TV Shows That Race-Bent Villains and Confused Everyone

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When adapting stories for TV, producers often modernize classic villains, and one common change is casting actors of different ethnicities than the original characters. This aims to bring a new perspective to the story. While these updates usually work well, sometimes fans notice and react strongly to the changes from the source material. This list showcases several examples of villains in popular TV shows who were reimagined with different racial backgrounds during casting.

‘The Boys’ (2019–)

A-Train is a superhero with amazing speed and a member of the powerful team, the Seven. He’s played by Jessie T. Usher as a Black man dealing with the pressures of fame and a struggle with drugs. Interestingly, the character was originally written as white in the comic books by Garth Ennis. The show’s creators used this change to delve into important issues like how companies use marketing and what it means to be Black in professional sports. Despite being a key character, A-Train often acts selfishly, which creates problems for the other heroes.

‘The Boys’ (2019–)

I’m a huge fan of Black Noir! He’s such a cool, mysterious character – always silent and incredibly dangerous. It’s fascinating how the show changed him from the comics. In the original story, he was a clone of a different hero, but the TV series cast Nathan Mitchell, a Black actor, and it completely flipped the script on his backstory. It made figuring out who he was and what Vought was hiding so much more interesting! They eventually showed us his past in flashbacks, and it was really tragic. Honestly, that version of Black Noir quickly became a favorite – Nathan Mitchell’s performance is amazing, and the mystery just draws you in.

‘Krypton’ (2018–2019)

General Zod is a well-known Superman villain, usually portrayed as white in comics and movies. However, a recent series reimagined the character, with Colin Salmon playing Zod as a Black military leader from the future. This version of Zod went back in time hoping to save his planet. The casting choice gave the villain a powerful new dimension and made his scenes with the El family particularly compelling. Many viewers especially enjoyed Salmon’s performance in the series.

‘The Wheel of Time’ (2021–)

Padan Fain is a creepy traveling merchant and a repeated enemy who secretly works for the Dark One. Actor Johann Myers played the role, bringing a different look to the character than described in the original books by Robert Jordan – the books portray him as pale and thin. However, this version still captures Fain’s unsettling personality and his talent for manipulation as he follows the heroes around the world. Changing his appearance helped update the show’s cast while staying true to the character’s evil storyline. He continues to be a key player in the ongoing battle between good and evil.

‘The Wheel of Time’ (2021–)

I’m really fascinated by Ishamael. He’s the Dark One’s right-hand man and the leader of the Forsaken, and Fares Fares plays him with this incredible, tired sort of power. It’s a really interesting take because in the books, Ishamael usually looks like a typical European fantasy villain. But Fares Fares brings a different energy – he feels ancient and worldly, like someone who’s seen everything. A lot of his scenes aren’t about physical fights, but about him getting inside the Dragon Reborn’s head, messing with his mind. It’s a really compelling portrayal.

‘One Piece’ (2023–)

Alvida is the first pirate captain Luffy meets, and she’s recognized by her iron mace and harsh demeanor. In the live-action series, Ilia Isorelýs Paulino portrayed Alvida, successfully capturing her strong and imposing personality. Though her appearance differs from the manga and anime versions, the show cast a Latina actress to bring a fresh and authentic feel to the character. This casting choice gave the villain a distinct look that suited the show’s overall style. Many viewers are eager to see if Alvida will return and how her story will continue in future seasons.

‘Locke & Key’ (2020–2022)

Dodge is a powerful, shape-shifting villain who torments the Locke family and tries to steal their magical keys. Laysla De Oliveira played the main version of Dodge as a cunning and dangerous enemy. While the character appears in many different forms in the original comic books – with varying ethnicities and genders – the showrunners chose to consistently portray Dodge as a Latina woman to create a memorable and impactful antagonist. Oliveira’s performance was widely praised for being both captivating and frightening as Dodge relentlessly pursued power.

‘The Peripheral’ (2022)

Cherise Nuland is a powerful and ruthless villain in a future London. T’Nia Miller brilliantly portrayed her, bringing a fresh perspective to the character, which was originally written as white in William Gibson’s novel. Miller’s performance highlighted Nuland’s mastery of technology and her unwavering determination to maintain control, even if it meant eliminating anyone who stood in her way. The casting choice itself added to the character’s commanding presence and made her a truly formidable opponent for the heroes trying to protect their timeline.

‘Sweet Tooth’ (2021–2024)

Dr. Aditya Singh is a fascinating and troubled character who becomes increasingly desperate to find a cure. This desperation leads him to make questionable choices. Actor Adeel Akhtar brilliantly portrays him as a conflicted Indian man grappling with the moral implications of his research. The showrunners intentionally reimagined the character from the original comics – where he was white and had a different history – to allow for a more nuanced exploration of themes like sacrifice and family from a different cultural viewpoint. His transformation from a dedicated doctor to someone capable of terrible acts makes him a standout character.

‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ (2023–)

In Greek mythology, Medusa is a powerful and sorrowful figure who serves as an early challenge for the show’s heroes. Actress Jessica Parker Kennedy, who is biracial, brought depth and understanding to the role of the cursed gorgon. While the original stories don’t mention Medusa’s race, she’s often portrayed as white in most Western versions. This adaptation explored the reasons behind Medusa’s anger and resentment, focusing on how she was wronged by the gods. Fans particularly discussed and appreciated the show’s decision to cast a diverse actor in the role.

‘Foundation’ (2021–)

Tellem Bond is a key villain in the second season of this sci-fi series, known for her strong psychic abilities. Actress Rachel House infused the role with her Maori background, creating a striking and powerful character. While the character appeared differently in Isaac Asimov’s original books, the showrunners specifically updated her for the television adaptation. House portrayed Bond as a cunning and fiercely protective leader determined to safeguard her people, no matter the cost. This reimagining also added greater diversity to the show’s expansive galactic setting.

‘His Dark Materials’ (2019–2022)

Lord Carlo Boreal is a powerful figure in the Magisterium who travels between worlds to get what he wants. In the television series, Ariyon Bakare portrayed him as a charismatic and intelligent Black man, cleverly concealing a cold and calculating side. This is a change from the original books by Philip Pullman, where Boreal was depicted as an older white man who maintained a respectable facade. The series also made Boreal more physically involved in the action, particularly in the search for the subtle knife, making him a persistent danger to the main characters throughout their adventure.

‘Legion’ (2017–2019)

Amahl Farouk, also known as the Shadow King, is a very old and incredibly powerful mutant who controls others like a parasite. Actor Navid Negahban played the character, bringing a mysterious and compelling energy inspired by Iranian culture. Though originally Egyptian in the Marvel comics, the character has been reinterpreted in different forms over time. Casting an actor from the Middle East helped emphasize the character’s deep roots in history and mythology. Negahban’s performance was praised for being both frightening and subtly complex.

‘House of the Dragon’ (2022–)

Ser Criston Cole, a knight in the Kingsguard, becomes a key villain in the war due to his own deep-seated anger. Actor Fabien Frankel, who is of mixed race, powerfully portrays the knight’s turn towards revenge. While originally described with dark hair and olive skin, casting a biracial actor gave the character a distinct look. Driven by wounded pride and a strict sense of right and wrong, Criston’s actions significantly contribute to the central conflict and make him a controversial figure among viewers.

‘Lucifer’ (2016–2021)

Mazikeen is a powerful demon from Hell who is a close ally – and sometimes opponent – of the main character. Actress Lesley-Ann Brandt infused the role with her South African background, making Mazikeen a striking and memorable figure. While the comic book version of the character was a white woman with a half-skeletal face, the show reimagined her as a Black woman with subtle scars, fitting the series’ realistic style. A major highlight of the show was watching Mazikeen evolve from a straightforward follower into a fully developed, complex person.

‘Lucifer’ (2016–2021)

As a huge fan of the show, I always found Amenadiel to be a fascinating character. Initially, he was set up as this imposing figure, almost a villain, trying to drag his brother back to where he came from. D.B. Woodside absolutely killed it in the role – he brought this incredible regalness and power to Amenadiel that just demanded your attention. It’s interesting because the comic book version was a pretty standard white angel, much more reserved. But by casting a Black actor, the show really flipped the script on what we expected from angels and how they interact with humans. Honestly, watching his transformation from someone trying to enforce the rules to becoming a genuine protector of Earth was some of the most moving stuff on TV.

‘Marvel’s Luke Cage’ (2016–2018)

Tilda Johnson, known as Nightshade, is a complex and formidable character who emerges as a villain in the show’s second season. Actress Gabrielle Dennis portrayed her as a Black woman skilled in holistic medicine, with a strained relationship with her mother. While the character has appeared differently in the comics, the television series reimagined her within a contemporary Harlem setting. This version was more relatable and realistic than previous, often over-the-top, depictions of the character as a scientist. Her descent into villainy was portrayed as a gradual and heartbreaking process, enriching the overall narrative.

‘Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ (2013–2020)

Sunil Bakshi is a dedicated and important member of Hydra, often creating problems for the heroes. The character was brought to life by Simon Kassianides, an actor of Greek and English heritage, who portrayed him as coldly menacing and professional. Though Bakshi doesn’t appear in the Marvel comics, he highlights Hydra’s worldwide influence. Kassianides’ casting helped create a diverse group of villains in the show’s early seasons, and audiences appreciated his portrayal of a committed villain with unwavering extremist views.

‘The Walking Dead’ (2010–2022)

Dante initially presents himself as a friendly and reliable member of the community, but is later revealed to be a spy working for the Whisperers. Actor Juan Javier Cardenas, who is Latino, skillfully played Dante as charming and helpful, effectively hiding his true motives. This portrayal differed significantly from the comic books, where Dante is a white, long-time ally of the survivors. This change in both his race and his role was a surprising twist for fans. Ultimately, Dante’s betrayal led to a particularly heartbreaking and impactful death later in the series.

‘The Expanse’ (2015–2022)

Marco Inaros is a compelling yet dangerous leader of a rebellious Belter faction who starts a war with Earth and Mars. Actor Keon Alexander, who is of Middle Eastern heritage, powerfully portrayed the character’s intense and captivating energy. Though the Belters in the original stories are a mix of cultures, this casting gave Marco a strong and recognizable cultural identity. His actions led to millions of deaths and dramatically reshaped the power dynamics of the solar system. This portrayal of the character was widely praised for making him a truly powerful and complicated villain.

‘The Expanse’ (2015–2022)

I always found Jules-Pierre Mao to be such a compelling villain! He’s this incredibly wealthy and tough businessman, and his messing around with the protomolecule is what really kicks off all the trouble in the story. Francois Chau did an amazing job playing him – he really showed how a person’s drive for success could make them ignore the harm they were causing. It was interesting to me that the showrunners chose an Asian American actor, Francois Chau, to play the head of Mao-Kwikowski Mercantile, especially since the books originally presented the character differently. He perfectly captured that sense of superiority and how it ultimately led to his ruin, thinking he could master this unbelievably powerful alien tech.

‘The Flash’ (2014–2023)

Marlize DeVoe, a key character in the fourth season, is a talented engineer and the wife of the main villain. Portrayed by South African actress Kim Engelbrecht, Marlize is driven by her loyalty to her husband, leading her to do awful things. Unlike the comic book version, where she’s a minor white character, the show reimagined her, creating a complex and intense relationship with the other villain. Engelbrecht’s performance was praised for its emotional depth and how crucial it was to the season’s main storyline.

‘One Piece’ (2023–)

Lucky Roux is one of Captain Shanks’ pirates and a devoted member of his crew. In the live-action adaptation, the role was played by white actor Milton Schorr, a departure from the character’s original appearance in the anime. Roux is known for being surprisingly fast despite his size and always having a piece of meat to eat. The show’s creators altered his look to better fit the overall design of the live-action world. Fans were eager to see how all of Shanks’ crew would be updated for this new version of the story.

‘Preacher’ (2016–2019)

Tulip O’Hare is a talented shooter who sometimes works against the hero’s goals. Actress Ruth Negga, who has Ethiopian and Irish roots, powerfully brought the character to life as a wild and unpredictable woman. While Tulip was originally written as a blonde, white woman in the comic books by Garth Ennis, the decision to cast Negga was celebrated for the incredible depth and energy she gave the role. Tulip’s complicated past and tendency towards violence made her a truly captivating character.

‘The Wheel of Time’ (2021–)

High Lord Turak is a powerful leader in the Seanchan army, known for his fighting ability and proud family history. Actor David Gyasi, who is Black, brought a majestic and otherworldly feel to the character, highlighting the unusual traditions of the Seanchan people. While the books didn’t specify Turak’s ethnicity, the showrunners chose to cast a Black actor, resulting in a compelling and intense rivalry with the main character. This casting choice also effectively showcased the Seanchan empire as a distinct and fearsome culture.

‘Shadow and Bone’ (2021–2023)

Baghra is a strong and enigmatic teacher who is later revealed to have a hidden, dark connection to the series’ main villain. Actress Zoë Wanamaker, known for her varied background, portrayed Baghra as a stern and unwavering instructor. Although the original story provided details about her ethnicity, the show cast Wanamaker because of her striking appearance, fitting for a character of such great age and power. Her performance brilliantly conveyed both the character’s deep wisdom and the weight of centuries lived. This version of Baghra played a crucial role in helping the hero realize her full potential.

‘American Gods’ (2017–2021)

Walid Zuaiter absolutely delivers as Mr. Town, a chilling enforcer for the New Gods. He plays the role with a quiet professionalism that’s far more terrifying than any shouting match. It’s a smart update from the source material – in Neil Gaiman’s novel, Mr. Town was a white man working for a generic government agency. Here, the showrunners smartly reimagined him and his team as part of a more diverse, modern corporate entity. Zuaiter’s scenes really inject a much-needed dose of espionage and genuine threat into the larger conflict between the old and new gods, raising the stakes considerably.

‘The Sandman’ (2022–)

Lyta Hall is a character struggling with intense grief and a powerful connection to the dream world, which ultimately puts her at odds with the King of Dreams. Actress Razane Jammal, who is Lebanese, beautifully portrayed Lyta as she navigated the loss of her husband and the challenges of new motherhood. While the comic book version of Lyta Hall is traditionally depicted as white with a superhero origin story, this adaptation focused on her personal tragedy and increasing anger towards the dream realm. Jammal’s performance brought a deeply emotional layer to the final episodes of the first season.

‘Snowpiercer’ (2020–2024)

Audrey is the strong and persuasive leader of the Nightcar, and frequently creates conflict for those in charge of the train. Actress Lena Hall, who is of mixed ethnicity, powerfully portrayed this complex character in the post-apocalyptic series. Though not present in the original comics, Audrey became a vital part of the train’s social structure. Hall’s performance highlighted Audrey’s skill at manipulating people by controlling their feelings and knowledge, adding a fresh and diverse perspective to the fight for survival on a frozen Earth.

‘Marvel’s Iron Fist’ (2017–2018)

As a huge fan of martial arts films, I was really impressed with Zhou Cheng in the series. He’s this incredibly skilled fighter and basically a major roadblock for the hero. Lewis Tan, who is half Chinese and half British, absolutely nailed the role, portraying him as a powerful, unpredictable fighter – a master of the drunken style, if you will. What’s fascinating is that the character is very different in the original comics; he’s a legendary guardian of K’un-Lun. The showrunners took a bold step reimagining him as a modern-day muscle for a massive criminal organization. Honestly, Lewis Tan’s casting really elevated the fight scenes; it all felt so authentic and believable.

‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ (2018–2020)

Prudence Blackwood is a strong witch who often clashes with the show’s protagonist within the Church of Night. Actress Tati Gabrielle, who is Black and Korean, brought a fierce and commanding presence to the role. Unlike the original Archie Comics version – a white girl from a different social circle – this reimagining portrays Prudence as a powerful leader of the Weird Sisters and the daughter of the high priest. A key part of the series was her development from a harsh enemy into a more nuanced and ultimately helpful ally.

‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ (2018–2020)

Agatha is a witch from the Weird Sisters who enjoys using dark magic to cause trouble at the Academy of Unseen Arts. Actress Adeline Rudolph, who is of German and Korean heritage, played Agatha as a mean-spirited character fiercely loyal to her sisters. The original comic book version of Agatha was white and didn’t have the same diverse background as the show’s portrayal. This change added more variety and visual appeal to the group of young witches. Rudolph’s performance highlighted Agatha’s cruel personality and her growing instability.

Please share which of these casting choices surprised you the most in the comments.

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2026-01-01 02:19