The Ultimate List: Unveiling the Greatest TV Characters in History

Summary

Sherlock Holmes - Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock redefined the iconic detective, showcasing his brilliance, loneliness, and lack of social etiquette.

Annalise Keating, portrayed by Viola Davis, delivers emotionally captivating performances as a defense lawyer of great skill, showcasing a complex and intriguing personality.

Glenn Rhee, played by Steven Yeun, swiftly became a beloved character and emerged as a prominent figure in The Walking Dead. He exhibits personal development, romantic encounters, and ultimately signifies a pivotal moment in the series.

The greatest TV characters of all time are those who have made audiences laugh or who have captivated viewers with their flaws. Throughout television history, there have been certain characters who have become iconic, defining the medium. While everyone has their own personal favorites from their beloved shows, there are some characters who have truly stood out and are deserving of a place among the best TV characters of all time.

From modern icons in current television shows to characters that have been around since the beginning of television, the collection of TV characters is a fascinating reflection of what audiences are looking for in the shows they love and the stories they want to explore. Whether they broke new ground in the medium, introduced new archetypes, or simply entertained viewers, these characters are truly the greatest of all time.

30 Sherlock Holmes – Sherlock (2010-2017)

29 Annalise Keating - How To Get Away With Murder (2014-2020)

Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes has garnered immense popularity amongst the various actors who have taken on this iconic character in TV and movies. In the modern-day rendition titled "Sherlock," Holmes and his faithful confidante, John Watson, delve into intricate cases set in the bustling city of London. This particular iteration of Sherlock brilliantly captures not only his intelligence and bravery, but also depicts the isolation that accompanies his exceptional abilities, as well as his lack of social skills. Consequently, Cumberbatch's exceptional performance in this breakout role has redefined and revitalized this beloved character.

By the time she landed a role in the crime series How to Get Away with Murder, Viola Davis had already gained recognition and achieved remarkable success as an actor. However, in this series, she finally found a character that matched her commanding on-screen presence and emotionally captivating performances. Playing the accomplished defense lawyer and law school professor, Annalise Keating, Davis unravels the layers of Keating's personality and delves into her mysterious past, unveiling different sides that make her one of the most intriguing and complex female characters on television. Always ready to face new challenges, Davis breathes life into Keating, making her a truly remarkable creation.

28 Glenn Rhee - The Walking Dead (2010-2022)

Even from the very start of the series, The Walking Dead boasted such an extensive ensemble that some characters struggled to garner attention. Nonetheless, Glenn, portrayed by Steven Yeun, swiftly captured the hearts of fans and solidified his position as one of the show's key protagonists. Over the course of the series, viewers witness Glenn's transformation into a true hero as he assumes a more prominent leadership role, embarks on a captivating romance with Maggie, and confronts countless perilous situations. Undoubtedly, Glenn's demise in The Walking Dead stands as a poignant turning point, signifying the show's descent.

27 Rosa Diaz - Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013-2021)

One of the key reasons why Brooklyn Nine-Nine is such a beloved sitcom is its exceptional ensemble cast. Among the many endearing characters in the show, Rosa Diaz shines as its most captivating creation. Initially introduced as a tough and formidable detective, Rosa remains guarded, but she undergoes captivating character development. From her revelation about being bisexual and handling her family's reaction to her identity, to her experiences in prison, Rosa becomes increasingly intriguing while continuing to deliver some of the show's most hilarious moments.

26 Columbo - Columbo (1971-1978)

25 Harley Quinn – Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995)

: Columbo stands out among the vast sea of TV detectives for his undeniable charm. Portrayed masterfully by Peter Falk, this titular detective exudes an air of cluelessness as he unexpectedly stumbles upon crime scenes, leaving observers to question his competence. Yet, what may appear as ineptitude is actually a clever ploy to deceive and unnerve the cunning murderers, who inadvertently undervalue the astute detective's suspicions. Introducing a fresh perspective on the detective archetype is no easy feat, but Columbo effortlessly achieves this, making it a truly unparalleled television phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences even after many decades.

Although Batman and Joker are widely recognized figures in popular culture, their origins can be traced back before their appearances on television. However, it was in the Batman: Animated Series that a character created specifically for the show emerged as an icon in her own right. Harley Quinn initially served as Joker's minion but captured the hearts of the audience with her unique blend of humor and menace. The subsequent live-action portrayal by Margot Robbie and the introduction of a new DC animated series continue to build upon her legacy. Yet, it is important to acknowledge that these iterations would not exist without the episodes of the Batman: Animated Series that showcased the immense fun and potential of this character.

24 Cameron Tucker - Modern Family (2009-2020)

Modern Family discovered a novel approach to the traditional domestic sitcom by introducing a set of unique characters. However, it is Cameron Tucker who truly steals the show with his charismatic persona. Right from the very first episode, when Cam dramatically unveils their newborn to the rest of the family, he instantly captures the hearts of the viewers. Cam's unwavering affection and enthusiasm for the world around him, combined with his penchant for over-the-top theatrics, never fail to deliver side-splitting hilarity. Whether through his heartwarming moments or his uproarious pranks, Cam effortlessly enhances the entire family's comedic appeal.

23 Chandler Bing - Friends (1994-2004)

Among the six central characters in the ensemble show Friends, Chandler Bing stood out as a favorite among many fans. His sarcastic and quick-witted sense of humor became an iconic trait that was often imitated in future sitcoms but never quite replicated as brilliantly. Chandler's character became all the more captivating when he embarked on a beloved romance with Monica, revealing a tender side to his personality. However, it was his ability to consistently deliver unforgettable one-liners that truly made him a reliable source of comic brilliance throughout the series.

22 Eleven - Stranger Things (2016-2025)

21 Leslie Knope - Parks And Recreation (2009-2015)

Stranger Things, an original creation featuring a young superhero, continues to captivate audiences amidst the current popularity of superhero shows driven by the comic book boom. This expansive supernatural adventure introduces numerous interdimensional threats and terrifying encounters, with Eleven emerging as the pivotal hero who holds the power to save the world. Millie Bobby Brown delivers a remarkable performance, capturing the immense strength of Eleven while seamlessly portraying her vulnerability and fear as a young child. Consequently, she has graced the show with unforgettable, emotionally-charged, and awe-inspiring moments, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the conclusion of her story in Stranger Things season 5.

Parks and Recreation stands out from other sitcoms due to its vibrant ensemble cast, but the heart and soul of the show lies in Leslie Knope's leadership. At first, some dismissed the series as a mere imitation of The Office, assuming Leslie would be a carbon copy of Michael Scott. However, Amy Poehler and the talented show writers swiftly disproved this notion, establishing Leslie as a formidable, determined, and impassioned politician - a role model the world could use more of. While she certainly had her flaws and the show didn't shy away from poking fun at her, Leslie remains one of the most inspiring characters in sitcom history.

20 Jack McFarland - Will & Grace (1998-2020)

19 Lorelai Gilmore - Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)

: Jack McFarland was a groundbreaking character in the show "Will & Grace" that contributed to the inclusion of LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream media. Although there is still progress to be made, his portrayal as a gay man defied stereotypes by portraying his sexuality as an important and celebrated aspect of his identity. With his humorous and lively personality, Jack injected an electrifying energy into every scene, earning him the title of a sitcom sidekick who effortlessly stole the show.

The enduring popularity of Gilmore Girls, even long after its conclusion, demonstrates the profound impact it had on its devoted fan base. One of the show's main attractions was Lorelai Gilmore, a single mother and the series' protagonist. Lorelai shattered traditional stereotypes associated with TV mothers, as she was not only humorous and carefree, but also fiercely independent, serving as a strong protector for her daughter. Lauren Graham skillfully portrayed Lorelai's flaws, such as her immaturity and stubbornness, which only added to her multidimensional and captivating presence, ultimately making her the heart of the show.

18 Spock - Star Trek (1966-1969)

The original Star Trek cast is a collection of iconic television characters, but when choosing only one standout character from the series, [h1_placeholder_13], The Vulcan second-in-command aboard the Starship Enterprise made for a perfect counterpoint to Captain Kirk's bold leadership. [h1_placeholder_13] observed every situation with a sense of rationale and logic, adding depth and nuance to the narrative. Though some might view [h1_placeholder_13] as a bore due to his emotionless nature, he was actually a unique and thought-provoking character who often delivered some of the series' most captivating moments.

17 Don Draper - Mad Men (2007-2015)

Don Draper emerged during a time in television when viewers seemed to yearn for flawed protagonists who challenged them to despise the characters. Nevertheless, through the exceptionally skillful storytelling on Mad Men and Jon Hamm's multifaceted portrayal, Don became an engrossing figure to analyze throughout the series. He was a womanizer and alcoholic, prone to self-sabotage and reckless conduct in his role at a prominent advertising agency in New York City. Although his actions were often reprehensible, he possessed an underdog quality that made it impossible not to remain captivated.

16 Jessica Fletcher - Murder, She Wrote (1984-1996)

Like Columbo, Jessica Fletcher presented a completely different type of television detective. Rather than embodying hard-boiled stoicism, she exuded charm and likability. Angela Lansbury portrayed Fletcher in Murder, She Wrote, where the character, originally a mystery writer, transformed into an amateur detective. Fletcher conducted herself with intelligence and confidence, all while maintaining a genteel grace. Her ability to solve cases stemmed from her keen observation skills and practicality. Often underestimated by the criminals she investigated, they would soon find themselves ensnared by her.

15 George Costanza - Seinfeld (1989-1998)

Seinfeld's four main characters were known for their humor and self-centeredness, but George Costanza stood out as a particularly entertaining and somewhat morally questionable individual for the audience to laugh at. George, who was based on Seinfeld creator Larry David, was portrayed flawlessly by Jason Alexander, bringing a perfect balance of neurosis to the role. George consistently found himself in absurd and pathetic situations, such as being the first to flee a birthday party under the false alarm of a fire, impersonating a marine biologist, or accidentally dooming his engagement by purchasing cheap envelopes. The show never aimed to make George likable, but rather focused on ensuring that his pitiful behavior delivered laughs.

14 Lucy Ricardo - I Love Lucy (1951-1957)

Even when comparing the popular shows of today, such as Stranger Things and House of the Dragon, it is still difficult to fully grasp the widespread appeal of a show like I Love Lucy. This early domestic sitcom possessed numerous humorous and entertaining qualities, but its true brilliance lay in the character of Lucille Ricardo, a well-meaning yet accident-prone housewife who served as the comedic centerpiece. Placing a female character in the role of the humorous lead was a ground-breaking concept in itself, but both the show and Lucy as a character consistently defied stereotypes and challenged societal norms of that era, ultimately creating one of the most comedic sitcom characters of all time.

13 Fleabag - Fleabag (2016-2019)

Despite its two-season run, the television series Fleabag became a sensation. Phoebe Waller-Bridge's unnamed Fleabag character took center stage in this captivating character study of a woman grappling with insecurities and longing for love. However, Fleabag sets itself apart by exploring this seemingly conventional tale in a refreshingly unique manner. Viewers are exposed to the character's regrettable mistakes, her relentless pursuit of redemption, the disappointment caused by those around her, and the unexpected love she happens upon. Naught but a brief endeavor, this journey with Fleabag guarantees an unforgettable experience.

12 Bugs Bunny - Looney Tunes

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Bugs Bunny, an iconic cartoon character, has played a significant role in television history since its early days. As the face of the Looney Tunes, Bugs has become one of the greatest comedic characters in pop culture history, maintaining this status for several decades. In the world of Looney Tunes, Bugs possessed limitless abilities, but it was particularly enjoyable to witness his antics against his enemies. His self-assured and cunning tricks resulted in some of the most memorable moments in cartoon history, endearing him to audiences as a remarkably relatable and laid-back hero who always outsmarted others.