'6 Iconic Villains from Pop Culture That Are More Relatable Than You Think'
By Jamie Liu | 6 Iconic Villains from Pop Culture That Are More Relatable Than You Think
When it comes to pop culture, we often find ourselves drawn to the heroes and protagonists who save the day. But what about the villains? While they may not be as likable, many iconic movie and TV villains share relatable qualities that make them more human - and sometimes even more sympathetic. In this article, we’ll explore six iconic villains from pop culture who are more relatable than you think.
1. The Troubled Rich Kid: Ryan Atwood (The O.C.)
Ryan Atwood, played by Benjamin McKenzie, is a classic example of a troubled rich kid villain. His privileged upbringing and lack of direction lead him down a path of self-destruction, causing chaos in the lives of those around him. However, as we see throughout the series, his actions are motivated by a deep-seated desire to escape the expectations placed upon him. This relatable quality makes Ryan more sympathetic than your typical “bad guy,” and his character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of entitlement.
2. The Brooding Heartthrob: Pacey Witter (Dawson’s Creek)
Pacey, played by Joshua Jackson, is another iconic villain with a relatable side. His moody demeanor and tendency to sabotage relationships make him a lovable bad boy. However, as the series progresses, we see that his actions are driven by a deep-seated insecurity and fear of abandonment. This vulnerability makes Pacey more human and easier to identify with than your typical “bad guy.”
3. The Overbearing Father: Ross Geller (Friends)
Ross, played by David Schwimmer, is often portrayed as the lovable but overbearing father figure in his own right. His obsessive nature and tendency to meddle in his children’s lives make him a comically relatable villain. While he may not be the most likable character, his flaws are so endearingly human that we can’t help but feel for him.
4. The Self-Absorbed Hollywood Type: Barry Zuckerkorn (Entourage)
Barry, played by Jeremy Piven, is a self-absorbed and egotistical villain who embodies the worst excesses of Hollywood’s Golden Age. However, beneath his narcissistic exterior lies a vulnerable and insecure individual desperate to be loved and accepted. This complexity makes Barry more relatable than your typical “bad guy,” and his character serves as a commentary on the superficiality of Hollywood culture.
5. The Tormented Ad Man: Don Draper (Mad Men)
Don, played by Jon Hamm, is one of the most iconic villains in pop culture history. His troubled past and inner demons make him a complex and relatable character. As an ad man, he’s able to mask his vulnerabilities behind a façade of confidence and charm, but as the series progresses, we see that this mask begins to crack, revealing a deeply flawed individual.
6. The Scheming Businessman: George Bluth Sr. (Arrested Development)
George Bluth Sr., played by Jeffrey Tambor, is a master manipulator with a genius-level IQ for scheming and swindling his way to the top. However, beneath his Machiavellian exterior lies a vulnerable and insecure individual desperate for love and acceptance. His character serves as a commentary on the cutthroat nature of business and the lengths people will go to achieve success.
7. The Bumbling Authority Figure: Kirk (Star Trek)
Kirk, played by Chris Pine, is often portrayed as the heroic Captain James T. Kirk, but in his own show, “Star Trek: Discovery,” he’s a bumbling authority figure who struggles to assert himself as a leader. His insecurities and lack of confidence make him a more relatable villain than your typical “bad guy.” As we see throughout the series, his flaws are so endearingly human that we can’t help but feel for him.
Conclusion
These six iconic villains from pop culture may be more relatable than you think, thanks to their complex and nuanced personalities. By exploring their motivations and vulnerabilities, we gain a deeper understanding of what makes them tick - and sometimes, even find ourselves rooting for the “bad guy.”
