Why did Megatron keep Starscream around?

[@BrotherDerrick3X]

Starscream achieved his goal and became the leader of the Decepticons. He remained the leader for the rest of his life, all 30 seconds of it.

[@dakotamatheson9884]

A personal record for him I might add.

[@Feeshyenjoyer]

Dakota Matheson hey he was leader for a few days in prime

[@dakotamatheson9884]

@@Feeshyenjoyer That wasn't G1 Starscream.

[@FNRZ350]

I wanna be just like starscream one day. :)

[@FNRZ350]

@@dakotamatheson9884 You are incorrect, G1 starscream was leader for 30 seconds before being killed by galvatron (Reborn Megatron) in the 1986 movie.

[@hyrulehero7834]

I remember a cool quote someone said about starscream: “starscream is my favorite transformer , he has something the rest of the decepticons lack, ambition”

[@ut_girl666]

Negan & Lucille r/murderedbywords lmao, f for the rest of the Decepticons. 😂🤣

[@grayfox6518]

That's a good point. Despite Shockwave and Soundwave being more capable soldiers, Starscream was the only one who attempted to rise to the challenge, and yet Megatron always treated Starscream poorly.

[@stephenquinn3447]

@@grayfox6518 In Shockwave's case his marvel version had ambition and competence, even overthrowing Megatron for a decent chunk of the 80 issues

[@grayfox6518]

@@stephenquinn3447 Interesting, I only ever watched the cartoon and movie. I always thought that the three commanders were missing a certain quality to fill Megatron's shoes. Soundwave lacks leadership skills since he primarily does stealth and recon, Shockwave was always in a support role, and Starscream is incompetent.

[@stephenquinn3447]

@@grayfox6518 yeah, he overthrew Megatron in the 5th issue and stayed in a status quo of struggling with Megatron for leadership until Megatron went insane and (seemingly) killed himself, he then stayed in power for a year before (seemingly) dying, where then RATBAT took over until Scorponok killed him in the Underbase saga, and took command until 1990 when Shocmwave came back, started a decepticon civil war on the arc, and by the end someone a Skeleton Ninja Tank named Bludgeon was left in charge

[@poiuytrewq11422]

So he could shout "STAAAARSCREEEEAM!" Anytime he wanted.

[@kj.4977]

This is the most perfect response I have ever let my eyes witness.

[@natedog6808]

poiuytrewq11422 no you can’t shout starscream you have to scream it lol

[@penguin7797]

I thought Megatron's catchphrase was "SOUNDWAVE!"

[@henrybullard8411]

😂😂😂😂

[@noahcheckman8542]

He pretty much needed someone to yell at.

[@RustyShackleford101]

Megatron said it himself: he kept Starscream around because his frequent failed attempts to usurp Megatron were amusing more than a threat.

[@vivimariefedorov7374]

It was amusing to him. But over time his attempts became more predictable and less interesting. Also with the dark energon he was holding out on, Megatron found this as the straw that broke the camel-droid's back!

[@thegermanfool8953]

We survived 2020 gamers

[@phoenixflambe3319]

I thought it was because Megs was an idiot

[@jacobpainter1962]

@@vivimariefedorov7374 Yep. Starscream hit rock bottom

[@cteal2018]

Because if Starscream wasn't around...Soundwave would have taken over with his intelligence and surveillance capabilities....and Megatron knows that would have been a REAL threat.

[@joeysopinion4463]

Yeah that would be bad

[@serbianslav5494]

Soundwave would never betray Megatron.

[@thesymbiotenation.4552]

Or Onslaught been the master tactician could be a even greater threat, that and his ability to form Bruticus

[@KnightIndustries-qi1sb]

Also, don't forget there was Shockwave who controlled the entire planet of Cybertron. Sure he may have been content with that, but, he was in charge of the decepticons when they were on Cybertron, not Megatron. So why then would Shockwave stop short of eliminating Megatron to replace him as Decepticon leader? Was this out mutual respect for him or because he believed that Megatron was too powerful and therefore should never be challenged? IDK. Neither explanation seems plausible because for one thing, evil usually destroys evil, there is no honor among thieves and secondly Shockwave wielded enough power on Cybertron to crush ALL the Decepticons on Earth, including Megatron. Seems to me that Shockwave had an exponentially greater chance of replacing Megatron than did Starscream who had to attempt to do so ALL by himself. Then there was that whole treasonous decepticon, cluster f*ck that included Starscream, the Triple Changers and the Constructicons in an episode of Transformers that was called "Triple Take Over" near the end of season 2 of the cartoon show. Megatron defeated them ALL, including goddamn Devastator who was kicking everyone's ass including Megatrons'.

[@chrisedwards3214]

Soundwave showed no leader qualities besides over his cassette minions When megs was thought to be dead in transport to oblivion screamer took lead In coubtdown to extinction soubdwave didnt step up him and the rest was fighibg In five faces of darkness soundwave and the rest of seaskn three he was just anither goon

[@JPJ1608]

Fun Fact: Starscream only won the battle for leadership by hiding in a corner and blasting the winner in the back. Classic Starscream.

[@cheeseburger12]

I know that. Wish we could have seen it.

[@JPJ1608]

cheeseburger12 Same here

[@poiuytrewq11422]

GET-A-LIFE STUDIOS "Oh how it pains me to do this!"

[@Dutch972]

Who was the actual winner?

[@charliethesquirrelking8111]

@@Dutch972 I bet it was soundwave

[@grimlockprime1972]

I've always thought Megs kept Starscream around as a way to reinforce his authority to the other Decepticons. Everytime Starscream stepped out of line was an opportunity for Megatron to remind his troops why he was in charge and discourage others from following Srceamer's example. The constant humiliation would also serve to isolate him from any would-be allies. They've seen what happens when you take on the king, why would they want to be part of it?

[@dickmarx1298]

Strong Reasoning. A+

[@dem6n66]

👍 nice one

[@XiaoFury]

My thoughts exactly.

[@ut_girl666]

Good thinking, like it. 👍

[@anonymousart5546]

He Grimlock, he truly smart

[@Robizoid]

I believe Megatron needed a scapegoat and most likely kept Starscream around as a personal stress ball.

[@Zhortac]

That's a huge possibility. Most, if not all, villains always had that one henchman they kept to take all the blame when shit went wrong. If the plan went well or worked out, hey it was all Megatron's idea and his leadership. If it failed, it sure as hell wasn't his fault, fucking Starscream screwed it up!

[@Alverant]

Supported by the IDW comic "Spotlight Megatron". After being rebuilt Megatron's internal dialog admits one of his first thoughts after getting a new body was, "I can't wait to beat the spark out of Starscream."

[@DragoonMS]

Robbie Buzogany Also supported in All Hail Megatron when he tells Starscream that he has promise, that he WILL lead the Decepticons one day, and he (Starscream) will do so by having crushed him (Megatron).

[@Zoloft77]

It sort of reminds me of why Serpentor kept Cobra Commander around in the GI Joe cartoon series. Even Cobra Commander came up with that just to save his skin. Ironically, both characters were voiced by Chris Latta.

[@nechtjar]

Serpentor was new improved leader of cobra not orignal leader of cobra, cobra commander is orignal leader of cobra

[@matthewtucker2103]

Megatron being wise and cunning probably saw a day when Starscream would replace him as leader. He kept him around to mentor Starscream and teach him what he needed to know about leadership and ruling the deceptacons. However, Starscream was haughty and needed a lot of discipline. Megatron knew this, and thus did not destroy him out right.

[@robertpollard4050]

He basically told Starscream as much in the final battle of IDW's "All Hail Megatron".

[@bahamutskingdom]

I concur with this. And as Galvatron was given Scourge & the Sweeps/Cyclonis and his armada......Starscream was no longer required. And being he was the one to leave Megatron for dead...well you know. Not to mention the Cone head jets, Astrotrain, and Blitzwing added to his fleet of flyers.

[@itsahostiletakeover]

Well as far as the Aligned continuity goes, TF Prime Megatron specifically says he was entertained by Starscream's antics in betrayal before finally growing tired of him and temporarily replacing him with Airachnid. Then when Starscream rejoins the Decepticons in the 2nd season, Megatron allows it because "(he) is more valuable with me than against me."

[@ericktf6554]

but again why does not just kill him?

[@thesymbiotenation.4552]

@@ericktf6554 Because of what Screamer knows as Second in Command

[@TheOtherNeutrino]

@@ericktf6554 Megatron can always scare him back in line. Something he couldn’t do to Dreadwing or Predaking.

[@hyu8826]

They are gay. Satan x Saddam toxic gay though. Megatron deals with starscream bill because the crazy sex is too good

[@gustavogutierrez6568]

Also he was the leader of the seekers in cybertron

[@AidanFarren-Hart]

"The fact is, Starscream, dispite your treachery, I've allowed you to carry on this long because I took a certain delight in following your string of failures." - Megatron (Transformers: Prime)

[@matthewreynoso6904]

Good quote! One of my favorite TFP quotes!

[@joshfarmer8408]

But now you have become predictable, you hit rock bottom I dont remember the full quote but you get it

[@jakealter5504]

@@joshfarmer8408 yet he survived for months on his own without his tcog and ultimately bought his way back into the decepticons by bringing all four omega keys to megatron as a peace offering

[@lewisaino]

Maybe by seeing how Starscream always fails nobody else wants to do it.

[@thepridictableanimatorguy6308]

when megatron admits to liking starscream even a little the fandom: S H I P I T

[@GrimmysReviews]

in IDW's Spotlight Megatron, Megatron actually explained exactly why he kept Starscream around. Starscreams lust for power and treacherous nature made him an ideal Decepticon, while also providing Megatron a constant reminder to watch his own back even with his destiny before him. there was also mention of how Starscreams bullying tactics helped keep the troops in line

[@derekclay9314]

Rule of 2 my friend ala cade banes sith.empire from star wars One master and one apprentice

[@garou12]

@@derekclay9314 more like keep your friends close. and your enemies closer

[@derekclay9314]

@@garou12 same thing

[@woundedzilla1517]

Megaton trips. Starscream: Megaton has fallen decepticons follow me

[@RodimusPrimal]

One of the greatest dynamics of the franchise!

[@ut_girl666]

The truth? More like tHa MeMeS. SS: mEgAtRoN hAs FaLlEn AnD cAn’T gEt Up- S(ound)W(ave) in the background: **comes very close, but stops himself from laughing, thank primus-**

[@fattercatpotatoes-8477]

5:03 “yOu DiSgUsT mE!” That somehow made me die laughing.

[@matthewreynoso6904]

Maybe because of how Megatron threw that energon cube at Starscream 😂😂

[@swordpegasus4032]

@@matthewreynoso6904 I love it when Megatron said to s Starscream am stupid am stupid my favourite scene and will always be my favourite scene of the G1 Transformers always gets me laughing.

[@in4898]

@@swordpegasus4032 Megatron: You're either lying, or you're stupid!? Starscream: iM sTupId! iM sTuPiD!

[@ChibiProwl]

Me as well.😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣

[@Pink7omy]

It’s because of Starscream’s pikachu facial expressions.

[@eternalairhead2523]

Megatron: YOUR EITHER LIEING, OR STUPID!!! Starscream: I'm stupid!! I'm stupid!! **While Starscream repeats "I'm stupid!!" Soundwave is recording all this so he can roast Starscream later...**

[@qizzeqswir3061]

this comment is underrated 😂

[@KAF345]

I bet 😂😂

[@tfshipperqueen2434]

most underrated comment ever XD

[@matthewreynoso6904]

Jarrah Jamal Yeah I know imagine if it actually occurred in the series XD!

[@boombob3D]

@etenrnal That was my favorite line in the show 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@qawamity]

I've heard that the logic was that Megatron KNEW that by Decepticon nature he would eventually be disposed. In such an event, his 3 most likely successors were Starscream, Soundwave, and Shockwave. Starscream as leader would be great for the Decepticons if he succeeded, or disastrous if he failed; be either way the Decepticons would survive. Soundwave was not overtly ambitious enough. and would be too cautious to be easily deposed; those damning the Decepticons to long term decline. Shockwave was too logical, and would likely give up the war and quest for dominance, thus radically altering the very identity of the Decepticons. Megatron kept Starscream around as the successor least likely to cause any long term harm to the Decepticons while maintaining their identity.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Wow. That was a very effective analysis to Megatron's top 3. I also believe that Megatron was aware of their capabilities and saw how each was effective in achieving his goals. By keeping Shockwave on Cybertron with the order to guard Cybertron for the Decepticons, he ensured a base with a loyal leader in play. Sounwave would always watch Megatron's back. Finally, from the beginning it felt like Megatron was teaching Starscream, like a leader in training.

[@dunkboyxd6618]

RodimusPrimal your right! He was probably teaching Starscream discipline

[@gmork1090]

In IDW comics that was pretty much exactly what Megatron was doing. Megatron may have been stronger and more destructive, but damn if Starscreams null ray isn't a very effective piece of equipment.

[@cheeseburger12]

As a Starscream fan I approve this explanation!

[@hamletstragedy8988]

Yes I read in a comic a while back that Megatron knows that Decepticons are treacherous by nature and that within Deception culture, its acceptable to try to obtain power by any means necessary. In the graphic novel I was leafing through, however, it didn't end well for Starscream.

[@BTMONE]

Because starscream was a powerful Ally...plus he kept thundercracker and sky warp in line.

[@shunbeasley6499]

Check your facts, it was only thundercracker that he kept in line, there are episodes where skywarp punks starscream.

[@crimsonchin4552]

I mean,if Megatron is in the room,anyone can punk him.

[@rook0078]

It seems that Starscream and Skywarp try to keep thundercracker from leaving. Thundercracker likes to give starscream a hard time but really isn't sold on the decepticon cause. Skywarp is just a thug for megatron. Starscream is actually dedicated and competent enough to the cause that megatron keeps him around

[@davec3651]

@@rook0078 When Skywarp gets upgraded into Cyclonus, he becomes an excellent right hand man. He would have kept Starscream in line had he not already been dust.

[@fabianrocha9924]

@@davec3651 Unless it was Bombshell... And I like to think that Unicron "altered" their minds

[@BungieStudios]

Star Scream is the only one that knows how to properly aim his gun.

[@soundwaveelfurritobonito8084]

Hahaha he is not a stormtrooper xd

[@IyaTaisho]

@@soundwaveelfurritobonito8084 I think he skipped that upgrade (most of the other Decepticons and Autobots had that one installed).

[@soundwaveelfurritobonito8084]

@@IyaTaisho *Yes*

[@twilight_phantom2969]

Actually...did anyone else ever actually hit anything while firing Megatron beyond maybe soundwave once?

[@noahcheckman8542]

Fair point. The rest shoot like stormtroopers.

[@webdesigner18]

I always thought it was a running joke amongst the Decepticons. Like five Energon cubes say Starscream will take over today.

[@RodimusPrimal]

That's too funny!

[@carolinewampler7935]

@@RodimusPrimal I think megatron kept starscream around because he wanted someone to talk to

[@Nameless-ln5mr]

I once heard that Ol’ Screamer had two redeeming qualities. One, he may be disloyal, but he’s not disobedient. If he’s ordered to do something, he’ll most likely do it without question. Two, he often has good ideas. So, Megs keeps him around to have a goon that can solve certain problems for him… as long as he’s put in his place every couple of weeks or so.

[@Pink7omy]

I have never heard anyone describe StarScream better… 👏 bravo !

[@phil9947]

The 1984 TV series made it clear that while Starscream was treacherous, he was still a skilled warrior. Megatron also knew that that there was no real way for Starscream to overpower him so on a practical level Megatron didn't see Starscream deposing him. When Megatron was reformatted into Galvatron, he got 2 competent and loyal subordinates in Cyclonus and Scourge. He did not need Starscream any longer. The rest is bad comedy. :)

[@turismosmoke9438]

Prior to all of this, I think Starscream being kept around also might have also been related to his decision to keep Shockwave on Cybertron. He already had his most trusted sub-commander away from the battle. Also, he probably knew Shockwave and Soundwave lacked the charisma to lead. Starscream, while most treacherous was charismatic, and simply lacked the maturity. Even in the scene after the Battle for Autobot City , where they discarded the casualties on Astrotrain's request, the Constructicons called Soundwave right out for lacking charisma. Shockwave was the only main G1 Decepticon character with a duller personality than Soundwave. Kind of reading between the lines on it.

[@charlesnieves7689]

I agree with your first paragraph completely. In regards to the reformation to Galvatron, I think what was more likely was that Megatron realized, when he was tossed into space, that Starscream actually did pose a threat all along, and that only a stroke of luck (which resulted in his own forced bondage to Unicron) allowed him to survive. That scared him so deeply that he acted to destroy the only open threat to his rule and continued functioning.

[@JayArtistryProductions]

Hey, Megatron? Sam Witwicky is on the phone! Megatron: Hello? Shia Labeouf: DO IT! JUST DO IT!

[@RodimusPrimal]

lol

[@NepetasShippingWall1642]

JAYmjimpersonator i'm sorry but...i don't get the joke. at least it's funny

[@weirdtrot2844]

Starscream made some badass energon cookies

[@Bastista1]

They were more than met the eye-cing.

[@lisasalazar1459]

STARSCREAM

[@rhesegardner7165]

Sooo Mungry

[@thegreatjay1245]

But could Megatron kill starscream and replace him with Soundwave sense he's smarter and stronger than starscream.

[@soundwaveelfurritobonito8084]

@@thegreatjay1245 Hehehe -Soundwave

[@datemasamune2904]

Because Starscream's the only one he could have a genuine conversation with. Everyone else would simply say "yes" to Megatron.

[@sykeassai]

Well, Megatron has a couple of other transformers who are far more loyal to him than Starscream. However, I suppose it's Megatron can easily put Starscream back in his place (even if he has to do it constantly) with relatively minimal effort. In order for Megatron to put any other Decepticon down who might plot against him would take significantly more effort. Another thing to consider is that with Starscream always plotting, It keeps Megatron always suspicious and never letting his guard down to deal with other potential threats to his leadership.

[@sketchbooknotebook5089]

I always thought it was because they where stranded on earth and couldn't afford to lose a capable soldier.

[@PatrickScottPatterson]

I was fascinated with this question as a kid. It might have been a cartoon to sell toys, but the writers treated the characters as something they wanted to flesh out and all. The Marvel Transformers Universe books simplified this question by stating flat out that he keeps Screamer around because he's damn good at his job. But I think it should go deeper than that. Here are some ways to flesh that out. 1. They say complacency is the enemy, and keeping Starscream around kept Megs from becoming complacent. Challenging himself and all that. 2. He secretly respects Starscream for it. Just like I think the writers wanted there to be an unspoken respect by Megatron for Optimus Prime, I think Megatron as they wrote him would respect Starscream for having ambition and being a straight shooter rather than a blatant butt kisser. 3. He saw potential in Starscream and what he gave him was tough love, in a way. 4. He was secretly grooming Starscream to be the leader in the event that Megatron DID fall. If he's loyal to the cause, he needs to have someone ready to take over in a moment. Hell, he was right to do that given the start of season 3 saw the "Cons struggling without a leader. Besides, he could also delegate Starscream to oversee work he didn't have time to do or wanted to do with this as well.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Certainly true on multiple parts. Starscream had potential to take over like you said on moments notice. Cyclonus, as good as he was as second in command, clearly couldn't lead the Decepticons since he relied on his leader to call the shots.

[@joshykaizo]

that's whar i was thinking on point 4, cause starscream would be able to command them should megatron die (assuming starscream might not have been the one to kill him, maybe optimus). i was really hoping rodimus primal would bring this up in the video, glad someone else was on the same mindset! also, at 6:30, that's my fav starscream scene lol. (^_-)

[@warriormaiden9829]

There's another reason to add to that list. Megatron found his continual plots and failures amusing. XD kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5SzXodpesh-Y6c

[@joeysopinion4463]

The 4th one sounds kinda sweet in a way

[@MogusMasterSaikawa22]

Yea I think so

[@iamsemjaza]

Betrayal is just chess for Decepticons. Starscream is Megatron's best partner in the game.

[@joshykaizo]

Phillip Rhoades so true, feels

[@AM-lr2xc]

At least he didn’t look like a Dorito in G1

[@dorinahasimja5408]

Or in any incarnation of him (expect the Bay movies)

[@matthewreynoso6904]

At least Prime fixed that. He also had the beak look replaced with nice lips.

[@yujibell]

Their relationship is meant to portray the decepticons in general as chaotic, dysfunctional and boorish. If they got along too well they wouldn't be the villains.. Also, megatron doesnt use starscream as a scapegoat bc he doesnt blame others for his failures.. Even when star fucks up royally he still lets him back in

[@TheStainlessSteelCat42]

I've got six reasons: 1. Starscream was useful to him. Especially in the weakened position they first found them selves in when they awoke on earth but too dangerous to leave on cybertron. Starscream's not a terrible fighter and can be delegated to to a certain extent, not to mention his scientific prowess. 2. The Decepticons rule by the strongest and most cunning (Kraterocracy) Meg’s can’t go killing everyone who has the ambition to rule otherwise he would be going against this belief and saying well hey guys we have an Autocracy now. That would make him a hypocrite and I think Megs honestly does believe in the Decepticon's ideology. 3. By keeping Starscream around to constantly beat up he is also keeping the others in line and constantly showing them why he is in charge: That he is the biggest and badest. 4. Pretty much as mentioned in the video. keeping him around is an obstacle for other Deceptioncons that want to seize power. 5. I think Megatron wants the Decpticons to succeed even if he him self dies. Not that he is anyway planning to die. However I think the decptiocons aren’t exactly overflowing with leadership material and at least with Starscreem about he knows the Decepticons won’t be over the moment he kicks that bucket. 6. He enjoys kicking Starscreems butt and foiling his schemes. Meg’s has been at war for eons he’s got to get his joy where he can. Finally I think Galvatron killing Starscream is Unicron’s influence. I believe that Unicron’s control over him is more subtle than just using his red pain effect. Like Meg’s rewriting the construtacons into Decepticons (depending on if you take Omega Supreme’s story at face value.) Killing Starscream weakens the Decpticons as a whole and moves them more away from their own ideals of ruling the galaxy to being a tool of Unicron who just wants to destroy it. Have I missed any?

[@RodimusPrimal]

Mic Drop. BOOM!

[@TheStainlessSteelCat42]

:)

[@chrisedwards3214]

Unicron didn't order it

[@realJoeMavro]

7. Megatron can always make Starscream do the risky stuff so that the ones whose lives he truly values (such as Soundwave and Shockwave) don't have to. I believe this is why Starscream first left Megatron in "Armada."

[@danielnikolaev2083]

The Stainless Steel Cat megatron in a way sees starscream as a friend as was shown in transformers 5

[@curtisgangler5855]

He kept Starscream around because he tested Megatron and was loyal to the cause but felt he would be a better leader by having the Decepticons use more aggressive forceful tactics. he lacked the power and strategic brilliance that Megatron has but is unmatched in cunning and treacherous behavior which Megatron finds interesting. the reason he finally kills Starscream when he returns as Galvatron is because Starscream pushed it to far for the last time plus he had new more powerful troops to replace those he seen fit so he had no use for screamer anymore :)

[@milesdevlon]

Curtis Gangler I concur

[@BlazeMaster]

Curtis Gangler I would agree, and would add that arguing with Starscream proved useful, plus he could always use him in suicide missions.

[@originaluddite]

Also he is mad and far more brutal as Galvatron.

[@nobodyimportant2470]

Another reason for getting rid of him as Galvatron is that Starscream had successfully seized power at that point. By the rules of might makes right to take power back he needed to defeat the new leader to show he was not only back but more powerful than ever. Failed take over attempts served to reinforce the view of the lower ranks that Megatron was the strongest and therefor had the right to lead.

[@humanresearchtestsubject4c75]

Curtis Gangler excellent theory!!

[@fooberdooge3103]

I think it's because Megatron didn't want to grow soft. Keeping Starscream around always kept him on his heels, and at times, Starscream proved to be useful. But in the 86 Movie, He had had enough, because Starscream had pulled the last straw.

[@trence5]

That's exactly what he said to him in the IDW comics - good one!

[@Prime_The_Great]

No truer words

[@lekanraposte6732]

I'll add that it was NOT Megatron that killed Screamers but Galvatron. That Galvatron was half insane in G1. I bet if Megatron would had been just repaired instead of reformatted, he would have beaten the shit out of Starscream without killing him like he always did.

[@fooberdooge3103]

I would have to disagree. Galvatron in the 86 movie was not insane, he went insane after in season three. Galvatron is the same person as Megatron anyway, they are not two different Decepticons.

[@TheProtronic]

Le Kanraposte Galvatron wasn't insane in the movie. He was more down business though and decided he no longer had the time or patience for his former lieutenants antics.

[@ninjatuna3917]

DUH! Megatron kept Starscream because he secretly loved the energon cookies.

[@stuartcanada6193]

He likes to keep his friends close but also keep his enemies closer. That's why he kept Starscream around and he knows him more better than he knows himself

[@forickgrimaldus8301]

That but a more likely reason is probably similar to a White Elephant Elevation, basically giving Starscream a seemingly high position that is ultimately useless. IRL many positions in Government that are seemingly Powerful really aren' t sometimes this even includes the Title of Emperor where he real power comes from the Military not the Crown.

[@laurentecrivain6944]

Megatron, despite having every desire to blast Starscream's head off execution style for his repeated actions of insubordination and treachery, needed as many Decepticons as he could command and he considered him a good and capable soldier who served the Decepticon cause well. Galvatron has a very different personality than Megatron, but still has all his memories, and now that he has more capable warriors who are fully loyal to him, Starscream lost any redeeming value and Galvatron vaporized him on his throne and stepped on his crown as an example to the rest of the Decepticons he took back under his command, of which all appeared to have pleadged instent loyalty to.

[@kennethclemons3415]

I think it's a love/hate thing Between Megatron and StarScream. StarScream reminds me the type of movie villain that the loose cannon/crazy son of bitch that the main bad guy has to keep in check at all times. I believe Megatron admired StarScream's spark, ruthless, cunning, and absolute dedication to the Decepticon cause but Megatron couldn't tolerate StarScream's numerous pathetic attempts to take over the leadership of the Deceptions. StarScream had many valuable skills as depicted in comics, cartoons, live action movies, and video games, but lack the strategic philosophy that Megatron has.

[@ut_girl666]

Kenneth Clemons there’s actually some strategy in our favorite red jet. That one episode where the acid rain on cybertron happens - basically what happened; SS: OP is down! If we go in now we have a good chance to extinct them! They’re most likely to run around getting their bearings! MT: Nah, not yet. It’ll be fine. SS: ok if you insist...? - T H O U G H T S - ‘wtf is wrong with you. we have a f*cking chance right here, right now. are you stupid?’ Later... MT: Welp, that failed, let’s go in now. :D SS: o k a y . - T H O U G H T S - ‘wtaf is goddamned well wrong with you?!? they’re on their feet and ready to fight us you tin can for a moron! are you f#cking *TRYING* to kill *US*?!?’ SW: Screamer *DID* have a good point...

[@Trainlover1995]

One of the main reasons Megatron kept Starscream around was pure practicality. Starscream's skill cannot be questioned, and to Megatron, getting rid of Starscream would mean getting rid of alot of firepower. Plus, there's the simple fact that Starscream's constant treachery is actually welcomed by Megatron, serving as a reminder to constantly watch his back for other would-be usurpers. Besides, in the G1 cartoon, when given an order, Starscream wouldn't hesitate to follow it.

[@shebakoby]

He did give Megatron a lot of backtalk however and got bitchslapped with a backhand for his trouble more often than not. However Starscream's objections were more often right than not (War of the Dinobots, Dinobot Island, Masquerade); there were occasions where Megatron was the cautious one while Starscream was reckless (Traitor, A Prime Problem, Quest for Survival). Honestly it balanced out or at least it would have if Megatron ever listened.

[@TheProtronic]

BNSF1995 Screamer crossed the line though when he neutralized Night Bird. She had beaten all the Autobots down including Prime and was about to kill them and Starscream shot her out of jealousy, costing the Cons a clear victory.

[@shebakoby]

Yeah but that was Megatron's fault for saying he'd not only replace Starscream with her, but outright kick him out of the Decepticons as well.

[@Trainlover1995]

shebakoby That's Megatron for you. He blames everyone but himself.

[@TheProtronic]

Yeah, but you could tell he was fucking with Starscream. Night Bird was more akin to Ravage and clearly wasn't a commander.

[@TheWotch]

In addition to everything you said in the video, I've also always just assumed that, for as treacherous as Starscream is, he's also talented as air-commander, to the point where Megatron would see that keeping him around and in high-ranking position was ultimately more beneficial to him than to kill him off.

[@TerryMorehead]

My theory: Megatron was training starscream without anyone knowing; like keeping him around and constantly failing will make starscream improve

[@ishashifar]

Yeah I think it's kind of canon, in IDW Megatron did say he did hope starscream could rule the decepticons one day IF he could destroy Megatron the he deserved to be the leader

[@ShockerTopper]

I had the Starscream toy growing up, I f'n loved his character. He has always been my favorite Transformer since I was really young. My 2nd favorite is Devastator (ya, ya I know he was made of 6 individuals). Man...I wish I still had that toy, it was as his G-1 form (F-15). I remember wanting the other two jets, (Thunder Cracker and Skywarp) but don't remember why I never got them. Probably cause my parents were sick of my shit with owning every TMNT figure already lol. Man...I really was spoiled, I appreciate everything my parents did for me as a kid, I had it extremely good.

[@dickmarx1298]

Since I was a child, I've had a soft spot for the villains. Starscream especially, became seemed more, intellectual/thoughtful, less impulsive than Megatron

[@ut_girl666]

Tyler Bergen bitch, I’m with you, I *LOVE* Starscream. He’s pretty awesome if you ask me.

[@superdolphin440]

6:30 best scene ever

[@RodimusPrimal]

lol

[@superdolphin440]

thx

[@furioussherman7265]

I always preferred 4:26.

[@rogerburton9113]

What episodes are they from?

[@philjrwoodard2094]

Lol xD

[@iamtheomnimonkey]

You basically hit the nail on the head with each if your points. In addition Starscream was very powerful,useful and a good leader for the seakers. Megatron needs him.

[@inspiraPaz]

Because Decepticons are treacherous by nature Megatron knew he had a target on his back. By having Starscream as his right hand any junior ranking member would naturally either target Starscream first, or join Starscream's plots. By having Soundwave keep an eye on Starscream, Megatron was always aware of any incomming threats from the lower tier Decepticons.

[@silverdustengine9230]

"The fact is Starscream, despite your treachery, I have allowed you to carry out this because I took a certain delight in your string of failures

[@DJ_Force]

Simple. Starscream insurrections were manageable, while providing a valuable addition to his forces. The decepticons were short on numbers compared to the Autobots. Megatron could not afford to be too picky. A good leader knows how to get results from an imperfect team.

[@dominicpalmaiv53]

I believe Starscream and Megatron both played off each other’s roles perfectly. Starscream had to challenge Megatron because that was his role as second in command and I feel Megatron needed someone like Starscream to make him a better leader, I would go so far as to say Megatron respected Starscream for his ever scheming, treacherous, and ambitious nature, without the constant threat to his leadership Megatron might grow soft. Of course Megatron could never show it because that would go against everything the Decepticons stood for, or perhaps he did show it. One could say Megatron was helping Starscream become a better commander, Megatron would crush Starscream and his attempts to take control, only to have Starscream come back even more ruthless and the cycle would begin again.

[@gamester512]

There's also the distinct possibility that Megatron also *cared* about Starscream, and didn't actually want to see Starscream killed (look at how he reacts when Unicron kills Starscream in Armada, his expression just screams shock, outrage, and grief), I believe that in his own way, Megatron was harsh and strict because that was his way of trying to bring out the best in his men and make them stronger. Though, that's just my interpretation of him.

[@deadchannel1875]

When you realise Starscream has the highest death count

[@justafox5356]

I always liked the idea that Starscream had saved Megatron’s life earlier in the Cybertronian Civil War but I dunno if that’s something kid me made up or if it was ever hinted at in one of the shows.

[@endernightthedrokain1770]

That would be a cool piece of lore. Maybe even add some depth to Megatrons character, showing that there is still a part of him that cares for the lives of others.

[@theenderdestruction2362]

I like to imagine that whilst starscream would destroy Megatron he also knows that constantly betraying Megatron he is effectively giving him no respite so his guard is never let down

[@JackieAlexandre]

Heres my take: We never see the inside of megatron’s head, We dont know how he really thinks. We only make guesses based on his actions. I believe that megatron kept starscream around because, deep in his spark, he new that starscream had potential. Megatron is smart enough to know that no matter how strong he is, he will die some day. With this in mind, starscream was a very ambitious decepticon and megatron probably saw himself in him. Notice that even when starscream isn’t trying to betray megatron, he is still hard on his second in command. This is because, by being hard on him, megatron is building starscream into the ultimate decepticon. To furthur prove this, all of starscreams attempts to take over were thwarted by megatron. In all of these instances, starscream was punished but never killed, because megatron was allowing starscream to learn from his mistakes and get better. Whether this happened or not, im not sure, as its been a while since I’ve watched the show thoroughly. So why did galvatron kill him in the movie? Well, galvatron was under the influence of unicron at the time and probably wasnt thinking on his own yet. He had free will yes, but unicron was still in control over him as we saw at the end. But those are just my thoughts

[@RodimusPrimal]

Makes a lot of sense to me!

[@houseofno]

Watch the G1 episode Microbots to see the inside of Megatron's head.

[@ilikeapples1824]

"notice that even when starscream isn't trying to betray, he is still hard on he's second in command. This is because this is because, Being hard on him Megatron is building starscream into the ultimate decepticon" that can't be true, this would make Megatron sounds literally out of character. IMP the only reason why he would do it, is because it's he's personality. he is simply evil, Evil people are always rude and insulting to others no matter the occasion. and Megatron probably finds pleasure in being insulting and rude

[@chrisedwards3214]

Unicron never tolg galvatron to kill screamer

[@mistersinister2043]

Because if something did happen to Megatron, he wanted Starscream to take over.

[@TheForgotenStef30000]

The answer is within the comics, during in the "Hail Megatron" events Megatron himself told Starecream that he was indeed next in line to be the leader but he was not ready yet. Megatron tried to mold Starscream in a proper Decepticon leader and gaining the necessary wisdom to keep the leadership. Megatron one way or another new that he will kick the bucket sooner or later so why not have and equal cunning replacement after him. That could explain why as Galvatron just killed him of after, since he was far powerfull and in no need for a replacement. He was no fond of the Screamer but he new he was the only worthy after him to lead.

[@twilightgardenspresentatio6384]

SRM Maximus wow- true reason behind the intentions of a mad robot

[@SomeGuyNotKnown]

He also no longer truly served the Decepticons and had Cyclonus.

[@funkyweapon1981]

@@SomeGuyNotKnown Galvatron didn't really even serve Unicron, who was the one who made him.

[@EpigTheEpicPig]

Well, that. And he was just pissed Starscream threw him off Astrotrain while still functioning.

[@TheKingofbrooklin]

I always got the impression that Megatron in G1 acted like a mentor to Starscream. Especially in the first episodes.

[@Lancer7117]

Ahhhh I love it “I’m stupid I’m stupid”

[@dr.latency34]

6:30

[@Koontah]

I agree with your assessment; Starscream was a manageable threat... except, you know, during those times when he'd pull a fast one. I think, too, that when Starscream was not a tinfoil thorn in Megatron's side, he was pretty darn useful. Starscream is a good fighter and his equal hatred for the Autobots often served to challenge and encourage the troops into a greater endeavour.

[@jmurray1110]

Plus a pretty good shot Think of all the tunes megatron gives starscream control of his transformation He understands that while power hungry starscream is extremely dedicated to the cause and while in battle will ensure victory over mutiny When megatron us damaged that’s another story but that’s Typically when a retreat is in order so obviously that’s a different situation

[@jdpragmatic8644]

In the TFPrime episode Rock Bottom, Megatron told Starscream that he, “Took a certain delight in following his string of failures.” I think that would also be another reason to keep a backstabbing underling around. Enjoy beating him up when he fails and as an additional bonus, show the other minions what happens when they goof up as well.

[@IPfreely333]

its always good to keep someone around who is critical of you and your ideas, it helps you fine tune your strategies. Also, Starscream was obviously an experienced fighter and was very smart in his combat and leading of the other troops. He was his right hand man, and im sure Megatron had a level of respect for Starscreams treachery. and maybe he considered starscream a suitable replacement should he ever fall.

[@Kakorot77]

The same reason why Al and Peggy never divorced each other.......same analogy applied to an irritating married couple who hate each other's guts, but compliment each in awkward, but unique fashion.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Man, I miss that show!

[@warrmalaski8570]

I know this is a year late but al loved peg even if he didn't want to show it.

[@CouchPotato247]

Megatron: "You are either lying, or you're stupid!" Starscream: "I'm stupid, I'm stupid!!" 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@christopherhoward8128]

This cartoon did more then just sell toys. The story line was way more interesting than my imagination when playing with the toys as a child (back in 1984-85). Simply meaning that when I turned 12 in 1986 and lost interest in the toy line, I still watched the cartoon and read the comics.

[@FedoraReshiramGaming]

I personally think that Megatron kept Starscream around because, even as deceitful and comedic as he can be at times, Starscream kept Megatron on his figurative toes, at any time, at any point, Starscream could attempt to eliminate Megatron and attempt to seize control. True he wasn't a real 'threat', but he kept megatron at his strongest

[@robstrunk817]

Great video! I'm a huge Starscream fan and this was a good video. I know Starscream gets a bad rap as a coward but he really wasn't. He was afraid of Megatron when confronted face to face. Only Megatron though. He held his ground with anyone else including Prime. He never retreated from a battle unless the battle was obviously lost. And he was powerful enough to defeat all of the Decepticons on the shuttle (Astrotrain) to become the new leader in the 86 movie! I love Starscream!

[@curtisgangler5855]

Hoosier Daddy Starscream was second in command so he'd automatically become the new leader. I doubt he was involved in the fighting on astrotrain. he assumed leadership since they believed Megatron was lost to them after being severly wounded when he killed Optimus Prime and screamer tossing megs into deep space

[@wepruitt3]

Hoosier Daddy in which if I was astrotrain I would've kicked everyone off. I'm leader or find a way hoome.

[@Damnyouyoutub]

Hoosier Daddy I agree totally! Starscream gets a bad rap but he was great. Far from a coward he always challenge Megatron 2 his face. He was kept around because he was supremely capable

[@dombee4396]

Hoosier Daddy same screamy is my 4th favorite transformers character my top 3 is 3 shockwave 2 soundwave 1 bumblebee yeah I know it's a cliche but I don't care

[@crowningchristopher8273]

All hail Starscream!

[@thickchip3206]

He probably wanted a personal punching bag. Whenever Starscream gets hurt, the decepticons laugh at him. Even the autobots would sometimes laugh at the idea of Starscream getting punished for screwing up.

[@LJGrindewald]

I thought he saw starscream as like a disobedient son? 🤔

[@derekclay9314]

In a sense yes Think of ozai and zukos relationship from avatsr the last airbender

[@LJGrindewald]

@@derekclay9314 great example 😁

[@dangdao8068]

You know kids they alway being theirself

[@derekclay9314]

Starscream is, despite his constant failings and duplicitousness, extremely competent and arguably the most deadly decepticon in his weight class. Megatron is rightly confident that Starscream alone could not defeat him and sees that he still vies for leadership despite being technically inferior to Megatron. Megatron also, for some reason, sees potential in Starscream as his eventual successor and keeps him around because without a clear heir apparent to decepticon leadership Megatrons death would splinter the decepticons into infighting sub-factions. Starscream has shown leadership as head of the seekers, skill in battle, and most importantly sheer tenacity. The great war has gone on for millions of years and Starscream has held onto his ambitions for all that time. This is very much in line with the sith codes Rule-of-Two from star wars as a abusive power structure relationship and situation, where the second in command is supposed to be a conniving, malevolent jerk and eventually gain enough power to overthrow the leader if such a time comes where the leader is capable of being overthrown. In short, Starscreamis representative of the lesser sith apprentice who desires the greater power that megstron possesses as the sith master Keep all that in mind .kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2a5Yn6Nhq-Cf9E Fast forward to 12 minutes 30 seconds Trust me on this one i grew up reading up on star wars since the age of 5 when it comes to the stars legends universe over the years long term wise Megatron and stwrscream have all the ideal qualities to be a sith master and a sith apprentice

[@ContagiousRepublic]

Megatron banned Starscream to an island. Doesn't Megatron remember StarScream can FLY???

[@girlhelp8364]

*Logic*

[@NepetasShippingWall1642]

ContagiousRepublic but does starscream remember the way BACK?

[@SB-xj8xj]

Aside from what you said about Starscream being manageable threat, Starscream was also the Scapegoat of decepticons. Many times Starscream was the reason why Megatron's plans failed or suffered setbacks. The other decepticons were less likely to lose faith in Megatron since Starscream was always causing problems. No one else was dumb enough to want to be Megatron's Scapegoat. Another reason was that it made the others think twice about betraying Megatron. Especially since Starscream was the first to call someone out on their treachery.

[@CannonKnight]

Now thinking about it, it reminds me of the old Star Trek episode with the evil versions of everyone where Evil Spock said he didn't want to kill Kirk and be the captain because then he'll be a target. Megatron thought Starscream could never beat him, and if anyone else wanted to be the leader, they'd have to kill Starscream first because he will never be loyal to any Decepticon or even help to put this person in power because HE wants to rule. Pretty smart, actually. He's a useful idiot.

[@MLGLogy]

In one episode of G1, Megatron told Soundwave, who was curious to know why he still keeps Starscream around, that he copes with Starscream's antics due to the notion Starscream, while being the Decepticons' best warrior, and one of their few scientists, as well as their air commander, is too pathetic to ever succeed in taking command from him. This explanation would later be built upon in Transformers: Prime(though the two shows are not connected), where Megatron threw a tantrum at Airachnid's blunder of leaving Starscream with the Autobots. She then goes and says that he compromised their mission of retrieving the relic, with Megatron's response being that he doesn't care about some relic, for all Decepticon intel is now at the very fingers of their enemies.

[@nil981]

The prime megatron has a point when tearing arachnid a new exhaust port about abandoning starscream.

[@marlonnorris9288]

Starscream was a such a Backstabbing, Cowardly, Treacherous, Sniveling Sleaze! How could not Love the Guy!

[@vivimariefedorov7374]

As I was told, Starscream made the best energon cookies in all of Cybertron! 🍪

[@SinisterSally]

I always see it as a test for Megatron. If someone as cowardly and sniveling as Starscream could do him in maybe he shouldn’t be leader. Also Starscream was a genius so he was useful.

[@cookieDaXapper]

During G1, there were a limited number of decepticon troops, and Megatron is not foolish enough to get rid of a powerful ally, starscream. Besides, starscream is the defacto leader of the jets, being the most feared, fastest,and smartest, also the best ability, null gun. Great vid, thank you for your work, PEACE.

[@ZZtheDark]

4:26,that...f***boy. XD Srsly,that was what was being shown during that? ROFL!! Oh Screamer...never thought you would make a total ass of yourself. Oh man. This is gold right here.

[@geeboysgamesandmore49]

Muhd Wahid That scene was from an episode when Megatron entered Starscream's mind to see his intentions after so many betrayals in the past. An oddly fitting topic. But that part in particular was apparently one of Starscream's fantasies.

[@ZZtheDark]

Well,least we know robots DO dream of electric sheep. XD

[@joelbaldwin4051]

Why did Megatron keep Starscream around? His toy hadn't been discontinued, was popular, and was still selling well. Fans waited 2 years for Megatron to obliterate him, as he would have were it not for the factors I mentioned (albeit as Galvatron...still, who would deny that it is still one of the most awesome and most anticipated moments in Transformers history, as well as one of the best scenes in The Movie?)

[@toawing]

I think its a mix of a few things; 1. A little bit of respect for Starscream having the guts to persist 2. Moments like the combaticons does show that Starscream is useful enough to offset his problems 3. Plan B, in case he does fall there are very few choices for a successor and Starscream is at least motivated

[@beesknees811]

Megatron "You led me into this trap!!" Starscream "I was tricked! The Triple Changers! They told me it was a power station!" Megatron "You are either lying, or you're stupid!" Starscream "I'm stupid! I'm stupid!"

[@MomoDriller]

There's only one logical answer: It's a kink thing

[@nra3zehuti781]

Yeah,they're both BDSM lovers and megatron is the top

[@frosta1184]

@@nra3zehuti781 I made a mistake with looking that up

[@cxtcutsml706]

@@frosta1184 THIS COMMENT FUCKING KILLED ME LMFAO 💀💀💀

[@agentprime2179]

Why did Megatron keep Starscream around? Because he makes good cookies.

[@joshuacorsello6928]

Agent Prime and then one day Starscream put poison in the cookies and he killed Megatron but then Megatron turn into Galvatron and then he killed Starscream poisoning the cookies

[@lanibird2182]

joshua corsello Then starscream's ghost came back, and made cookies to give to trypticon so he can possess him

[@OfficialMrShade]

hahahaha. Case closed!

[@kempmt1]

6:36-Megatron, "either you're lying or you're stupid!" Starscream, "I'm stupid I'm stupid!" I will never forget that!

[@jeffreygao3956]

I thought it was because Megatron was more afraid of going soft. He is after all, a very powerful Transformer and could physically overwhelm Starscream whenever he could.

[@HypercatZ]

One of the serie's best remembered moments is Megatron's moment of clarity in issue #10; nearly as good is Optimus Prime's deadpan response: Megatron:"Why? That's what they all asked me. Why him? Why Starscream? Why, of all decepticons, did I decide to revitalize the one whose record of deceit and betrayal is legend? Because I'm an idiot, that's why! " Optimus Prime:"While I am tempted to record that last statement for posterity...."

[@Siiroth]

I've never clicked on a video so fast

[@CrashJamz]

Siiroth same

[@DamonKnight39]

same lol

[@Nepudragon]

Holly shit I’m not alone

[@larryellis8579]

Siiroth me neither

[@wolfknockout7070]

At least I'm not alone

[@jokerson1316]

Megatron in "Prime" said it best "I found you somewhat amusing!" Megatron found amusement in Starscream trying and continuously failing to beat him

[@tippycanoe99]

From Starscream's bio, Megatron acknowledged that in spite of his treachery, Starscream was actually good at his job.

[@brigidotrujillo673]

Maybe megaton kept starscream so that way when ever megaton was mad he could just get his anger out on starscream

[@miker0tch_]

But the Real Question is... Why didn't Starscream kill Megatron when he was a Gun?

[@dakotamatheson9884]

That would have been the perfect time to crush him with his bare hands.

[@christianfrost8660]

Or even use his Null Ray to stop him from Transforming, you will remain in weapon mode... forever.

[@falconphoenix]

Well duh. Cause Starscream is fab

[@melissaleslie5414]

This is why I love starscream

[@thephoenix2176]

As you stated. . .and always have been proven more than not. . .keep your enemies closer --> and your third eye open!

[@Jawmax]

I know this is over a year old but I just want to say that one reason Megatron keeps Starscream around is keep himself on his toes. To never let his guard down or allow himself weakness.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Good reasoning. This video is getting a lot of recommendation lately and I'm always open to talk about it!

[@brothercadet9464]

*Megatron coughs once Starscream: I AM THE NEW LEADER IF THE DECEPTICONS

[@photonicus]

Megatron could never assume that Optimus wouldn't one day destroy him.(he may have NOT found that likely,but as a mastermind who plans ahead he couldn't assume)The Decepticon cause doesn't stop even if he gets destroyed,so he always needed Starscream to be ready to lead should he fall.It was more of a teacher apprentice relationship...made up of the most brutal lessons.Starscream has ALWAYS had the qualities Megatron was looking for in a successor,but Starscreams immaturity was always a source of frustration for Megatron.Simply put,most great leaders want to pass on their knowledge to an apprentice that shows talent.Starscream was just a DIFFICULT apprentice...

[@RodimusPrimal]

Difficult apprentice indeed.

[@josephstahl9119]

*He has the ambition, and skill to lead the Decepticons, but he lacks the common sense, and the backbone.*

[@photonicus]

@@josephstahl9119 Exactly. Shockwave has common sense,but is widely regarded as lacking in charisma. Others won't follow him for long. Soundwave has backbone and skill,but lacks ambition. He already IS who he wants to be. His whole existence and purpose revolves around spy-work.He is his profession.That brings us full circle back to Starscream.

[@ironhorsehistorian9871]

One word “Cookies”

[@RodimusPrimal]

Iron Geek see my Starscream's Ghost episode.

[@stewarthayden]

I think deep down megatron likes starscream and he is not really a threat! But he did keep him sharp! Its like two brothers always fighting!

[@girlhelp8364]

*HE DID IT!*

[@arbiter690]

I'd say cause yes Starscream would be easier to manage if kept on a short leash and that it's too much trouble to try to kill him when he's very bloody clever and sneaky, but in an odd way Megatron has some small measure of admiration for Starscream and little tiny minuscule respect. There was a reason he took him under his wing and saw something inside Starscream. In a faction of warriors known to be deceitful and treacherous Starscream embodies these traits and thus Megatron likes him......as far as he can blast him anyways.

[@TheJcjonesacp]

I think he kept him around for equal parts he knew he was a manageable threat he could keep in second in command and he brobably has few better options. When he became Galvatron he had a much more loyal cyclonus and a more powerful sic, a believe Nicol Bolas said that a Master is only as powerful as his pawns.

[@thisappisbs]

keeping Starscream alive because he's a threat megatron can deal with. as Shockwave says "that is most logical"

[@HypercatZ]

Also, Starscream's bully attitude helped Megatron keeping the other decepticons in line.

[@carolina0930]

Megatron of Cyberverse when Starscream betrayed him the first time Megatron: *CAGASTE*

[@ajmetz82]

Probably 'cos it was a kids cartoon, and they weren't to show death...until the movie became about refreshing the toyline, and then the writers went for it, XD. Haha... Well, that's stepping out of the fictional universe and into toy and cartoon decisions, so sorry, =). It's fun to read everyone's ideas in the comments though. I liked the one about Megatron keeping Starscream around for fun, until the movie when he went too far, ^_^.

[@jaredgarcia8638]

There's two reasons why Megateon keeps Starscream. 1. Starscream's string of failures is what amuses megatron. 2. He's a constant reminder for Megatron to be a sharper leader. The idea of Starscream becoming leader is horrifying

[@VoltitanDev]

I like how in micron legend Megatron was hard on starscream because he sees him has a worthy successor is pushing him to challenge him to a duel to claim his rightful place as the deception ruler