The 50 Most Despised TV Characters in History Ranked

Television series are very entertaining, but some of the characters are awful. There is an equally and adamantly loathed character for every cherished figure on the shows, whether it be Mary Tyler Moore of The Mary Tyler Moore Show or everyone’s favorite inhabitant of the Seven Kingdoms, Tyrion Lannister. Characters can also be off-putting in ways the writers probably did not intend. You will notice that some characters are so universally despised that no one blinks an eye when they realize they’re on this list. Have you ever stopped watching a show because one of the characters irritated you? This list ranks the worst of the worst of the most despised television characters of all time.

50. Todd Alquist — “Breaking Bad”

Todd Alquist from “Breaking Bad” quickly became one of the show’s most despised characters, known for his cold-blooded nature and lack of remorse. His polite demeanor, juxtaposed with his violent actions, created a chilling presence on screen. Todd’s involvement in some of the series’ darkest moments, including the murder of a child, showcased his willingness to do anything to achieve his goals, making viewers’ skin crawl.

Despite being a late addition to the series, Todd’s impact was significant. His allegiance to the criminal side of the drug trade and his unsettling calmness during brutal acts solidified his status as a character fans loved to hate. His complex relationship with other characters, especially Jesse Pinkman, added depth to his role, making his eventual comeuppance a satisfying moment for viewers.

49. Ramsey Bolton — “Game of Thrones”

Ramsey Bolton of “Game of Thrones” is infamous for his sadistic and cruel nature, making him one of the most hated characters in television history. His brutal treatment of Sansa Stark and Theon Greyjoy, among others, showcased his utter lack of empathy and enjoyment of others’ suffering. Ramsey’s unpredictability and ruthlessness made his scene tense and horrifying.

His downfall was eagerly awaited by fans, who found his actions and personality repugnant. Despite being a brilliantly crafted villain, Ramsey’s demise was a moment of catharsis for the audience, who had seen him commit unspeakable acts without remorse. His legacy as a character is defined by the intense emotions he elicited from viewers, cementing his place as one of TV’s most detested figures.

48. Livia Soprano — “The Sopranos”

Livia Soprano, the matriarch of “The Sopranos,” earned viewers’ disdain through her manipulative and often cruel behavior towards her son, Tony, and other family members. Her perpetual dissatisfaction and emotional manipulation created a complex and strained relationship with Tony, driving much of the show’s drama. Livia’s ability to feign innocence while orchestrating some of the series’ most significant conflicts showcased her as a formidable antagonist.

Her character’s depth, combined with Nancy Marchand’s exceptional performance, made Livia fascinating yet deeply disliked by fans. Her influence on the show’s narrative and the psychological depth of her character added layers to “The Sopranos,” making her an essential part of its success. Despite her actions, Livia remains one of television’s most intriguing and complex characters.

47. Benjamin Linus — “Lost”

Benjamin Linus from “Lost” emerged as one of the show’s most enigmatic and hated characters. Initially introduced as a seemingly harmless captive, his true nature as a manipulative and cunning leader of the Others was gradually revealed. Ben’s actions, driven by his desire to protect the island at any cost, often put him at odds with the crash survivors, making him a complex antagonist.

Despite his villainous deeds, Ben’s character was richly developed, showing moments of vulnerability and a quest for redemption. His intelligence and strategic thinking made him a formidable player in the island’s mysteries. Ben’s journey from villain to a character seeking forgiveness was compelling, demonstrating the show’s ability to create multifaceted characters that challenged viewers’ perceptions.