The 10 Most Underrated Villains in TV History

Some TV villains steal the spotlight with their bold schemes or chilling presence, while others work their magic in the background, unnoticed by many. These lesser-known antagonists bring depth, menace, or even twisted charm to their shows, yet they rarely get the credit they deserve.

I’ve scoured the world of television to highlight ten villains who deserve more recognition for their dark deeds. From cunning manipulators to quiet terrors, these characters prove that evil can leave a lasting mark, even if they fly under the radar.

10. Joe Keene Jr. – ‘Watchmen’ (2019)

Joe Keene Jr., portrayed by James Wolk in ‘Watchmen’, is a senator with a charming exterior hiding a ruthless agenda. He manipulates a white supremacist group to fuel his presidential ambitions, tying into the show’s themes of power and prejudice. Wolk’s performance makes Keene a chilling figure, yet he’s often overlooked among the series’ bigger names.

Keene’s ability to mask his cruelty with charisma makes him a standout. His quiet menace and calculated moves leave a lasting impression, even in a show packed with complex characters. If you’ve seen ‘Watchmen’, you know he’s a villain worth revisiting.

9. Morgana Pendragon – ‘Merlin’ (2008-2012)

Katie McGrath’s Morgana in ‘Merlin’ begins as a compassionate figure but transforms into a tragic villain. Her descent, fueled by betrayal and isolation, makes her a compelling force in this fantasy series. McGrath’s portrayal captures Morgana’s pain and rage, yet she’s often overshadowed by flashier antagonists.

Morgana’s arc is a slow burn, blending heartbreak with menace. Her choices stem from hurt, making her both relatable and terrifying. ‘Merlin’ viewers know she’s a gem who doesn’t get the praise she deserves.

8. Mike Milligan – ‘Fargo’ (2014-2025)

Bokeem Woodbine’s Mike Milligan in ‘Fargo’ Season 2 is a smooth-talking enforcer for a crime syndicate. His wit, charm, and ruthless violence make him unforgettable, but the show’s rotating cast often eclipses him. Woodbine’s ability to shift from friendly to deadly keeps you hooked.

Milligan’s poetic dialogue and unpredictable nature set him apart. He’s a thinker who plays the long game, lingering in your mind long after the season ends. ‘Fargo’ fans know he’s a villain who deserves more love.

7. Thor Gundersen – ‘Hell on Wheels’ (2011-2016)

Christopher Heyerdahl’s Thor Gundersen, known as The Swede, is a haunting presence in ‘Hell on Wheels’. As a railroad company’s head of security, his obsession with control and revenge makes him terrifying. Heyerdahl’s eerie performance gives The Swede a unique edge, yet he’s rarely celebrated.

The Swede’s blend of cold logic and unhinged cruelty makes him unforgettable. His quiet, sadistic precision gets under your skin without loud theatrics. If you’ve watched the show, you know he’s a hidden terror.

6. Francis Dolarhyde – ‘Hannibal’ (2013-2015)

Richard Armitage’s Francis Dolarhyde in ‘Hannibal’ is a serial killer known as The Tooth Fairy. His complex psyche and haunting duality make him a standout, but he’s often overshadowed by the show’s lead villain. Armitage’s intense performance brings depth to Dolarhyde’s inner conflict.

Dolarhyde’s quiet menace and tragic backstory make him more than a killer. You almost root for him, which adds to his chilling impact. ‘Hannibal’ viewers know he’s a dark horse who deserves more recognition.

5. Elias – ‘Person of Interest’ (2011-2016)

Enrico Colantoni’s Elias in ‘Person of Interest’ is a crime boss with a moral code. His mix of ruthlessness and honor makes him fascinating, but the show’s tech-heavy plot often overshadows him. Colantoni’s understated performance gives Elias a quiet intensity.

Elias isn’t a typical villain—he respects his foes and follows his own rules, which makes him compelling. His brains-over-brawn approach proves intelligence can be scarier than force. Fans of the show know he’s criminally underappreciated.

4. Glory – ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997-2003)

Clare Kramer’s Glory in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ is a god-like villain with a bubbly, teenage persona. Her divine power and childish cruelty make her unique, but she’s often outshined by the show’s other foes. Kramer’s energetic performance makes Glory a joy to watch.

Glory’s relentless pursuit of her goals, backed by godlike strength, feels larger than life. Her quirky personality keeps her under the radar, but ‘Buffy’ fans know she’s a standout who deserves more praise.

3. Vandal Savage – ‘Young Justice’ (2010-2022)

Vandal Savage, voiced by David Sobolov in ‘Young Justice’, is an immortal mastermind manipulating history for millennia. His commanding presence and ruthless ambition make him formidable, yet he’s rarely celebrated. Sobolov’s voice work adds depth to Savage’s ancient menace.

Savage’s intellect and patience make him a chilling threat. His long-term schemes are understated but terrifying, proving his staying power. ‘Young Justice’ viewers know he’s a powerhouse who needs more recognition.

2. Kilgrave – ‘Jessica Jones’ (2015-2019)

David Tennant’s Kilgrave in ‘Jessica Jones’ is a mind-controlling villain with a charming facade. His horrifying obsession with Jessica and casual cruelty make him unforgettable, but he’s often overlooked in the superhero genre. Tennant’s magnetic performance makes Kilgrave both captivating and repulsive.

Kilgrave’s evil feels real, reflecting themes of control and abuse that hit hard. His ability to linger in your mind makes him a standout, yet he doesn’t get enough credit. If you’ve seen the show, you know he’s a hidden masterpiece.

1. Ramsay Bolton – ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019)

Iwan Rheon’s Ramsay Bolton in ‘Game of Thrones’ is a sadistic force of pure evil. His acts of torture and betrayal are chilling, yet he’s often overshadowed by other villains like Joffrey or Cersei. Rheon’s performance makes Ramsay a terrifying presence.

Ramsay’s unpredictable cruelty keeps you on edge, with every scene feeling like a ticking bomb. His grim fate is satisfying, but his impact lasts. ‘Game of Thrones’ fans know he’s a villain who deserves more attention.

Which underrated TV villain do you think deserves more spotlight, or did I miss a sneaky favorite? Share your pick in the comments!