7 TV Villains Who Made Their Shows Better
These TV villains may have been the antagonists, but they undeniably made their shows much more interesting, captivating, and unforgettable. From shocking entrances to complex characters, each of these villains left an indelible mark on their respective series.
The Mastermind Moriarty
Confronting Moriarty - Sherlock - BBC
Andrew Scott's portrayal of Moriarty in BBC's Sherlock is easily one of TV's smartest villains of all time. Despite not appearing until season 1, episode 3, entitled 'The Great Game,' Moriarty's arrival in the show truly shook things up. His unhinged nature and chilling dialogue gave audiences the legendary Sherlock quote, 'I will burn the heart out of you.'
Andrew Scott as Jim Moriarty in Sherlock's living room in Sherlock
Moriarty's impact was so significant that it's hard to imagine the show without him, making him a vital addition to the series.
The Unlikely Ally Spike
James Marsters' Spike in Buffy The Vampire Slayer was initially introduced as a widely-feared vampire responsible for the death of two Slayers. However, over time, he became an unexpected ally and eventually a lover of Buffy. His wit, rebellious nature, and impactful presence earned him a place as one of the show's best villains.
James Marsters as Spike in a Blue Shirt in Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Spike's transformation from a feared villain to an unlikely ally was a testament to his complexity and impact on the series, making him a standout character in Buffy The Vampire Slayer.
The Vicious Gus Fring
Giancarlo Esposito's portrayal of Gus Fring in Breaking Bad created quite the atmosphere with his complex cover story as a drug lord. Despite only appearing from season 2 to 4, Gus left an indelible mark as one of the main villains in the series.
Gus Fring wearing a black suit in Breaking Bad.
His normal appearance and demeanor concealed a vicious and evil nature, adding depth and tension to the show. Without Gus, Breaking Bad would have been a different, less compelling series.
The Shocking Arrival of Negan
Jeffrey Dean Morgan's Negan made his first appearance in The Walking Dead in the season 6 finale, 'Last Day on Earth.' His heartless and horrific act of beating Glenn to death with a chain-covered baseball bat shocked audiences and gave the show the shake-up it needed.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Negan holding his baseball bat, Lucille, in The Walking Dead
Negan's impact on The Walking Dead was undeniable, redefining the dynamics of the series and leaving a lasting impression on the show's narrative.
The Intriguing Shame Wizard
David Thewlis' portrayal of The Shame Wizard in Big Mouth filled the show's need for an antagonistic force. His cruel comments and impactful interactions with the kids of Bridgeton Middle added a new layer of depth and entertainment to the series.
The Shame Wizard and Andrew in Andrew's bedroom in Big Mouth
The Shame Wizard's unusual relationship with Coach Steve and his impact on the characters made him a standout addition to Big Mouth, elevating the show's storytelling.
The Complicated Love Quinn
Victoria Pedretti's Love Quinn in Netflix's You brought a new level of complexity to the series as a villainous counterpart to Joe. Her sweet and caring facade masked a murderous and obsessive nature, redefining the dynamics of the show.
Victoria Pedretti as Love Quinn in You
Love's impact on You was profound, challenging the audience's perceptions and adding a compelling layer to the narrative, making her an ultimate villain in the series.
The Charismatic Crowley
Mark Sheppard's Crowley in Supernatural was introduced as the King of the Crossroads, bringing a charismatic and manipulative presence to the series. His unpredictability and impact on the Winchesters made him a strong addition to the show, shaking up its dynamics.
Crowley (Mark Sheppard) sitting at a table in Supernatural
Crowley's ability to switch between ally and source of evil showcased his complexity, leaving an indelible mark on Supernatural and earning him a prominent role in the series.
