We all have that one TV character that we love and remember. Whether it’s from a classic show, or something more recent, these characters leave an unforgettable impression on us. These iconic characters are so well-loved that even today, decades later, we still talk about them and the shows they were in. In this article, we’ll be looking at ten of the most iconic TV characters of all time. From beloved sitcom characters to cartoon legends and everything in between, let’s take a look at the best of the best!
Hannibal Lecter – “The Silence of the Lambs”
While many people may think of Anthony Hopkins when they hear the name Hannibal Lecter, the character was actually played by several different actors over the course of his appearances on television. The most notable portrayal of Lecter was by Hopkins in “The Silence of the Lambs,” which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Lecter is a highly intelligent serial killer who helps FBI agent Clarice Starling (played by Jodie Foster) track down another serial killer, known as “Buffalo Bill.” He is notoriously difficult to catch, and has a habit of eating his victims.
Despite his gruesome crimes, Lecter is a fascinating and complex character that viewers can’t help but be drawn to. His scenes with Starling are some of the most memorable in the film, and Hopkins’ performance is truly chilling.
Tony Soprano – “The Sopranos”
Tony Soprano, the protagonist of “The Sopranos”, is one of the most iconic TV characters of all time. He is a complex and multi-layered character, who is both a loving family man and a ruthless Mafia boss.
Tony’s journey through the show is fascinating to watch, as he struggles to balance his two worlds. He often finds himself in difficult situations, where he has to make tough choices. But no matter what he does, Tony always remains true to himself.
What makes Tony such a great character is that he is never boring. He is always changing and evolving, which keeps viewers engaged throughout the entire series. There are very few characters on TV that can match Tony Soprano in terms of complexity and charisma.
Walter White – “Breaking Bad”
While there are a number of iconic TV characters, one that stands out is Walter White from “Breaking Bad.” Walter is a high school chemistry teacher who is diagnosed with cancer. Facing death, he turns to cooking meth in order to provide for his family. Walter is a complex character who is both morally ambiguous and deeply relatable. He is a challenging role for any actor, but Bryan Cranston rose to the occasion and gave one of the most critically acclaimed performances in television history.
Don Draper – “Mad Men”
Don Draper is the suave, charming and enigmatic ad man at the center of AMC’s “Mad Men.” Over the course of the show’s seven seasons, we see Don go from being a creative genius at Sterling Cooper to starting his own agency, Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce. Along the way, he has multiple affairs, struggles with alcoholism and is constantly trying (and failing) to escape his past. Jon Hamm won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Don Draper and helped make “Mad Men” one of the most acclaimed TV shows of all time.
Archie Bunker – “All in the Family”
Archie Bunker was the patriarch of the Bunker family on the groundbreaking sitcom “All in the Family.” He was a working-class man who was fiercely opinionated and often insensitive. Archie was known for his catchphrase, “Stifle yourself!” He was played by Carroll O’Connor.
J.R. Ewing – “Dallas”
J.R. Ewing was the main antagonist on the 1980s soap opera Dallas. He was known for his Machiavellian scheming and manipulation, as well as his promiscuity and drinking problem. J.R. was played by Larry Hagman from 1978 until his death in 2012.
Frank Underwood – “House of Cards”
Frank Underwood is one of the most iconic characters on television. He’s the ruthless politician at the center of Netflix’s “House of Cards.” Underwood is played by Kevin Spacey, and he’s a master manipulator. He’s always several steps ahead of everyone else, and he’s not afraid to use underhanded tactics to get what he wants. Even though he’s a horrible person, you can’t help but root for him.
String
1. String
String is an iconic TV character who has been on our screens for over two decades. He first appeared in the cult classic TV show, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and has since become a firm favourite with fans of the show. He is a lovable rogue, always up for a bit of mischief and has a heart of gold. He is also fiercely loyal to his friends and will do anything to protect them.