Why Do TV’s Female Leads Keep Getting Killed Off?

“Just standard operating procedure this time of year,” one expert says

Castle Sleepy Hollow The Blacklist

Some key women have gone missing on TV lately. But is this a sign of sexism — or just the way episodic drama works as the season winds down?

At least three female leads on major network dramas were killed off or announced as exiting their respective shows in recent weeks. But despite the appearance of a trend, and a social media backlash, experts say it may just be par for the course when it comes time for shows to wrap up their seasons.

“Sleepy Hollow” killed off its first-billed actor, Nicole Beharie, in its Season 3 finale, and “The Blacklist” followed a week later by killing off Megan Boone’s Liz Keen.

Want to keep reading?

Create a free account, or log in with your email below.

 

Gain access to unlimited free articles, news alerts, select newsletters, podcasts and more.

 

Comments