19 Loved characters from TV shows who started as evil

Modified Jan 25, 2025 14:16 ET

Regina Mills/The Evil Queen (Once Upon a Time) | Image Source: ABC — Regina Mills/The Evil Queen (Once Upon a Time) | Image Source: HBO

9. Elijah Mikaelson (The Vampire Diaries/The Originals)

Elijah Mikaelson (The Vampire Diaries/The Originals) | Image Source: The CW

Elijah Mikaelson, one of the Original vampires, initially emerged as a quiet, calculating man who was willing to do anything to save his family. Even though he would often commit the most horrific crimes, he is more complex than the traditional evil person because he was in love with his family and wanted peace. Through the character's interaction with his siblings and, eventually, his need for redemption, Elijah becomes a sympathetic figure.