Unveiling the Ultimate TV Side Character Who Steals the Spotlight

While there are numerous lead characters in TV shows that are memorable, there are also instances where side characters possess more likability than the main character. A crucial aspect of a successful TV show is a main character with whom the audience can connect, but the secondary characters are just as important. Side characters contribute to the progression of the main character's story, introduce conflict, or offer support. However, more often than not, these side characters manage to seize the spotlight.

In many cases, side characters become so beloved that they share the limelight with the main character, and some characters initially intended for only a few episodes end up staying longer (like Chris Pratt's Andy Dwyer in Parks & Recreation). Although some side characters may not be promoted to larger roles within their shows, this does not hinder them from captivating the audience's attention and gaining immense popularity. Keeping this in mind, here are 10 TV side characters who proved to be significantly more likable than the lead character.

10 Bertie in Love

9 Paul in BEEF

Love, a comedy-drama series on Netflix, was created by Judd Apatow, Lesley Arfin, and Paul Rust. Centered around Mickey and Gus, the show provides insights into the dynamics of romantic relationships from both male and female perspectives. Accompanying them is Bertie, Mickey's bubbly roommate, who also grapples with her own relationship issues. Mickey's endearing character has garnered significant popularity among viewers, leading to a dedicated episode in the third season of Love.

BEEF is a gripping dark comedy-drama TV series that was brought to life by the talented Lee Sung Jim. This captivating show can be enjoyed on the popular streaming platform, Netflix. BEEF centers around the lives of Danny Choand and Amy Lau, two complete strangers who find themselves entangled in a heated road rage incident, igniting a fierce rivalry between them. While BEEF has garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and viewers alike, it was Young Mazino's portrayal of Paul Cho, Danny's mischievous younger brother, that truly stole the spotlight. Despite frequently causing trouble and presenting challenges for his older brother, Paul's undeniable charm effortlessly endeared him to both the audience and the other characters in BEEF.

8 Orange is the New Black’s Supporting Cast

Orange is the New Black, a comedy-drama TV series developed by Jenji Kohan and released on Netflix, revolves around Piper Chapman's 15-month imprisonment at Litchfield Penitentiary, a minimum-security women's federal prison. One of the key factors contributing to the show's success is its diverse supporting cast, consisting of characters with distinct personalities. Notably, the unpredictable Crazy Eyes (Uzo Aduba) and the highly intelligent Taystee (Danielle Brooks) garnered such popularity and charm that they were promoted to the main cast. Additionally, side characters like Sophia Burset (Laverne Cox) continued to captivate audiences, thereby stealing the spotlight along the way.

7 Eric Matthews in Boy Meets World

Airing on ABC from 1993 to 2000, "Boy Meets World" is a coming-of-age sitcom that takes viewers on a journey from childhood to adulthood with its main characters, Cory Matthews and his best friends, Topanga and Shawn. The show also features Cory's older brother, Eric, who starts off as a preppy older sibling but eventually transforms into a lovable, dim-witted character. Despite his antics, Eric's charm and good heart remain unchanged, as he deeply cares about Mr. Feeny, Cory, Topanga, Shawn, and the rest of the gang. Not only does Eric provide comic relief, but he also brings a heartfelt element to the show.

6 Opie Winston in Sons of Anarchy

5 Schmidt in New Girl

Sons of Anarchy, the crime drama television series devised by Kurt Sutter, delves into the life of Jackson "Jax" Teller. Initially the Vice President and later the President of the notorious biker gang, Jax and his SAMCRO brothers find themselves entangled in a web of adversaries that pose a dual threat to the club and their loved ones. Amongst the devoted members of SAMCRO was Opie Winston (played by Ryan Hurst), Jax's closest confidant and the offspring of one of the founding figures of the club. While Jax served as the show's central character, his questionable choices often made it arduous to fully support him, as these decisions perpetuated more harm than good. In the tapestry of characters in Sons of Anarchy, Opie stood as one of the most tragic figures, unwaveringly demonstrating his fidelity, integrity, and empathy as a member of SAMCRO, even amidst the most staggering tragedies.

The sitcom "New Girl" was created by Elizabeth Meriwether and aired from 2011 to 2018. It revolved around Jess Day, a unique young woman who, following a difficult breakup, moved in with three strangers she found online. Despite a rocky start, Jess formed strong bonds with her roommates, particularly Schmidt (Max Greenfield). Schmidt's character evolved from an overly confident ladies' man, who prioritized his appearance, to a devoted stay-at-home father. However, his charm, sense of humor, and unique traits remained consistent throughout. While Jess received criticism for being perceived as cliché, excessively quirky, and occasionally fake, Schmidt consistently charmed both critics and audiences alike. His humor, charm, quirks, obsessions, and interactions with other characters were highly praised.

4 Pacey Witter in Dawson’s Creek

Dawson's Creek, a popular TV series created by Kevin Williamson, ran from 1998 to 2003 and revolved around the life of Dawson Leery (James Van Der Beek) and his group of friends as they faced the challenges of adolescence. Alongside Dawson was his loyal best friend, Pacey Witter (Joshua Jackson), who gradually won over the audience, while Dawson himself became less favored by viewers. Pacey, characterized by his witty sarcasm and rebellious nature, bore the scars of an abusive upbringing but also possessed a loving and caring side. Ultimately, Pacey proved to be a more relatable character than Dawson, who, despite being portrayed as the "good guy," often proved to be toxic.

3 Barney Stinson in How I Met Your Mother

How I Met Your Mother is a sitcom that aired from 2005 to 2014, created by Craig Thomas and Carter Bays. It revolves around Ted Mosby and his romantic endeavors, chronicling the highs and lows with the support of his friends. One of Ted's closest companions was Barney Stinson, played by Neil Patrick Harris, known for his womanizing ways. Although brash and manipulative, Barney genuinely cared for his loved ones, often utilizing his wealth to assist them. Despite his imperfections, Neil Patrick Harris' portrayal brought out Barney's charm, making him more likeable and entertaining compared to Ted and his underwhelming journey of meeting the mother of his children.

2 Kelso and Fez in That '70s Show

That '70s Show, created by Bonnie Turner, Terry Turner, and Mark Brazill, aired from 1998 to 2006. It followed the lives of teenager Eric Forman and his friends in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin, from 1976 to 1979. Despite Eric's good-natured and clumsy personality, he was often overshadowed by the more popular and entertaining Kelso (Ashton Kutcher) and Fez (Wilmer Valderrama). Kelso, known for his looks but lack of intelligence, dated the beautiful yet smarter Jackie. Contrary to expectations, Kelso showed unexpected maturity when he became a father after a one-night stand, marking his transition into adulthood. Fez, the foreign exchange student, frequently pursued girls with less success than Kelso. However, his comedic timing, cultural differences, and confidence endeared him to viewers. While Kelso and Fez played significant roles in the heart and humor of That '70s Show, their unintentional effect was making Eric feel like a secondary character.

1 Janet in The Good Place

The Good Place, a comedic fantasy TV series developed by Michael Schur, centers around the journey of Eleanor Shellstrop. After her death, Eleanor unexpectedly finds herself in the Good Place, a meticulously curated paradise overseen by afterlife architect Michael. However, Eleanor is acutely aware that she doesn't belong in this idyllic realm and strives to conceal her morally flawed past while actively working towards personal growth. In this heavenly realm, Eleanor and her companions encounter Janet (portrayed by D'Arcy Carden), an artificially intelligent guide and vast repository of knowledge that serves as the primary source of information in the Good Place. Although initially programmed to possess only cheerful, polite, and non-judgmental characteristics, as the show progresses, Janet experiences emotional growth that engenders her increasingly human-like qualities. While Eleanor's humor often strained audience empathy, Janet remained endearing throughout the various stages of her existence.