28. MATTHEW CRAWLEY (Dan Stevens), Downton Abbey (U.K., 2012; U.S., 2013)

In the final moments of Downton's season 3 finale, Mary had just given birth to their son, and Matthew rushed home to tell his family the news. Driving down a winding road, the new father — who survived a debilitating tour of duty in World War I and the Spanish influenza that ravages his countrymen — looked happier and more full of hope than ever. Maybe that's why he failed to noticed the truck coming straight at him. Cut to the aftermath: Matthew lying crushed under his car, blood pouring down his face. There ended the season, and Stevens' contractual obligations to Downton. —Denise Warner