Most TV series rely on a single main antagonist supported by a handful of loyal troublemakers, but Game of Thronesplayed by an entirely different set of rules. From the moment it premiered, the series became known not only for its sprawling world and complex political intrigue but also for its unforgettable parade of villains. Instead of one central “big bad,” the show delivered dozens of morally twisted, power-hungry, and sometimes shockingly cruel characters who pushed the story forward and kept viewers constantly on edge.
Every season introduced new threats, unexpected betrayals, and fresh sources of chaos—each villain bringing their own motivations, grudges, and brutal methods. Some were tyrants ruling through fear, others were subtle manipulators, while a few were simply unhinged in the most fascinating ways.
So which of these dark, dangerous figures were the most compelling? Although the choice wasn’t easy, we’ve ranked the 15 very best rogue characters in the series.
15. Gregor Clegane (The Mountain)
Does the Mountain belong on this list? The fact that he was recast three times (and we were just supposed to not notice) demonstrates he was mostly a prop used to further the agenda of other characters. Still, he was this unstoppable force that was meant to be seen as impossible to overcome, a true hallmark of any bad guy, and for this reason the show wouldn’t have been the same without his terrifying might.
15 Best Game of Thrones Villains Ranked 