The 10 Best TV Villains of 2023, Ranked

Introduction

The year 2023 has seen a captivating array of TV villains who have left a lasting impression on audiences. These villains possess a complexity that transcends traditional portrayals of good and evil, making them stand out as some of the best antagonists in recent television history. From morally ambiguous characters to terrifyingly charismatic figures, the top 10 TV villains of 2023 have redefined the role of villains in the world of entertainment.

Cliff LeGrand (Benjamin Bratt) looking serious in a dark casino hallway in Poker Face

Their exceptional portrayals by talented actors, combined with compelling motives and multifaceted personalities, have elevated these characters to new heights. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of each villain, exploring their impact on their respective shows and the thematic depth they bring to the narratives. Join us as we rank and celebrate the 10 best TV villains of 2023, each of whom has left an indelible mark on the world of television entertainment.

The Villains and Their Stories

Poker Face introduces us to Benjamin Bratt's Cliff LeGrand, whose shady motivations and captivating screen presence make him a standout villain in the diverse rogue gallery of the show. Despite his limited screen time, Cliff's rise as a significant player in the game of cat and mouse sets him apart as a compelling antagonist.

Dave, portrayed by Dave Burd (Lil Dicky), stands out as a complex and magnetic villain, delving into the self-cross-examination of white meme rap culture. His unpredictable actions and self-absorbed nature make him a compelling antihero in the contemporary sitcom drama landscape.

Dave (David Burd) talking on the phone in Dave

Silo's Bernard Holland, played by Tim Robbins, challenges conventional notions of villainy with his morally ambiguous actions and understated menace. As the head of the IT department, Bernard's impact as a morally ambiguous villain adds depth to the series' narrative.

Bernard (Tim Robbins) looking in fear at the screen in his ceremonial outfit in Silo

Raymond Reddington, portrayed by James Spader, serves as both antagonist and protagonist in The Blacklist, showcasing a frighteningly intelligent and sarcastic persona. With his moral ambiguity and sheer screen presence, Raymond transcends traditional villain portrayals, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Raymond Reddington (James Spader) in The Blacklist wearing a top hat and sunglasses

Miss Minutes, portrayed by Tara Strong, is a holographic and sadistic character in Loki, offering a terrifying glimpse into the future of AI development. Her rebellion from her creator and deceptive strengths make her a unique and formidable villain in the show's cast of antiheroes.

Miss Minutes (Tara Strong) smiles as the TVA Minutemen are killed in Loki season 2

Kathleen, portrayed by Melanie Lynskey, is the first human villain in The Last of Us' post-apocalyptic world. Her sordid actions and relatable portrayal of extremism add depth to the series adaptation, painting a thought-provoking picture of survival in a world overrun by chaos.

Kathleen (Melanie Lynskey) looking at the collaborators in The Last Of Us

The Curse's main antagonist, Dougie Schecter, played by Benny Safdie, masterfully directs the manipulative actions of the show's hosts, creating a convincingly realistic satire of the dark side of reality TV. His role as the executive producer adds a layer of complexity to the show's villainy.

Benny Safdie as Dougie, Emma Stone as Whitney, and Nathan Fielder as Asher looking at something off-screen in The Curse

Umbrasyl, voiced by Matt Mercer, emerges as a powerful antagonist in The Legend of Vox Machina, showcasing relentless ambition and sadistic relentlessness. His intelligent politicking and formidable presence make him a standout villain in the animated series adaptation.

Umbrasyl (Matt Mercer) assaulting a city alongside the Chroma Conclave in The Legend of Vox Machina

Grand Admiral Thrawn, portrayed by Lars Mikkelsen, makes a chilling presence felt throughout Ahsoka's debut season, representing the comeback of the Galactic Empire. His efficient and pragmatic evil nature sets stellar standards for new Star Wars villains, leaving a lasting impact on the show's narrative.

Collage of Grand Admiral Thrawn (Lars Mikkelsen) standing in front of Imperial Star Destroyers in Ahsoka

Barry Berkman, played by Bill Hader, stands as the greatest crime noir antihero of the 21st century in the series Barry. His evolution from a cold-blooded assassin to a conflicted figure seeking redemption paints a poignant portrait of toxic masculinity, redefining the concept of an irredeemably villainous antihero in contemporary television.

Barry (Bill Hader) covered in bruises and pointing at something inside a room in prison in Barry

The Impact of Exceptional Villainy

The best TV villains of 2023 have redefined the role of antagonists in television, showcasing a level of complexity and depth that goes beyond traditional portrayals of villainy. From morally ambiguous characters to formidable and charismatic figures, each villain has left a unique mark on their respective shows, influencing character dynamics and overarching narratives.

Their compelling motives and exceptional portrayals by talented actors have elevated these characters to new heights, captivating audiences with their multifaceted personalities and chilling presence. The impact of these villains extends beyond their individual actions, influencing the thematic depth and overarching message of the series they inhabit.

Furthermore, the best TV villains often serve as mirrors to pressing social issues, unraveling the complexities of human nature and challenging conventional notions of good and evil. Their captivating blend of complexity and charisma draws viewers into their perspective, leaving them with a sense of fascination, dread, and sometimes even a conflicted sense of admiration for these captivating antagonists.