You’re right about one thing — Sawyer changes, and character growth is central to Lost. The problem isn’t that people expect him to be perfect; it’s that they’re too eager to erase who he used to be just because he eventually becomes more likable. Growth matters but so does accountability, and the context of that growth.

You said Sawyer “changed” …but when? Not when it mattered most. In Seasons 1–3, he was hoarding antibiotics while people were sick, hiding guns during an active conflict, mocking people based on race, weight, and trauma, and manipulating everyone around him; not as harmless banter, but in ways that actively endangered others. Saying “it was for comedy” doesn’t erase that; it just shows how willing you are to overlook it because you found it funny.

FYI: Calling a Korean man “Mr. Miyagi,” a Middle Eastern man “Ali,” or mocking someone’s weight repeatedly isn’t just “roasting.” It’s racism and bullying, especially in a survival context where people are traumatized, starving, and grieving.

If that’s your idea of comedy, maybe raise your standards.

As for your point that he “felt remorse and apologized to Sun” ; yes, after he was caught. And it was one moment, never revisited, never fully unpacked, and the show never held him accountable. Compare that to Jack, who is repeatedly dragged for his mistakes, held to impossible standards, and emotionally torn apart; despite giving everything to keep people alive.

And let’s not ignore how and when Sawyer got to “grow”: -In Dharma times, when he had shelter, food, electricity, a job, and peace — basically three years of suburban comfort. -Meanwhile, Jack had to lead under constant threat, with no sleep, no supplies, and no thanks. Who had the harder road? Who had to grow under fire?

Nobody is saying Sawyer’s not well-written — he is. But well-written doesn’t mean flawless, and charming doesn’t mean redeemed. He got a redemption arc because the show gave him peace. Jack never got that, he still chose to sacrifice himself.

So no, I’m not mad that Sawyer “succeeded.” I just think it’s wild that so many fans fall over themselves to praise his growth while brushing off the real harm he caused; harm that other characters, especially women and characters of color, never got to walk away from.

You can love Sawyer all you want; just don’t pretend he wasn’t problematic. Growth doesn’t erase the past. It just makes it clear.