10 Iconic TV Villains That Need Their Own Spinoff Series

In the realm of television, while traditional heroes often capture the audience’s admiration, it’s the villains who frequently steal the show.These captivating antagonists not only elevate the narrative but also present intriguing possibilities for standalone spinoff series. Crafting a spinoff can, however, prove to be a complex endeavor. It demands a purposeful story that warrants further exploration, especially as audiences may already be aware of these characters’ ultimate fates. Notably, many potential spinoffs could delve into darker themes, given that they center around morally ambiguous figures, thereby engaging viewers with intense narratives.

Despite their often despicable actions, these TV villains are undeniably intriguing to watch. Exploring their backgrounds or the aftermath of their initial arcs could add layers of complexity. Consequently, showcasing these antagonists as more nuanced individuals could alter viewers’ perceptions, resulting in thought-provoking television. As the popularity of spinoffs remains on the rise, there’s a robust audience eager for these deeper storytelling explorations.

10 Gus Fring – Breaking Bad (2008–2013) & Better Call Saul (2015–2022)

Played by Giancarlo Esposito

Breaking Bad serves as an excellent case study of a series dominated by villainous characters. While Gus Fring stands in opposition to Walter White (Bryan Cranston)—often deemed the series’ primary villain—it is time to pivot the spotlight onto Gus himself. The success of Better Call Saul, a prequel that maintained the thematic integrity of its predecessor, suggests that a deeper exploration of Gus’s character could resonate with audiences. Although Gus had a significant presence in Better Call Saul, countless stories from his earlier life remain untold.

By delving into Gus’s formative years, viewers could gain insight into his evolution into the morally corrupt figure first showcased in Breaking Bad. Even if a new actor were to portray a younger Gus, it could invite audiences to appreciate the contrast between their performances.Giancarlo Esposito’s acclaimed portrayal of Gus could provide a remarkable foundation for younger talent to build on, offering fresh perspectives on his character’s complexities.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
Breaking Bad (2008–2013)	96%	97%

9 The Master – Doctor Who (1963–Present)

Played by Various Actors

The Master, like the Doctor, has manifested in various incarnations throughout the history of Doctor Who. This complex character returned with the series revival in 2005, immediately leaving an indelible mark. As a fellow Time Lord, The Master embodies the antithesis of the values upheld by the Doctor, often creating chaos wherever they go. Their intelligence rivals that of the Doctor, which sparks excitement at the prospect of their adventures across the universe.

While the brief spinoff, Torchwood, demonstrated the potential for darker narratives within the Doctor Who universe, the future of The Master remains uncertain. However, creating an origin series focused on The Master could seamlessly fit within the Doctor Who landscape and would likely captivate fans, especially since not every Doctor has encountered this formidable foe. Each of their confrontations with the Doctor has become iconic in the series’ lore.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
Doctor Who (1963–Present)	90%	64%

8 Kilgrave – Jessica Jones (2015–2019)

Played by David Tennant

David Tennant, known for his iconic hero role in Doctor Who, contrasts sharply with his portrayal of Kilgrave in Jessica Jones. As Jessica’s relentless tormentor, Kilgrave’s ability to manipulate others, particularly Jessica (Krysten Ritter), provides an unsettling examination of power dynamics and trauma.A spinoff exploring Kilgrave’s tumultuous youth or the events leading up to his encounter with Jessica could delve into some of the darkest themes within the MCU.

Focusing on his backstory—marked by painful experimentation—could illuminate the reasons behind his lack of empathy. Even though such a series would yield some difficult material, viewers might find solace in Kilgrave ultimately facing justice.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
Jessica Jones (2015–2019)	83%	80%

7 Katherine – The Vampire Diaries (2009–2017)

Played by Nina Dobrev

While The Vampire Diaries has successfully branched out with its spinoff featuring Klaus (Joseph Morgan), the original series’ first and most fascinating antagonist was Katherine. Though initially depicted as an object of desire for Damon (Ian Somerhalder), Katherine’s manipulative power over others adds depth to her character.As Elena’s ancestor and doppelganger, Katherine is deeply entwined in the narrative, revealing hidden motivations and evoking sympathy.

Having existed for centuries, Katherine’s escapades through history offer rich storytelling potential. After staging her death, she wandered across the U. S., entangling herself with various supernatural beings and manipulating them to fulfill her own goals. A series that chronicles her historical escapades would not only captivate fans of The Vampire Diaries but also provide enchanting historical drama.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
The Vampire Diaries (2009–2017)	86%	72%

6 Ben Linus – Lost (2006–2010)

Played by Michael Emerson

In the world of Lost, Ben Linus stands out as a cunning leader and manipulator. While often cast in the role of villain, his actions are driven by a survival instinct and flawed logic, making him a compelling figure. Although he was the central villain, audiences are left with unanswered questions about his past especially regarding the twists and turns of the storyline. Expanding on Ben’s backstory could lend credence to the redemptive arc many sought in Lost.

Through flashbacks, glimpses of Ben’s early life were provided, but these snippets only scratched the surface.A dedicated spinoff could delve deeper into his formative years, enhancing viewers’ understanding of his motivations and flaws.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
Lost (2004-2010)	86%	89%

5 Kathleen Coghlan – The Last Of Us (2023–Present)

Played by Melanie Lynskey

As the anticipation for The Last of Us season 2 grows, viewers reflect on the impactful narratives established in season 1. Although Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) are at the heart of the story, characters like Kathleen bring depth to this post-apocalyptic world. Though Kathleen was a series original character, her portrayal by Melanie Lynskey fits seamlessly into the show’s exploration of human desperation and survival.

Fans are eager to witness more of Lynskey’s performance, especially after her impressive role in Yellowjackets. Imagining a spinoff devoted to Kathleen’s rise to power amid societal collapse opens up rich storytelling possibilities. Following her journey as she navigates leadership strategies and community survival within the chaos of The Last of Us universe would expand the show’s thematic depth.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
The Last of Us (2023–Present)	96%	88%

4 Love Quinn – You (2018-2025)

Played by Victoria Pedretti

Caught in a psychological game of cat and mouse with Joe (Penn Badgley), Love Quinn initially appears to be just another victim but soon reveals herself as his equal in cunning and ruthlessness. Despite her tragic end, Love is portrayed in a way that elicits sympathy due to her complicated past and toxic relationships. A potential spinoff focusing on Love’s life in Los Angeles before her encounter with Joe could explore her struggles with violence and familial issues.

This prequel series could place emphasis on the dynamic between Love and her brother, Forty (James Scully), highlighting their complex relationship, which adds intrigue to the narrative. Even after Love’s part in You concludes, her history remains rich with potential for exploration.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
You (2018–2025)	92%	75%

3 Lukas Matsson – Succession (2018–2023)

Played by Alexander Skarsgård

In the fourth season of Succession, Lukas Matsson emerges as a cunning antagonist, proving to be just as formidable as the Roy family patriarch, Logan (Brian Cox). Following Logan’s passing, the Roy siblings find themselves embroiled in corporate intrigue, desperately trying to secure alliances with Matsson. Eventually, it becomes evident that Matsson is an adept player in the ruthless game of business.

Post-series, the appetite for more stories in this genre remains palpable, particularly following the compelling arcs in Succession. With HBO’s Industry capturing audience attention since Succession’s conclusion, a spinoff highlighting Matsson’s ascent in the corporate landscape could resonate well. It would echo the journey of a young Logan Roy and promise a thrilling landscape of ambition and betrayal.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
Succession (2018–2023)	95%	88%

2 Livia Sopranos – The Sopranos (1999–2007)

Played by Nancy Marchand

Though Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) is often labeled as TV’s quintessential anti-hero, it is essential to recognize the significant influence of his mother, Livia, in shaping his character.A fascinating backstory exploring Livia’s life prior to marrying Tony’s father could unearth her motivations and complex relationships. As a master manipulator who appeared supportive yet was clandestinely working against her own son, Livia’s character has layers worth exploring.

With over two decades since The Sopranos first graced screens, interest in Livia’s story continues to thrive.A series focusing on her past would not only offer a fresh perspective on the Soprano legacy but would also provide fans with riveting storytelling.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
The Sopranos (1999–2007)	92%	96%

1 Tywin Lannister – Game Of Thrones (2011–2019)

Played by Charles Dance

Tywin Lannister, the calculating patriarch of House Lannister, is a standout character in Game of Thrones, noted for his strategic mind and unyielding ambition. Unlike many villains, he exercises patience rather than reacting impulsively, as he orchestrates plans across generations. A potential series focused on Tywin’s earlier years could provide viewers with valuable insights into the violent and intricate world of Westerosi politics.

Title	Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score	Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
Game of Thrones (2011–2019)	89%	85%

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