The Most Annoying Sitcom Characters Ever

Many of us tune in to watch television as a way of unwinding from our busy lives. It is a chance to escape for however brief a moment from the stresses we may be dealing with and allow us a moment to sit back and relax. What we watch may elicit a range of emotions but as laughter is the best medicine, nothing is more therapeutic than a sitcom, that show meant to be light-hearted and funny, giving viewers a break from the seriousness of everyday life.

Some of the best sitcoms have complex characters and unpredictable storylines, and allow us 30 minutes of almost pure enjoyment, but the nature of sitcoms also breeds some of the most annoying characters ever seen. There isn't one particular trait that makes them irritating but rather a collective of many. While some may make us laugh, like the lovable but irritating Ross Gellar on "Friends," others are just downright grating and obnoxious.

From the sound of their voice, like Janice from "Friends," or Fran Fine from "The Nanny" (who didn't make our list but perhaps should have), to their lack of self-awareness, we can laugh at the irritating nature of these sitcom characters because we don't have to deal with them in real life. (Sitcom characters can also be like celebrities. We all have our favorites, like perhaps Taylor Swift, who may make an appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and those who we prefer to avoid.)

What makes our favorite sitcoms and TV shows enjoyable isn't just the funny jokes, it's their reliability to the viewers. When we feel we can relate to the characters and identify with them, it gives us a different perspective on our own lives and makes us feel like we're not alone. Although most of us haven't had to deal with people quite as annoying as the characters listed here, we have encountered someone we didn't particularly like.

To create this list of the most annoying sitcom characters ever, 24/7 Tempo consulted numerous entertainment sources, including Entertainment Weekly and IMDb. For sitcoms with lovable characters, check out The Very Best Sitcoms of All Time.

• Portrayed by: Steve Hytner

Technically, we're not supposed to like Kenny Bania from "Seinfeld," considering he's the bane of Jerry's existence. However, we're likely as annoyed by Kenny as Jerry is. With his signature catchphrase, "It's the best, Jerry! The best!" and unnecessary enthusiasm, his personality is enough to drive anyone crazy.

• Portrayed by: Chris Elliott

After the Rose family relocates to Schitt's Creek, the only asset they have left, they meet Roland Schitt. Roland is the mayor of the town, although he doesn't come across as competent enough for any leadership role. His inappropriate jokes, lack of self-awareness, and laziness make him one of the most irritating characters on the show.

• Portrayed by: Mila Kunis

"That '70s Show" had many beloved characters, but Jackie Burkhart is one of the most irritating. Kelso's friends accept Jackie in the beginning because she's his girlfriend, but her selfish and spoiled attitude makes her less than popular with the rest of the group. Although she does continue hanging out with them after her breakup with Kelso, she remains an annoying character throughout the show.

• Portrayed by: Dan Butler

Bob Briscoe, also known as Bulldog, is the kind of person you wouldn't want to work with. Although it becomes evident throughout the show that his tough guy persona and mistreatment of women are just him overcompensating for his insecurities, he still seems unbearable to be around.

• Portrayed by: Chevy Chase

Pierce Hawthorne is another character who's not really meant to be liked. His upbringing led Pierce to be offensive and aggravating, lacking any kind of social skills. He often makes inappropriate comments and even though it's portrayed as comedy, it crosses the line for many viewers.

• Portrayed by: Johnny Kastl

When watching "Scrubs," you're often left wondering, how does Doug still have a job? He ends up working as a pathologist after completing his internship at the hospital, but his severe incompetence makes his character one of the most unlikeable on the show.

• Portrayed by: Zach Woods

Gabe Lewis appears on "The Office" after Dunder Mifflin becomes a part of Sabre in season 6. While there are certainly many annoying characters in this sitcom, Gabe is one of the few without any redeeming qualities. He doesn't become more unbearable over time and his brief relationship with Erin is even more difficult to watch.

• Portrayed by: Maggie Wheeler

You can hear her laugh from miles away, and she always makes her appearance by loudly proclaiming her famous catchphrase. Whether Janice happens to be Chandler's blind date or she's sharing a hospital room with Rachel while they're both in labor, she always appears at the most inconvenient times, even if it's not intentional.

• Portrayed by: Ben Schwartz

We first meet Jean-Ralphio in Season 2 of "Parks and Rec" when Tom tries to have Ron hire Jean-Ralphio as his assistant. When you understand Tom's personality, it's unsurprising that he's friends with Jean-Ralphio. However, most of the other characters on the show also can't stand being around him.

• Played by: Jenny Slate

It wasn't enough to list Jean-Ralphio as one of the most annoying sitcom characters without also mentioning his sister, Mona-Lisa. We don't see Mona-Lisa as frequently, but she's likely even more annoying than her brother. Not only is her entitled and spoiled attitude obnoxious, but anytime we hear her say, "Money please" in the most obnoxious tone of voice, it's like nails on a chalkboard. (Don't miss the Annoying Sitcom Neighbors That Would Make You Want to Move.)