All too often, the “sidekick” in a story is simply there as set dressing, or as a sounding board for the main character, or worst still, as mere victims and plot devices. But that’s not always the case. Sometimes, we’re lucky enough to have a character that enriches the story they are in ways that make them essential. We’re talking about those “secondary” characters that actually bring something awesome to the table. Below are all the love interests, mentors, team mates, and supporting characters that make some of our favorite stories great!
Here’s our criteria:
1. Be a supporting character in a story.
2. Bring something amazing to the table, both in the fiction and in our real world.
ROUND FOUR: SWEET SIXTEEN!
And our surviving challengers are… THE TEAMMATES, THE PARTNERS, THE MENTORS, and THE FOILS
THE TEAMMATES: Region A
These contestants are part of an ensemble or group of support characters that help a hero out.
Game 1
Chewbacca from Star Wars
VS.
Fezzik from The Princess Bride
Two lovable, hairy “brutes” face-off in our first Sweet Sixteen match!
Game 2
Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy
VS.
Hermione Granger from The Harry Potter Series
Groot saved the Galaxy by bringing all his friends together, but Hermione has proven unstoppable when it comes to our March Madness competitions!
THE PARTNERS: Region B
Closely aligned with a hero, these contestants help define the main character.
Game 3
Dick Grayson aka Robin from Batman
VS.
Kate Bishop from Hawkeye
Kate Bishop won a come-from-behind victory in the last round, but she’s facing off against the archetype of rebellious superhero sidekicks!
Game 4
Dr. Watson from Sherlock Holmes
VS.
Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings
Martin Freeman could not be reached to comment on this fight.
THE MENTORS: Region C
These contestants act as guides and confidants to the main characters, helping them take their journey.
Game 5
Alfred Pennyworth from Batman
VS.
Gandalf from The Hobbit
Typically, both these are accustomed to wait patiently and serve as other heroes take up the call, but tonight’s the night they throw down!
Game 6
Peggy Carter from Captain America
VS.
Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars
Two different takes on the “inspiring” secondary character, but only one will make it to the next round.
THE FOILS: Region D
These characters vex, tease, one-up, or challenge our heroes into becoming who they are.
Game 7
Donna Noble from Doctor Who
VS.
Gonzo from The Muppets
We don’t know how exactly he got here, but we think it’s time that Gonzo be knocked out of this competition.
Game 8
Harley Quinn from Batman
VS.
Jane from Firefly
Battle of the baddest badass!