Top 10 Most Despicable Stephen King Characters Ranked

Stephen King's novels are renowned for their terrifying villains, and some of his most despicable characters make a significant impact on screen. While King’s supernatural villains—like Pennywise the Clown, The Crimson King, or Cujo the Dog—often capture the audience's imagination, it’s his more human and relatable villains that can be truly unforgettable. These characters often embody the darkest aspects of human nature, creating fear through their disturbing yet recognizable traits.

What sets these villains apart is their capacity for real-life horror, which can be even more unsettling than supernatural elements. By delving into the darkest corners of human behaviour, King crafts villains whose evil is both relatable and horrifying. This approach ensures that their malevolence resonates on a deeply personal level, making them all the more memorable.

In this list, we rank ten of Stephen King’s most detestable characters—those that provoke a strong reaction from readers and viewers alike. These villains are not only vile but also disturbingly plausible, highlighting how King’s exploration of human nature can be just as terrifying as any supernatural monster.

Randall Flagg–The Stand, Eyes of the Dragon, Hearts in Atlantis, and The Dark Tower Series

Margaret White–Carrie

Warden Samuel Norton –The Shawshank Redemption

Rhea of the Cöos–Wizard and Glass

Percy Wetmore –The Green Mile

Mrs. Carmody–The Mist

William Wharton–The Green Mile

The Moonlight Man –Gerald's Game

Collie Entragian –Desperation

Jack Torrance–The Shining

–Farheen Ali