The Ultimate Ranking: Unveiling the Premier 18 Shameless Characters!

Summary

The characters of

Shameless

are relatable and imperfect, showcasing the uglier aspects of being human.

The best

Shameless

characters are complex and have compelling story arcs.

The show introduces new and interesting characters in its later seasons, adding depth to the South Side community.

The characters in Shameless are all unique and flawed in their own way. Throughout the long-running show, certain South Side residents have become beloved by viewers and are considered the best characters in Shameless. As the Showtime series concluded with its eleventh season, both fan-favorites and newer, equally interesting additions left the show. Shameless doesn't shy away from portraying the less attractive aspects of humanity, such as making mistakes, facing disappointment, and confronting harsh realities. This is what makes the characters in this series so intriguing and relatable, as they are imperfect.

While all of the best characters in Shameless are well-written and well-performed, some leave a more lasting impression than others. The likability of a character does play a role in ranking the Shameless characters, as audiences are more likely to connect with a character if they feel empathy towards them. However, the most popular characters in Shameless are not always the best ones. The more complex and layered a character's story arc is in the series, the better it is considered. With the introduction of new and nuanced characters in the final seasons of Shameless, there are now even more individuals on the South Side who have become some of the best characters in the show.

Monica Gallagher

Ranked low in the series, Monica Gallagher, the absentee matriarch of Shameless characters, may not have much screentime. However, her presence is undeniably impactful, thanks to Chloe Webb's incredible performance and the way the character is written. In her loud and energetic nature, Monica desperately seeks love while trying to be a good mother and live life on her own terms.

The Gallagher kids, for the most part, hold resentment towards Monica or choose to ignore her existence. Fiona, particularly, has given up on both her parents and prefers Monica to stay away. Nevertheless, after Monica's demise, Fiona mourns her loss and attempts to understand her true essence by reading one of her books. Each time Monica resurfaces, it is like a destructive hurricane, which is epitomized by one of her episodes aptly titled "Hurricane Monica."

Jimmy Lishman

When it comes to ranking Shameless characters, Jimmy unquestionably belongs on the list. Throughout his time on the series, he was entangled in secrets, lies, and abundant drama. From his captivating introduction in the pilot episode, Jimmy possessed an intriguing allure that could rival even the Gallagher family themselves. Despite not always being honest with Fiona about his life, his love for her and her family was unwavering, and he would stop at nothing to protect them.

Nevertheless, Jimmy's good intentions often fell short due to his repeated involvement in illegal activities and questionable behavior. While his complicated and exhilarating character added depth to the show, he proved to be an unreliable companion, prompting Fiona to sever ties with him permanently. Ultimately, Jimmy became one of Fiona's most disappointing romantic partners. However, Shameless would not have been complete without the rollercoaster presence of Jimmy, also known as Steve.

Sandy Milkovich

Sandy, Mickey's cousin and Debbie's girlfriend in the later seasons of Shameless, holds a deserving place among the ranked characters. Known for her unwavering loyalty and understanding, Sandy consistently supports Debbie in the Gallagher house, while not being hesitant to offer harsh truths when necessary.

Sandy's revelation of a hidden secret - having a child from a toxic relationship she entered as a young teenager - deeply touched audiences. Though her perspective on her son may be difficult for some to comprehend, it is evident that she faced immense challenges and complexities. Nevertheless, Sandy has made substantial efforts to transform her life for the better.

Franny Gallagher

Franny, the youngest character on Shameless, has a significant role in the show's plotline. Despite experiencing the negative consequences of Debbie's troublesome moments, Franny confidently stands up for themselves and expresses their true identity from a young age. They openly reject princess dresses and girly things, refusing to participate in the pageant Debbie insists upon.

In addition, Franny serves as a symbol of inclusivity in the show. They confide in Frank, revealing that they don't identify as a girl on the inside, but rather as a boy. While still exploring and understanding themselves, Franny's level of self-expression and identity is exceptional for their age and makes them an admirable character.

Svetlana Yevgenivna

Svetlana brings a fresh perspective to the South Side natives on Shameless, making her a necessary inclusion in the ranking of characters. Her unique background and the knowledge and adaptability she gained from her tough upbringing add subtle complexity to her character. Throughout the show, Svetlana continually surprises viewers with new layers and insights into her troubled past. Initially objectified and undervalued, it is a pleasant surprise when she is recognized and appreciated for her business acumen and ambition while living with Kevin and V.

Tami Tamietti

Tami's initial relationship with Lip on the show was volatile, but when they discovered she was pregnant with their child, Fred, she underwent a significant change and dedicated herself to being a responsible mother. She became one of Lip's most passionate partners on Shameless. Tami and Lip work together as a united front in parenting and strive to provide a good life for their son.

In addition to being a mother, Tami also works as a hairstylist. In the final season of the show, she showed great resilience when she contracted COVID-19, which earned her a place among the best-ranked characters on Shameless. Tami values the appearance and organization of things, and she upholds certain standards in her life that she refuses to compromise on. She is fiercely loyal and adaptable, even assisting Lip when he and other former employees steal supplies from the auto shop.

Frank Gallagher

Frank, the patriarch of the family, assumes various personas throughout the show - from Frank to Daddy Frank, Francis, and even Saint Francis. Despite being a despicable individual, he serves as a prime example of a realistic and multifaceted character, deserving a place among the best Shameless characters. As he confesses in the pilot, each of his children embodies a part of him, reflecting the complexities they share.

Even in his constant state of intoxication, Frank often provides intriguing perspectives. Being an educated and opinionated individual, his numerous speeches at the Alibi showcase the thought put into crafting his character. With Frank's outlandish schemes and the ensuing predicaments he finds himself in, he proves to be one of the most captivating characters to observe - a quintessential element of television.

Sheila Jackson

Sheila Jackson, one of the standout characters in Shameless, managed to captivate viewers despite her limited screen time. Throughout seasons 1-5, Sheila undergoes a remarkable transformation, starting with her battle against agoraphobia and culminating in her fulfillment of a lifelong dream to travel the world. Initially labeled as the "odd neighbor," it becomes clear that Sheila is trapped in a toxic marriage and struggles to control her rebellious daughter, all while dealing with her agoraphobia and other eccentricities.

Viewers were ecstatic when Sheila finally escaped the toxicity of her life, embarking on a journey to find her own happiness. She had earned it more than anyone else. Initially portrayed by Allison Janney and later replaced by Joan Cusack, Sheila's nurturing nature immediately endeared her to the Gallagher family. While often criticized for her quirks by other characters in Shameless, Sheila ultimately had a kind-hearted soul.

Mandy Milkovich

Mandy's time on Shameless has often left viewers wanting more, as she is widely regarded as one of the top characters in the show. Despite growing up in a hostile environment, Mandy stands apart from her relatives with her kind, considerate, and selfless nature. She consistently offers support to Ian and goes above and beyond to help Lip achieve his college dreams. The bond between Mandy and Lip is a standout and clearly showcases their deep care for each other.

Furthermore, Mandy proves to be a loyal and honest friend to both Ian and Lip, unafraid to call out Mickey when he behaves foolishly or neglects his relationship with Ian. As a character, Mandy demonstrates incredible strength, enduring both physical and emotional abuse from her romantic partners on the show. Ultimately, Mandy's unfortunate fate was undeserved, but her resilience solidifies her as one of the finest characters in Shameless.

Debbie Gallagher

Debbie Gallagher may have her flaws, but her complexity is a testament to the talent of the series' writers. Ultimately, she secures a high ranking among Shameless characters. Despite not always channeling it in the right direction, Debbie consistently showcased her ambition, making her the most driven of the Gallagher siblings and reminiscent of her father. After Fiona's departure, Debbie stepped into her sister's shoes, albeit with less success. Nonetheless, her characterization remained intact.

Debbie demonstrated a clear sense of ambition from a young age, and her ability to cunningly strategize enabled her to achieve both short and long-term goals. Her moral compass was unconventional, often adapting to the situations she confronted, resulting in moments that were both troublesome and captivating within the series. Despite the criticism her character received, it is undeniable that Debbie played a significant role in Shameless, and the series would have lacked its essence without her.

Kevin Ball

Kevin's unwavering compassion and empathy have made him a beloved figure among audiences, making him one of the top-ranked characters in Shameless. Despite his tough appearance, Kevin has a softer side that is uncommon for someone from the South Side. As the heart of the Alibi, he creates the perfect atmosphere for some of the show's most unforgettable moments.

Veronica Fisher

Despite not being the sharpest character on Shameless, Kevin's undeniable charm lies in his ability to consistently deliver intriguing and occasionally astute remarks. While he may not excel in intellectual prowess, this doesn't stop him from entertaining us with his sense of humor. Moreover, he proves himself to be a source of unconventional wisdom, often pushing Veronica to explore new perspectives. Additionally, when faced with tough circumstances, Kevin never fails to step up, offering his unwavering support.

Veronica, a remarkable woman, refuses to conform to societal norms, making her one of the standout characters in Shameless. Right from the beginning, her and Kevin's relationship defies expectations as they prioritize their own happiness, even becoming involved in a throuple with Svetlana at one point. Additionally, her complex and yet affectionate bond with her mother adds depth to her character and makes her highly relatable.

Carl Gallagher

In addition to prioritizing the well-being of her relationship and children, V is also deeply committed to the betterment of her community. She actively supports the South Side by engaging in grassroots initiatives and even embarking on door-to-door campaigns to encourage fellow African American residents to participate in upcoming elections. However, after witnessing the prosperous neighborhoods of Louisville, she faces the tough decision of leaving the South Side in search of greater opportunities for her family.

Carl showcased impressive hustling abilities on Shameless, securing him a commendable position among the top characters on the show. Throughout his journey in the series, Carl has encountered numerous challenges that have drastically transformed his outlook on life. Initially, he embraced a rebellious nature, engaging in rule-breaking and criminal activities. However, he experienced a transformative shift when he chose to attend military school and eventually pursued a career as a police officer.

Liam Gallagher

His story arc in the series was truly remarkable, elevating him to the status of one of the most exceptional characters in Shameless. Carl displays an unwavering loyalty towards his loved ones and has proven himself to be their guardian in times of danger. Moreover, he possesses a strong moral compass and fearlessly challenges any questionable actions of certain police officers.

Liam's transformation throughout the course of Shameless is truly remarkable, solidifying his place as one of the most intriguing characters in the series. Starting off as a mere baby, he gradually evolves into a fully developed individual, showcasing his growth and development over time. With each passing season, Liam gains more independence, proving himself to be a savvy hustler within the Gallagher family. Despite his street smarts, he also possesses an immense amount of compassion, making him a truly lovable character.

Lip Gallagher

As the youngest member of the family, Liam maintains a strong bond with Frank, forming one of the most captivating relationships on the show. Despite his desire to remain loyal to his father, who makes a half-hearted attempt to provide Liam with a better future by enrolling him in a prestigious private school, Liam is fully aware of Frank's troubled past and understands that he can only truly depend on himself.

Lip's tragic story on Shameless is a culmination of his life choices, making him one of the most unfortunate characters. However, his realistic portrayal allows any viewer to relate, having encountered someone like him before. Often, Lip becomes his own worst enemy, succumbing to his desires and insecurities. Initially, he stood out among the Gallagher children for his academic potential. Despite his downfall, Lip still deserves a prominent place among the ranked Shameless characters.

Ian Gallagher

Lip became the first Gallagher to attend college, only to sabotage his own success by engaging in an affair with a professor and succumbing to the destructive grip of alcoholism. Unlike his family's "golden goose," Lip resented his own abilities and as a result, faced numerous challenges. Despite the audience's frustration with Lip's struggles on Shameless, his character was exceptionally well-crafted, revealing a complex individual who ultimately suffered the consequences of his own choices, leading to an unsatisfying conclusion in the series.

Ian's transformation throughout the series is captivating, making him a standout character in the Shameless rankings. Starting as a timid and introverted teenager grappling with his sense of self, he gradually gains confidence and utilizes his voice to support those around him. Diverging from the other Gallaghers, Ian actively contributes to the community, displaying kindness and a genuine desire to make a difference in his life. This even leads him to don the role of an EMT for a period, further exemplifying his determination to pursue a greater purpose.

Ian experiences intense guilt and remorse whenever he makes a mistake, such as placing Yevgeny in harm's way. Despite sometimes worrying about burdening his siblings and Mickey due to his mental health, they consistently show him unconditional love and support. Ian's relationship and eventual marriage to Mickey were among the most positive experiences in his life on Shameless, and fans couldn't be happier that their beloved couple from the South Side enjoyed a happy ending.

Fiona Gallagher

While Frank is often portrayed as the central figure, it is Fiona who truly takes the reins as the leader of the Gallagher clan. Throughout her time on the show, her journey is riddled with numerous obstacles, resembling that of a genuine hero, and securing her a top spot among the esteemed Shameless characters. Fiona consistently defies audience expectations, making choices that diverge from societal norms and defying the conventional image others have of her. Despite her immensely likable nature, she is not exempt from making as many mistakes as the less desirable individuals in the series.

Fiona, determined and selfless, navigates her own path while tirelessly striving to create a better life for her family, often disregarding her own desires and aspirations. She holds the record for having held the highest number of jobs among all the characters in the show. Nonetheless, after years of being undervalued, Fiona eventually prioritizes herself and departs from the series to concentrate on her own happiness. The departure of actress Emmy Rossum, who portrayed Fiona, at the end of season 9 brought about a noticeable shift in the dynamics of Shameless, as the show simply did not feel the same without her.

Mickey Milkovich

Mickey, a beloved character in Shameless, captures the hearts of the audience by undergoing a transformative journey throughout the series. Initially depicted as a one-dimensional and angry individual, Mickey slowly reveals his multifaceted nature, allowing viewers to delve deeper into the complexities of his character. Surprisingly, the Milkovich family frequently interacts with the Gallaghers, providing ample screen time for their compelling dynamics. Mickey's struggle with his sexuality adds another layer of depth to his story, focusing not on the physical aspect but rather on the emotional connection he shares with Ian.

Mickey and Ian's relationship thrives despite numerous imprisonments, becoming one of the most stable partnerships in the series. Mickey's transformation unfolds gradually, reflecting the authenticity of his challenging upbringing. While he may not be easily lovable, the Gallaghers ultimately embrace him. Notably, his connection with Ian stands out in Shameless, yet even independently, Mickey exudes humor, entertainment, a rough charm, and unwavering authenticity.