6 Now-Iconic TV Characters Who Started Out As Outcasts Hated by Fans

Sometimes, a character's initial introduction may not resonate well with viewers, leading to despise or frustration. However, as the story unfolds and the characters undergo significant growth, opinions can change dramatically.

Here are some TV characters who were initially hated by viewers, but won their hearts in the end.

Sansa Stark (Game Of Thrones )

An innocent teenager initially captivated by fairytales and noble ideals, Sansa's idealism at the tender age of 14 never deserved to be bullied, but it was. Despite her initial immaturity, after going through a living nightmare, she learns to use words to navigate the political game, develops the skills of survival, and takes her rightful place as the Queen of the North.

April Ludgate (Parks and Recreation )

Hard to like at first, April started out as a disinterested and apathetic intern. Her deadpan humor and seemingly unbothered attitude didn't immediately resonate with viewers, but over time, her unique personality and unexpected moments of caring for her coworkers made her one of the sitcom's most endearing characters.

Steve Harrington (Stranger Things )

The Hawkins High School heartthrob's transformation from a stereotypical high school popular boy and bad boyfriend to a caring and protective figure took many viewers off guard. As the show progressed, his genuine character development and unexpected friendship with Dustin endeared him to fans. Team Stancy forever, by the way.

Richie (The Bear )

Initially, at odds with the kitchen crew, Richie was portrayed as a troublesome and aggressive character in Season 1. Season 2, however, presented a more likable side of Richie that fans have come to love and adore.

His journey from being an annoying relative to a wholesome person who sings Taylor Swift in the car is truly incredible.

Karen Filippelli (The Office )

Karen faced a massive backlash from Office fans when she was first introduced as a romantic rival to Jim and a minor antagonist to Pam. For many viewers, Jim and Pam were a perfect match, and no one was in favor of anyone coming between the two lovebirds.

As time went on, however, fans began to realize that Karen was actually a compelling character who didn't deserve such unfair criticism, since she was never a problem in the first place.

Sawyer (Lost)

James "Sawyer" Ford, one of the survivors of the plane crash, was originally seen as a con man and disliked by fans for his selfishness, arrogance, and getting in the way of Kate and Jack. But as the series went on, his softer side came out and made him a fan-favorite. The fact that Kate didn't choose him over the selfish doctor is something we still can't get over.