A recent survey by Ranker, as of November 24, 2023, has revealed the top 12 most hated TV characters of all time. With nearly 200,000 votes collected, it’s evident that many TV fans have shared their opinions. So, who’s the most despised TV character of all time?
While opinions may differ and not everyone may agree with the list provided below, it’s generally acknowledged that the 12 TV characters listed are widely despised by viewers of their respective shows. It’s important to note that this ranking pertains to the characters themselves and not the actors or actresses who portrayed them – a distinction worth considering.
#12 Lori Grimes (The Walking Dead)
Lori Grimes, portrayed by Sarah Wayne Callies in early seasons of The Walking Dead, is a divisive character who remains in the top 12 most hated TV characters of all time even after her demise in season three.
Her affair with Rick’s former best friend, Shane, portrayed by Jon Bernthal, during Rick’s presumed death in season one was a controversial storyline. This, along with other “questionable choices,” including the affair resulting in the pregnancy of Judith Grimes, initially believed to be Rick’s child, contributed to Lori’s divisive reception among fans.
#11 Petyr Baelish (Game of Thrones)
Petyr Baelish, played by Aiden Gillen in Game of Thrones, is a manipulative character known for his deceitful actions.
He’s responsible for major plot twists and significant character deaths, like Ned Stark‘s, making his spot on this list understandable.
#10 Janice Soprano (The Sopranos)
Janice Soprano from The Sopranos takes the 10th spot on the list, recognized for her ability to bring both humor and irritation to the screen.
Portrayed by Aida Turturro, Janice, Tony Soprano’s older sister, often provides comedic relief in tense moments, yet her behavior can be perceived as grating by viewers.
Despite being the eldest child of Livia and Johnny Soprano, Janice left home at a young age due to her strained relationship with her parents, only to return after 20 years for various reasons.
#9 The Governor (The Walking Dead)
Ranking at number 9 is The Governor from The Walking Dead, portrayed by David Morrissey, a character infamous for bringing chaos and trauma to Rick Grimes and his group of survivors.
With his manipulative tactics, villainous decisions, and the devastating death of beloved character Hershel Greene, The Governor remains one of the most hated TV villains of all time, leaving a lasting impact on fans with every appearance.
Due to his manipulative tactics, villainous decisions, and the heart-wrenching death of the beloved character Hershel Greene, The Governor stands as a prime contender for the title of the most hated character in television history.
#8 Shou Tucker (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
Shou Tucker from Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, played by Chuck Huber or Yo Oizumi, ranks as the 8th most hated TV character of all time.
His reprehensible actions on screen often disgust viewers, serving as a grim reminder of the darkness that can dwell within both characters and viewers alike.
#7 Cersei Lannister (Game of Thrones)
Cersei Lannister, played by Lena Headey, is another Game of Thrones character on this list.
While she’s memorable, her power-hungry and murderous actions didn’t sit well with fans, considering she was a major antagonist.
It’s no surprise that Cersei ranks as the 7th most hated TV character of all time, but for reasons that fit her character’s role.
#6 Livia Soprano (The Sopranos)
Taking the 6th spot is Livia Soprano from The Sopranos, a character widely regarded as one of the most despised from the series.
Her manipulative and self-absorbed nature rubs viewers the wrong way, likely intentionally, especially considering the popularity of her son Tony, who stands as one of TV’s most beloved characters. Livia’s legacy as one of the most hated TV characters of all time continues to endure.
#5 Todd Alquist (Breaking Bad)
Next on the list is Jesse Plemons‘ Todd Alquist from the acclaimed series Breaking Bad. Todd’s unsettling and unpredictable nature often left viewers on edge, as he served as one of the series’ antagonists.
Breaking Bad excelled at crafting compelling characters like Todd, contributing to its continued popularity among viewers over the years.
#4 Skyler White (Breaking Bad)
Another character from Breaking Bad, Skyler White, portrayed by Anna Gunn, is the wife of the main character, Walter. While Skyler added depth to the series, fans quickly grew to dislike her character for various reasons.
Many viewers perceived Skyler as a partner who bullied her husband Walter, played by Bryan Cranston, which likely contributed to her inclusion on this list.
#3 Caillou (Caillou)
Caillou, portrayed by Annie Bovaird in the eponymous show, nearly clinched the third spot on the list of the top 12 most hated TV characters of all time as of November 24, 2023.
Many viewers of the PBS Kids series criticized the main character for being excessively whiny, and there has been ongoing controversy regarding the parenting skills of Caillou‘s parents, with some believing they taught bad manners.
In summary, the show has been accused of potentially sending the message to young viewers that misbehavior goes unpunished.
#2 Ramsey Bolton (Game of Thrones)
Another Game of Thrones character, portrayed by Misfits star Iwan Rheon, Ramsey Bolton, secures a high second place on the list of the most hated TV characters of all time.
Ramsey’s extreme wickedness, cunning manipulation, and repulsively sadistic tendencies explain why he garnered so many votes in the latest survey.
Fans of the show know exactly why Ramsey is such a detested character, as he embodies a brilliant antagonist for a series like Game of Thrones.
#1 Joffrey Baratheon (Game of Thrones)
Last but certainly not least, we have the infamous Game of Thrones character, Joffrey Baratheon, portrayed by Jack Gleeson.
So widely despised was this character that even those who hadn’t watched a single episode of the show would have heard the fervent expressions of hatred directed toward him.
Despite his youth, Joffrey’s cruel personality and sadistic nature cemented his position as the number one most hated character of all time. Even now, years after the show’s conclusion, Joffrey remains a clear winner in this regard.
