This is really random but I think asking the question whether a character deserves redemption is a dumb way to have a deep conversation.
There has been so much debate on certain characters redemption but the main thing is whether they deserve redemption or not. But the thing about that question is that there is no answer that isn’t in some way personal. It changes on every person and will likely just lead to agreements rather than discussions.
Here’s some of my favorite questions to ask about a characters redemption that I think have sorted my feelings out about it.
1. What were the writers trying to accomplish with the character?
2. What message did this character bring? This is important especially in kids shows.
3. Was the redemption well done?
4. What were the characters reaction to the redemption?
5. Did the other characters forgive the character?
6. How did they do the redemption and why?
7. Why was this character redeemed?
8. Did they make up for their actions in any way?
All of these are more on the objective standpoint rather than one that changes person to person.
Now you can still ask if a character deserves redemption or not but it’s important to understand that we ourselves are not moral judges and the line between redeemable and irredeemable is nothing but based on our own perception.
I just think there needs to be a balance.