey Milkovich, played by Noel Fisher, starts as a rough-edged thug in Chicago’s South Side, thriving on crime and hiding his true self behind a tough exterior. His violent outbursts and homophobic front make him hard to root for at first.

His relationship with Ian Gallagher cracks his walls, pushing him to confront his identity. By embracing love and family, Mickey becomes a loyal partner, his raw journey to self-acceptance hitting hard.

11. ‘Veronica Mars’ (2004-2019) – Logan Echolls

Logan Echolls, portrayed by Jason Dohring, begins as Neptune High’s spoiled bully, taunting Veronica with cruel pranks. His rich-kid arrogance and reckless behavior paint him as a classic jerk.

Through his rocky romance with Veronica, Logan reveals loyalty and pain beneath his bravado. By the later seasons, he’s a flawed but devoted ally, his growth tied to love and a fight to be better.

10. ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019) – Theon Greyjoy

Alfie Allen’s Theon Greyjoy betrays the Starks in ‘Game of Thrones’, seizing Winterfell in a desperate bid for glory. His early cockiness and disloyalty make him easy to despise.

Tortured as Reek, Theon’s redemption comes through quiet bravery, like saving Sansa and fighting for the North. His final sacrifice proves he’s reclaimed his honor, crafting a deeply moving arc.

9. ‘The Vampire Diaries’ (2009-2017) & ‘The Originals’ (2013-2018) – Klaus Mikaelson

Klaus Mikaelson, played by Joseph Morgan, is a hybrid vampire-werewolf who thrives on power and chaos. Introduced as a ruthless villain, he views love as a flaw and leaves destruction everywhere.

Fatherhood to Hope in ‘The Originals’ changes Klaus, sparking fierce devotion. His gradual sacrifices for family turn him into a tragic figure, his redemption rooted in rediscovering his heart.

8. ‘Once Upon a Time’ (2011-2018) – Regina Mills

Lana Parrilla’s Regina Mills is the Evil Queen, cursing fairy-tale characters out of spite and vengeance. Her cold, power-hungry nature makes her a terrifying force in Storybrooke.

Raising Henry and bonding with Emma soften Regina’s edges. By owning her mistakes and choosing good, she becomes a true hero, her arc a powerful story of breaking free through love.

7. ‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015-2020) – Alexis Rose

Alexis Rose, brought to life by Annie Murphy, starts as a self-absorbed socialite, whining after her family’s wealth vanishes. Her shallow attitude grates on everyone in Schitt’s Creek.

Through hard work, Alexis earns a degree and starts a PR business, growing empathetic and family-focused. Her transformation into a grounded woman is both hilarious and deeply touching.

6. ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997-2003) – Spike

Spike, played by James Marsters, struts into Sunnydale as a punk-rock vampire with a love for chaos. His early days as a remorseless killer alongside Drusilla mark him as a clear villain.

His love for Buffy and quest for a soul shift Spike’s path. By sacrificing himself to save the world, he becomes a true hero, his arc blending romance and redemption beautifully.

5. ‘Breaking Bad’ (2008-2013) – Jesse Pinkman

Aaron Paul’s Jesse Pinkman is a small-time drug dealer in ‘Breaking Bad’, caught up in Walter White’s meth empire. His reckless choices and moral conflicts make him a tragic figure.

Jesse’s redemption comes through his struggle to break free from Walt’s grip, seeking atonement for his sins. His final escape to a new life feels earned, marking a gut-wrenching arc.

4. ‘Sons of Anarchy’ (2008-2014) – Jax Teller

Jax Teller, portrayed by Charlie Hunnam, leads a biker gang with a mix of charm and violence. His early loyalty to the club fuels destructive choices, pulling him deeper into chaos.

Realizing the club’s toll on his family, Jax sacrifices himself to protect his sons. His arc, driven by love and regret, delivers a heartbreaking end to a conflicted anti-hero.

3. ‘The Good Place’ (2016-2020) – Eleanor Shellstrop

Kristen Bell’s Eleanor Shellstrop lands in the afterlife as a selfish, dishonest woman who knows she doesn’t belong in ‘The Good Place’. Her self-centered nature causes constant trouble.

Through philosophy lessons and friendships, Eleanor learns to prioritize others, becoming a moral leader. Her growth into a selfless hero makes her arc both funny and profound.

2. ‘Angel’ (1999-2004) – Angel

Angel, played by David Boreanaz, is a vampire with a bloody past, cursed with a soul that forces him to feel guilt for centuries of killing. He starts as a brooding loner in ‘Angel’.

His quest to help others in Los Angeles, from small acts to cosmic battles, defines his redemption. Angel’s arc is a powerful blend of sacrifice and hope, never fully resolved.

1. ‘Better Call Saul’ (2015-2022) – Saul Goodman

Bob Odenkirk’s Saul Goodman, born Jimmy McGill, is a slick lawyer who thrives on scams and shortcuts. His charming but shady ways in ‘Better Call Saul’ hide a deeper struggle.

Facing his past and owning his mistakes, Jimmy chooses honesty in the end, sacrificing freedom for truth. His arc, slow and layered, is a masterclass in redemption through accountability.

Which TV anti-hero’s redemption arc hit you the hardest, or did I miss a standout? Drop your thoughts in the comments!