Top 10 Most Dangerous Walking Dead Villains

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22) & “The Walking Dead: World Beyond” (2020-21)

Even before appearing in full, most of the fanbase despised the CRM. This comes down to their abduction of Rick Grimes, permanently separating him from his family and friends. The CRM was alluded to in the main series until “World Beyond” expanded on their actions. While serving as the military force for the Civic Republic, the group engages in crimes against humanity. This includes capturing and imprisoning people to use as test subjects, all the while posing as the good guys to their community. The CRM’s vague intentions can be frustrating since their endgame remained ambiguous for years. However, the group is arguably the overarching antagonist of the series, having impacted the largest number of people within “The Walking Dead” universe.

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)

Gregory proves that not all “Walking Dead” villains need to be terrifying forces. The original leader of the Hilltop Colony is a slimy, duplicitous man who changes allegiances whenever it suits him. After unsuccessfully trying to use Rick’s group to eliminate the Saviors, Gregory allies with the latter to save his own skin. The flip-flopping between aiding the heroes and betraying them makes Gregory easy to hate. Still, his spineless behavior paves the way for Maggie to become the leader she truly is, as she wrests control of Hilltop for good. Gregory’s toxic presence is solidified when he’s the first character to be executed for treason. The fact that nobody cares enough to help shows just how irredeemable this villain is.

“Fear the Walking Dead” (2015-23)

What’s worse than a zombie apocalypse? That would be a nuclear apocalypse. The series took a stab at this through Teddy, a cult leader with no hope in mankind. Considering the many casualties he’s responsible for, it’s hard to believe that this villain didn’t have much screen time. Teddy believes the only way to salvage humanity is through its complete destruction. Because of this, the villain cultivates a charismatic image, using his admirers to build toward his cataclysmic plans. The maniacal mindset with which he lived is best seen in his final moments, as Teddy provides nothing but a maniacal chuckle before he meets his end.

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22) & “The Walking Dead: World Beyond” (2020-21)

The Scavengers aren’t exactly fan-favorite villains. The group’s primitive mannerisms and weird attitude didn’t win over audiences. However, their leader stands out as a constant threat, taking on the likes of Rick and Negan. Even several years after her debut, Jadis’ ultimate goal is a mystery. Whether it’s operating under her “Jadis” alias or going by her real name “Anne,” this character cannot be trusted. Her cunning mind and flare for theatricality allow her to assume different roles depending on what her agenda is. Jadis also joins CRM to further their bid for dominance, stretching out her antagonism beyond borders. The character has evolved over the years, going from a deceptive community leader to fully embracing CRM’s twisted policies.

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)

Although it’s scary in places, “The Walking Dead” rarely goes full-on horror. Except for the Terminus arc, that is. Led by Gareth, these characters are arguably the most terrifying in the series. Rick’s gang arrives at Terminus looking for sanctuary, only to find the people have resorted to cannibalism. Not only do they kill without a second thought, but these baddies see it as the new way of life. Despite carrying a civilized demeanor, Gareth’s group represents the lowest levels of humanity, as they resort to barbaric ways in the name of survival. While Rick’s group doesn’t succumb to the same depths, it takes a similar kind of violence from them to put Gareth and his cronies down for good.

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)

Most “Walking Dead” characters die because of their inability to adapt. In Shane’s case, he evolved far sooner than needed. Rick’s former best friend accepts the new world too quickly, turning him into an unhinged man known for his brutality. What makes him so complex is that Shane is technically right, as Rick’s inaction did more harm than good. Shane’s feelings for Rick’s wife and seeing himself as a better father to Carl don’t help matters either. Being unable to reconcile with the environment around him tips him over the edge. In the grand scheme of things, Shane didn’t last long. But the character remains one of the best foils for Rick, as the latter continues to be haunted by Shane’s memory for years.

“Fear the Walking Dead” (2015-23)

Among villains from “Walking Dead” spin-offs, Troy has the most layered characterization. As part of Broke Jaw Ranch, he has an instant hostility toward Madison, which remains until the end of “Fear’s” run. Misunderstandings and Troy’s own trigger-happy personality result in multiple disasters, leading to his exile. His bid for vengeance nearly costs the lives of everyone on the ranch, including his own. The character shockingly returns in “Fear’s” final season with his hatred for Madison greater than ever. Despite the carnage he leaves in his wake, it’s still understandable where Troy’s anger comes from. Even with all his horrible actions, his final arc makes him sympathetic to an extent. It’s not every day that fans can simultaneously despise and feel bad for a villain.

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)

Alpha is another representation of “The Walking Dead’s” dystopian backdrop. Free from the constraints of society, the woman formerly known as Dee becomes the leader of the Whisperers. She believes humanity needs to return to its primal form, which means becoming one with the walkers. Of course, it’s Alpha’s cruelty that makes her a Big Bad. The villain has no qualms about savaging her victims as a display of superiority. She also keeps a massive walker herd as the ultimate power move. Alpha’s thirst for dominance supersedes everything and everyone, whether it’s her fellow Whisperers or her own daughter. Her deranged mind is too far gone by the time of her demise, as Alpha’s path of destruction threatened all the communities in her way.

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)

For a long time, there was no “Walking Dead” villain who could top The Governor. Philip Blake, as he was once called, uses Woodbury Community to position himself as an unrivaled leader. He feeds his ego by painting himself as a savior, revealing his true nature to those he wants to eliminate. The character is completely blinded by power, going so far as to kill military members to ensure no one challenges his authority. The Governor’s rivalry with Rick adds an ethical and moral element to “The Walking Dead,” as the former’s obsession with control clashes with Rick’s push for freedom. The character was the first constant threat in the series, showing viewers just how dastardly people can be in a post-apocalyptic world.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

These No-Gooders Wreaked Havoc in Alexandria

This Twisted Man Could Give Negan a Run for His Money

This Group Takes the “Anything Goes” Mentality to Dangerous Levels

He May Have Been a Jerk, But He Was Entertaining

“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)

With a mixture of charisma, humor, and something of a god complex, Negan has everything you need in a bona fide villain. The character’s introduction remains haunting as ever, with Negan bashing his way into “The Walking Dead” fandom. The Savior arc is defined by Negan’s presence, and his similarly memorable right-hand man Simon. From his Lucille-wielding appearance to his many one-liners, he commands the screen whenever he shows up. As the longest-lasting antagonist to date, Negan’s conflict with Rick’s group results in all-out war. On the other hand, his tragic backstory and potential for redemption humanize him to audiences. From a despicable villain to an anti-hero fighting against his worst impulses, Negan dynamic personality has made him a mainstay who commands his own fanbase.