Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s Most-Hated Character Receives Unexpected Redemption Amidst Awful Cast

Within the expansive universe of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, not every character enjoys the same level of admiration as the iconic protagonist, Buffy Summers. Xander Harris is often regarded unfavorably, while Dawn Summers has also attracted her share of criticism. However, none have faced as much disdain as Connor, the son of the titular character’s love interest, Angel, from the spinoff series.

Connor’s reputation received a significant boost through the comic book continuation of the Buffyverse, particularly in the Angel series from IDW Publishing. Originally portrayed by Vincent Kartheiser during the latter seasons of the show, Connor’s conflicted identity as a half-demon son of vampires Angel and Darla led him to struggle against a father he was conditioned to resent in a hellish realm.

Comic book cover: Angel with his hands pressed together.

Although Connor’s narrative could have offered a powerful redemption arc, the initial storytelling largely fell flat, leading even Charisma Carpenter, who played Cordelia, to describe it as problematic. The television series left little room to explore Connor’s journey towards redemption in depth. Fortunately, the comics remedied this, transforming him into a more admirable and relatable character.

Connor’s Redemption in IDW’s Comics

Beginning in Angel: After the Fall #1

Comic book panel: Connor showcases immense power in Angel #44

Following the fourth season finale, where Angel reshapes Connor’s life to provide him with normalcy, the character reappears in Season 5’s “Origin”and again in the series finale, “Not Fade Away.”By this point, viewers witness a more stable version of Connor Reilly. Unfortunately, due to the show’s untimely cancellation, there was insufficient time to delve into this evolved character. Luckily, the comics immediately take over from the show’s conclusion.

In Angel: After the Fall, Connor collaborates with Nina, Angel’s werewolf love interest, and Gwen Raiden, a former guest star, to create a sanctuary for innocents ensnared in the chaos of Hell. During the “Twilight”storyline—which obliterates all magic in the Buffyverse—Connor’s false memories fade, allowing him to rediscover the truth about his upbringing. However, thanks to the positive memories carved out with Angel, he does not revert to his previous resentful self, enriching his redemption narrative.

As Los Angeles is liberated from Hell, Connor continues to forge a bond with Angel while leading a double life as a college student and a demon fighter. This complex existence takes a dangerous turn when he is kidnapped by the Sisterhood of the Jaro Hull, who aim to use human blood from two vampires as a sacrificial offering. The ensuing ritual grants Connor new powers that prove crucial in the climactic final battles.

How the Angel Comics Redeem Connor

Endearing New Powers and Father-Son Bond

Comic book panel: Angel and Connor hug in Angel #44

In the television series, viewers often found themselves frustrated with Connor, much like they were with Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Both characters exhibited traits that could be considered whiny or juvenile. However, by the end of Dawn’s arc, her character development demonstrated significant maturity that garnered viewer support. Connor, unfortunately, didn’t receive a similar chance as Angel was canceled before he could evolve into a more compelling character.

The comic series, however, provides Connor the opportunity to learn and grow, understanding both his own identity and his father’s role in his life. A pivotal moment occurs in the final issue of the 2009 Angel series, concluding not with action or drama but a heartfelt exchange between father and son. Here, Angel expresses his pride in Connor, culminating with an embrace that encapsulates their newfound bond. This resolution not only redeems Connor but also illustrates a healthy, flourishing relationship that had not been fully realized in the series.

Readers and fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer can finally witness Connor’s transformation into a compelling character, enriching their understanding of the Buffyverse narrative.

Angel: After the Fall is currently available for purchase from IDW Publishing.

Source & Images