Connor (Angel)

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Connor is a fictional character from the TV show Angel, created by Joss Whedon and Tim Minear. He is Angel’s son, born from the vampire Darla in a mysterious, almost impossible birth. Connor is not a vampire himself but is human-like, with a natural soul and superhuman abilities. He first appears as a baby in the season 3 episode “Lullaby” and later returns as a brooding teenager played by Vincent Kartheiser.

Origin and early life
- Darla sacrifices herself to bring Connor into the world, giving Angel a fragile hope for a family.
- Connor is kidnapped to a hellish dimension called Quor'Toth, where time moves differently. Raised by his captor, Holtz, he grows up hating Angel.
- He returns as a violent, conflicted teen who wrestles with his loyalty to Angel and his anger at his father.

Season 3–4 arc and memory wipe
- Connor’s story involves shifting alliances between heroes and villains, including a climactic arc with the demon Jasmine.
- By the end of season 4, his memories are wiped to give him a chance at a normal life. He is given a fresh start as a ordinary boy named in memory by Angel and friends.

Season 5 and reconciliation
- In season 5, Connor’s memories return. He eventually reconciles with Angel, recognizing his father’s love and sacrifice.
- He appears in the spin-off Angel: After the Fall, where he fights to protect the city as it falls into hell. He grows into a hero, forming close ties with Angel and other allies.

Comics and later developments
- The After the Fall comic series follow Connor as a college student studying social work, balancing his powers with a real-world life.
- He becomes deeply involved in missions to restore order and magic to the world, including adventures with Willow, Faith, and Angel.
- He develops a romantic relationship with Gwen Raiden in the comics, faces challenges, and continues to struggle with his identity and responsibilities.

Character, themes, and reception
- Connor is a dramatic, tragic figure who moves from a weapon in a larger war to a conflicted young man seeking belonging and purpose.
- His storyline explores themes of fatherhood, family, and the costs of power, with influences from Arthurian legend and classic myths.
- The character generated mixed reactions: some fans and critics praised the emotional depth and Vin­cent Kartheiser’s performance, while others found the Cordelia–Connor relationship and certain plot turns controversial or distasteful.

Overall, Connor’s journey—from a mysterious infant to a torn teen, and finally a hopeful, capable young man in the comics—serves as a catalyst for growth in Angel and a central thread in the broader Angel universe.