15 TV Characters Who Make Us Cringe

“How you doin’?” Well, it’s not so good when these characters are on screen. They’re the faces we grimace at, the antics we begrudgingly watch unfold. This list celebrates those not-so-lovable personalities that keep the drama high and our patience low. Here are the 15 most unlikable TV show characters—get ready to nod in agreement or perhaps find a few surprises.

Joffrey Baratheon: Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

Unapologetically bragging about his penchant for cruelty, Jack Gleeson’s Joffrey turns each episode into a nerve-wracking experience. His twisted sense of justice leaves the watchers clutching their seats, wondering who will fall victim to his capricious whims next. He delights in tormenting others, making his death a celebrated moment.

Janice Litman: Friends (1994-2004)

Loud and oblivious to the discomfort she causes, Janice, brought to life by Maggie Wheeler, with her nasal “Oh. My. God!” is the herald of headaches for both the gang and the audience. Every re-entry into the scene tests the composure of anyone within earshot. As if to test our loyalty to the show, she pops up unexpectedly, always bringing chaos.

Skyler White: Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Anna Gunn’s portrayal of Skyler White is often misunderstood. She grapples with her husband’s illegal escapades, causing friction that makes her less endearing to fans. Her dilemmas, while justified, mainly clash with the antihero narrative, putting her at odds with viewers rooting for Walter. To make matters worse, she plays a critical role in laundering drug money.

Pierce Hawthorne: Community (2009-2015)

Often out of touch with his younger classmates, Pierce’s attempts at humor can cross lines into uncomfortable territory. Chevy Chase’s portrayal of his antics, meant to induce laughter, mostly provokes cringes and eye rolls instead. Unfortunately, his wealth and entitlement make him even more disconnected.

Lori Grimes: The Walking Dead (2010-2022)

Steering a zombie apocalypse is no easy task, especially with Lori’s often questionable decision-making. Sarah Wayne Callies plays her persona, whose romantic entanglements and moral dilemmas frustrate viewers and turn every screen appearance into a dramatic problem. Also, she is widely criticized for her parenting choices.

Dolores Umbridge: Harry Potter Series (2001-2011)

Imelda Staunton’s character, Dolores Umbridge, is universally hated for her saccharine facade and love for draconian laws. Armed with a pink suit and a sinister smile, she turns Hogwarts into a nightmare land, one detention at a time. Her use of the Dark Arts further cements her as a villain.

Scrappy-Doo: Scooby-Doo (1979-1980)

“Let me at ’em!” signals the arrival of this pint-sized bundle of annoyance. Introduced to inject fresh energy into the narrative, Scrappy’s overzealous nature, voiced by Lennie Weinrib, steers the mystery-solving crew toward chaos instead. Many consider his role a misstep in the show’s history.

Rachel Berry: Glee (2009-2015)

Ambitious to a fault, Rachel’s relentless pursuit of stardom overshadows her kinder traits. Played by Lea Michele, her talent is undeniable, but her tunnel-visioned chase of Broadway dreams can make her less relatable to her peers and viewers. During the series, her competitiveness alienates her friends too.

Angelica Pickles: Rugrats (1991-2004)

Ruling the playpen with an iron fist, Angelica’s toddler tyranny, voiced by Cheryl Chase, makes her the bane of both her fellow babies and watchers alike. Her manipulative tactics are as effective as they are frustrating to witness. Despite her capers, she shows occasional glimpses of vulnerability, although not enough to gain our sympathy.

Ziggy Sobotka: The Wire (2002-2008)

James Ransone’s character, Ziggy Sobotka, bumbles through Baltimore’s docks. Poor decisions and worse consequences make him a complex persona to root for. His shenanigans, meant to provide a lighter counterpoint to the program’s graver themes, usually end up irritating instead of amusing.

Connor Roy: Succession (2018-Present)

In a family of cutthroats, Connor’s delusions of grandeur make him particularly grating. Alan Ruck plays him, whose presidential aspirations, fueled by little more than entitlement, lighten the otherwise tense atmosphere of family politics.

Michael Scott: The Office (2005-2013)

Steve Carell brings to life Michael Scott, whose heart might be in the right place. However, his lack of awareness and cringeworthy attempts at being an excellent boss make office awkwardness painful. Despite his good intentions, his management style could use some refinement.

Betty Draper: Mad Men (2007-2015)

Trapped in a picturesque suburban nightmare, Betty’s icy demeanor and sharp tongue, depicted by January Jones, paint her as less sympathetic. While her struggles with her roles as wife and mother are poignant, they also alienate those around her, including the audience.

Serena van der Woodsen: Gossip Girl (2007-2012)

In the whirlwind of Upper East Side drama, Serena van der Woodsen’s life, portrayed by Blake Lively, is riddled with secrets and lies. While her heartbreaks and trials might draw sympathy, her oft-questionable choices make her a polarizing figure. Fans soon lose patience with her endless struggles with identity and past mistakes.

Janice Soprano: The Sopranos (1999-2007)

Aida Turturro’s depiction of Janice’s manipulative nature continually stirs trouble and makes her a central figure in family drama. Her schemes are as elaborate as they are self-serving, ensuring that peace within the Soprano household is always temporary. Avid followers of the story dislike her exploitation of her brother Tony’s influence for her gain.