From The X-Files to Buffy, here are the 7 best characters in TV history who proved redheads have more fun—and more screen presence.
Redheads may make up only about 1% of the global population, but on television, they leave a blazing impression that can’t be ignored. Whether they’re saving the day, cracking jokes, or solving paranormal mysteries, ginger characters have brought unforgettable charm, attitude, and originality to the screen. With fiery hair and even fierier personalities, these seven iconic TV redheads stand out as the most memorable of all time.
7. Daphne Blake – Scooby-Doo
No list of redhead TV icons would be complete without Daphne from Scooby-Doo. As a core member of Mystery Inc., her bright orange hair and purple outfit became Halloween staples. Though she was often portrayed as the damsel in distress, later versions of Daphne showed off her brains, bravery, and brawn, making her a redhead role model for generations of kids.
6. Willow Rosenberg – Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Alyson Hannigan’s Willow was the quiet, nerdy best friend who grew into one of Buffy‘s most complex characters. Starting as a shy, bookish teen and evolving into a powerful witch, Willow’s arc was one of the show’s most compelling. Her bright red hair symbolized her individuality and helped cement her as an icon of ‘90s TV.
5. Ygritte – Game of Thrones
Kissed by fire and packed with attitude, Ygritte stood out in the crowded world of Game of Thrones. Played by Rose Leslie, the wildling warrior matched Jon Snow in strength, wit, and stubbornness. Her iconic line—“You know nothing, Jon Snow”—became one of the series’ most quotable moments, and her fiery red hair was as striking as her fearless nature.
4. Phillip J. Fry – Futurama
A lovable doofus with a heart of gold, Fry is the ginger heart of Futurama. Voiced by Billy West, Fry’s bright orange hair and red jacket made him instantly recognizable, even a thousand years in the future. He brought laughs, heart, and some surprisingly deep moments to the cult hit, proving that even a slacker delivery guy could be a sci-fi hero.
3. Donna Noble – Doctor Who
Catherine Tate’s Donna Noble brought a fiery, no-nonsense attitude to Doctor Who. As the first modern companion who wasn’t romantically smitten with the Doctor, Donna brought a fresh, equal-footed dynamic to the TARDIS. Her blunt humor and emotional depth made her one of the show’s most beloved companions, challenging what fans expected from the Doctor’s travel partners.
2. Kim Possible – Kim Possible
Strong, stylish, and skilled, Kim Possible made red hair cool for a new generation. Voiced by Christy Carlson Romano, Kim juggled high school life with globe-trotting spy missions. As the show’s lead, she smashed gender norms, becoming a teen icon and proving girls could be both popular and powerful. Her popularity even broke Disney Channel’s long-standing 65-episode rule, with Kim Possible running for an impressive 87 episodes.
1. Dana Scully – The X-Files
Few TV characters are as legendary as Dana Scully, brought to life by Gillian Anderson. As the rational, science-minded counterbalance to Mulder’s conspiracy obsession, Scully redefined female roles on television. Her striking red hair wasn’t just a bold aesthetic—it paid homage to Clarice Starling, a nod from creator Chris Carter. More than a style choice, Scully inspired a generation of women to pursue STEM careers, earning her a cultural legacy far beyond the small screen.
