What Makes People Fangirl Over Certain Villains?

The allure of a villain is undeniably potent, especially among teenage audiences, much like myself. Crafting a captivating villain is not only about making them appealing, but also ensuring their complexity and relatability. This article will explore the elements that make a villain irresistible and guide writers in creating a villain that fans will love.

Make Them Attractive

One of the first and most crucial steps in creating a villain who fans will fangirl over is making them attractive. While “attractive” is subjective, most people find it difficult to root for a character who they perceive as less-than-stellar in this aspect. If your villain is a stereotypical heartthrob, it might seem like an easy way out, but consider how this could be extended to different body types. Your villain could have unique features or characteristics that make them stand out, such as a confident or mysterious aura.

Moodiness is Your Best Friend

Another essential trait to include is a brooding and dark personality. Villains are often depicted as self-assured, mysterious, and somewhat intimidating. However, beneath the surface, they should reveal a softer side. Consider portraying your villain as someone who is misunderstood, closed off due to hurt, or merely bad at expressing emotions. While the “bad boy” trope can be tempting, ensure that your villain does not cross into abusive territory, especially in romantic relationships. This approach adds depth and relatability to your character.

Give Them a Reason

A strong backstory is pivotal in crafting a villain that fans will admire. Explain why the villain is the way they are, what led them down this path, and who hurt them. A tragic backstory adds an emotional depth to the character, making them more relatable. For instance, a villain might have been abandoned as a child, humiliated in front of peers, or experienced other forms of trauma that have shaped their current demeanor.

Beyond the Villain: Anti-Hero and Misunderstood Hero

While villains can be intriguing, some stories benefit from anti-heroes or misunderstood heroes. These characters are flawed but still command respect, have clear, relatable goals, and exhibit complex traits rooted in their backstory. They often seek to protect or rescue a specific group or their own family, and they are often misunderstood by others. Their intentions, at least within a subset of the population, are often beneficial, such as ending persecution or saving their loved ones.

Key Characteristics of Relatable Villains

When crafting a relatable villain, consider the following key characteristics:

Flaws: Ensure that the flaws are relatable. No one is perfect, and so should your villain. Their flaws should be something that readers can identify with, such as pride, jealousy, or a need for validation. Strength: Despite their flaws, highlight their strength and resilience. They should be someone who goes out of their way to achieve their goals and not let obstacles deter them. Complexity: A villain's complexity often stems from a tragic backstory. This backstory should be well-developed and provide insight into their motivations. Positive Aspects: Every villain should have at least one positive aspect that the reader can relate to. Perhaps they are a protector, a survivor, or a relentless problem-solver. Potential for Redemption: Even if the villain does not ultimately change, the perception of their potential for redemption should be there. Readers should believe that they could be saved, particularly by the "right person."

Conclusion

Crafting a villain who fans will fangirl over requires a combination of physical attraction, relatable backstory, and complex, relatable traits. By making your villain attractive, giving them a compelling reason for their actions, and ensuring they are misunderstood and relatable, you can create a character that leaves a lasting impression on your audience. This approach not only adds depth to your story but also provides readers with a character they can connect with on a deeper level.