10 Best ‘Black Mirror’ Characters, Ranked

Black Mirror sticks with audiences thanks to the cautionary tales it tells, often exploring the dark side of technological advancement and human nature. However, the characters that inhabit its stories are also a part of what truly makes it an unforgettable series, mostly because they play a crucial part in reflecting the moral dilemmas that arise from living in a tech-driven world and society.

While Black Mirror frequently presents unsettling futures that provide food for thought, it’s the emotional journeys and growth of these key figures that resonate with viewers and stick in their minds long after the credits roll. We look back at some of the best Black Mirror characters whose memorable arcs and personalities have made them stand out in the beloved anthology.

10

Cooper Redfield

Played by Wyatt Russell in “Playtest” (2016)

Portrayed by Wyatt Russell in “Playtest,” Cooper is an adventurous American traveler who finds himself in London after his father’s death from Alzheimer’s. After participating in a cutting-edge augmented reality game test for SaitoGemu with mind-bending results, he undergoes a major psychological horror journey that blurs the lines between reality and simulation.

Despite being initially portrayed as a carefree character, Cooper eventually turns out to be much more than what meets the eye—his fears, unresolved grief, and complicated family dynamics are part of what makes him an appealing and three-dimensional figure to many viewers. Furthermore, Russell’s performance, which has helped elevate the character to fan-favorite status, has earned the star widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. While perhaps initially unlikable, Cooper revealed himself as a layered, undeniably memorable figure in the Black Mirror universe.

9

Blue Coulson

Played by Faye Marsay in “Hated in the Nation” (2016)

Although Kelly Macdonald‘s Karin Parke—Blue’s work partner and mentor—is also a highlight especially thanks to the chemistry between the two, Faye Marsay‘s Blue is a standout figure in “Hated in the Nation.” Blue is a highly intelligent Black Mirror character who helps investigate a series of mysterious deaths linked to social media hate campaigns in the episode.

Blue is beloved by fans for her intelligence, resourcefulness, and layered personality, with her logical approach to problem-solving contrasting her emotional investment in justice. To many, she is regarded as a “breath of fresh air” thanks to her unique blend of competence and vulnerability. It’s not difficult to grasp why fans are fascinated by Marsay’s performance and her character’s relatability, as she stands out not just within the underrated episode but across Black Mirror as a whole.

8

Gaap

Played by Paapa Essiedu in “Demon 79” (2023)

One of the Black Mirror‘s newest introductions, Gaap, from the latest season’s “Demon 79,” is a charismatic and witty demon who appears to protagonist Nida (Anjana Vasan) as part of his initiation to become a full-ranking demon. In the episode, he informs Nida of a potential apocalypse and tasks her with killing three people in three days to prevent it.

Those charmed by comic relief characters are guaranteed to love Paapa Essiedu‘s deuteragonist, as he is a multifaceted character who is not only humorous but also knowledgeable and surprisingly empathetic. His sharp wit and comedic timing make him highly entertaining, and his bond with Nida—marked by their chemistry—creates a compelling dynamic within the episode. At his core, Gaap exemplifies the show’s ability to create unforgettable, morally ambiguous characters that challenge viewers’ perceptions.

7

Amy and Frank

Played by Joe Cole and Georgina Campbell in “Hang the DJ” (2017)

Played by Joe Cole and Georgina Campbell in “Hang the DJ,” an episode that follows participants in a dating system that matches people for predetermined periods, Frank and Amy are considered two of the best characters in the series for several reasons, including their fascinating bond and palpable chemistry.

This captivating, feel-good, but also moving episode explores modern dating and the reliance on algorithms, illustrating a unique narrative that questions free will, predetermined matches, and the true nature of compatibility. For hopeless romantics, the rewatchable “Hang the DJ” is undoubtedly worthwhile, with its beautifully developed central relationship elevating the story to higher levels. Whether due to their relatability or individual charm, the sweet Black Mirror couple resonates with global audiences, embodying hope, vulnerability, and quiet rebellion in the name of true love.

6

Nish Leigh

Played by Letitia Wright in “Black Museum” (2017)

Played by Letitia Wright before her Black Panther days, Nish is, too, one of the most memorable Black Mirror figures. Her role in “Black Museum”—an episode that intertwines three dark tales of technological exploitation, all tied together by character Rolo Haynes (Douglas Hodge) and his sinister museum of “criminological artifacts”—is a vital one.

Black Mirror exemplifies its ability to create complex and memorable characters yet again with Nish, as she subverts expectations in this twisted episode. A complex character elevated by Wright’s amazing performance which earned the star a Primetime Emmy Award nomination, it is far from difficult to sympathize with Nish and understand her motivation for revenge. In fact, plenty of viewers name her as one of the series’ most badass characters, and her retaliation is among the most satisfying.

5

Lacie Pound

Played by Bryce Dallas Howard in “Nosedive” (2016)

Initially characterized by her sweet and outwardly pleasant personality, Lacie Pound, played by Bryce Dallas Howard in a staggering performance, is the main character in Black Mirror‘s “Nosedive.” The episode is set in a world where people rate each other through their phones from one to five stars for every interaction, impacting their socioeconomic status.

It’s not difficult to empathize with Lacie, as she mirrors the pressures and insecurities many of us face in our digital age. While her situation is a lot more extreme (she is trapped in an oppressive social system), her struggles ring true to a society driven by appearances and external validation, which is why she slowly became a fan-favorite. Her ultimate breakdown and liberation by the end of the episode has resulted in one of Black Mirror‘s most compelling arcs—even if Lacie does not achieve a “happy ending,” her transformation highlights personal growth and breaking free from societal expectations.

4

Matthew Trent

Played by Jon Hamm in “White Christmas” (2014)

Jon Hamm delivers one of Black Mirror‘s best performances by stepping into the shoes of Matt Trent, a charismatic and quick-witted man who embodies the moral ambiguity the show is about. “White Christmas” illustrates three intertwined tales of technology running amok during the Christmas season told by two men at a remote outpost in a frozen wilderness.

Matt plays a central role in this episode, with many fans finding him captivating and engaging to watch, even as his actions cross ethical boundaries. With an effortless way with words and an unsettling pragmatic disposition, he operates with a sense of humor and likability — making his actions even more disturbing and memorable. Naturally, Hamm’s acclaimed performance has elevated the morally dubious protagonist, adding layers of charm and menace to the character that make him impossible to ignore. To this day, he stands out as one of the most discussed personalities on the show.

3

Bing Madsen

Played by Daniel Kaluuya in “Fifteen Million Merits” (2011)

Before winning his very much-deserved Academy Award, Daniel Kaluuya dazzled audiences with his impressive efforts as Bing Madsen in “Fifteen Million Merits,” an episode set in a dystopian future where people live in a confined, artificial society and must cycle on stationary bikes to earn currency.

Contrasting to other Black Mirror characters who are more reckless and outspoken, Bing is initially an introspective and reserved character detached from those around him. Unlike his peers, who accept their monotonous existence, Bing fascinates audiences through his ability to see through the system’s emptiness. Not only is he one of the best characters in the show because of Daniel Kaluuya’s astounding performance, but also because of his well-written and deeply human nature, making it easy for fans to empathize with his pain and frustration despite his ultimate bleak and ironic destiny.

2

Nanette Cole

Played by Cristin Milioti in “USS Callister” (2017)

Played by Cristin Milioti in “USS Callister,” Nanette also stands out as one of the most badass Black Mirror characters, with her intelligence and strong sense of justice making her stand out from the bunch. She is one of the many digital clones trapped inside a twisted version of Star Trek-inspired virtual reality controlled by a socially awkward and resentful programmer played by Jesse Plemons.

“USS Callister” is a fantastic episode with plenty of memorable performances and characters, but Nanette is still a highlight because she fully embodies the spirit of resistance, becoming the leader and driving force of the crew’s rebellion. Milioti’s portrayal of Nanette shocks audiences and the other characters alike, as she proves her determination to resist in the face of oppression. This earns her the title of one of the best Black Mirror characters—and character developments—so far.

1

Kelly and Yorkie

Played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Mackenzie Davis in “San Junipero” (2016)

The central characters in Black Mirror‘s most uplifting episode, Kelly Booth and Yorki, portrayed by Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Mackenzie Davis respectively, are two of the most beloved figures in Black Mirror. “San Junipero” tells the story of two women who meet in a virtual reality simulation of a beach town and eventually fall in love.

Like “Hang the DJ,” “San Junipero” provides viewers with an emotionally rich love story, with its two protagonists sharing incredible chemistry. While they have contrasting personalities, Black Mirror‘s rays of sunshine Kelly and Yorkie feel three-dimensional and easy to connect with, which is why so many viewers have named them as favorites. At the heart of the show, this unmatched duo stands out not only because of the humanity they bring to the series, but also because their bond offers a refreshing portrayal of true love, personal healing, and growth in the show’s universe.

NEXT: Black Mirror’s Most Original Episodes, Ranked