5 Forgotten Realms Villains Who Could Totally Steal the Show Instead of Szass Tam on Netflix’s D&D

The upcoming Netflix series based on Dungeons & Dragons promises to be fantastic, but it could be even more impressive if they nail the villain. Although the Dungeons & Dragons films struggled with overall dramatic tension, Jeremy Irons’ portrayal as the villain was quite effective. Unfortunately, the villain was underutilized, but the film Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves made up for it by introducing Sofina and the Red Wizards of Thay. The main antagonist in the movie was Szass Tam, which turned out to be impressive. Consequently, the new D&D show might want to steer clear from replicating this villain concept.

Drew Crevello has been appointed as the showrunner for “The Forgotten Realms“, the upcoming television series based on Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), which will delve into the iconic campaign setting that has long been associated with D&D. Joining forces with Shawn Levy, who produced the Stranger Things series inspired by D&D, this show promises to bring a plethora of D&D magic to life on screen. As a sequel for Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves seems unlikely, this may be the best chance for gamers and readers to witness classic D&D villains on television, some of whom might make their debut on screens within a few years.

5. Acererak

Lich

In the first season of The Forgotten Realms, one of Vecna’s top followers might step into the role of the antagonist. Acererak presents an intriguing choice for the D&D series, offering a fresh take instead of repeatedly using Szass Tam as the main villain. Acererak is tied to Vecna, another well-known D&D nemesis. This connection could draw in large numbers of Stranger Things fans, given Vecna’s significant role in that series. Moreover, Acererak possesses less power compared to Vecna, creating the potential for the show to gradually introduce Vecna as a climactic figure.

Given that The Forgotten Realms will be overseen by the same producer as Stranger Things, it’s doubtful that it would feature Vecna as its primary antagonist. Yet, if it did, Acererak could serve as an intriguing forerunner and capitalize on the tension and deceit between the two characters. Known for his chilling lich persona, Acererak’s character might evoke memories of Skeletor, tapping into timeless high fantasy aesthetic with his undead visage.

4. Halaster Blackcloak

Wizard

Halaster, a mad wizard dwelling within the Undermountain, might not be as famous as villains such as Vecna and Tiamat. However, his lesser-known status could make him the ideal antagonist for The Forgotten Realms. Given his insanity and immense magical power, Halaster is a formidable adversary who could easily challenge the adventuring group from Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. It’s high time this iconic D&D character received the spotlight in the Netflix series.

This character has been present in games since 2e and attracts both long-time gamers and newcomers due to its popularity. As a villainous Wizard, it possesses a Saruman-like allure that would captivate “Lord of the Rings” enthusiasts and those eager for an antagonistic Wizard to vent their frustration at. Given the abundance of D&D-related TV shows currently airing such as “The Legend of Vox Machina” and “Stranger Things”, it could offer a fresh experience for new fans who might not be familiar with this character, as they delve into the world of Dungeons & Dragons.

3. Demogorgon

Prince Of Demons

As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently say that the Demogorgon stands out as an unrivaled antagonist straight from the pages of Dungeons & Dragons. With his daunting physique and fearsome multi-headed jaws, this sinister being was brought to life by Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things, although it didn’t quite reach the same level of prominence as Vecna. Yet, with only a glimpse into its ominous presence, viewers are left yearning for more. Often referred to as the Prince of Demons, the Demogorgon would undoubtedly serve as an epic final showdown for any brave adventuring party.

As a captivated aficionado of both Dungeons & Dragons and the Drizzt Do’Urden chronicles, I can hardly contain my excitement for the forthcoming series, The Forgotten Realms. One of the most intriguing adversaries that Drizzt has encountered is none other than Demogorgon, a formidable monster that would undoubtedly entice readers of the Drizzt books to tune in.

Demogorgon’s encounters with various characters throughout the Drizzt saga provide a rich tapestry of source material for The Forgotten Realms, ensuring an engaging narrative. What makes this demon lord particularly intriguing is his connection to the Abyss, a hellish realm that serves as a chilling backdrop for the show.

The exploration of the Abyss promises to introduce a horror dimension to The Forgotten Realms, making it a must-watch for fans of both fantasy and horror genres alike.

2. Xanathar

Beholder

In a fresh and conversational rephrasing: The Xanathar is a beholder and heads up an underworld crime syndicate within the realm of Dungeons & Dragons. This colossal, eyed creature would be an unprecedented addition to television screens, bringing a unique twist to monster folklore. While Sauron was merely a disembodied eye, the Xanathar is as corporeal as monsters can get, boasting a wide-open maw lined with sharp teeth and wriggling tentacles that could prove both fascinating and off-putting.

In the Waterdeep: Dragon Heist campaign, you’ll encounter Xanathar, a crime lord of Waterdeep city, much like Jabba the Hutt. This intriguing creature blends elements from both “Star Wars” and classic Lovecraftian horror, hinting at Cthulhu in its design. With an insatiable greed and vibrant personality, Xanathar is sure to breathe life into any live-action adventure scenario.

Xanathar, another crime boss of Waterdeep city in the Dragon Heist campaign, shares similarities with Jabba the Hutt. A blend of “Star Wars” and Lovecraftian horror, Xanathar’s appearance suggests Cthulhu, yet it possesses enough avarice and character to invigorate any live-action storyline.

Both versions maintain the original message while aiming for clarity and accessibility.

1. Lolth

The Spider Queen

In the latest update for Dungeons & Dragons, Lolth, the deity of chaos, has claimed the title of most captivating antagonist. Despite being both ally and adversary to Drizzt Do’Urden, her complex role is intriguing. As the ruler of Menzoberranzan, she exercises control through her devout followers, demanding unwavering loyalty from all drow and enslaving their males. By any account, Lolth is a truly despicable villain.

Lolth, a character from R.A. Salvatore’s “The Legend of Drizzt” book series, has been a prominent figure since the first Dark Elf book was published in 1990. She is undeniably one of the most ruthless, enigmatic, and long-lasting antagonists in the best Dungeons & Dragons book series. Given her significant role alone, she seems perfectly suited to serve as the main villain in “The Forgotten Realms”. Furthermore, Lolth has yet to make an appearance on television, which could make her the next big thing for Dungeons & Dragons.

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2025-04-25 03:38