TV Villains Who Manipulated Us Into Rooting For Them (And We're OK With That)

Many psychopathic characters have appeared in various TV shows over the years.

And sometimes the actor's performance makes such a character as memorable as the show's protagonist, becoming the first thing that comes to mind when hearing the show's title.

Here are five examples.

Lorne Malvo (Fargo )

A manifestation of malevolence, Lorne is the main antagonist of the first season of the black comedy crime drama TV series.

Portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, this contract killer/con man is manipulative and charismatic, with a strong belief that humans are still very much like primitive beasts.

Lacking empathy and moral values, Lorne is a classic case of a psychopath, who directly confronts Martin Freeman's Lester Nygaard after stumbling upon him in the hospital.

Johan Liebert (Monster)

Johan, the titular "monster" of the anime adaptation of Naoki Urasawa's manga of the same name, is a former patient of neurosurgeon Kenzo Tenma.

After Tenma saves his life, the doctor is confronted with the terrible consequences of this action years later.

Manipulative and unrepentant, Johan's goal since childhood has been "to be the last one standing at the end of the world."

Lalo Salamanca (Better Call Saul )

Introduced in the fourth season of the critically acclaimed TV series, this charismatic member of the Salamanca family became an instant fan favorite.

Brilliantly portrayed by Tony Dalton, he served as a bright contrast to the unhinged, crazed personality of his cousin Tuco.

Many viewers admit that they have "never seen such a charming psychopath in all their lives."

Homelander (The Boys )

The idea of an "Evil Superman " has become a bit hackneyed over the years, but Antony Starr has managed to breathe new life into the concept.

While some viewers question whether the term psychopath can be applied to him, this guy clearly has major issues with empathy and emotion.

Forced to hide his true intentions, he brilliantly manages to wear the guise of a friendly superhero savior until his public meltdown in Season 3.

Hannibal Lecter (Hannibal)

Mads Mikkelsen had some pretty big shoes to fill after Anthony Hopkins' portrayal of the iconic cannibal. And he did an excellent job, bringing unique charming and offbeat traits to the character.

Those dining scenes were incredible, making the audience completely forget what kind of meat was being served.