TV Shows Where Mentors Learn from Their Students

The dynamic between a teacher and a pupil is a cornerstone of television storytelling, often providing the emotional core for long-running series. While the mentor typically provides wisdom and technical skill, many shows subvert this trope by having the student fundamentally change the mentor’s perspective or moral compass. This reciprocal growth creates a more nuanced narrative where experience meets innovation and cynicism meets idealism. These television programs highlight how the most profound lessons often flow from the least experienced characters to their seasoned guides.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–Present)

The senior attendings at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital are responsible for mentoring rotating classes of surgical interns and residents. While the mentors provide surgical training and career guidance, the students often introduce innovative techniques and fresh perspectives on patient care. The interns’ personal lives and professional mistakes force the attendings to reflect on their own histories and evolution as surgeons. This cycle of teaching and learning ensures that the hospital remains at the forefront of medical advancement through constant collaboration.

‘Scandal’ (2012–2018)

Olivia Pope is a crisis manager who mentors a team of “gladiators in suits” in the art of political manipulation and damage control. While she teaches them how to fix the lives of the powerful, their personal growth and loyalty often teach her about the consequences of her own ambition. The team members frequently challenge Olivia’s moral choices, forcing her to reflect on the darkness of the world she inhabits. Their collective experiences show that even a master of spin can learn about true accountability from those she leads.

‘The Witcher’ (2019–Present)

Geralt of Rivia is a monster hunter who becomes a protector and mentor to Ciri, a princess with a mysterious and powerful destiny. While Geralt teaches her the physical skills of combat and survival, Ciri’s journey teaches him about the importance of family and human connection. Her presence forces the solitary Witcher to engage with the political and magical struggles of the Continent that he previously ignored. Through Ciri, Geralt learns that some battles cannot be avoided through neutrality and that emotional ties are a source of strength.

‘Wednesday’ (2022–Present)

Principal Larissa Weems attempts to guide Wednesday Addams through her first year at Nevermore Academy for outcasts. While Weems teaches Wednesday about the responsibilities of being part of a community, Wednesday’s investigation into a local mystery teaches Weems about the school’s hidden dangers. Wednesday’s refusal to conform forces the principal to confront the compromises she has made for the sake of political appearances. Their complex relationship highlights how a rebellious student can reveal uncomfortable truths to their superiors.

‘The Mentalist’ (2008–2015)

Patrick Jane is a former psychic who uses his observation skills to assist the California Bureau of Investigation, where he is frequently guided by Agent Teresa Lisbon. While Jane teaches Lisbon how to look beyond obvious evidence to solve crimes, Lisbon teaches Jane the importance of procedure, trust, and the law. Her steady moral compass helps Jane navigate his obsession with catching the serial killer Red John without losing his humanity. Their partnership evolves as Jane learns that he cannot solve his trauma or his cases in total isolation.

‘The Morning Show’ (2019–Present)

Alex Levy is a veteran news anchor who finds herself mentoring a younger, more impulsive co-host named Bradley Jackson. While Alex teaches Bradley how to navigate the cutthroat world of corporate media, Bradley’s commitment to the truth forces Alex to examine her own complicity in a toxic culture. Bradley’s presence acts as a catalyst for Alex to reclaim her professional integrity and take a stand against the network’s leadership. Through their rivalry and partnership, both women learn the high cost of staying silent in the face of injustice.

‘Abbott Elementary’ (2021–Present)

Veteran teacher Barbara Howard serves as a seasoned mentor to the enthusiastic and often naive Janine Teagues in an underfunded Philadelphia school. While Barbara teaches Janine how to manage the harsh realities of the education system, Janine’s innovative ideas teach Barbara to stay open to modern pedagogical methods. Janine’s relentless optimism reminds Barbara why she fell in love with teaching in the first place despite the systemic challenges. Their relationship illustrates the necessary balance between traditional experience and new, energetic perspectives.

‘Hacks’ (2021–Present)

Deborah Vance is a legendary Las Vegas comedian who hires a young, canceled writer named Ava to modernize her outdated comedy act. While Deborah mentors Ava in the discipline and grit required for a long-term career in show business, Ava teaches Deborah about social awareness and creative risk-taking. Their initial animosity gives way to a partnership where both women are forced to confront their professional and personal failures. Together, they learn that staying relevant requires both the wisdom of experience and the willingness to evolve with the times.

‘The Good Place’ (2016–2020)

Michael is an eternal being who creates an experimental neighborhood in the afterlife to torture four humans, but he inadvertently becomes their student. When the humans begin teaching him about ethics and moral philosophy, Michael undergoes a fundamental transformation from a demon into a compassionate ally. He learns the value of mortality, friendship, and self-sacrifice from Eleanor Shellstrop and her companions. Ultimately, the “students” transform their tormentor into a being who fights for the future and dignity of all humanity.

‘Euphoria’ (2019–Present)

Ali is an older man in recovery who acts as a mentor and sponsor to Rue Bennett as she struggles with severe drug addiction. While Ali provides Rue with hard-hitting truths about life and sobriety, her volatile journey teaches him about the unique pressures faced by the modern younger generation. Her relapses and small victories force Ali to remain patient and adapt his mentoring style to meet her where she is emotionally. Through Rue, Ali finds a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the complexities of modern trauma and resilience.

‘My Hero Academia’ (2016–Present)

All Might, the world’s greatest hero, chooses Izuku Midoriya to be his successor and mentors him in the use of the One For All power. While All Might teaches Izuku the physical requirements of heroism, Izuku’s strategic mind and determination teach All Might what it truly means to be a hero without innate power. Izuku’s growth forces All Might to redefine his legacy and find a new purpose as a dedicated teacher rather than just a symbol of peace. Their bond proves that the heart of a hero is not measured by physical strength alone but by the will to inspire others.

‘Scrubs’ (2001–2010)

Dr. Perry Cox is a cynical attending physician who reluctantly mentors the idealistic intern J.D. at Sacred Heart Hospital. Although Cox provides J.D. with essential medical knowledge, J.D.’s persistent optimism and sensitivity teach Cox how to connect with his own buried emotions. J.D. demonstrates that being a truly effective doctor requires more than just technical skill; it requires a genuine human connection with patients and colleagues. Over time, Cox learns to appreciate the emotional depth and empathy that J.D. brings to the medical profession.

‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013–2021)

Captain Raymond Holt is a stoic, by-the-book leader who mentors the talented but immature Detective Jake Peralta in the NYPD. While Holt teaches Jake the value of discipline and professional conduct, Jake teaches the Captain how to embrace humor and emotional vulnerability. Jake’s unconventional methods often lead to breakthroughs that challenge Holt’s rigid adherence to procedure and tradition. Their mutual influence helps both characters become more well-rounded leaders and more effective members of their precinct family.

‘Suits’ (2011–2019)

Harvey Specter, a top corporate lawyer, takes a chance on Mike Ross, a brilliant college dropout with a photographic memory but no law degree. Harvey mentors Mike in the high-stakes world of corporate litigation, while Mike teaches Harvey about the importance of empathy and pro bono work. Mike’s moral compass frequently conflicts with Harvey’s pragmatic, “win-at-all-costs” attitude toward his cases and clients. This dynamic forces Harvey to evolve into a more compassionate and ethically conscious individual throughout the series.

‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ (2008–2020)

Anakin Skywalker is assigned a young Padawan named Ahsoka Tano to teach him the responsibilities of leadership and the necessity of patience. As they fight side-by-side during the Clone Wars, Ahsoka’s independent thinking and moral clarity teach Anakin about the complexities of war and justice. Her eventual decision to leave the Jedi Order forces him to confront the deep-seated flaws within the institution he serves. Through Ahsoka, Anakin learns that true wisdom often comes from questioning the status quo and following one’s own conscience.

‘The Queen’s Gambit’ (2020)

A young orphan named Beth Harmon is taught the foundational game of chess by a quiet janitor named Mr. Shaibel. While he provides her with the essential skills and rules of the game, her rapid ascent and natural genius teach him about the limitless possibilities of the sport. Beth’s success brings a profound sense of pride and validation to Mr. Shaibel, who has lived a largely solitary life. Their quiet bond demonstrates how a student can elevate a teacher’s legacy and provide them with a new sense of purpose.

‘Cobra Kai’ (2018–Present)

Johnny Lawrence reopens the Cobra Kai dojo and begins mentoring a bullied teenager named Miguel Diaz in the art of karate. Johnny teaches Miguel how to fight and stand up for himself, while Miguel teaches Johnny how to navigate the modern world and move past his decades-old grudges. Miguel’s sense of honor eventually influences Johnny to refine his “strike first” philosophy into something more balanced and defensive. Their relationship bridges a generational gap through mutual respect and a shared desire for personal growth.

‘The Newsroom’ (2012–2014)

Veteran news anchor Will McAvoy is pushed by his executive producer and a younger staff to return to a more principled form of broadcast journalism. While Will mentors the team in the art of professional broadcasting, their passion for the truth teaches him to abandon his cynical, ratings-driven approach. The idealism of the junior staffers reminds Will of the immense responsibility inherent in his public platform. Together, they learn that integrity and facts are more valuable than popularity in a rapidly changing media landscape.

‘The Bear’ (2022–Present)

Carmy Berzatto is a world-class chef who returns to Chicago to run his family’s struggling sandwich shop after his brother’s death. He attempts to mentor Sydney Adamu, a talented young sous chef, in the rigors and standards of professional fine dining. However, Sydney teaches Carmy the importance of collaborative communication and healthy workplace dynamics over a toxic, high-pressure kitchen culture. Their partnership allows Carmy to confront his past trauma while building a more sustainable and respectful professional environment for the entire staff.

‘Naruto Shippūden’ (2007–2017)

Naruto Uzumaki is mentored by several legendary ninja, including Kakashi Hatake and Jiraiya, on his quest to become the Hokage. While these masters teach him powerful combat techniques, Naruto’s unwavering optimism and empathy teach them about the potential for systemic change. His refusal to give up on his friends forces his mentors to re-examine their own cynical views on the cycle of violence in the shinobi world. Naruto proves that a student’s pure heart and persistence can sometimes offer more wisdom than a master’s decades of experience.

‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006–2011)

Coach Eric Taylor serves as a father figure and mentor to the high school football players in the small town of Dillon, Texas. While he instills discipline and work ethic in his team, the players teach him about the weight of community expectations and the reality of personal sacrifice. Their individual struggles with family, injury, and ambition broaden the coach’s understanding of his own leadership role. Taylor’s growth as a man and a mentor is directly tied to the hard-won lessons he absorbs from the young men he trains.

‘House’ (2004–2012)

Dr. Gregory House is a misanthropic medical genius who leads a team of young diagnosticians through complex and life-threatening medical cases. While House pushes his students to think critically and solve puzzles, they often teach him about the ethical and human implications of his clinical decisions. Their diverse perspectives force him to acknowledge the human elements of medicine that he typically tries to ignore for the sake of the “game.” Each team member challenges House’s worldview, occasionally leading him to moments of genuine self-reflection and personal change.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–Present)

Chief Jim Hopper takes the powerful but traumatized Eleven under his wing to protect her from the shadowy forces of the Upside Down. While he provides her with a safe environment and basic social guidance, Eleven teaches him how to process his long-held grief over his deceased daughter. Her immense power and bravery inspire Hopper to become a more selfless, proactive leader and a more compassionate individual. Through their relationship, he learns that being a parent involves much more than just physical protection; it requires emotional openness.

‘The Mandalorian’ (2019–Present)

A lone bounty hunter known as the Mandalorian takes on the unexpected responsibility of protecting a Force-sensitive child named Grogu. Din Djarin teaches Grogu how to survive in a dangerous and lawless galaxy while Grogu teaches him about vulnerability and unconditional care. The child’s presence forces the warrior to question his strict Mandalorian Creed and choose personal connection over professional bounty hunting duties. Their journey demonstrates how a “student” can fundamentally change a mentor’s moral compass and priorities.

‘The Last of Us’ (2023–Present)

Joel is a hardened survivor tasked with escorting a young girl named Ellie across a post-apocalyptic United States filled with danger. While Joel teaches Ellie the skills necessary to survive the Infected and hostile human factions, she teaches him how to love and trust other people again. Her youthful curiosity and resilience break through his cynical, protective exterior, forcing him to find a new, albeit complicated, purpose in life. Their bond highlights the deep emotional growth that occurs when a protector learns the value of life from the person they are protecting.

‘Ted Lasso’ (2020–2023)

Ted Lasso is an American football coach hired to lead a British soccer team despite having zero experience with the specific sport. While he mentors his players in character, kindness, and teamwork, they teach him the nuances of football culture and the importance of competitive drive. The coaching staff and players also help Ted navigate his personal struggles with anxiety and his difficult journey through divorce. This mutual growth transforms the entire club into a supportive family that values personal well-being as much as winning matches.

‘Succession’ (2018–2023)

Logan Roy is the formidable patriarch of a global media empire who constantly tests his children’s fitness to eventually succeed him. While he acts as a brutal mentor in the world of corporate power and manipulation, his children’s maneuvers teach him about the evolving nature of loyalty and modern betrayal. Logan learns that the ruthless, cold-hearted tactics he instilled in his heirs can and will eventually be used against him. Their constant power struggles force him to confront the limits of his absolute control and the legacy of his parenting.

‘Sherlock’ (2010–2017)

Sherlock Holmes is a “high-functioning sociopath” who mentors Dr. John Watson in the intricate art of deduction and crime-solving. However, Watson provides Sherlock with essential lessons in human empathy, social etiquette, and the importance of personal friendship. Through their partnership, Sherlock learns to value human life beyond the intellectual thrill of a case and understand the emotional motivations behind crimes. Watson’s grounded perspective often saves Sherlock from his own intellectual isolation and his more destructive impulses.

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ (2005–2008)

Prince Zuko begins his journey as a student of his uncle, Iroh, who teaches him firebending techniques and ancient life philosophy. Over time, Zuko’s personal struggle for honor and his eventual redemption teach Iroh about the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Iroh finds his own path to peace and closure for his past failures through witnessing his nephew’s difficult but successful transformation. Their relationship demonstrates that wisdom is a reciprocal exchange between generations that can change the course of history.

‘Breaking Bad’ (2008–2013)

Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher, partners with his former student Jesse Pinkman to produce high-grade methamphetamine. While Walter provides the scientific expertise and initial planning, Jesse teaches him the intricacies of the illegal drug trade and street-level distribution politics. Throughout the series, Jesse’s lingering moral compass and emotional responses frequently challenge Walter’s rapid descent into total ruthlessness and ego. This dynamic forces Walter to eventually acknowledge the devastating human cost of the empire he built.

Tell us which TV mentor-student relationship you find the most impactful in the comments.