A long time ago, we used to be controversial. Warning: spoilers ahead.
Woody Goodman
Portrayed By: Steve Guttenberg
First Appearance: “Normal Is the Watchword” (2×01)
Last Appearance: “Not Pictured” (2×22)
Why He Worked: He furthered the hella epic plot of Season 2. How easy was it to fall for the idea that he was the one who blew up the bus? Very.
Why He Didn’t: All the other reasons. Woody is a pervert, he’s creepy, and all around just the worst.
Warner Bros. Television
Mercer Hayes
Portrayed By: Ryan Devlin
First Appearance: “Wichita Linebacker” (3×03)
Last Appearance: “Spit and Eggs” (3×09)
Why He Worked: Mercer’s appearance resolved that unjust mystery from Season 2 episode “The Rapes of Graff.” You cheer when he gets his.
Why He Didn’t: For crying out loud, he’s a rapist. Is there anything more wrong?
Warner Bros. Television
Aaron Echolls
Portrayed By: Harry Hamlin
First Appearance: “Return of the Kane” (1×06)
Last Appearance: “Not Pictured” (2×22)
Why He Worked: You were probably extremely shocked when Aaron turned out to be Lilly’s killer. Even after his psychotic break on Trina’s boyfriend or hitting Logan with the belt, you probably thought he was going to turn around. But then he didn’t, and it was a shock. It’s been ten years, and you probably still hold your breath when you think about “Leave It to Beaver.”
Why He Didn’t: He killed Lilly Kane and ruined everything.
Warner Bros. Entertainment
Jake Kane
Portrayed By: Kyle Secor
First Appearance: “Pilot” (1×01)
Last Appearance: “Weevils Wobble But They Don’t Go Down” (3×19)
Why He Worked: You probably thought he killed his own daughter. Classic and effective red herring.
Why He Didn’t: Jake was kind of a jerk, and he also turned out to be really, really boring.
Warner Bros. Television
