19 Most powerful wizards across shows and movies

Wizards command unrivaled power; with just a flick of the wand, they can cast spells and change destinies. The enchanters have entranced audiences, from the pages of ancient tales to the screens of blockbuster films and shows. From the venerable mentors who guide young heroes to dark sorcerers whose very names inspire fear, these wizards have been etched in folklore. Here is a list of 19 powerful wizards across movies and TV shows.

* This article is entirely based on the writer's opinion. Reader's discretion is advised.*

19) Mickey Mouse(Fantasia,1940)

In this movie, our beloved Mickey Mouse portrays the character of Sorcerer's Apprentice after he dons the hat of a powerful sorcerer, Yen Sid. He enchants the broomstick, which later creates chaos when it goes out of control. This was one of Mickey Mouse's memorable performances, showcasing Disney's animation artistry.

18) High Aldwin (Willow, 1988)

High Aldwin is the mentor of the young protagonist, Willow Ufgood, in the movie Willow. He guides Willow in protecting a special baby that is supposed to bring the downfall of the evil queen. Despite his humorous appearance, High Aldwin possesses deep magical knowledge and uses it to guide Willow in his journey.

17) The Ice King (Adventure Time, 2010- 2018)

The Ice King did not possess great power from the outset. He used to be a simple man named Simon Petrkov who was transformed by the power of a magical crown. It gave him power to control ice and snow but also drove him insane. Because of his complex backstory, the character provides moments of vulnerability even after possessing significant power, making him one of a kind of a wizard.

16) Jafar(Aladdin, 2019)

Jafar is a cunning and ambitious wizard. His main goal is to take over the throne and gain control over Genie so that he can use his wishes to become the most powerful wizard in the world. Jafar's intelligence and relentless pursuit of power make him a dangerous antagonist.

15) Saruman( The Lord Of The Rings: The Two Towers, 2002)

Saruman was initially the white wizard and the leader of the white council. Due to his lust for power, he sides with Sauron. Because he is on the wrong side of the war, he loses his position as one of the best wizards on Middle Earth. However, he remains one of the most powerful wizards apart from Sauron and Gandalf.

14) Voldemort (Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix, 2007)

Voldemort, also known as Tom Marvolo Riddle, becomes one of the most powerful wizards by concocting plans to become immortal. He uses dark arts to create Horcruxes to achieve his ultimate goal. This makes him one of the most formidable and powerful wizards.

13) Sauron (The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy, 2001-2003)

Even though we do not see this powerful wizard in human form, his eye is terrifying enough. Sauron's hunt for the ring leads to chaos in the Middle Earth, destroying lives and homes.

12) Emperor Palpatine (Star Wars)

Emperor Palpatine was the dark Lord of the Sith. He was responsible for the downfall of the Jedi Order and the rise of the Galactic Empire. He possessed the power of the dark side of the Force. He is regarded as one of the most iconic villains in history with a lust to conquer the galaxy.

11) Howl (Howl’s Moving Castle, 2004)

Howl is the main character of the Studio Ghibli movie Howl's Moving Castle, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Based on the novel of the same name, written by Diana Wynne Jones, it is a story about a wizard living in a moving, magical castle. In the story, Howl is shown as a powerful and mysterious wizard whose life changes when he meets Sophie. The film shows Howl, who appears to be aloof and self-absorbed at first, showing his compassionate and vulnerable side.

10) Shang Tsung (Mortal Kombat, 2021)

Shang Tsung is the main antagonist in the Mortal Kombat movie. He is a powerful sorcerer who has the ability to steal the souls of others. His mastery of dark magic and shape-shifting abilities make him one of the most powerful wizards in the fictional world.

9) Luke Skywalker (Star Wars: The Last Jedi, 2017)

Luke Skywalker is one of the main characters in the Star Wars movies. He is known for his sense of justice and inner struggle with the light and dark sides of the Force. It takes courage to stand up against evil, and Luke does stand up against the dark side of the Force to bring his father back, which makes him a brave and powerful wizard.

8) Albus Dumbledore (Harry Potter: The Order Of The Phoenix, 2007)

As Hogwarts headmaster, Dumbledore is regarded as one of the most potent and revered wizards of all time. The owner of the Elder wand, one of the Deathly Hallows, possessed immense power and knowledge of spells and ancient magic. He protected Harry even though it cost him his life, making him not just a powerful but a selfless wizard.

7) Merlin (Merlin, 2008- 2012)

Merlin, the legendary wizard from Arthurian legends, is often depicted as a wise and powerful sorcerer. He's best known for his role as King Arthur’s advisor and mentor. Merlin's magical abilities include shape-shifting, prophecy, and time manipulation. His deep connection with nature allows him to wield elemental magic. All these abilities make him an indispensable figure and a powerful wizard who helps guard the kingdom of Camelot against evil.

6) Severus Snape (Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince, 2009)

Severus Snape, from the Harry Potter series, is a complex and enigmatic character known for his mastery of Potions and the Dark Arts. Snape's skill in Occlumency, ability to conceal his thoughts from others, and unparalleled potion-making abilities make him a robust and influential figure in the wizarding world.

5) Geralt Of Rivia (The Witcher, 2019-)

Geralt of Rivia, from The Witcher series, is a skilled monster hunter. His combat skills and extensive knowledge of monsters and alchemy make him a formidable warrior against a world filled with evil forces.

4) Yoda (Star Wars: Attack Of The Clones, 2002)

Yoda, the wise and powerful Jedi Master from Star Wars, is renowned for his strength in the Force and exceptional lightsaber skills. Despite his small stature, Yoda's mastery of the Force allows him to perform incredible feats, including telekinesis, mind control, and enhanced agility, making him one of the most powerful wizards.

3) Harry Potter (Harry Potter Franchise)

Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived, is the central character of the Harry Potter movies. Harry discovers his true heritage as a young wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He is known for his bravery, loyalty, and connection to the Dark Lord Voldemort. Harry's mastery of spells, ability to speak Parseltongue, and role as the true master of the Elder Wand make him a powerful wizard.

2) Gandalf (The Lord Of The Rings Franchise)

Gandalf is a wizard from the Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit movies. He wields incredible power, but his wisdom, courage, and leadership truly set him apart. He's known for his deep knowledge of ancient lore and his mastery of fire and light magic, which he often uses to fend off dark forces, making him one of the most powerful wizards of his time.

1) Doctor Strange (Doctor Strange, 2016)

Doctor Stephen Strange, from the Marvel Universe, is a master of the mystic arts. His abilities include teleportation and creating energy shields. As the Sorcerer Supreme, he protects Earth from magical and interdimensional threats.