In Middle-Earth, there aren’t many spots that could be called perfect havens, with Rivendell and the Shire being exceptions. Most parts of the continent have faced some kind of conflict, leading inhabitants to adapt and endure through any means possible. However, not all the dark forces in Middle-earth can attribute their ruin solely to harsh conditions. Avarice, deceit, and fear contribute significantly to only a few of the franchise’s most despicable villains. The rest are simply malevolent.
In a grand saga such as “Lord of the Rings,” malevolent, beyond-redemption creatures effectively fulfill their narrative purpose. Conversely, there are annoying characters who may not be evil but are merely misunderstood. Regardless, it’s challenging for viewers to empathize with characters they don’t (or can’t) respect, even if these characters are performing some of the most wicked and unforgivable acts in the story, given their noble intentions behind their actions.
Bilbo Adopting Frodo Put a Dent in the Sackville-Bagginses Plans
Among the Hobbits in the Shire, Lobelia, Otho, and Lotho Sackville-Baggins are considered some of the most disagreeable. They have no qualms about revealing their malicious intentions, even going as far as to raid Bag End during Bilbo’s journey, as depicted in “The Hobbit.” The Sackville-Baggins family holds a deep resentment towards Bilbo for bequeathing his estate to a distant relative. This animosity is further intensified towards Frodo due to this inherited enmity.
As a movie enthusiast and a devoted reader of the books, I must say that Lobelia and Lotho are not often seen in films, but they hold significant roles during the Scouring of the Shire. While Lotho is led astray by his greed and ends up serving Saruman, Lobelia makes amends by defying the fallen Wizard’s rule. It might surprise you to find that the Shirefolk, known for their jovial nature, are among the least likable characters. The Sackville-Bagginses unfortunately tarnish the Hobbits’ reputation, which is enough to land them at the bottom of any list I would compile.
Their Selective Interference Made the Journey More Arduous
In the mythology of Middle-earth, Eagles are captivating beings, although the details of their origins remain a mystery. Some fans speculate that the strongest of these birds might have once been like Maia, similar to Sauron and Gandalf in power. Despite this, they generally avoid human conflicts, which is why viewers often find them disappointing. However, their primary role was to act as messengers for the Vala Manwe.
As a movie enthusiast, let me rephrase that for you: Although I didn’t directly aid Frodo and Sam in their quest to deliver the One Ring to Mordor, the Eagles ultimately came through by rescuing both Hobbits once their mission was complete. They even lent a hand to Gandalf, Radagast, and Thorin’s Company at different points. However, their decision not to actively participate in the War of the Ring, despite having the ability to do so, has left many with a sour taste towards them.
Animal Abuse & Treachery Make Him Easy to Hate
In various shapes and sizes, wickedness exists, from seemingly innocent Lobelia Sackville-Baggins to monstrous Morgoth. A common error among fans is ascribing morality to race, a fact emphasized by Tolkien himself when he suggests that anyone can succumb to darkness. One of the least memorable characters in LotR is Bill Ferny, a Bree resident who covertly collaborated with the Ringwraiths. Readers often found his appearance unappealing, and his actions further fueled their disdain for him.
Despite being tasked with hunting for the One Ring in the Shire, Ferny’s reprehensible behavior primarily stems from his mistreatment of a pony named Bill. Sam eventually buys Bill from Ferny at an exorbitant price, vowing to provide better care than its former owner. In the end, Ferny meets his due fate when he is kicked by Bill the pony, causing him to vanish.
His Actions Set Off a Chain Reaction for the Main Story
In Amazon’s “The Rings of Power,” Isildur’s youthful enthusiasm and positivity have significantly increased his appeal compared to earlier portrayals. However, viewers are aware that he will follow a similar trajectory as his older self from “The Fellowship of the Ring.” Alongside Elendil, Elrond, and Gil-galad, Isildur courageously leads the War of the Last Alliance to its conclusion. Regrettably, Sauron ends the lives of Gil-galad and Elendil. In a desperate moment, Isildur grabs a shattered piece of his father’s sword and cuts the One Ring from Sauron’s finger.
If Elrond’s advice had been heeded and Isildur thrown the accursed gold into Mount Doom’s fiery depths, he potentially could have prolonged his life. Unfortunately, a group of Orcs ended up slaying him a year following his triumph. There were suspicions that the One Ring led to his demise, considering his intentions to pass it on to Elrond. Regardless, Isildur’s actions indirectly resulted in countless more deaths in later battles.
The Elven King Was Notoriously Self-Serving
In the epic tale of Lord of the Rings, Orlando Bloom’s portrayal of Legolas rapidly emerged as one of the standout characters. He proved instrumental to the Fellowship, bravely shielding them during the tumultuous War of the Ring. Yet, unexpectedly, Thranduil, Legolas’ father and supposed ruler of the Woodland Realm, presented a stark contrast. Initially, he appeared overly cautious, a characteristic that, while irritating at times, was tolerable given his high station.
As a die-hard movie buff, I can’t help but express my disappointment in Elven-king Thranduil’s actions during the Lonely Mountain saga. His blatant refusal to aid the Dwarves against Smaug left Thorin and his companions stranded, unable to return home. The Elven-king’s hypocrisy was evident as he demanded justice for some long-forgotten conflict before offering Mirkwood’s assistance – a move that reeked of cynicism and arrogance.
Fans were quick to label Thranduil as a villainous character, his slimy superciliousness grating on our nerves long before he had the chance to redeem himself at the Battle of the Five Armies. His actions, or lack thereof, made him an unforgettable antagonist in this epic tale.
The One Ring Corrupted His Good Intentions
As the Steward of Gondor, Boromir boasted more political authority than any other member in the Fellowship at their onset. His prowess in combat was renowned across Middle-earth, evident when he valiantly shielded Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took from a hostile group of Uruk-hai. In fact, during Faramir’s flashbacks depicted in The Two Towers, the audience witnessed directly the crucial leadership role Boromir played in Gondor’s ongoing struggle against Sauron’s armies.
In essence, Boromir gave in to temptation too quickly when he attempted to seize the One Ring from Frodo, causing the Fellowship to split into three groups. If only Boromir had resisted his urge for the ring, the Fellowship might have remained united and supported Frodo on his quest to Mount Doom. However, despite his subsequent redemption, this act of betrayal places him lower on our list.
Peter Jackson’s LotR Paves the Way for This Hatable Orc
In the books, Boromir is slain by an unidentified Orc (or possibly a band) whereas in the movies, Lurtz, a character created in Isengard’s pits by Saruman and the first Uruk-hai born from slimy cocoons, is given as his killer. Not only did Lurtz possess immense power, but he even overpowered an ordinary Orc at birth. Later on, Lurtz emerged as the leader of the Uruk-hai during the events at Amon Hen, where he clashed with the Fellowship of the Ring.
In the heat of battle, Lurtz struck Boromir with three arrows, mortally injuring the valiant warrior. However, he failed to deliver the final blow. Then, Aragorn sprang into action, engaging the loathsome Lurtz in combat. This fierce encounter almost claimed another cherished character’s life. Fortunately, Aragorn’s prowess prevailed, as he managed to slay and behead Lurtz. In the original tales, Lurtz was succeeded by Ugluk, a character equally detestable, who subjected Merry and Pippin to cruel torment. Thankfully, Eomer and his Rohirrim intervened, bringing an end to Ugluk’s wicked life.
The Mouth of Sauron Is a Mortal Representation of His Master
The Mouth of Sauron is believed to be a descendant of the Black Númenóreans, an ancient group of men who served the Dark Lord for many years. According to Tolkien, he was portrayed as a tall and wicked figure, but in the movies, his image is much more grotesque. This character can only be seen in the Extended Edition of The Return of the King, so those who haven’t watched that version missed out on one of the most terrifying characters in the film.
The Mouth of Sauron held court atop the Tower of Barad-dûr, earning him a place among Middle-earth’s most fearsome antagonists. He was notorious for inflicting mental torment on his adversaries, deceitfully telling Aragorn that Frodo was enduring severe hardships under his care. To bolster this lie, he threw away the mithril shirt Frodo had worn, causing Aragorn and his assembled forces to tremble with fear. Given his role as an extension of Sauron, it’s safe to say that the Mouth of Sauron was never destined to become a cherished figure.
Waldreg Betrayed the People of Tirharad
As a passionate cinephile immersed in the captivating world of Middle Earth, I find Amazon’s “Rings of Power” to be a grand reimagining of the ancient mythos found within J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium, with a special focus on tales from “The Silmarillion.” While some fans may have expressed reservations about the show’s unique timeline and characters, even the most ardent fan must appreciate the importance of introducing fresh faces and events to accommodate adaptations. One such intriguing character is Waldreg, who portrays an ordinary Southlander residing in the village of Tirharad – a testament to the creative liberty taken in this extraordinary production.
In a twist that left many viewers scratching their heads, I found myself eagerly anticipating the return of Morgoth and Sauron, despite my outward demeanor suggesting otherwise. The fan base turned sour on me after my callous behavior towards Bronwyn, but things took a turn for the worse when our village moved to Ostirith. In an attempt to solidify my allegiance to Adar, I cold-bloodedly killed Rowan, and later collaborated in the construction of Mount Doom and Mordor, using the Orc Sigil Hilt as blueprint. The fact that I met my end at Sauron’s hands in Season 2 was a relief for some fans, though it’s safe to say my demise didn’t exactly break their hearts.
Gollum’s Murderous Backstory Made Him More Hatable
For over five centuries, the One Ring exerted a powerful influence, leaving its bearer powerless to resist its allure. Essentially, it controlled their desires without their consent. Although this doesn’t absolve him of his harmful and wicked actions, it adds a layer of sympathy to his character. In J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Fellowship of the Ring,” Gandalf emphasizes that even Gollum should be shown compassion, stating that “it was pity that kept Bilbo from striking [him] down.
Despite Gollum being hard to sympathize with due to his treacherous actions towards Frodo and Sam, ultimately leading them into the clutches of Shelob, it’s important to note that Frodo’s compassion played a crucial role in the destruction of the One Ring. In the end, Gollum managed to obtain the One Ring for a short while, but his possession of it led to his own demise. It’s plausible to argue that the One Ring was ultimately destroyed because of Gollum’s unyielding obsession with it.
The Dark Lord Is Just as Despicable in The Rings of Power
Due to his ability to change forms, it’s unknown what Sauron truly looks like – much like Lord Voldemort in Harry Potter, he operates primarily from the shadows. Even without the One Ring, Sauron has the power to instill terror in the hearts of Men, Elves, Dwarves, Hobbits, and every other race dwelling in Middle-earth.
In the words of Tolkien, “Sauron embodies an almost perfect representation of pure evil will.” Originally, he was quite benevolent, but that’s a stark contrast to his portrayal now. Interestingly, due to his absence in the main storyline, it becomes slightly challenging to develop intense dislike for him. However, the Amazon series The Rings of Power provides more insight into Sauron’s background, making his true identity a compelling mystery throughout the first season. Despite this, as the primary antagonist, one would expect his malevolence. Regardless, he certainly earns a spot among the franchise’s least likable characters due to his villainous nature.
Smaug Showed Neither Kindness Nor Remorse
In the trilogy adaptation of “The Hobbit,” Smaug played a pivotal role as the chief antagonist, having amassed and safeguarded the wealth of the Lonely Mountain for close to two centuries. This dragon was born during the First Age under the control of the original Dark Lord Morgoth in Tolkien’s Middle-earth, which made dragons almost always evil. Smaug mirrors his forebears in his insatiable desire for gold, regardless of the potential repercussions.
Initially driving the Dwarves from their own lands marked an unforgivable path towards being despised in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “LoTR”, but Smaug’s conduct and actions across the second and third volumes were beyond reprehensible. He torched Lake Town, causing countless casualties, and showed no regret for his actions. Smaug’s arrogance would ultimately lead to his demise, as Bilbo discovered a vulnerable spot that enabled Bard to strike a fatal black arrow through the heartless dragon.
Gothmog’s Shameless Cruelty Highlights His Vileness
In the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, the monstrous figure known as Gothmog, serving under the Witch-king, commanded an army consisting of Orcs, Troll-men, Easterlings, and Variags. Known to be a vile representative of the Lord of the Balrogs, he arrogantly declared that “the age of Men has ended” before releasing his troops on the vulnerable squadron led by Faramir. While Peter Jackson’s film depicts Gothmog as an Orc, Tolkien himself never explicitly specifies his true species.
Independent of his true background, there’s no question that he is one of the most despicable characters in the Lord of the Rings films. Gothmog hurls the remains of his foes using catapults, exacerbating the already dwindling morale of Gondor. When objects are hurled at him, he shows no sign of concern. Eventually, Aragorn and Gimli join forces to vanquish and slay Gothmog, thus putting an end to his brief reign of terror. However, those who lived through his tortures will never forget him.
Azog’s Rivalry with Thorin Caused His Death
In contrast to typical Orcs, Azog the Defiler, often referred to as the King of Orcs and a major antagonist in “The Hobbit” trilogy, stands out due to his chilling white complexion. Beyond this unusual feature, Azog frequently displayed an appalling cruelty and thirst for blood, even turning against his own allies. Killing other Orcs is one thing, but the way Azog tormented the Company and Bilbo Baggins elevates him to one of the most malevolent characters in the “Lord of the Rings” series.
Azog, the cause of the Oakenshields’ eternal enmity due to his murder of Thror, Thorin’s grandfather, dared to seek revenge against Thorin, who had severed his arm in return. This mix of unchecked arrogance and boundless cruelty left viewers with a negative impression. Consequently, Azog’s demise at the hands of Thorin became one of the most memorable moments in the trilogy. Regrettably for Azog, he aimed only to eradicate Durin’s distinguished lineage; however, his nemesis would prove to be none other than a renowned descendant of Durin.
Sauron’s Spider “Pet” Was a Relentless Killer
Without a hint of humanity, viewers effortlessly loathed the terrifying spider known as Shelob, who originated from Ungoliant, another equally monstrous arachnid. Shelob dwelled in the ominous depths of Mordor’s entrance, and Sauron welcomed her presence, for she would ruthlessly consume anyone audacious enough to breach Mordor’s defenses. The malevolent Sauron’s supposed “cat” instantly became a detested figure among spectators, particularly when they discovered that he often sent innocent captives into her clutches.
Apart from trapping and poisoning Frodo, Shelob also came close to ending Sam’s life when he attempted to shield his cherished companion. Earlier, Gollum had struck a deal with Shelob, offering fresh meat to save himself in return for sparing him. However, this loathsome creature underestimated Samwise’s valiant courage and the celestial light he held. As a result, Shelob sustained heavy injuries and was forced to retreat from the fight, although her ultimate fate remains uncertain.
Grima Murdered Saruman Differently in the Movies
In a prelude to the Fellowship’s creation, Gríma the Deceiver emerges from his hideout and pledges allegiance to Saruman. For years, he deceitfully influences King Théoden of Rohan, committing treason without consequence until Gandalf appears in Edoras. Consequently, Gríma grows uneasy at the mere presence of Gandalf during “The Two Towers”. The moniker Wormtongue foreshadowed his malicious manipulation, and Brad Dourif effectively brought this sinister character to life on screen.
Saruman persuades Gríma by hinting at potential closeness with Éowyn, whom he admires from a distance. This behavior also reflects why he secretly watches her and follows her closely. In the extended edition of “The Return of the King,” Legolas kills Gríma with a skillfully aimed arrow, but in the books, he is killed by an enraged mob of Hobbits instead. Regardless of the method, few characters from “The Lord of the Rings” are as detestable as Gríma.
He Had a Long History in Service to Sauron
The chief servant of Sauron, often referred to as the Witch-king of Angmar, is believed by many Tolkien scholars to have been a high-ranking Númenorean noble. Although this theory has yet to be definitively proven, it received some support in the series The Rings of Power, even if it does not align with the established canon. The Witch-king seems to have disappeared following Sauron’s initial defeat by the Last Alliance of Elves and Men, only to resurface seven centuries before the events leading up to the War of the Ring.
At the Battle of Pelemmor Fields, Gandalf clashes with the Witch-King, a confrontation that leaves not just the resurrected Gandalf, but even onlookers speechless. For millennia, Sauron had instilled in the Witch-king the belief that “no mortal man could oppose him.” However, Éowyn removes her helmet and plunges her sword into the Witch-King’s unnatural visage. This enigmatic figure, though shrouded in mystery, is undeniably one of the most detestable characters in the narrative.
The White Wizard’s Greed Left Him Helpless
Saruman, previously known as the White Wizard, assumed a new identity as Saruman of Many Colors during the War of the Ring, hinting at his descent from grace. Although he wasn’t always power-hungry and manipulative, Saruman’s greed eventually led him astray. It is important to note that Saruman was instrumental in the devastation of Fangorn Forest, which turned him into an adversary for the Ents.
He strives to obtain the One Ring for unknown motives; whether he intends to assist or overthrow Sauron makes no difference since the end result would be unaltered. The fandom rejoiced as Saruman was decisively defeated at the Battle of Isengard and ultimately trapped on top of Orthanc’s Tower. In both book and movie adaptations, his demise is orchestrated by Gríma, but it occurs in distinct locations.
Pharazôn’s Greed for Power Will Never End
In the upcoming series, The Rings of Power, the haughty and corrupt Pharazôn is widely seen as a major cause for the eventual sinking of Numenor, a future occurrence in the storyline. Despite this yet-to-be-seen scene, viewers are already expressing disdain towards this questionable character. Taking advantage of the Numenoreans’ disapproval of Miriel’s alliance with Galadriel, Pharazôn seizes the throne from the legitimate Queen. Furthermore, when an Eagle appears, he manipulates the nobility into supporting him, as they interpret it as a divine sign from the Valar.
After ascending to the throne of Numenor, Pharazôn has yet to reach his peak of greed. His intention to humiliate or eliminate Elendil was foiled by Miriel’s intervention. Pharazôn is a selfish, cunning, and shameless ruler, willing to go to any length to be supreme in the world. In the original storyline, it was Sauron who influenced Pharazôn to commit his most disastrous mistake, but his character development may deviate from that in the series. Some fans speculate that Pharazôn might transform into one of Sauron’s Ringwraiths.
Denethor Exemplified the Weakness of Men
Denethor mourns Boromir’s death deeply as any loving father might, at least initially. However, he later suggests that Faramir should have taken Boromir’s place in battle, which makes a terrible statement even more distressing given the hopelessness of the situation in Osgiliath. To put it another way, Denethor seems to hope for Faramir’s survival but only if he can find some merit in his actions upon returning from the battlefield. In a chilling display of callousness, Denethor imposes a condition on his son’s return. His sorrow takes some truly appalling shapes — he would prefer to burn himself (and his son) alive rather than admit his parental shortcomings.
It’s fortunate that Gandalf and Pippin managed to save Faramir just in time, causing Denethor to be consumed by his own funeral pyre. In his last moments, Denethor cried out in pain before leaping off the top of Minas Tirith to his death. What makes Denethor’s downfall particularly tragic is that it might have been prevented if he hadn’t used the crystal ball (Palantir) within Minas Tirith. Corruption often reveals the darkest aspects of people, leading one to question whether Denethor’s obvious favoritism towards his eldest son wasn’t already a hidden trait, festering long before the Palantir corrupted him. This suspicion alone is enough to place Denethor II at the top of the list as The Lord of the Rings‘ most detestable character.
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2025-04-25 01:26