10 Shows That Thrive Thanks to One Iconic Character

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The primary goal for any talented TV producer is captivating audiences and ensuring they return for more episodes. Creating a storyline that hooks viewers and makes them eager to follow along with the characters can be tricky. Achieving this requires assembling the perfect cast, hiring skilled writers, and making sure the show becomes popular. Thankfully, there are numerous shows where this strategy proves successful.

Remarkable shows throughout history seem to capture something special, much like capturing lightning in a jar. All elements align perfectly to create an unforgettable viewing experience. This could be due to exceptional writing, skilled showrunners, talented actors, or unique settings. However, just because a show possesses some of these key factors does not guarantee it will attract a large audience.

In simpler terms, certain TV series gain popularity primarily due to a standout character that viewers instantly connect with. This character might embody the role so well that they become synonymous with it, or they may already be well-known, adding excitement to the show and drawing in fans. Notably, there are several recent shows that have garnered fame mainly for their star characters.

10
‘The Mandalorian’ (2019 – 2023)

Baby Yoda / Grogu

It has become apparent in recent years that Pedro Pascal possesses a wide range of talents. However, The Mandalorian, despite his capabilities, doesn’t fully utilize them. This is due to the fact that Pascal plays the title character, known as Mando or simply The Mandalorian, who is a bounty hunter tasked with safeguarding a child from harmful entities. Throughout the series, Pascal’s character wears a mask, reflecting the customary Mandalorian way, which leaves the child as the primary character for viewers to connect with.

It’s more endearing when the child resembles a miniature version of Yoda, who captivated the internet during the show’s debut. Later, it was disclosed that this adorable character is actually named Grogu, which lacks the charm of Baby Yoda. Regardless, Grogu remains the scene-stealer throughout the series. Grogu’s popularity skyrocketed to such an extent that a movie titled “The Mandalorian and Grogu” related to the series is planned for release in 2026.

9
‘Monk’ (2002 – 2009)

Adrian Monk

For some viewers of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” Tony Shalhoub might be recognized solely as Abe Weissman, the anxious father of the main character. However, Shalhoub played the leading role in eight seasons of the show called “Monk.” In this series, Adrian Monk is a detective who struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder. This police drama offers a fresh perspective, as Monk’s genius is frequently overshadowed by his quirks and idiosyncrasies.

1. In addition to working at the San Francisco Police Department, he is also investigating his wife’s killing.

2. He serves with the San Francisco Police Department concurrently, as he seeks to unravel the mystery of his wife’s death.

3. He is employed by the San Francisco Police Department and is simultaneously attempting to solve his wife’s murder.

4. His day job includes working for the San Francisco Police Department, but he spends his off-hours trying to crack the case of his wife’s murder.

5. Apart from being a member of the San Francisco Police Department, he is also pursuing the investigation into his wife’s homicide.

In terms of Shalhoub:

1. Shalhoub received three Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards for portraying Monk.
2. The character of Monk earned Shalhoub three Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
3. Shalhoub was honored with three Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards for his performance as Monk.
4. Monk brought Shalhoub three Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
5. Shalhoub was bestowed with three Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards for his exceptional portrayal of Monk.

8
‘Sherlock’ (2010 – 2017)

Sherlock Holmes

In the course of his acting career, Benedict Cumberbatch has delivered exceptional performances. He’s been nominated for two Oscars, four Golden Globes, seven Emmys, and numerous other awards. However, he has only won an Emmy for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in the series Sherlock. Cumberbatch embodies the title character of Holmes with mystery, and his performance seems to have gained even more luster when compared to Robert Downey Jr.’s depiction in several movies.

In the show by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, Martin Freeman plays Dr. Watson, but it’s Benedict Cumberbatch who truly captivates the audience. The version of Sherlock we know wouldn’t have been as successful without him, and his return is a treat for fans. For those planning to revisit the series, prepare yourself to delve deep into Sherlock’s mind palace – it’s a journey you won’t want to leave!

7
‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014 – 2020)

Annalise Keating

In another captivating series, Viola Davis played Annalise Keating in “How to Get Away with Murder.” With an intriguing title and a lead actress who is a multiple award-winner (EGOT), the show certainly piques interest. The story centers around a renowned lawyer and university professor, together with five students, who find themselves entangled in a murder mystery. This production was born from Shonda Rhimes’ company, Shondaland, giving it a distinguished status on ABC.

During her time with the lively and engaging Keating 5, it was primarily Davis who stole the spotlight. And steal it she did! She earned an Emmy for this performance and consistently gave a stellar show in every episode. The allure of the show lay in its drama and over-the-top elements, enticing viewers with unexpected plot twists and cliffhangers each week.

6
‘The Blacklist’ (2013 – 2023)

Raymond Reddington

In a more conversational manner, you could say: “Why wouldn’t viewers be drawn to someone known as ‘The Concierge of Crime?’ That’s the question The Blacklist answered with its captivating 10-season run. James Spader starred as Raymond Reddington, a U.S. Naval intelligence officer who vanished for 20 years and ended up on the FBI’s Most Wanted list. He surrendered to the FBI, expressing his desire to collaborate with them in apprehending those on his blacklist – a roster of criminals he linked up with during his mysterious absence. The show was fueled by its suspenseful action, sharp writing, and Spader’s mesmerizing performance.

Red, a legendary yet criminal figure, was masterfully brought to life by Spader in each scene. The series received high praise for its impressive stunt work throughout its run. Over the course of 10 seasons, Spader breathed life into Red’s character. This popular show led to a spin-off, novels, and other adaptations. In 2024, it was the second most-watched series on Netflix streaming platform.

5
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005 – Present)

Meredith Grey

Over more than two decades, the long-standing television drama “Grey’s Anatomy” has captivated multiple generations of viewers. The central character throughout the show is Meredith Grey, portrayed by Ellen Pompeo. During its early episodes, we followed Meredith and a team of interns as they navigated their way through the medical profession at a hospital in Seattle. By the current point in the series, this hospital bears the name of her family. Despite the medical drama being a consistent ratings success for ABC for over two decades, fans continue to tune in to watch Meredith’s journey.

James Pickens, Jr., Chandra Wilson, and Meredith Pompeo are the only cast members who starred throughout the entire duration of the show. While Pompeo has scaled back her involvement over the past year to focus on other ventures, she continues to voice the show’s narration and appears in multiple episodes. The early storylines that initially captivated audiences often revolved around Meredith, particularly the primary romantic plot between her and Dr. Derek Shepherd.

4
‘How I Met Your Mother’ (2005 – 2014)

Barney Stinson

A popular sitcom on CBS named “How I Met Your Mother,” which spanned nine seasons, significantly elevated the fame of its principal actors. However, over time, viewers primarily tuned in to catch up with one specific character. This was due to Neil Patrick Harris’s portrayal of Barney Stinson, a singularly amusing and eccentric figure whose profession remained unknown to his friends until close to the series end. A character shrouded in enigma and mystery, Barney’s primary objective in life was to engage romantically with as many women as he could. Each week, this charismatic character found himself at the heart of a bizarre narrative.

Harris shines brilliantly as Barney, effectively dispelling his past image as a child actor who struggled to carry over his success into adulthood. The series primarily revolves around a group of friends, with a father recounting the story of how he met their mother. However, it transcends this simple premise, owing largely to Barney’s captivating presence. In essence, “Barney Stinson is simply amazing!

3
‘House’ (2004 – 2012)

Dr. Gregory House

Hugh Laurie is widely recognized by American viewers as Dr. Gregory House. Although he has built an impressive career, he received six Primetime Emmy Award nominations for his role in the show House. This medical drama showcased him as the main character, a doctor with a knack for diagnosing difficult cases. Alongside his team of doctors, they tackle a peculiar case per episode. House is not a sympathetic character, and his struggles with substance abuse make him harsh and skeptical.

As a devoted moviegoer, I can’t help but acknowledge the sheer brilliance that made House stand out. It was this luster that kept viewers hooked for eight enthralling seasons. The allure wasn’t just about unraveling the mystery of each patient’s rare condition; it was also about the madness and genius that spilled from his mouth with every diagnosis. Throughout the show’s run, many actors graced Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital, but none could match House’s magnetic charm.

2
‘Peaky Blinders’ (2013 – 2022)

Thomas Shelby

People who have watched the show Peaky Blinders will agree that they kept watching it to find out what Thomas Shelby would do next. The character portrayed by Cillian Murphy is the main engine that drives the series, as he plays the head of a local British gang in the early 1900s following World War I. Thomas Shelby must juggle various challenges such as law enforcement pursuing him, his brothers’ mistakes, rival gangs encroaching on his turf, and more. Murphy delivers this complex character with a calm and reserved air.

1) The television series “Peaky Blinders” boasts a dedicated fanbase, and Murphy is set to reappear in its forthcoming film. Over the years, it has showcased numerous well-known actors like Helen McCrory, Tom Hardy, Sam Neill, Annabelle Wallis, Adrien Brody, Anya Taylor-Joy, Sam Claflin, and Paddy Considine. However, none of these characters sparked the haircut trend as much as Thomas Shelby did, thanks to his immense popularity causing many people to desire his distinctive hairstyle.

1
‘Dexter’ (2006 – 2013)

Dexter Morgan

The idea of a serial killer with morals is quite intriguing, and Jeff Lindsay brought this concept to life through his book series. The television adaptation, titled Dexter, features Michael C. Hall portraying the character. Dexter Morgan is a dual-natured individual: he works as a blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department during the day, but at night, he’s a serial killer who targets criminals and other killers. The show revolves around Dexter maintaining his double life without being discovered by his colleagues. Over eight seasons, viewers were captivated by each season’s major case that the police department was trying to solve.

Indeed, Dexter frequently took control of the investigations himself, and numerous seasons showcased an exhilarating intellectual duel between him and the primary antagonist. The series was captivating, with Hall brilliantly embodying the character of Morgan, a man struggling to maintain two separate lives. The program garnered a massive fanbase and resulted in both prequel and sequel spin-offs. Some of its most memorable seasons boasted high-profile guest stars such as Jimmy Smits, John Lithgow, Julia Stiles, and Edward James Olmos, all attempting to outmaneuver Dexter. However, few were successful.

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2025-05-04 00:03