10 Mentor Characters Who Were Actually Terrible People

Mentors in movies and TV often guide heroes with wisdom and strength, shaping their journeys with life-changing advice. But sometimes, these trusted figures hide dark motives or harmful flaws, revealing themselves to be far from heroic.

This article lists 10 mentor characters who turned out to be terrible people, judged by their actions and impact on their students.

10. Glinda the Good Witch

Glinda, the seemingly kind guide in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ (1939), helps Dorothy navigate her journey home. Her gentle demeanor hides a troubling truth—she withholds key information that could have spared Dorothy danger.

She sends Dorothy on a perilous quest to the Wizard, knowing the ruby slippers could take her home instantly. This manipulation puts Dorothy and her friends at risk, making Glinda’s guidance more self-serving than benevolent. Her actions suggest a disregard for Dorothy’s safety, prioritizing adventure over honesty.

9. Roy Mustang

Roy Mustang, the charismatic colonel in ‘Fullmetal Alchemist’ (2003-2004, 2009-2010), mentors Edward Elric with a mix of support and antagonism. His ambition to climb the military ranks often overshadows his role as a guide.

While he aids the Elric brothers in their search for the Philosopher’s Stone, his constant teasing and focus on his own goals create tension. His mentorship feels more like a power dynamic than genuine care, leaving Edward to navigate much of his journey alone.

8. Tony Stark

Tony Stark, the genius billionaire in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017), takes young Peter Parker under his wing as Iron Man. His intentions seem good, but his methods are reckless and neglectful.

He recruits a teenage Peter to fight dangerous foes without proper training, then ignores him for months, offering little guidance. Stark’s arrogance and failure to prioritize Peter’s safety make him a mentor who endangers his student more than he empowers him.

7. Kisuke Urahara

Kisuke Urahara, the quirky shopkeeper in ‘Bleach’ (2004-2012, 2022-2023), trains Ichigo Kurosaki to become a powerful Shinigami. His unconventional methods, though effective, are often cruel and risky.

He throws Ichigo into life-or-death situations, like forcing him to climb out of a pit to avoid becoming a Hollow. Kisuke’s success comes at the cost of Ichigo’s well-being, showing a callous disregard for his student’s safety in pursuit of results.

6. All Might

All Might, the symbol of peace in ‘My Hero Academia’ (2016-present), inspires Deku and passes on his powers. His heroic image hides a mentor who struggles to provide meaningful guidance beyond inspiration.

After granting Deku One For All, All Might offers little practical training, leaving him to figure out the power’s dangers alone. His hands-off approach and focus on his own legacy make him a mentor who inspires but fails to teach effectively.

5. Bishop

Bishop, the vampire leader in ‘Being Human’ (2011-2014), mentors Aidan Turner with a charming facade. Beneath it lies a manipulative agenda that encourages Aidan’s worst impulses.

He pushes Aidan to embrace his bloodlust, undermining his desire to live without killing. Bishop’s control lingers, circling back to exploit Aidan’s struggles, revealing a mentor who prioritizes power over his student’s humanity.

4. Malcolm Merlyn

Malcolm Merlyn, the cunning villain in ‘Arrow’ (2012-2020), trains his daughter Thea Queen as a fighter. His mentorship is tainted by his sinister motives and willingness to sacrifice her autonomy.

He manipulates Thea into killing Sara Lance without her knowledge, turning her into a weapon for his schemes. Malcolm’s actions leave Thea guilt-ridden, proving he’s a mentor who values control over his daughter’s well-being.

3. David Cain

David Cain, a brutal assassin in DC Comics’ ‘Batgirl’ (2000-2006), raises and trains his daughter Cassandra Cain to be a deadly killer. His methods are beyond cruel, shaping her into a weapon rather than a person.

He deprives Cassandra of speech, teaching her to read body language as language, and shoots her as a child to keep her sharp. His inhumane training scars her deeply, marking him as a mentor who prioritizes results over humanity.

2. Albus Dumbledore

Albus Dumbledore, the wise headmaster in ‘Harry Potter’ (2001-2011), guides Harry Potter against Voldemort. His secretive nature and willingness to endanger students reveal a darker side.

He withholds critical information about Harry’s connection to Voldemort and allows dangerous situations, like the Triwizard Tournament, to unfold. Dumbledore’s manipulative approach treats Harry more as a tool than a student, risking his life for a greater plan.

1. Granny Goodness

Granny Goodness, a sadistic general in DC Comics’ ‘Mister Miracle’ (1971-1974) and ‘New Gods’ (1971-1972), tops this list for her monstrous mentorship. She trains Darkseid’s armies, turning children into killing machines.

She abducts kids into her Orphanage, pitting them against each other to serve Darkseid, destroying their hope and individuality. Her twisted “love” grooms them for evil, making her the ultimate example of a mentor who corrupts and destroys.

Which mentor’s betrayal shocked you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments!