Black Mirrorsticks 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.
WhileBlack Mirrorfrequently 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 bestBlack Mirrorcharacters whose memorable arcs and personalities have made them stand out in the beloved anthology.
Black Mirror
An anthology series exploring a twisted, high-tech multiverse where humanity’s greatest innovations and darkest instincts collide.
10Cooper Redfield
Played by Wyatt Russell in “Playtest” (2016)
Portrayed byWyatt Russellin “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 theBlack Mirroruniverse.
9Blue Coulson
Played by Faye Marsay in “Hated in the Nation” (2016)
AlthoughKelly 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 intelligentBlack Mirrorcharacter 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 theunderrated episode but acrossBlack Mirroras a whole.
Played by Paapa Essiedu in “Demon 79” (2023)
One of theBlack Mirror’s newest introductions, Gaap, from the latest season’s “Demon 79,” is a charismatic and witty demon who appears to protagonist Nida (AnjanaVasan) 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 lovePaapa 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.
7Amy and Frank
Played by Joe Cole and Georgina Campbell in “Hang the DJ” (2017)
Played byJoe ColeandGeorginaCampbellin “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, therewatchable “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 sweetBlack Mirrorcouple resonates with global audiences, embodying hope, vulnerability, and quiet rebellionin the name of true love.
6Nish Leigh
Played by Letitia Wright in “Black Museum” (2017)
Played byLetitia Wrightbefore herBlack Pantherdays, Nish is, too, one of the most memorableBlack Mirrorfigures. 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 Mirrorexemplifies 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.
5Lacie Pound
Played by Bryce Dallas Howard in “Nosedive” (2016)
Initially characterized by her sweet and outwardly pleasant personality, Lacie Pound, played byBryce Dallas Howard in a staggering performance, is the main character inBlack 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, asshe mirrors the pressures and insecurities many of us face in our digital age. While her situation isa lotmore 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 ofBlack 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.
4Matthew Trent
Played by Jon Hamm in “White Christmas” (2014)
Jon Hammdelivers one ofBlack Mirror’s best performancesby 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, withmany 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.
3Bing Madsen
Played by Daniel Kaluuya in “Fifteen Million Merits” (2011)
Before winning his very much-deserved Academy Award,Daniel Kaluuyadazzled 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 otherBlack Mirrorcharacters 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 ofDaniel 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.
2Nanette Cole
Played by Cristin Milioti in “USS Callister” (2017)
Played byCristin Miliotiin “USS Callister,” Nanette also stands out as one of the most badassBlack Mirrorcharacters, 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 ofStar Trek-inspired virtual reality controlled by a socially awkward and resentful programmer played byJesse Plemons.
“USS Callister” is a fantastic episode with plenty of memorable performances and characters, butNanette 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 bestBlack Mirrorcharacters—and character developments—so far.
1Kelly and Yorkie
Played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Mackenzie Davis in “San Junipero” (2016)
The central characters inBlack Mirror’s most uplifting episode, Kelly Booth and Yorki, portrayed byGugu Mbatha-RawandMackenzie Davisrespectively, are two of the most beloved figures inBlack 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 sunshineKelly 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.
