Top 100 Greatest TV Characters of All Time
#100: Barney Stinson
Top 10 Barney Stinson Rules To Live By
“How I Met Your Mother” (2005-14) Are we pushing the limit if we say his making this list was legendary? Maybe, but it doesn’t change how memorable of a character Barney Stinson is. This suit-wielding womanizer used his playbook to win his way into the hearts of millions of fans. From his endless supply of catchphrases, to the platinum rule and back, Barney might also happen to have been the character with the most growth. As deplorable as some of his antics may seem now, “How I Met Your Mother” never shied away from giving Barney tender moments that showed his true inner self. Despite all of Marshall’s slaps, he still deserves to be on our list.
#99: Dean & Sam Winchester
Top 10 Dean Winchester Moments That Made Us Want to Give Him a Hug
“Supernatural” (2005-20) As the older brother, and the one who carried Sam to safety when they were kids, Dean’s always been over protective of his younger sibling. It was a trait that permeated throughout the entire series. Sam, on the other hand, has been more than able to take care of himself, and any creatures who go bump in the night, even while still yearning for a more normal life. This duo of supernatural hunting heroes provided audiences with enough action, hilarious banter, and touching moments to last all the way through 15 seasons of a memorable show.
#98: Gilligan
“Gilligan's Island” (1964-67) It should be pretty obvious here. The show is literally named after him. Willie Gilligan, yes, that really was his first name, is the ever so clumsy first mate of the SS Minnow. Dubbed “little buddy” by the captain, Jonas “The Skipper” Grumby, Gilligan was the lovable goof that forever seemed to accidentally undermine many of the castaways' plans to get off the island. Known for his signature red shirt and white hat, Gilligan would consistently make discoveries that inevitably wreaked more havoc on the island than it helped. Yet despite his fumblings, he was also adored by everyone, and remained in the hearts of millions of fans.
#97: Scooby-Doo
Top 10 Times the Scooby Gang Went Beast Mode
“Scooby-Doo” franchise (1969-) Roh-roh, here we go. Scooby-Doo is one of the few characters who continues to find new life on television and film ever since his inception back in the Hanna-Barbera days. This lovable Great Dane has been giving audiences smiles and laughs since 1969. Almost always attached to his best friend Shaggy, he appears to have a bottomless stomach and a knack for stumbling into the most curious of situations. Viewers laugh at his misfortunes, scare at his frights, but most of all, they love him just as much as we do our real-life pets. We welcomed him into our family, which is what makes him a great addition to this list.
#96: Olivia Benson
Why Olivia Benson is the Role Model We Need Right Now
“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (1999-) As the only remaining original cast member of this show, Mariska Hargitay’s portrayal of Olivia Benson has stood the test of time. On a show that exposes the horrors of abuse and assault, Olivia is the heroine we all need. Uniquely positioned to connect with victims through her own history, Benson illustrates compassion, and determination in solving whatever crime she’s put up against. But it’s not just her passion for justice that defines her. Through the years, we’ve watched her hit highs and lows in both her professional and personal life. The growth she’s experienced over the seasons is truly inspirational to anyone watching.
#95: Alexis Colby
Top 10 Alexis & Ted Moments on Schitt's Creek
“Dynasty” (1981-89) Forever the show about the rich and powerful, “Dynasty” found its real stride with the introduction of Joan Collins’ character, Alexis Colby at the start of its second season. Not even the greatest reality-TV villains could ever come close to how vile and manipulative Colby could be. The combination of the show’s writing and Collins’ impeccable delivery yielded a character that viewers hated so much, they had to tune in every week to see what she would try and pull off next. It’s not too often a show can bring in such interest over a single character, let alone one hated by millions. But props to “Dynasty” for finding a fantastic way to deliver this to us.
#94: Mork
“Mork & Mindy” (1978-82) Portrayed by the legendary Robin Williams, Mork was a character that was born to showcase the talent of this late comedian. With his unconventional mannerisms, offbeat language, and hilarious physical comedy, Mork brought joy and laughter to every scene. What set him apart was his ability to view the world with fresh eyes and encouraging acceptance of individuality. Mork's genuine curiosity about human behavior and his unwavering kindness make him relatable and endearing. Robin Williams took his improvisational skills and brought the character to life in a way that audiences loved. Add to that Williams' & Pam Dawber's undeniable chemistry made every scene a joy to watch.
#93: Fiona Gallagher
Top 10 Best Fiona Gallagher Moments on Shameless
“Shameless” (2011-21) It’s sad to see a child have to take on the role of parent to their siblings when their own parents have failed miserably. Enter Fiona Gallagher. The oldest daughter of deadbeat dad Frank, Fiona spends much of her time on “Shameless” giving up her own life for the sake of taking care of her brothers and sisters. Always trying not to get lost in her family life, Fiona consistently struggles to find stable connections with others, all while dealing with Frank’s disdain for responsibility of any kind. She’s a character that feels real to audiences because of her struggles.
#92: June Osborne
Top 10 Releases Coming to and Leaving Netflix in June 2019
“The Handmaid's Tale” (2017-) When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Saint Ambrose suggested it’s best to follow local traditions when visiting somewhere. For June Osborne, the need to “fit in” has been a necessity for her survival. Living in such an oppressive world, it would have been easy to write June off as just another victim in Gilead. But as the show has progressed, we’ve watched her move from being Fred Waterford’s plaything, to a leader among the resistance. It’s her growth that has helped captivate audiences and lure them in making us all wonder if she’ll be the one coming out on top in the end.
#91: Kara ‘Starbuck’ Thrace
“Battlestar Galactica” (2004-09) “Starbuck” is a character that also evolved immensely over the course of the show’s run. When we first meet her, she’s a cocky pilot who enjoys a good drink, smoking cigars, and risking it all to win a game of Triad. But that alone is not enough to make a character endearing. The connections she forms with those around her are incredibly genuine and not as superficial as some of her outward traits. She became a central character to the show, even bringing the Galactica to its final destination. That’s a whole lot more than just winning a game of cards.
#90: Logan Roy
Jess VS Logan: Who Is the Better Boyfriend?
“Succession” (2018-) Countless stories have been told about the idea of continuing on the family business. So with a show like “Succession”, it’s no surprise to find this a major theme. Logan Roy is the family elder and with his health in decline, he pits the children against each other all in the name of Waystar RoyCo. He’s ruthless, manipulative, and stops at nothing in his quest for power. Yet even with that undying thirst, Logan isn’t without his moments of almost tenderness. In as many ways as viewers may find his controlling actions despicable, he’s a character we all love to hate.
#89: Cookie Lyon
Top 10 Most Outrageous Cookie Lyon Moments
“Empire” (2015-20)
#88: Rue Bennett
Top 10 Greatest Big Time Rush Characters
“Euphoria” (2019-)
#87: Abed Nadir
“Community” (2009-15)
#86: Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess Of Grantham
“Downton Abbey” (2010-15)
#85: BoJack Horseman
Top 10 BoJack Horseman Episodes
“BoJack Horseman” (2014-20) It would be really easy to pass off a show like “BoJack Horseman” as just another animated adult comedy. But thanks to the titular character, we get a peek into the other side of Hollywood stardom that we don’t often get to see. Horseman could easily be substituted for a whole myriad of has-been actors from the real world. But thanks to Will Arnett’s portrayal, audiences get a real sense of how Horseman’s sarcasm and insecurities are far more real than he’d like anyone to know. It’s BoJack’s constant search for meaning and happiness that makes him so appealing for viewers to tune into.
#84: Tanya McQuoid
“The White Lotus” (2021-)
#83: Homelander
Homelander Vs Omni Man (The Boys Vs Invincible)
“The Boys” (2019-)
#82: Beavis & Butt-Head
Top 20 Best Beavis and Butt-Head Moments
“Beavis and Butt-Head” (1992-97; 2011; 2022-)
#81: Arthur Read
Top 10 Most Savage Arthur Moments
“Arthur” (1996-2022)
#80: Tommy Oliver / Green Ranger
Top 10 Jason David Frank Tommy Oliver Moments In Power Rangers
“Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” (1993-95) For a character that was only intended to appear in one season, Tommy Oliver, AKA the Green Ranger, turned out to be one of the longest running members of the Power Rangers. Originally under the spell of Rita Repulsa, Tommy is freed and joins the team as their sixth member. The character went on to appear in multiple iterations of the show and movies all the way up until 2023. Forever the hero, he’s always been portrayed as a mentor and respected by those who know him. Given how characters come and go in this franchise, his ability to continue to endear to his fans is a tribute to the character.
#79: Lizzie McGuire
Top 10 BEST Lizzie McGuire Episodes
“Lizzie McGuire” (2001-04)
#78: Meredith Grey
Top 10 Times Meredith & Cristina from Grey's Anatomy Were BFF Goals
“Grey's Anatomy” (2005-)
#77: Tobias Fünke
“Arrested Development” (2003-06; 2013-19)
#76: Rory & Lorelai Gilmore
Top 10 Rory Gilmore Moments That Make Us Yell at Our TVs
“Gilmore Girls” (2000-07)
#75: Dr. Richard Kimble
Top 20 HBO Characters of All Time
“The Fugitive” (1963-67) Never has a story about a presumed criminal captured the hearts and minds of TV audiences like “The Fugitive”’s Dr. Richard Kimble. Accused of murdering his wife, Kimble spent 120 episodes dodging law enforcement all while trying to find the one-armed man who committed the real crime. Viewers didn’t tune in every week just because the show was entertaining. Kimble provided a perfect vessel to illustrate how even when the law fails us, you can still remain a morally centered individual. Forever finding ways to use his intelligence to help others, he never allowed his own difficulties to prevent him from doing the right thing.
#74: Liz Lemon
Top 10 Characters from The Crown We Wish Got More Screen Time
“30 Rock” (2006-13; 2020)
#73: Dale Cooper
“Twin Peaks” (1990-91; 2017)
#72: Mr. Bean
Top 20 Greatest Sitcoms of All Time
“Mr. Bean” (1990-95)
#71: Moira Rose
Top 10 Moira Rose Outfits on Schitt's Creek
“Schitt's Creek” (2015-20)
#70: Batman
Top 20 Greatest Batman The Animated Series Episodes
Various Even though Batman first appeared in comics in 1939, it wasn’t until Adam West donned the cowl that he made his TV debut in 1966. Since then, he’s appeared in multiple animated programs and a multitude of films. With a tragic backstory, Batman is one of the few superheroes who relies not on superpowers, but his unrelenting pursuit of justice instead. Every depiction of the character comes with a new spin, but it always circles back to the idea that Batman himself is a symbol to be feared by those who cross him. He’s a man who carries the weight of the city on his shoulders while hiding in the shadows.
#69: Xena
“Xena: Warrior Princess” (1995-2001)
#68: Ted Lasso
Top 10 LGBTQ+ TV Characters Who Were Ahead of Their Time
“Ted Lasso” (2020-23)
#67: Annaliese Keating
“How to Get Away with Murder” (2014-20)
#66: Doogie Howser
“Doogie Howser, M.D.” (1989-93)
#65: Sophia Petrillo
“The Golden Girls” (1985-92) If there’s one thing Sophia proved to viewers, it’s that the passage of years does not always represent the loss of one’s sharp wit. As the eldest of this group of golden girls, Sophia proves time and time again that not only is she the wisest of the four, she’s also the funniest. Where most often we see seniors as ones to be coddled, Sophia’s sarcastic and sharp-tongued comments prove time and time again she’s only gotten funnier as the years pass by. But what ties it all up is how underneath that coat of one-liners is a woman who cares deeply for those closest to her.
#64: Amanda Woodward
Amanda Bynes: Child Stardom, Leaving Hollywood & Where She Is Now
“Melrose Place” (1992-99) & (2009-10)
#63: Eric Taylor
Top 10 Eric Cartman Plans That Blew Up In His Face
“Friday Night Lights” (2006-11)
#62: Barry Berkman
Top 10 Most Intense Moments from Barry
“Barry” (2018-23)
#61: Charlie Kelly
Good Luck Charlie Cast: Where Are They Now?
“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” (2005-)
#60: Dylan McKay
Top 10 Memorable Dylan McKay Moments
“Beverly Hills, 90210” (1990-2000) Whether it’s television, film, theater, or sometimes even the real world, there’s an undeniable attraction towards the “bad boy”. The late Luke Perry’s Dylan McKay from “Beverly Hills 90210” was a perfect rendition of this archetype during the 1990s. Attractive, charming, and with a touch of mystery, he found his way into the hearts of millions of viewers as he battled substance use disorder, and his on-again, off-again relationships with Brenda and Kelly. Luke’s portrayal of McKay gave us far more than just a pretty face to swoon at. He found a way to convey the inner sensitivities of character that could’ve easily been overlooked when contrasted against his typical behavior.
#59: Sydney Bristow
Sydney CALLS OUT Alayah & Peter Goes Home: The Bachelor Week 3 Recap I The Bach Chat 🌹
“Alias” (2001-06)
#58: Sabrina Spellman
Top 10 Differences Between Chilling Adventures of Sabrina & Sabrina the Teenage Witch
“Sabrina, the Teenage Witch” (1996-2003)
#57: Daryl Dixon
Top 10 Most Badass Daryl Dixon Moments
“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)
#56: Fred Flintstone
“The Flintstones” (1960-66)
#55: Lieutenant Columbo
“Columbo” (1968-2003) Peter Falk may have had a long career in film and television, but he’ll always be known as “Columbo”. With his beige raincoat, and his signature “one more thing” or “one other thing” line, Columbo was one of the greatest, underrated detectives to ever grace our screens. He was an investigator from an era that didn’t feel the need to intimidate a suspect, or treat them like a criminal. Instead, Columbo always addressed people as “sir” or “ma'am”, and treated everyone with an incredible amount of respect. Coming off as the “everyman”, Columbo’s best trade secret was never letting a suspect think he thought they were a suspect at all. And in the end, it worked, as Columbo would walk away a winner.
#54: Sam Malone
Top 10 SpongeBob Villains of All Time
“Cheers” (1982-93)
#53: Samantha Stephens
Top 10 Times Samantha Deserved Better on Sex And The City
“Bewitched” (1964-72)
#52: Adrian Monk
“Monk” (2002-09)
#51: Will Smith
Top 20 Funniest Sitcom Characters Of All Time
“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” (1990-96)
#50: Eleven
Stranger Things Season 2: New Monster, Ghostbusters & Eleven is Back!
“Stranger Things” (2016-) Television often features casts of multiple, talented individuals that form an ensemble that bring a show to life. Yet despite all that talent, there can often be a “breakout” character that stands out among the rest. Such is the case of Eleven from “Stranger Things”. The “fish out of water” story has been told many times, but there’s a reason it works so well. In contrast to the other kids' relatively normal lives, Eleven’s isolation, mistreatment, and subsequent struggle provide something many can identify with. And much like the real world, we get to watch her grow up and evolve in much the same way as the audience did themselves. Characters we can relate to will always stand out among others.
#49: Jackie Peyton
Top 10 Kelso & Jackie Moments on That '70s Show
“Nurse Jackie” (2009-15)
#48: Matt Murdock
Top 10 Jimmy Kimmel Vs. Matt Damon Moments
“Daredevil” (2015-18)
#47: Rick Sanchez
Rick Sanchez vs The Doctor
“Rick and Morty” (2013-)
#46: Selina Meyer
“Veep” (2012--19)
#45: Aang
Aang vs Zuko
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” (2005-08) If you’re thinking we’re talking about a blue-skinned character who lives in the rainforest, you’ve got the wrong franchise. Aang comes from a world divided into nations based on Earth, fire, water, and air. As the “Avatar”, he is the only one who possesses the ability to wield all four elements. He’s also responsible for keeping the peace between the various nations. Even with all that responsibility, Aang is still just a child, and we love how the show lets him be both a leader and a youth all in one. Sure, the Fire Lord may be trying to rule the world, but that doesn’t stop Aang from embracing who and what he really is.
#44: Maxwell Smart
“Get Smart” (1965-70)
#43: Ron Swanson
Top 10 Best Adventure Time Characters
“Parks and Recreation” (2009-15; 2020)
#42: Stewie Griffin
Top 10 Times Stewie Griffin Got What He Deserved on Family Guy
“Family Guy” (1999-2003; 2005-)
#41: Chandler Bing
Top 10 Most Hilarious Chandler Bing Quotes
“Friends” (1994-2004)
#40: Dexter Morgan
Top 20 Serial Killers on Dexter
“Dexter” (2006-13) Police procedurals are aptly named as each episode follows a typical formula. The brilliance of a show like “Dexter” is in the use of its titular character. Here’s a man who works within the boundaries of law-enforcement, but is one of the largest offenders imaginable. Dexter brilliantly portrays the small part of many of us who wish to see those whom the justice system has failed be punished for their actions. As a sociopath, his strict adherence to “The Code of Harry” flies in front of any logic, yet is also why he’s so great to watch. The dichotomy of his good intentions versus his serial actions makes everyone both cheer and cringe at most of what he does.
#39: Samantha Jones
Top 10 Most Iconic Samantha Jones Quotes
“Sex and the City” (1998-2004)
#38: Josiah ‘Jed’ Bartlet
“The West Wing” (1999-2006)
#37: Mary Richards
Top 10 Times The Mary Tyler Moore Show Tackled Serious Issues
“The Mary Tyler Moore Show” (1970-77)
#36: Kermit the Frog
“Muppets” franchise (1955-)
#35: Fleabag
Top 10 Reasons You Need to Watch Fleabag
“Fleabag” (2016-19) Sometimes it doesn’t take long for a character to stick with you. “Fleabag”, only aired for two, short seasons, but the titular character, brilliantly portrayed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, is perhaps one of the funniest to ever grace the television screen. In some ways, we can almost see her as a more modern day version of the “Golden Girls”’ Sophia Petrillo. Her dry wit, and often all too-real commentary of her own life are two of the most appealing aspects of this character. Add to that the fact that much of this commentary is aimed at the audience through much more than an occasional 4th-wall break. Why oh why did we only get 12 episodes of her?
#34: Thomas Magnum
Top 10 Times Thomas the Tank Engine Traumatized Us
“Magnum, P.I.” (1980-88)
#33: Sheldon Cooper
Top 20 Funniest Sheldon Cooper Moments
“The Big Bang Theory” (2007-19)
#32: Daenerys Targaryen
Top 10 Badass Daenerys Targaryen Moments
“Game of Thrones” (2011-19)
#31: Tommy Shelby
Top 10 Things Pam & Tommy Got Factually Right and Wrong
“Peaky Blinders” (2013-22)
#30: J. R. Ewing
Top 10 Characters We Want to See on Once Upon a Time
“Dallas” (1978-91; 2012-14) If you didn’t live during the 80s, then you likely never had to go through the entire “Who shot J.R.?” ordeal in the summer of 1980. J.R. Ewing was a powerful oil baron and a major character of the show “Dallas”. As the show’s primary villain, J.R. was shown to be an egomaniac, conniving, often soulless man who would stop at nothing to raise his image in the oil industry. Despite how heinously he was portrayed, fans nonetheless loved the character. Well, maybe it was more loved to hate, but he still made a lasting impression and cemented himself into the history books of television.
#29: John Locke
Top 10 Times John Krasinski Couldn't Keep a Straight Face on The Office
“Lost” (2004-10)
#28: Steve Urkel
Top 10 Best Steve Harvey Reactions to Family Feud Answers
“Family Matters” (1989-98)
#27: Eric Cartman
Top 20 Worst Things Eric Cartman Has Ever Done On South Park
“South Park” (1997-)
#26: Frank Underwood
“House of Cards” (2013-18)
#25: Jessica Fletcher
Top 10 Jessica Jones Easter Eggs You Never Noticed
“Murder, She Wrote” (1984-96) Is it a little coincidental that someone always seems to die whenever Jessica Fletcher is around? And even more suspicious is the fact that she somehow always manages to miraculously solve the mystery within minutes of the show’s endtime. Although possible, it was all part of the trope that made Fletcher such a loveable character. A modern day Sherlock Holmes of the 80s and 90s, Fletcher’s long history as an author of detective mysteries gave her a unique perspective on solving crimes. She also made huge strides for equality in showing that a woman was just as capable as anyone else in solving even the most gruesome of crimes. Go, Jessica!
#24: Jack Bauer
Top 10 Times Samurai Jack Went Beast Mode
“24” (2001-10; 2014)
#23: MacGyver
“MacGyver” (1985-92) & (2016-21)
#22: Saul Goodman
Top 10 Better Call Saul Schemes and Cons
“Better Call Saul” (2015-22)
#21: Mulder & Scully
“The X-Files” (1993-2002; 2016-18)
#20: SpongeBob SquarePants
Top 10 SpongeBob SquarePants Characters
“SpongeBob SquarePants” (1999-) You’re having a rough day and need a little bit of a pick me up. All you need to do is turn on “SpongeBob SquarePants” and take a cue from the show’s main character: forever smiling, enthusiastic, and wholly devoted to both his best friend Patrick and his employer, the Krusty Krab. Once described by Time Magazine as the “anti-Bart Simpson”, SpongeBob is forever oblivious to the perils and obstacles of the world. Instead, he gladly carries on, helping his friends, making Krabby Patties and laughing whenever he can. He’s a perfect character for both young and old individuals who are just looking for something to put a smile on their face.
#19: Buffy Summers
Top 20 Most Badass Buffy Summers Moments
“Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1997-2003) Say what you want about Joss Whedon now, but “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”’s titular character was indeed a shift in gears towards a story that saw a female protagonist take on the role typically held by men. Buffy showed an entire generation that the stereotypical “pretty cheerleader” didn’t need a man to swoop in and save her. She’s a determined, independent, funny, and compassionate woman who also happens to easily take care of countless vampires. She provided inspiration to many young girls who may have felt their gender would hold them back. No way. Buffy showed all of us that girls can kick ass too.
#18: Jean-Luc Picard
Top 10 Jean-Claude Van Damme Moments
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” (1987-94) From Spock, to Data, to the Doctor and beyond, “Star Trek '' has always been filled with incredible characters. Of course, the captains of “Star Trek” are among the most beloved and are limited to only a handful of individuals, including Jean-Luc Picard. He’s faced death, assimilation, an entire alternate life, the loss of his family, and even the destruction of his own ship. Yet through all of it, Picard has done a remarkable job of being the perfect icon of what a Starfleet captain should be. Regardless of where you are on the Picard vs Kirk debate, you can’t deny Picard’s impact on the history of “Star Trek”.
#17: Dwight Schrute
Top 10 Worst Things Dwight Has Ever Done on The Office
“The Office” (2005-13) We could have gone with Michael Scott but come on, Dwight’s where the best lines came from. Rainn Wilson’s portrayal of Dwight Schrute helped elevate the character to standout status on the TV series "The Office." As the Assistant to the Regional Manager at the fictional Dunder Mifflin Paper company, Dwight is loyal, ambitious, and incredibly eccentric. Taking his job perhaps a bit too seriously, he does have an unrelenting work ethic. His love for his beet farm showcases his unique passions and identity. Fiercely competitive, viewers are often subjected to his hilarious rivalries, particularly with Jim Halpert. Dwight's bizarre habits, including his odd collection of weapons and obsession with bears, make him both endearing and perplexing.
#16: Benjamin ‘Hawkeye’ Pierce
“M*A*S*H” (1972-83) Viewers today may have never seen “M.A.S.H.” or be aware that its series finale holds the record of being the single most watched series finale of all time. Out of its cast of colorful characters, most remember “Hawkeye” Pierce. Unlike many surgeons, Hawkeye was far more content to do the work than have his ego stroked. A master at his profession, Pierce saved countless lives both under knife and through his relentless use of jokes and sarcasm to help everyone forget they were in the middle of a warzone. When not in the operating room, fans laughed at his banter and practical jokes on everyone in the 4077th.
#15: Gregory House
“House” (2004-12) Dr. Gregory House could easily be described as being both brilliant and obnoxious. One could say he’s comparable to the likes of “The Big Bang Theory”’s Sheldon Cooper, but with a thorough understanding of sarcasm and wit. As much as his sharp intellect and unconventional approach may rub both his colleagues and patients the wrong way, there’s no matching his ability to find an answer. Hugh Laurie somehow finds a way to convey both House’s moral ambiguity and personal demons in a way that draws the viewer in, instead of repelling them. Much like Sheldon, House is who he is and holds nothing back. Hence the reason audiences adored him.
#14: Frasier Crane
Top 10 Stars You Forgot Were on Frasier
“Frasier” (1993-2004) & “Cheers” (1982-93) Frasier Crane can best be described as a perfect example of a throwaway character that became so much more than that. A refined man, Frasier’s intellect and sophistication were often the brunt of many jokes, both at the bar, and at his new gig in Seattle. However, it was the latter that truly helped bring out his wit and vulnerability to audiences. His interactions with his brother Niles, his father Martin, and his producer Roz all showcased this multifaceted individual we didn’t know was there. Combine that with great physical comedy, it’s no surprise the character is coming back in 2023.
#13: Murphy Brown
Every Ryan Murphy Show: RANKED
“Murphy Brown” (1988-98; 2018) The titular character of this sitcom is a strong female character that defied gender norms. As a talented investigative journalist, Brown’s character faced a constant battle in a world where broadcast journalism was heavily dominated by men. Yet it was often her softer side that made the character so lovable. Her substance use disorder and her choice to continue her career while becoming a new mom were major highlights of her arc. Plus let’s not forget the sheer wit and comedic talent that brought in laughs week after week. Murphy Brown gave us the best combination of both heart and levity.
#12: Tyrion Lannister
Top 10 Best Tyrion Lannister Moments
“Game of Thrones” (2011-19) The character of Tyrion Lannister is television’s proof that a person’s size does not dictate their intellect or guile. Often derided with insulting names, Tyrion is nothing of the sort. Of all the characters on “Game of Thrones”, he may indeed be the most complex and interesting of them all. As a master of sarcasm, his quips and jabs are often the funniest lines in a show that often takes itself too seriously. But he’s also someone who is aptly aware of others' immediate judgment of him, using that to his advantage to gain favor when needed. He’s a character who stands out not because he’s small, but for how he affects the story throughout the series.
#11: Don Draper
Top 10 Memorable Television Characters of All Time
“Mad Men” (2007-15) He’s a tall, handsome man with enough charisma to charm anyone he sets his sights on. But much like an onion, when you peel back the layers of this character, you find so much more. Here’s a man who literally reinvented himself after serving in a war, who now outwardly appears to have it all, yet struggles with so many inner demons. He’s a man who is constantly searching for meaning all while burying his sadness in a bottle, or in the bed of a stranger. And yet despite his difficulties, he still finds a way to remain a family man, and mentor to Peggy.
#10: Archie Bunker
Top 10 Times Archie Was the WORST on Riverdale
“All in the Family” (1971-79) Even over 50 years after he debuted, Archie Bunker seems as relevant now as he was in his own day. Developed by Norman Lear, a man famous for his socially conscious television creations, Archie is a blue-collar family man forever trying - and failing - to control his corner of the world. He’s constantly at-odds with the more liberal people in his life, but despite that, he’s still beloved by them and audiences. That’s because, at his core, Archie isn’t a bad guy. Sure, some see him simply as a bigot and a racist, but some accept that Archie is struggling to keep up with the times. Regardless of your take, he was at the center of this show, shining a spotlight on political issues and marginalized groups that needed the attention in the ‘70s.
#9: Bugs Bunny
Mickey Mouse vs Bugs Bunny
Various Seriously, who hasn’t heard of Bugs Bunny? You know: The gray rabbit who’s always chomping on a carrot? Calls everyone doc, but is rarely seen with a doctor? Bugs has been entertaining people since the 1930s. In most of that time, he’s used his razor sharp wit, and uncanny intelligence to dodge virtually any adversary he’s encountered, particularly that of Elmer Fudd. Audiences loved Bugs not just for his antics, but also for the sheer laughs he provided while doing them. Furthermore, he wasn’t beyond breaking the fourth wall, something for which was incredibly rare in cartoons of the day.
#8: Fonzie
“Happy Days” (1974-84) Arthur Herbert Fonzarelli, AKA “Fonzie” or “The Fonz” was the epitome of cool. He wore a leather jacket, drove a motorcycle, and was the envy and/or desire of people everywhere. The look and demeanor may certainly have been inspired by James Dean, but Fonzie’s appeal went far beyond the idea of a “bad boy”. He was Richie’s friend and no matter how things went down, he was always there. He showed us that even the cool kids could still have a heart. And if that wasn’t enough, he did provide the genesis of the famous saying “jumping the shark”.
#7: Omar Little
“The Wire” (2002-08) The writers of “The Wire” took what could have been a typical street criminal and found a way to captivate their audience through untraditional means. Omar Little’s version challenged typical norms of heroes and villains, all while navigating the treacherous world of Baltimore's drug trade. Similar to Dexter Morgan, Omar follows his own code of ethics all while dancing around the lines of morality. In a world that often omitted or downplayed LGBTQ characters, Omar was openly out and proud of it. Thanks to Michael K. Williams' incredible portrayal, fans will always be looking over their shoulder when they hear “The Farmer in the Dell”.
#6: George Costanza
Top 10 Worst Things George Costanza Has Done
“Seinfeld” (1989-98) Character description: Short, bald, incredibly lazy, refers to himself in the third person, often loathes his own behavior, and often fails to hold onto serious romantic interests. Oh and let’s not forget his unhealthy relationship with his parents and his masterful ability to prolong a deception far longer than anyone on this list. We can only assume he wasn’t this bad when Jerry met him, otherwise it’s unlikely they would have ever become friends. So with all these negative traits, why was it we kept watching him season after season? Not likely to win any congeniality contests, George’s behavior and antics were hilarious to watch. We never knew where they might take him and there was no way we were going to miss it.
#5: The Doctor
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“Doctor Who” (1963-89; 2005-) Perhaps the best way to justify this character for being on this list is the fact that they have continued to survive on television for 60+ years. Sure, they’ve been played by 13 (soon to be 14) different people, but the heart of “The Doctor” has remained relatively consistent throughout the years. Some versions are quirkier, funnier, and perhaps a little darker at times. But they all share a passion for keeping the universe safe from countless threats. And perhaps the best part is, when audiences don’t care for one version of the doctor, they know they just have to wait a few seasons and they’ll get a new one. That’s a surefire way to keep audiences coming back.
#4: Homer Simpson
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“The Simpsons” (1989-) The likes of Eric Cartman, Stewie Griffin, and countless other notable animated breakout characters all owe their existence to “The Simpsons”, but perhaps even more so to the patriarch of the family, Homer. Obsessed with beer and donuts, and known for his one syllable catchphrase, Homer represents one of the most unique fathers and husbands on television. His ineptitude seems to always center him in a barrage of chaos. Yet, with everything that happens in his orbit, nothing means more to him than his wife and children. Each week his antics give us a belly full of laughs, and a little tug at our hearts.
#3: Lucy Ricardo
Top 20 Classic I Love Lucy Moments
“I Love Lucy” (1951-57) We could easily go on to describe countless reasons why Lucy Ricardo is such a memorable character and how she deserves this spot on the podium. But the truth is in the pudding, or rather the chocolate. Without much in the way of dialog, a single scene from season two’s “Job Switching” showcases just how hilarious Lucy could be. The sheer physical comedy being showcased here is the perfect example of why Lucille Ball was a comedic genius, particularly as this character. Add in her sharp wit, uncanny facial expressions, and costar chemistry, she was indeed the queen of comedy.
#2: Tony Soprano
Tony Soprano VS Walter White
“The Sopranos” (1999-2007) Hearing the word “mobster” usually elicits images inspired by movies like “Goodfellas” or “The Godfather”, they are often portrayed as criminals who use illegal acts and violence to earn a dollar or issue payback. Then along comes the likes of Tony Sopranos and we learn just how complex they really are. Tony goes far beyond the one-dimensional gangster we’ve come to expect. He’s a deeply flawed man, whose mental and physical health take a toll on him. The conversations between him and Dr. Melfi provides real insight to a man who could have otherwise just been one more mean crime boss. James Gandolfini’s portrayal brings far more depth to a character like Tony, and paved the way for many other characters…
#1: Walter White
Top 10 PEORES Cosas que WALTER WHITE Ha Hecho
“Breaking Bad” (2008-13) & “Better Call Saul” (2015-22) How often in television history do we get to watch the good character become the bad character over five seasons? Walter White entered the ecosphere of television as an innocent chemistry teacher desperate to help his family with the help of Jesse Pinkman. But as the show progressed, we watched Walter devolve into a powerful drug kingpin, who used his illness and family as a scapegoat for all his indiscretions. Perhaps even more surprising is how in the end, he finally confesses to Skyler about his enjoyment of everything he did. He’s someone who comes full circle accepting all that he became, despite how deplorable it may have been. It’s Walter’s journey from Mr. Chips to Scarface that cemented him into television history.
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