Desperate Housewives: James Denton regrets the death of Mike
Among the most memorable events of the final season of Desperate Housewives, Mike Delfino’s death remains one of the most talked-about moments among fans. Portrayed by James Denton throughout the entire series, Mike was one of the central characters of Wisteria Lane and the longtime partner of Susan Mayer, played by Teri Hatcher. Taking place during season 8, his death dramatically altered the course of the story just a few episodes before the series finale. More than a decade after the episode aired, James Denton revisited the storyline during an interview with our media outlet at The Desperate Con by Union Conventions in Paris.
James Denton initially liked Mike’s death in Desperate Housewives
Asked about his character’s departure, the actor explained that he originally welcomed the decision:
“When Mike died, I actually liked the storyline at first! I understood that Marc Cherry wanted to do something big and memorable as the series was approaching its end, and I liked it, especially because it was a lot of fun to film, with the fake blood packs and everything else.”
James Denton explains that he understood the creator’s desire to deliver a major and unforgettable moment before the conclusion of Desperate Housewives. So, obvioulsy, the death of Mike happened to shock the fans of Desperate Housewives! The actor also pointed out that the storyline did not significantly affect his screen time:
“And besides, it didn’t really change much for me: there were only a few episodes left, especially since I came back in flashbacks and then as a ghost.”
Even after Mike’s death, James Denton continued to appear in several episodes of the show’s final season.
Teri Hatcher had a different perspective
One of the most interesting aspects of Denton’s recollection concerns Teri Hatcher’s reaction to the storyline.
“But Teri Hatcher was devastated by Mike’s death. I think now, with the passing of time, I understand her point of view much better.”
Looking back, the actor says he has come to better appreciate his co-star’s concerns.
“She explained to me that people had been following the stories of these women, and therefore Susan’s story, and they wanted Susan to be happy. Instead, she was denied that happiness just as the story was reaching its conclusion.”
This observation directly relates to Susan Mayer’s character arc, which had been closely connected to Mike’s since the beginning of the series.
A perspective that has changed over time
Today, James Denton admits that his opinion has evolved:
“So now, I’m less happy that Mike died.”
The comment shows just how much his view of the storyline has changed over the years. And through conversations with fans of the show.
What If Desperate Housewives returned one day?
The actor ended the discussion with a touch of humor while imagining a possible return to Wisteria Lane:
“And besides, if there’s ever a sequel to Desperate Housewives, I’ll never be able to come back! Unless I play my alter ego or a long-lost twin brother…”
While no official sequel to Desperate Housewives has been announced, speculation continues to fuel fan discussions. One thing is certain: Mike’s death remains one of the most memorable turning points of the series. And it continues to spark reactions more than a decade after it first aired.
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