A sidekick can add a lot to your story, making it more engaging, dynamic, and emotional. A well-written sidekick is more than just a supporting character; they highlight the main character’s strengths and weaknesses, add humor or tension, and even drive parts of the plot forward. Think about famous sidekicks like Dr. John Watson in Sherlock Holmes or Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings. Watson doesn’t just follow Holmes around—he helps the audience understand Holmes’s brilliance by asking questions and providing a contrast with his more grounded personality. Samwise is more than just Frodo’s friend; his loyalty and courage keep Frodo going when he’s ready to give up. Without these sidekicks, the stories wouldn’t be nearly as compelling.
A good sidekick should have their own personality, goals, and even flaws. They shouldn’t just exist to agree with the protagonist or make them look better. Instead, they should have their own motivations and a role in the story that matters. For example, in Huckleberry Finn, Tom Sawyer serves as an adventurous and often reckless counterpart to Huck. His wild ideas and dramatic flair contrast with Huck’s more thoughtful and practical nature, making their dynamic fun to read while also emphasizing Huck’s growth. Similarly, in Of Mice and Men, George and Lennie have a unique relationship where George acts as both a protector and a reluctant friend. Lennie’s childlike innocence and physical strength make him both endearing and a source of conflict, deepening the emotional weight of the story. Some of the best sidekicks bring contrast to the main character—if your protagonist is serious and focused, a more carefree or reckless sidekick could create balance and even add humor. On the other hand, if your protagonist is impulsive, a more cautious sidekick might serve as a voice of reason. The key is to create a sidekick who makes the story better, not just someone who follows the protagonist around without adding anything important.
To create a great sidekick, start by thinking about their relationship with the protagonist. Are they best friends, reluctant allies, or maybe even rivals forced to work together? How do they challenge or support the main character? Give them a backstory that explains why they act the way they do. Maybe they have a secret goal that’s different from the protagonist’s, or maybe they have skills the protagonist doesn’t. Look at Augustus Waters in The Fault in Our Stars—his charm, humor, and optimism balance Hazel’s more cynical and introspective personality, making their interactions deeply meaningful. Finally, make sure their dialogue and actions reflect their personality. A well-written sidekick will feel just as real as the protagonist and will leave a lasting impression on the reader.
By adding a strong sidekick to your story, you create more opportunities for meaningful interactions, character growth, and exciting conflicts. A sidekick isn’t just an extra character—they’re a vital part of making your story richer and more compelling. If you develop them with the same care you give to your protagonist, they might just become one of the most memorable parts of your story.