Have you ever finished a book and found yourself still thinking about a character standing in the hero’s shadow but still stealing the show? These are sidekicks—characters who, while not always in the spotlight, help drive the story forward and often become some of the most memorable figures in literature.
In this article, I’ll explore what makes a sidekick unforgettable and highlight some of the best examples from both classic and modern literature.
What Makes a Great Sidekick?
What makes a sidekick truly memorable? Here are a few key traits:
Loyalty: Sidekicks often stand by the main character through thick and thin. They show unwavering support even in the face of danger.
Humor: Many sidekicks bring a sense of humor to the story. They provide comic relief and making the narrative more enjoyable.
Unique Skills: They often have special abilities or knowledge that complements the main character’s strengths. They make their contributions invaluable.
Character Development: Memorable sidekicks grow and evolve alongside the main character, adding depth to the story.
Who Is The Memorable Literature Sidekick Ever and Why?
When it comes to unforgettable sidekicks in literature, some characters stand out for their loyalty, wit, and unwavering support to the heroes they accompany. In fact, some of the most beloved characters in literature aren’t the heroes themselves but the loyal sidekicks who stand by their side through thick and thin.
Most Iconic Sidekick of All Time
- Dr. John Watson – Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle (First published in 1887)
No sidekick is more iconic than Dr. John Watson from Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes series. Watson is not just a confidant but also a narrator who brings readers into the world of Sherlock Holmes. His loyalty, bravery, and sharp observations complement Holmes’s genius. It makes him a quintessential sidekick who adds humanity and relatability to the brilliant detective. Watson’s role is essential in decoding the complexities of Holmes’s cases. His presence ensures the stories are as engaging as they are intriguing.
- Sancho Panza – Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes (Published in two parts: 1605 and 1615)
Sancho Panza, the steadfast squire to the delusional knight Don Quixote, offers both comic relief and practical wisdom. His down-to-earth perspective contrasts sharply with Don Quixote’s idealism. He enriches the narrative and highlighting the enduring humor and depth of Cervantes’s masterpiece.
Greatest Fictional Sidekick Ever
- Samwise Gamgee – The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien (Published in three volumes: 1954)
In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, Samwise Gamgee stands out as the greatest fictional sidekick. His unwavering loyalty and courage are pivotal in the success of Frodo Baggins’s quest to destroy the One Ring. Sam’s dedication and bravery, despite being a humble hobbit, highlight the importance of steadfast companionship and inner strength. He embodies the idea that greatness often comes from the most unlikely places.
- Hermione Granger – Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling (First book published in 1997)
Hermione Granger is an essential and unforgettable sidekick in the Harry Potter series. Her intellect, resourcefulness, and loyalty are crucial to the success of Harry Potter’s endeavors. Hermione’s character adds depth to the trio’s dynamic and highlights the importance of brains and bravery in overcoming challenges.
- Ron Weasley – Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling (First book published in 1997)
Ron Weasley complements Harry and Hermione with his humor, loyalty, and bravery. His down-to-earth nature and steadfast friendship provide a balance to the trio’s adventures. It makes him an integral and memorable sidekick who enhances the magical journey of the series.
Greatest Superhero Sidekicks
- Robin – Batman series by DC Comics (First appeared in Detective Comics #38, 1940)
Robin, Batman’s original sidekick, is a symbol of youthful heroism and partnership. Over the years, various characters have taken on the Robin mantle, each contributing to Batman’s crime-fighting efforts. This evolution highlights the importance of teamwork in superhero narratives.
- Bucky Barnes (Winter Soldier) – Captain America series by Marvel Comics (First appeared in Captain America Comics #1, 1941)
Bucky Barnes, who started as Captain America’s sidekick, later becomes the Winter Soldier with a complex story. His change from a young sidekick to a powerful hero adds more depth to the superhero genre.
- Kid Flash – The Flash series by DC Comics (First appeared in Flash Comics #1, 1940)
Kid Flash, the young sidekick to The Flash, brings energy and speed to the duo’s adventures. His role as a sidekick reflects the value of mentorship and partnership in superhero teams.
Classic Memorable Sidekicks
- Hobbes – Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson (First published in 1985)
As Calvin’s anthropomorphic tiger friend, Hobbes brings imagination, humor, and profound wisdom to the comic strip. His role as a confidant and partner in Calvin’s adventures makes him a classic and memorable sidekick. His charm has captivated readers for decades.
- Dr. John Watson – Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle (First published in 1887)
Watson is Sherlock Holmes’s trusted friend and narrator. His character provides essential support to the detective’s adventures. Watson also adds a sense of relatability, which helps ground the stories. This solidifies his place as a classic sidekick.
- Jeeves – Jeeves and Wooster series by P.G. Wodehouse (First published in 1915)
Jeeves, the brilliant valet to the bumbling Bertie Wooster, is renowned for his problem-solving skills and impeccable manners. His role brings humor and sophistication to Wodehouse’s classic comedies.
Modern Memorable Sidekicks
- Groot – Guardians of the Galaxy by Marvel Comics (First appeared in Tales to Astonish #13, 1960)
Groot, with his limited vocabulary and endearing personality, stands out as a modern memorable sidekick. His character’s growth and unique traits make him a standout figure in contemporary superhero narratives.
- Chewbacca – Star Wars franchise (First appeared in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, 1977)
Chewbacca, the loyal Wookiee companion to Han Solo, is a beloved modern sidekick known for his strength, loyalty, and distinctive character. His role in the Star Wars universe underlines the importance of friendship and bravery.
- Dobby – Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling (First book published in 1997)
Dobby, the house-elf with a strong sense of loyalty and bravery, adds a touch of modern magic and depth to the Harry Potter series. His character’s evolution and courageous actions make him a memorable and impactful sidekick.
Books Where the Main POV Character Is Actually a Sidekick
Books where the main point-of-view (POV) character is actually a sidekick offer a unique twist on traditional storytelling. These stories provide a fresh perspective. Instead of following the hero all the time, we see things from the sidekick’s point of view. Here are some notable examples:
1. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
In The Great Gatsby, we mostly see things through Nick Carraway, who is a side character and friend of the main character, Jay Gatsby. Even though Gatsby is the star of the story, Nick’s observations and experiences help us understand Gatsby and his world better. By having Nick as the observer, Fitzgerald explores themes like wealth, love, and the American Dream in a deeper way.
2. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Harry Potter is the main character, but much of the book’s emotional depth comes from Severus Snape. While Snape is a side character, dedicates significant time to his experiences and problems, particularly his secret role as the Half-Blood Prince. This focus on Snape makes his character more complex and connects his story with the main plot in an important way.
3. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
In The Lies of Locke Lamora, the story revolves around Locke Lamora, a master thief. But his loyal friend and fellow con artist, Jean often takes centre stage in the story. Jean’s perspective enriches the story. It showcases the importance of sidekick roles in the larger plot.
4. The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher
In The Dresden Files, especially in books like Changes and Ghost Story, Harry Dresden is the hero, but sometimes we see the story through the eyes of his sidekick characters. For instance, in Ghost Story, Harry’s perspective is constrained by his ghostly state, and much of the action unfolds through the eyes of his friends and allies.
5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
In The Name of the Wind, Kvothe is the main character, but we also get to know his friends and mentors,like Bast and Auri. These characters, though secondary, offer crucial perspectives that complement Kvothe’s journey.
6. Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin
In Tales of the City, Mary Ann Singleton is the main focus, but characters like Michael Tolliver (Mouse) also play big roles. Mouse’s POV, while secondary, provides a vibrant and engaging perspective on the diverse community in San Francisco. His experiences and interactions with other characters enrich the overall narrative and provide a deeper understanding of the book’s setting.
Wrap-Up
From the timeless Dr. John Watson and Sancho Panza to the modern-day Groot and Chewbacca, memorable sidekicks have captured our hearts across genres and eras. Whether through comic relief, critical support, or profound wisdom, these characters remind us that greatness often comes from those who stand beside the heroes. Even in the shadow of the protagonist, they can shine brightly.
Open a book today and let these characters inspire, entertain, and capture your imagination! Who is your favorite sidekick in literature? Share your thoughts or favorite sidekick stories in the comments below!