Ranking Buffy the Vampire Slayer Characters: Who’s the Most Likable?

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In the late ’90s and early 2000s, television often seemed like a repetitive portrayal of stereotypes, with characters falling neatly into categories such as bad boys, love interests, mentors, or comedic relief. However, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” defied these conventions, developing characters that were not just good or evil, but complex, flawed, and strikingly human individuals – even when they weren’t actually human in nature.

Reflecting on Buffy now carries a mixed message. Joss Whedon, who was once praised for his feminist perspective by creating strong female characters, has been revealed to have fostered an abusive and toxic work environment. Charisma Carpenter, who played Cordelia Chase, accused him of cruelty and professional sabotage. Other cast members like Michelle Trachtenberg and James Marsters have hinted at their own discomfort under Whedon’s guidance. This raises questions about Buffy’s legacy—given that it provided one of the most powerful female leads, can we still celebrate the show when its creator contradicted those feminist principles off-screen?

It seems that the enduring appeal of Buffy might be attributed to the fact that it extended beyond creator Joss Whedon’s individual perspective. The show’s resilience stems from the acting talents of its cast, the richness of its characters, and the way it resonated with multiple generations through its metaphors and themes reflecting their own lives. To this day, it continues to be cherished, despite the challenges in understanding its roots.

The reason Buffy has stood the test of time is primarily due to its captivating characters. These characters weren’t always admirable – some made regrettable choices, others evolved and transformed, while a few never fully managed to redeem themselves. However, they were consistently intriguing, and ultimately, Buffy was more than just a show about vanquishing monsters. It was a story that focused on the individuals who stood by Buffy in her battles.

15
Dawn Summers

Michelle Trachtenberg

Dawn Summers didn’t merely debut in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, she was thrust into the narrative with an almost comical level of boldness. Beginning Season 5, Dawn was introduced as Buffy’s younger sister, despite no prior mention, and it turned out that she was actually a mystical key transformed into a human girl and inserted into everyone’s memories. In terms of teenage sister stereotypes, she embodied the quintessential traits: whiny, demanding, reckless, and intentionally irritating to the maximum extent possible in a series already packed with life-threatening situations. Dawn’s presence necessitated Buffy taking on the role of an exasperated caretaker, thereby transforming the show into a family drama that viewers hadn’t anticipated.

The Human Form of a Retcon

Although Dawn’s character eventually developed some complexity – as her struggles with self-identity, feeling like an outsider, and yearning for validation gave her a purpose beyond being a troublesome plot device – these developments came too late for many viewers. Her frequent tantrums and prolonged damsel-in-distress scenes were hard to overlook, and some fans found it difficult to forgive her entirely.

In the haunting series finale of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” it was Dawn who ultimately led to Buffy’s demise in “The Gift.” This fact cast a long shadow over the ensuing seasons, serving as a poignant reminder of the grim sacrifices that heroes must endure. Though the show consistently explored the murky, tangled aspects of heroism, Dawn’s presence within this equation often felt more like a duty rather than an organic extension of the narrative. Despite tireless efforts by the writers to make her charming and endearing, Dawn remained the character that fans yearned to see returned to the cloistered confines from where she was brought forth.

14
Riley Finn

Marc Blucas

In theory, Riley Finn served as a balance to Buffy’s tumultuous relationships with vampires, being a typical human man. However, it was soon revealed that he wasn’t what he seemed, working for the Initiative, a government project dealing with demons. He appeared to be the type of boyfriend who could rival Buffy in strength and provide her with stability, something Angel and Spike never managed. His Midwestern charm, strong jawline, and absence of supernatural complications made him an intriguing alternative to the brooding, undead men in Buffy’s life. Yet, his main issue was that he was excessively ordinary and dull.

A Human Plot Device in Sensible Footwear

In a series known for challenging stereotypes, Riley seemed like an old-fashioned character from an era when women required a steady, somewhat unremarkable man to maintain them. However, Buffy wasn’t the type of character who needed stabilization; she required someone who could match her strength and comprehend the burden she carried as the world’s protector. Instead, Riley grew more and more uncertain about his role in her life, ultimately leading to a crisis of masculinity so profound that he allowed vampires to feed on him, seeking a sense of necessity.

The audience never truly accepted him as a romantic character, and it seemed that the writers themselves recognized their predicament. His departure – vanishing into the military-industrial complex only to reappear later with a more suitable partner – felt less like heartache and more like a compassionate ending.

13
Andrew Wells

Tom Lenk

Andrew Wells was the type of character who typically wouldn’t have much impact in other series. He served as a minor antagonist in Buffy’s sixth season, belonging to the Trio – a rather unremarkable gang of former nerds turned criminals. Unlike his colleagues Warren and Jonathan, Andrew was more of a pesky nuisance than a serious threat. He lacked both the cunningness of Warren and the potential for redemption in Jonathan. Instead, he was a pop culture enthusiast who frequently referenced Star Wars and seemed clueless about navigating reality outside of fantasy lands.

Despite his comical attempts at villainy, questionable moral compass, and excessive admiration for Warren bordering on hero worship, it was surprising that Andrew managed to outlive many of the more capable characters in Buffy – a fact that couldn’t be applied to most others.

The Nerd You Love to Hate (and Eventually Love)

Andrew’s appeal isn’t solely due to his initial character in the “Trio,” but rather his gradual evolution from a comic figure to a person genuinely seeking redemption for his past mistakes. He transforms into an unwilling ally, a trainee of sorts for the Watchers, and a provider of self-deprecating humor during Angel Season 5. In this season, he mysteriously turns into a character who wears a trench coat, exudes confidence, and operates in the field.

Initially, viewers had doubts about his lasting role in the Buffyverse, but as time passed, his blend of cowardice, self-centeredness, and persistent efforts at reform made him surprisingly appealing. He wasn’t exactly a hero or a villain, just an awkward, deeply insecure individual who miraculously survived the apocalypse. And in Buffy, that was quite an achievement on its own.

12
Principal Robin Wood

D.B. Woodside

Principal Robin Wood, unlike the typical administrators at Sunnydale High, wasn’t oblivious to the strange occurrences that happened in the school hallways. He was calm, imposing, and had a mysterious air around him. However, he was more than just a school official; he was the son of Nikki Wood, a Slayer who was brutally killed by Spike in 1977. Unlike many adults on the show, he was fully aware of the challenges Buffy faced. Although he appeared as an ally, his alliance with her was often clouded with hidden intentions. His past weighed heavily on him, and his thirst for revenge against Spike constantly bubbled beneath his polished facade.

The Slayer’s Son With a Score to Settle

The internal struggle that characterizes Robin is what makes him captivating yet irritating. His past provided him with some of the most deeply invested motivations for the Slayer’s battle, but his animosity towards Spike escalated to a self-destructive level. In the episode “Lies My Parents Told Me“, his attempt to kill Spike was made despite Buffy’s obvious disapproval, demonstrating his reluctance to embrace the intricacies of redemption. Although he had a strong sense of honor, it was inflexible, and his unwillingness to forgive and forget prevented him from fully bonding with the Scooby Gang.

Opinions among fans vary about Robin: Was his animosity towards Spike truly warranted, or did he fail to grasp Buffy’s capacity to decide who merited forgiveness? However, it was precisely Robin’s complexity that made him intriguing – he wasn’t an unflawed friend nor a pure adversary. Instead, he existed in a grey area, wrestling with the desire for justice while acknowledging that on Buffy, true justice often came at a price.

11
Faith Lehane

Eliza Dushku

Faith Lehane, in every aspect, served as Buffy’s dark counterpart. Upon her arrival in Sunnydale, she embodied the opposite of Buffy – reckless, thrill-seeking, free from the burden of responsibility. Her vampire slaying was filled with wild enthusiasm that made Buffy’s task appear like a mundane duty. However, beneath her bold exterior, Faith harbored deep insecurities, continually craving validation and teetering between the desire to fit in and the urge to demolish everything around her.

A significant crack appeared in her personality when she unintentionally took a human life – an incident that might have anchored her, but instead pushed her towards a downward spiral. Unable to cope with her actions, she opted for power over atonement, joining forces with the malevolent Mayor Wilkins and transforming herself into an adversary of Buffy, rather than a heroine.

The Slayer Who Took the Wrong Path

Faith is an intriguing figure in the Buffyverse due to her complexity. She started off as a villain in Buffy, then became an antihero seeking redemption in Angel, and by the end of the series, she was a Slayer struggling to make amends for past transgressions. Some viewers found her alluring, the epitome of the bad-girl fantasy who wouldn’t apologize for being dangerous. To others, she served as a cautionary tale—a character who repeatedly allowed her trauma to control her darkest instincts. However, what keeps Faith relevant is that she was never purely evil. She was shattered, fierce, but also, at times, genuinely human. And in Buffy, humanity was always more complex than heroism.

10
Anya Jenkins

Emma Caulfield

Originally intended as a one-time villain with a specialty in punishing unfaithful men, Anya Jenkins unexpectedly defied expectations by not only surviving but also making a lasting impact as one of the funniest characters in Buffy’s world.

Different from the rest of the Scooby Gang, who had spent years grappling with the complexities and burdens of battling evil, Anya approached humanity with an alien indifference that was both amusing and thought-provoking. She didn’t grasp human customs. She posed questions that were out of place. She discussed capitalism as if it were a faith. However, she was endearing because she was making an earnest, clumsy attempt to adapt to a world she barely comprehended.

The Ex-Demon Who Never Quite Got Humanity

However, it’s not only her humorous antics that define Anya; she harbors genuine depth hidden beneath her brash demeanor and mercenary outlook. Her affection for Xander was profoundly moving, and the pain she endured when he abandoned her at the altar was palpable. Her brief stint of revenge was a facade for a deep-seated fear of solitude. In Chosen, her death in battle without pomp or ceremony might have been the most poignantly tragic moment of the finale—no emotional speeches, no dramatic montages, just a harsh, meaningless loss amidst many others in a war rife with them.

In the series Buffy, Anya spent a majority of her time struggling to grasp human emotions, but sadly, she passed away before fully deciphering humanity’s complexities. This could be why she is considered one of the saddest characters—despite her relentless efforts, she didn’t receive the joyous conclusion she deserved.

9
Cordelia Chase

Charisma Carpenter

Initially in the series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Cordelia Chase was the epitome of the popular high school girl: stunning, wealthy, and arrogant. As Sunnydale High’s top socialite, she used her biting words to preserve her position, sometimes at the expense of Buffy and her companions whom she considered inferior. However, Cordelia’s path took an unforeseen twist when she got involved with the strange events haunting Sunnydale, eventually transitioning from a secondary adversary to a vital member of the Scooby Gang.

The Queen Bee Who Found Her Soul

The transformation of Cordelia is truly striking, as it moves from shallow emotions to deep understanding. At first, she was motivated by self-interest, but the experiences within the group brought forth hidden qualities like courage and loyalty, which had been concealed behind her mask. Her turbulent relationship with Xander Harris exposed her weaknesses and the potential for genuine affection, causing her to question established social norms.

In the TV series Angel, Cordelia’s relocation to Los Angeles marked a significant development in her character. She evolved into an altruistic fighter against evil, frequently serving as the ethical guide for the team. Despite encountering personal hardships and moral quandaries, Cordelia’s tale illustrates a remarkable transformation from a self-absorbed teenager to a valiant figure with unwavering empathy.

8
Xander Harris

Nicholas Brendon

Alexander, also known as Xander, is the relatable character in the Buffy group who doesn’t possess supernatural powers but is filled with unwavering loyalty and humor. In the midst of the supernatural dangers of Hellmouth, Xander often offered a human viewpoint. His sharp humor and self-deprecating jokes hid his inner struggles, which came from a challenging upbringing and feelings of inadequacy compared to his extraordinary circle of friends.

The Heart of the Scooby Gang

Regardless of his limited mystical skills, Xander’s bravery and tenacity proved crucial for the group’s survival. He encountered numerous personal hurdles, such as complicated romantic situations with characters like Cordelia and Anya, demonstrating his transformation from an awkward adolescent to a mature individual. Remarkably, his deep bond with Willow significantly impacted her as she navigated dark magic, underscoring his exceptional talent for connecting with others through empathy and persistence. Xander’s story exemplifies the power of the human spirit, suggesting that heroism isn’t just about supernatural powers but courage, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to those we care for deeply.

7
Spike

James Marsters

In the realm of Buffy, William the Bloody, more famously known as Spike, brought both menace and allure. Initially, he was portrayed as a powerful vampire adversary, marked by his violent tendencies and fondness for disorder. However, Spike’s character transcended typical villainy, evolving from a merciless slayer to an uneasy accomplice, and ultimately into a character seeking atonement. This journey provided a profound examination of identity and transformation within the series.

The Anti-Hero We Couldn’t Resist

Spike’s tumultuous connection with Buffy played a crucial role in his character evolution. At first, he was consumed by an intense infatuation with her, which sparked a personal battle within him between his natural vampire instincts and a growing longing for compassion. This conflict peaked when he aimed to reclaim his soul, a mission that highlighted his strong need for forgiveness and belonging. Spike’s odyssey symbolizes the show’s examination of moral complexity, compelling viewers to reassess the lines separating right from wrong, and demonstrating that even seemingly irredeemable characters can undergo remarkable transformations.

6
Rupert Giles

Anthony Stewart Head

Upon his debut in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” Rupert Giles initially embodied an older, stricter tradition – a Watcher, educated by the Council, whose role was to guide and monitor the Slayer. His tweed coats, sharp wit, and scholarly air gave him the ideal mentor persona, a living encyclopedia of the supernatural world. Unlike his previous counterparts, Giles didn’t merely view Buffy as a battle-ready weapon to mold – he saw her as an individual. This was both his greatest asset and his major weakness: he showed compassion. He disregarded Watcher rules when needed, challenged the Council when appropriate, and evolved beyond being just a trainer – he became a surrogate parent figure.

The Watcher Who Became a Father

Giles frequently found himself in complex ethical quandaries due to his strong sense of obligation, such as administering a debilitating potion to Buffy in “Helpless” and coldly killing Ben in “The Gift,” all for the sake of preventing Glory’s return. He wasn’t without flaws; his choice to leave Buffy during Season 6 is still a subject of intense debate among fans. However, his imperfections only served to make him more relatable as a person. His affection for Buffy and the Scooby Gang was subtly expressed in tender instances: the gentle tone he used when comforting them, the visible sadness in his eyes when he understood he couldn’t shield them from all harm. Despite his vast wisdom, Giles was just as unsure as the youngsters he guided. Yet, it was this vulnerability that made him special—he wasn’t merely a Watcher; he belonged to them.

5
Angel

David Boreanaz

Angel started off as Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s initial tragic romance, portrayed as a brooding, leather-clad vampire afflicted with a soul, destined for an endless period of penance. Initially, he was more of a mysterious, strikingly handsome, and expert lurker in dimly lit areas during Season 1. However, as Buffy evolved, Angel’s past was gradually revealed, painting a much more intricate picture: a former ruthless killer under a gypsy curse to bear the burden of every life he had taken. Essentially, Angel embodied a contradiction – a predator and protector, a vampire tormented by his bloodlust but determined to shield the innocent.

The Vampire With a Soul and a Lifetime of Guilt

Angel’s allure, however, wasn’t solely due to his angst; it stemmed from the depth of his flaws. His relationship with Buffy was grand, dramatic, and eventually untenable. A single instant of genuine joy (the most dangerous loophole in any curse) triggered his transformation into Angelus, a darker version of himself – cruel, eloquent, and completely remorseless. Even after regaining his soul, the harm remained, and by Season 3, it was evident that Buffy and Angel’s love was destined to fail due to factors beyond their power to control.

Leaving for “Angel” enabled his character to progress beyond being merely Buffy’s first love, offering a richer examination of themes like redemption, responsibility, and perseverance in the face of uncertainty. While fans continue to discuss whether Buffy was better suited with Angel or Spike, it’s indisputable that Angel was more than just a brooding boyfriend; he was one of the most intricate, heart-wrenchingly human characters within the “Buffyverse”.

4
Willow Rosenberg

Alyson Hannigan

Initially, Willow Rosenberg on Buffy the Vampire Slayer embodied the stereotypical nerd: shy, eager to please, and distinguished by her intelligence and unwavering devotion to Buffy. She could have easily been relegated to a secondary role in a less dynamic series. However, Buffy was not known for stagnant characters, and Willow’s evolution across seven seasons is among the most remarkable in television history. From being a timid computer whiz to a potent sorceress, from an unsure confidante to a force capable of undoing reality itself, Willow underwent a profound metamorphosis.

The Girl Who Became a God

The trajectory of her character was one of the show’s most daring, dealing with themes such as addiction, mourning, and the perils of unrestrained authority. The transformation of Willow into Dark Willow following Tara’s death in “Seeing Red” was chilling not because it was out of line with her character, but because it was the tragic culmination of years-long suppressed emotions. Her sorrow, her anger, her desire to prove herself – all came to a head in a catastrophic breakdown that almost brought about the end of the world. However, what made Willow’s narrative so compelling wasn’t merely her fall; it was her capacity for redemption. She served as evidence that even the most virtuous among us harbor darkness within, but salvation is attainable. By the series finale, she wasn’t simply Buffy’s assistant; she had become her equal, a deity in her own right.

3
Oz

Seth Green

Among all characters in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, Oz might be the most charmingly endearing, especially considering he was a werewolf struggling with bloodlust issues. Brilliantly portrayed by Seth Green, Oz served as a refreshing contrast to typical emotionally-tortured male leads. He was calm, perceptive, and incredibly witty, often delivering some of “Buffy’s” best jokes without so much as a smile.

In stark contrast to Xander, Willow’s primary love interest was straightforward, confident, and held Willow in high regard. Upon learning that Willow was a witch, he showed little surprise. Even when he found out he was a werewolf, he remained composed, locking himself away in a cage to manage the situation.

The Coolest Werewolf to Ever Walk Sunnydale

However, what truly set Oz apart was his self-possession. In a realm where figures often acted impulsively due to their emotions, Oz stood out as one who paused to consider before acting. His bond with Willow was among the show’s most balanced relationships, which made their separation in Season 4 all the more poignant. After battling his inner wolf, Oz decided to depart Sunnydale to safeguard Willow—a decision that demonstrated maturity and sealed their parting in a heartrendingly definitive manner.

2
Buffy Summers

Sarah Michelle Gellar

Buffy Summers, initially, wasn’t meant to be a hero. Instead, she was supposed to be the typical screaming, doomed blonde in a horror flick. However, Buffy the Vampire Slayer defied this stereotype, offering us a complex character who combined the traits of a warrior, a teen, and a tragic soul. Once Buffy discovered she was the Slayer, she was saddled with an unimaginable destiny – repeatedly saving the world, all while yearning for a normal existence. Despite enduring countless hardships, she never shied away from her responsibility.

The Girl Who Carried the Weight of the World

Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s greatness as a TV protagonist didn’t merely stem from her strength; it was her vulnerability that truly set her apart. She wasn’t flawless; she erred, caused harm to others, and at times succumbed under the burden of her destiny. She faced death twice, was deceived by her own Watcher, and was compelled to slay the man she loved to save the world. In Season 6, following her unwilling resurrection, she descended into depression, seeking solace in self-destructive behaviors. Despite the immense pain she experienced, she persevered in her battles. Buffy wasn’t just the Chosen One; she was the girl who refused to surrender, even when the world demanded more than she could bear.

1
Tara Maclay

Amber Benson

Tara Maclay wasn’t a flamboyant character when she first appeared in Buffy. She didn’t make a grand entrance with witty remarks or intense dramatic scenes. Instead, her charm lay in her quiet, steady growth, which eventually made her one of the most cherished characters. This wasn’t due to spectacular actions but rather through her unwavering kindness. Initially, as Willow’s girlfriend, Tara seemed enigmatic – a timid, softly spoken Wiccan with a troubled history. However, as the series unfolded, she proved to be one of the show’s emotional pillars, providing the Scooby Gang with comfort and wisdom.

The Heart of the Scooby Gang

Tara stood out uniquely among the characters of her show, as she consistently exhibited goodness even when others faltered with moral lapses or selfishness. Despite enduring cruelty from her family’s domineering behavior and Willow’s manipulative magic, she demonstrated remarkable patience and quiet strength. Tara was a pioneer on TV as one of the first openly queer characters not defined by trauma but by love, making her an influential figure for many members of the LGBTQ+ community. The heart-wrenching moment when Tara was killed in “Seeing Red” is still remembered vividly in “Buffy,” not only for its surprise factor, but because it marked the loss of a truly rare character: one whose primary weakness was loving too deeply.

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2025-02-23 05:35