From iconic antiheroes and misunderstood geniuses to lovable eccentrics, here are some of the greatest characters to grace screens, leaving an indelible mark on television and pop culture.

1. Walter White – Breaking Bad

Considered one of the most iconic antiheroes on television, Walter White portrayed by Bryan Cranston is a character whose journey goes from a mild-mannered high school chmesitry teacher diagnnosed with terminal cancer to a ruthless drug kingpin is as compelling as it is terrifying. As the series progresses, viewers get to see his motivations become darker and more self serving, revealing a man with a long-suppresed ego and hunger take control. This masterpiece of a show was created by Vince Gilligan as it has won several accolades including a total of 16 Primetime Emmy Awards including Outstanding Drama Series in 2013 and 2014. Bryan Cranston receieved four Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor for his role.

2. Michael Scott – The Office

One of the most beloved comedic characters on TV, known for his cringe-worthy but well intentioned antics as the regional manager of Dunder Mifflin, Steve Carrell executes a rib-cracking performance showing his character’s combination of cluelessness, charm and iconic catchphrases that made him an unforgettable presence on TV as his immature sense of humor adds a layer of depth to his character. Carell won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Televison Series – Musical or Comedy in 2006, cementing his breakout status.

3. Annalise Keating – How To Get Away With Murder

Actress Viola Davis delivers a mind-blowing performace as Annalise Keating, a criminal defense attorney and professor and managing partner of a prestigious law firm. Annalise’s brilliant legal mind, strong leadership and complex moral compass is what makes the show a satisfying watch for the viewer. Her students also play a pivotal role thoroughout the series, often getting caught up in her criminal cases that unfold. Davis won a Primetime Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2015 and several other accolades for her role.

4. Dexter Morgan – Dexter

This gripping thriller revolves around a character who lives a double life who works as a forensic blood spatter analyst and serial killer who targets other killers. Portrayed by Michael C. Hall, viewers are given an in-depth view of Dexter’s perspective of justice as he seeks to eliminate perpetrators who have walked free while evading punishment for their actions. Throughout the series, Dexter is finds himself sometimes questioning his morals while having a “strict code” – a set of rules that he was taught by his father at a young age.

5. “Fleabag” – Fleabag

This critically acclaimed dark comedy-drama series is created by and stars Phoebe Waller-Bridge as a deeply flawed woman who struggles with grief, guilt and the complexities of relationships, often in an awkward and self-destructive manner. Her character regularly breaks the fourth wall as she speaks directly to the viewer throwing a mix of absurd confessions, sarcasm and dark humor, making her both relatable and detached at the same time. The show often explores themes of loneliness, self-worth, love and realities of facing one’s past. Phoebe’s comedic performance earned her four Emmy Award wins including Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actress and Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.

6. Jesse Pinkman – Breaking Bad

Another iconic character from the show played by Aaron Paul, Jesse serves as Walter’s partner in crime. Him and Walter’s dynamic is one of the most key aspects of the show as Walter is the experienced chemist and Jesse is the street-smart hustler. Jesse is a flawed character who deals with substance abuse and even grief as the show progresses. Overtime, Jesse and Walter’s partnership becomes increasingly strained, as Walter manipulates and uses him for his own gain. As a result, Jesse becomes morally conflicted about their actions in the drug business.

7. Rick Grimes – The Walking Dead

Considered as one of the most complex characters, this protagonist played by Andrew Lincoln starts off as a moral and empathetic sheriff deputy who gets thrown into a brutal post-apocalyptic world. His great desire to protect the ones he love while making difficult choices can resonate with many viewers as he is a symbol of leadership. With the show’s main theme being survival, his character can resonate with many viewers.

8. Dwight Schrute – The Office

Played by Rainn Wilson, Dwight is another memorable character that is truly one to watch. Often seen as the “serious employee”, he often speaks in a halting, intense manner, even in calm conversations and uses one-upmanship to better himself over his peers, such as boasting as he sometimes engages in jokes and games in attempts to please his boss, Michael Scott, but often fails to do so due to his stern nature. At times he is ends up being the office prank target which is adds a layer of comedic substance to the show.