Some TV characters can leave your skin crawling. Even beloved and popular shows have easy-to-hate and cruel characters.
But how do you determine when a character is despicable? People, like situations, aren’t just black or white, still, some people make it hard to root for.
To compile this list of the most despicable TV characters, 24/7 Tempo consulted several entertainment websites, namely IMDb. We also read through countless forums and noted repeated names.
Keep reading down below to discover some of the most despicable TV characters ever. Interested in more articles? We also have a list of 30 of the most evil villains in TV history.
Joffrey Baratheon
The first character on our list is Joffrey Baratheon. Joffrey Baratheon has to be one of the most hated and despicable characters in TV history. It’s hard to imagine that anyone would like this tyrannical and cruel prince. In fact, he was so hated that many fans of the TV series, “Game of Thrones,” were frustrated by his death, believing it was too quick for it to feel satisfying.
Angela Channing
Another noteworthy addition to our list of the most despicable TV characters is Angela Channing from the show “Falcon Crest.” Angela Channing is a frustrating, mean, and judgmental character. Throughout the series, she controls her family’s lives, ruining them in the process, while making herself look like the villain. She is easily one of the most annoying characters in the show.
Mr. Big
Have you ever heard of Mr. Big? Mr. Big is unsurprisingly one of many unpopular TV characters. He was a recurring character in the series “Sex and the City” starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon, and Kim Cattrall. So, what makes this character so despicable?
Mr. Big is a gross character. While he is known for his good looks and ‘big’ personality, he is also a toxic walking red flag.
Oliver Trask
Next on our list of despicable TV characters is Oliver Trask. Oliver Trask is a short-lived character in the series “O.C.” He doesn’t last long though and is only seen in the first season. However, his short appearance is enough to make it on a list of despicable and hated characters.
Oliver is a liar. He is also manipulative and becomes obsessed with Marissa. As ugly as a character as he is though, his actions make great TV and are hard not to watch.
Kilgrave
Kilgrave is a supervillain in the comic book and TV series “Jessica Jones.” He first appeared in Daredevil #4. He is creepy, wicked, and obsessive with a jaw-dropping power to control others. Imagine having no control over your actions. Many Jessica Jones fans had goosebumps while watching David Tennant portray this mad character.
Ezra Fitz
Even fans of “Pretty Little Liars” can agree that Ezra Fitz is despicable and gross. Firstly, he’s an English teacher who sleeps and starts a relationship with a high school student, Aria. Although Aria first lied about her age, alluding to the fact she was older and of legal age, once he finds out, their relationship doesn’t stop.
Benjamin Linus
“Lost” is one of the most popular TV shows in the world. This strange and entertaining science fiction adventure drama ran from 2004 to 2010. While there are a lot of despicable or hated characters, Benjamin Linus (Ben) is a special case. He is very good at manipulating people, using his meek and nervous appearance to seem innocent. Like other characters on this list though, he’s too entertaining to stop watching! Ben keeps you on your toes.
Homelander
Homelander is a character in the TV series “The Boys.” Homelander is an incredible villain who is easy to fear. He abuses his power, thinking he’s a god. He is cruel, killing families, children, and the elderly without blinking. This character is truly unsettling. Antony Starr portrays this broken and disturbing superhero very well.
Livia Soprano
Livia Soprano is a character in the series “The Sopranos.” Livia Soprano is hated by many. If this was a most hated TV characters list, she’d be close to the top. This series ran from 1999 to 2007. Livia is written well. It’s easy to dislike her from her first appearance. Nearly every word that comes out of her mouth is rude or judgemental.
Alexis Colby
Alexis Colby is iconic. She non-stop causes problems, with style, in the series “Dynasty.” Alexis Colby is played by Joan Collins in the original series. This intriguing character is known as a gorgeous villainess. She loves scandals and is always dressed to impress.
Emily Gilmore
Emily Gilmore isn’t evil, but she’s also not winning a “Mother of the Year” award anytime soon. This character is from the TV series “The Gilmore Girls.” She’s the mother of Lorelai, who runs away as a teenager to raise her daughter Rory. Emily is all about properness. She is constantly dressed modestly. Throughout the series, she belittles Lorelai with side comments, which is a big reason many people can’t stand her. Still, she loves her family, even if it’s hard to see.
Charles Montgomery Burns
Last but not least is Charles Montgomery Burns, also known as Monty, from the series “The Simpsons.” He’s been voiced by both Christopher Collins and Harry Shearer. Mr. Burns is a frustrating character, but to be fair, he’s supposed to be. He’s an old, incredibly rich, and sinister man. Even if you’ve never seen the show, you probably know him from his constant use of the word “excellent.”
Charles Montgomery Burns is an iconic 90s TV character. But who else is? Click here to read about the most iconic TV characters of the 90s.