Sometimes also called fallen heroes, former heroes or heroes turned to the dark side, these are characters who went from protagonist to at the very least, evil characters, or supporting antagonists. Heroes walk a thin line between good and evil and many once-proud heroes have fallen into negativity or descended further into darkness fighting against people they once protected and/or fought alongside. Some end up becoming even worse than those they opposed.

Originally protagonists or forces of good, these villains turned evil due to events in their lives such as being corrupted by other villains, relationships, or any in which they question whether or not the good side is worth fighting for. Sometimes, they betray their friends, family, or even country out of cowardice.

These types of characters are the polar opposite of Reformed Characters.