DC Comics: The Most Despised Characters of All Time

Summary

Booster Gold – A thief seeking fame, hated for his narcissism and lack of genuine heroism.
Eobard Thawne – The Reverse-Flash who torments The Flash, committing heinous acts over centuries.
Black Manta – Aquaman’s archenemy, kidnapper of his child, causing personal vendetta and immense hatred.

DC Comics boasts a rich tapestry of diverse characters, ranging from admirable superheroes to despised villains. Spanning a multicolored cosmos brimming with fascinating lore, some figures have elicited intense dislike, whether they wear capes or masks.

Exploring realms where the unthinkable becomes reality, redemption remains a challenging journey to navigate. Certain personalities within DC’s expansive universe have committed heinous acts or displayed deeply detestable traits that earn them universal loathing both within and beyond their own realm. Rarely do these characters find themselves in redeeming circumstances, and the reaction they receive is often as intense as the negativity they emit. Here are some of the most despised figures in DC Comics.

In a universe where the unimaginable happens, finding redemption can be a tough task. Some characters from DC’s vast world have committed unspeakable atrocities or displayed such despicable traits that they are universally disliked by all. It is rare to find these characters in situations where they can make amends, and the hostility towards them is often as fierce as their own malice. Here are some of the most detested personalities from DC Comics.

8. Booster Gold

An Unbearable Egomaniac

First Appearance: Booster Gold #1

In the world of DC Comics, Booster Gold is well-known, both among heroes and villains, for his less-than-stellar reputation. Born as Michael Carter in the future, he was once a celebrated athlete who experienced a downfall due to a scandal. Employing ill-gotten technology, Carter assumed the identity of Booster Gold, ventured back in time, and embarked on a quest for fame and honor.

Unfortunately, Booster Gold’s arrogant demeanor tends to irritate people, including Superman. He appears to be little more than a small-time crook who joined the superhero world for its public appeal rather than out of genuine concern. This is likely why many dislike Booster Gold.

7. Eobard Thawne

A Devious Psychopath

First Appearance: The Flash #139

Eobard Thane, also known as the Reverse-Flash, stands as the most formidable adversary to The Flash. Over countless centuries, Thawne nurtured a bitter enmity towards the Scarlet Speedster. This animosity led him to perpetrate heinous acts against the Flash, ranging from orchestrating his downfall to taking the lives of those dear to him. With powers similar to the Flash and an ingenious mind for devising malicious schemes, Thawne consistently seeks ways to torment the Flash. To Barry Allen, Thawne is not just a comic book villain or recurring foe; rather, he represents every hardship that Barry has endured at his hands.

6. Black Manta

A Heartless Murderer

First Appearance: Aquaman #35

In comic book lore, Black Manta stands as a long-standing adversary to Aquaman, the ruler of the Seven Seas. Their animosity stems from a deep-rooted vendetta and sheer malice, leading Black Manta to create numerous troubles across the DC universe. However, for Aquaman, this enmity holds a deeply personal significance as Black Manta once kidnapped his firstborn child, placing them both in an untenable situation that ultimately resulted in Aquaman losing his child. Since then, Black Manta has earned a reputation as one of the most despised villains within DC Comics, not only for Aquaman but also for numerous members of the Justice League.

5. Maxwell Lord

A Master Manipulator

Justice League International #1

Maxwell Lord is one of DC Comics’ most notorious villains, causing damage to the Justice League so severe they struggled to bounce back. At first, Maxwell Lord was instrumental in forming Justice League Incorporated and proved beneficial to numerous heroes. But unbeknownst to many, Lord possessed a hidden ability to manipulate and control those he collaborated with. This deceitful act caused deep wounds within the Justice League, leading to a critical event that shattered friendships lasting for decades.

4. Lex Luthor

A Maniacal Genius Millionaire

First Appearance: Action Comics #23

In simpler terms, Lex Luthor is a longstanding nemesis of Superman, often causing him trouble for many years. He’s an independently wealthy entrepreneur who founded a tech company that’s responsible for numerous innovations, and he’s also exceptionally intelligent as a scientist. Unfortunately, Luthor uses his intelligence to find ways to harm Superman due to his wounded pride. With countless underhanded schemes, corrupt business practices, blackmail, and open enmity towards the Justice League, Lex Luthor is one of the most despised villains in DC Comics.

3. The Joker

A Deranged Killer Clown

First Appearance: Batman #1

The infamous Joker, a malevolent figure requiring no introduction, has been causing chaos on the streets of Gotham City since Batman first donned his mask. He considers himself an accurate reflection of society’s sinister side. Known as the “clown prince of crime,” he’s terrorized Gotham’s residents and left just as many victims in his wake.

The horrific acts attributed to the Joker include terrorism, abduction, the cold-blooded killing of Jason Todd, and the gunning down of Barbara Gordon. These deeds place him high on the list of the most reprehensible characters within the DC Comics universe.

2. Deathstroke

A Deviant Mercenary With No Remorse

First Appearance: Teen Titans #2

Deathstroke is a mercenary with superhuman abilities, offering his extraordinary physical and mental prowess to the highest payer, leaving a trail of death across the globe. Known for his ruthless and emotionless nature, Deathstroke will stop at nothing to accomplish his tasks, eliminating anyone who dares to obstruct him.

At one point, Deathstroke targeted the Teen Titans with his anger, masterfully controlling the entire team by exploiting a young girl named Tera for his nefarious purposes, ultimately driving a wedge between them. This action elevated Deathstroke above all others when it came to unforgivable acts.

1. Dr. Light

A Detestable Villain Of The Lowest Kind

First Appearance: Justice League Of America #12

Known by the name Dr. Light or Arthur Light, this notorious antagonist has clashed with numerous Justice League members. With a past marked by brutality, Arthur Light appeared to relish his violent deeds and boast about them frequently. Typically a secondary offender with minimal impact, that altered when Dr. Light infiltrated the Justice League’s watchtower and attacked Sue Denby, the Elongated Man’s spouse. This heinous act left an indelible stain on his character, and he received appropriate retribution for it later on.

2025-05-10 12:59