Only A True Fan Can Name These Popular TV Shows By Just One Character
- by Jamie Gerber
- – on
- in Movies and TV
There was a point when television was merely a pitstop on a great actor's tragic descent into obscurity. However, that time is long past. These days, actors from the large screen are flocking to the small one in droves. Amazing movies may be few and far between, but we can no longer say the same about TV shows. What was once the mark of a failing career has become one of the smartest moves an actor can make.
We are living in the Golden Age of Television, with more incredible shows being created every day. Whether you feel that this period began in the late '90s or early 2000s, there is no denying that it still continues today. While the overwhelming number of options may make it difficult to decide what to watch, most of us wouldn't trade it.
Are you an avid TV watcher? Do some of your favorite people happen to be fictional? Well, it's time to put those skills to the test! Take this quiz and figure out which series these characters called home. Let's see how much of a fan you really are. After all, Only A True Fan Can Name These Popular TV Shows By Just One Character.
Where have you seen Anya Jenkins?
Anya Christina Emmanuella Jenkins first appeared in season 3. She was meant for a mere two episode arc, but the show’s creator was so taken by Emma Caulfield’s performance that she earned her character a near permanent stay of execution. From human to vengeance demon and back again - and again - it didn’t take long for her to become a fan favorite. Anya struggled to fit into the human world, but luckily, she found a place she could call home among the Scoobies. What series was she on?
What series featured Paris Gellar?
Portrayed by scene stealer Liza Weil, Paris Geller initially appeared to be a straight up villain. However, this show’s creator would never write a character so two dimensional as that. Paris’s evolution over the course of the series was pretty incredible. She may have learned how to be a good friend, but thankfully, she never stopped saying things like, “Tie your tubes, idiot.” When looking for a role model, look no further than Paris Geller. What show do you recognize her from?
What series is Kevin Keller a part of?
People spend a lot of time deliberating about the best character on this series and Kevin Keller’s name needs to enter that debate. Although he often winds up toiling in the B plot line, that doesn’t make him any less awesome. What it does do, however, is make us wish that he got more screen time. Portrayed by Casey Cott, Kevin Keller was upgraded to series regular for the show’s sophomore season. Do you know what series features this character?
What show is Tormund Giantsbane on?
This member of the Free Folk is “kissed by fire”, which is just a super cool way of saying that he’s a redhead. Portrayed by Kristofer Hivju, Tormund Giantsbane is a legendary fighter, who is more than a bit infatuated with Brienne of Tarth. He is a man known by many names, including Breaker of Ice and Husband to Bears, but he has also earned himself the title of “Tall Talker”. In what series is he spinning his unbelievable stories?
On what series could you find Georgina Sparks?
Things were getting a bit too quiet on this series before one Georgina Sparks made her first appearance. We’re kidding, there really wasn’t much down time at all - at least not in season 1. Still, Georgina knew how to bring the party, by which we mean the lies, the schemes and the bombshells. You could always count on drama to follow Georgina wherever she went and for her to eat up every last bit of it. On what show did Michelle Trachtenberg portray her?
What show featured Devon Banks?
Best known for playing Gob Bluth on the canceled-too-soon comedy Arrested Development, Will Arnett brought his special brand of hilarity to this character as well. He played Devon Banks, who had come to take GE away from the "Head of East Coast Television and Microwave Oven Programming" himself. Devon was his nemesis, trying to best him at every turn, and reveling in any misstep he made. Of course, you can't beat the master and eventually, Devon was forced to accept defeat. What series did this take place on?
Where have you seen The Captain?
Played by the amazing Kyle MacLachlan, The Captain was husband to Zoey, who was the object of a main character's affections. Zoey being married to a rather intimidating man who only answered to "The Captain" did present a minor problem. He's what you might call a boat enthusiast. His given name was George Van Smoot. Much was made of the fact that the top and bottom half of his face don't match when he smiles. What show was he on?
Why does Barbara "Barb" Holland look familiar?
The surprise breakout character of this hit Netflix series was most definitely Shannon Purser's Barbara "Barb" Holland. The fact that the internet exploded over her disappearance was pretty crazy, considering how little time she actually spent onscreen. Let's just say the show's characters weren't the only people concerned with Barb's fate. Everyone was hoping for some #JusticeForBarb. Since fans refused to let Barb go gentle into that good night, the showrunners had no choice but to try to right those wrongs in season 2. What series was she on?
What show featured Lil' Sebastian?
One character stated it best when they said, "He does ‘being a mini-horse,’ and he does it better than anyone." Lil' Sebastian was sort of the town mascot and everyone loved him. Seriously, what's not to love? - we're looking at you Ben! Sadly, this adorable mini-horse is killed off not too long after being introduced. Still, he's had a lasting effect on the series...and on the internet. Seriously, there are mugs, t-shirts and framed photos out there. What show was he on?
Which series was Abed Nadir on?
Played by Danny Pudi, Abed Nadir didn't always have the easiest time relating to people, although he certainly did try. His father allowed him to attend college only with the understanding that Abed would one day be taking over his falafel business. However, Abed had dreams of one day becoming a filmmaker. It was his campus study group that helped him learn how to interact with people and it was there that he made lasting friendships. Which show was he on?
On which series does Becky Williams appear?
Portrayed by Gabourey Sidibe, Becky Williams has been a part of this series since the pilot. When Sidibe landed the part, she was best known for her breakout role in Precious, but has since appeared in several prominent television shows. On the series, Becky has worked her way up in the record business. She has gone from executive assistant to A&R, proving herself capable of much more than her employers initially thought. So, on what show have you seen Becky Williams?
Where have you seen Marisol “Flaca” Gonzales?
Marisol “Flaca” Gonzales doesn't exactly have it easy. Her living accommodations are not what you would call awesome, but she does what she can to get by. Luckily, she has her bestie, Maritza Ramos, to keep her company. Without Maritza, Marisol would be lost. The two women are completely inseparable, making the best of their unfortunate circumstances together. Marisol's nickname is Spanish for skinny, which she certainly is. She is portrayed by Jackie Cruz. On what series does Flaca appear?
What show was Lexa a part of?
The death of Lexa was the proverbial shot heard round the world for fans of this series, with viewers taking it hard, to say the least. Alycia Debnam-Carey needed to leave the show due to her role on Fear the Walking Dead, and the writers felt that she was too important a character to make only the occasional guest appearance. So, they killed her off and fans did not take it well. In fact, the show's viewership has never quite recovered. What series was Lexa on?
Why does Desmond Hume seem familiar?
"See you in another life, brother." Desmond Hume didn't show up until season 2, but he was with the series until the end. This Scotsmen has plenty of interesting experiences on his resume, including sending his mind through time on multiple occasions. Before the viewer met Desmond, his life was largely defined by failure, but all of that changed. Played by Henry Ian Cusick, Desmond and his on-again-off-agian eternal flame, Penny, became a fan favorite relationship on the series. What show did Desmond appear on?
On what series would you find Summer Roberts?
Portrayed by an impossibly likable Rachel Bilson, Summer Roberts began this series as the beautiful, but empty headed object of a main character's affections. However, according to the showrunner, Bilson had him at "Ew" and her role was fleshed out into one of the show's best. Summer Roberts suffered from rage blackouts and really didn't like Death Cab. She also evolved more than just about anyone else from the pilot to the finale. What series did Summer Roberts call home?
What show featured Gunther?
If you were even a casual fan of this beloved sitcom, then you will surely recognize Gunther. Played by James Michael Taylor, Gunther was a barista and manager at Central Perk, the coffee shop were the gang spent a lot of their time. Gunther was once an actor, appearing on daytime soap, All My Children. However, an avalanche on the show not only killed off his character, but also landed Gunther at Central Perk. On what series was Gunther always an outsider looking in?
Where have you seen Castiel?
On a series with only two stars for its first four seasons, Misha Collins impressively became a regular in season 5, after just a year as a recurring character. Fans fell hard for this trenchcoat-clad angel that bore a striking resemblance to John Constantine - who was a major influence on the character's appearance. Castiel has since become such a mainstay of the series, that it is nearly impossible to imagine it without him. In what show does Castiel appear?
Which series is Jason Mendoza on?
This delightful series - seriously, if you're not watching it, you should be - is about the afterlife of several characters, including Jason Mendoza. He is played by Manny Jacinto and is not at all who he initially appears to be. Although it seemed as though his hobbies included meditation and not speaking at all, what he actually loved was the Jaguars and being a terrible DJ. What Jason lacks in smarts, he makes up for by being lovable. What series is Jason on?
What show is Laura Moon a part of?
This series took the world by storm last year and Emily Browning's Laura Moon was one of the best characters on it - which on that show, is saying a lot. She was a bored casino dealer, who inadvertently landed her husband in jail. Laura died, in a fairly embarrassing way, but it didn't really stick. She returned from the grave, no longer dead, though not exactly alive. Laura finds herself decaying at a fairly alarming rate. On what series would you find Laura Moon?
Why does Tyreese Williams look familiar?
Portrayed by Chad Coleman, Tyreese Williams had a rough time of it during his time on the series, but hey, who didn't? Before his world was torn apart, Tyreese was an NFL player. His natural strength and athleticism made him uniquely suited for survival in a world where the old rules no longer applied. Tyreese was intelligent, selfless and compassionate. He did everything that he could to protect his loved ones until the day he died. What series featured Tyreese Williams?
On what show have you seen Rogelio De La Vega?
Rogelio De La Vega might just be the best character on a series that is full of them. He is played by Jaime Camill. Rogelio has been an actor for many years and as such, is dramatic, passionate and a bit over the top. While this might be hard to tolerate from certain characters, these are some of the reasons why we love Rogelio the most. He is also an excellent father and husband. What show is Rogelio De La Vega on?
What series was Hank Schrader a part of?
Hank Schrader may not have been the star of this show, but he was certainly someone that you rooted for. In a cast full of unlikeable characters, Hank - played by Dean Norris - was consistently a good person. Even if his survival meant that hero turned villain at the show's center was put in jeopardy, most fans were still desperately hoping that he would make it out alive. Alas, this was not the case, although he died as he lived: a hero. What show was Hank on?
Where do you recognize Kim Kelly from?
Much like Paris Gellar, Kim Kelly began her story arc as a bit of a mean girl, but evolved into one of the show's best characters. Although she was prickly at first, Kim also turned out to be a great friend. She just needed someone to see the good that she had failed to see in herself. Portrayed by Busy Philips, Kim had a rough home life and it was hard for her not to take it out on other people. What series featured Kim Kelly?
On what series did Logan Echolls appear?
Speaking of characters who started out as jerks, Logan Echolls was a major one! When the series began, no one could've predicted that this guy was not only going to become a love interest, but also an awesome character. It speaks volumes about the quality of writing on this underrated show. Logan and everyone's favorite high school PI were on-again-off-again, but fans were always hoping those two crazy kids could make it work. What series was Logan Echolls a part of?
Where have you seen Ruby Johnson?
Many of us have to deal with rather nightmarish in-laws and Ruby Johnson could certainly fall into that category. Portrayed by Jenifer Lewis, Ruby is incredibly stubborn and opinionated. You never have to worry about her not telling you what she thinks. Sometimes, she oversteps her grounds as a grandmother, but isn't that what all good grandparents do? Although she annoys her daughter-in-law, Ruby's intentions are undeniably good, even if her delivery could use some work. On what series have you seen Ruby?
What show was Kelly Kapoor on?
"I talk a lot, so I learn to tune myself out." This beloved sitcom introduced the world to customer service representative, Kelly Kapoor. Branding was very important to Kelly, as was talking. The girl loved to talk! These days, Mindy Kaling is probably best known for her work on The Mindy Project, but this was the series in which she made a name for herself with her own particular brand of hilarity. On what show have you seen Kelly Kapoor?
Why does Connor Walsh seem familiar?
This Shondaland show has earned much admiration from fans and a great deal of that love is directed at Connor Walsh. Played by Jack Falahee, Connor was once quite the Lothario, at least until he met his current boyfriend, Oliver. Sadly, this means that Oliver has been pulled into the tangled web that Connor is always a part of. Hopefully, they both make it out alive! Viewers might just have to riot if they don't. What show features Connor Walsh?
Do you remember where you've seen Beth Pearson?
Susan Kelechi Watson has taken what could've been a very two dimensional character in Beth Pearson and made her warm, clever and funny. Of course, much of the credit should go to the writers of this excellent tearjerker for making an ancillary character so much more than just the wife of a main one. However, it's probably safe to say that no one could've brought Beth to life the way that Watson has. On what series does Beth Pearson appear?
What show was Vince Howard a part of?
There was a time when Micheal B. Jordan was an unknown actor, starring in this much loved series. His character, Vince Howard, was a later addition to the show, but fans really responded to him. Vince was pretty much alone in the world, until someone took a chance on him. Jordan's talent was apparent even back then and Vince became a fan favorite. Jordan is currently starring in Black Panther, in which he plays Erik Killmonger. What series did Vince Howard appear on?
Do you know what series Lucille Austero appeared on?
Portrayed by the legendary Liza Minelli, Lucille Austero, aka Lucille 2, was a friend - sort of - to the family at the center of this canceled-too-soon comedy. She suffered from debilitating vertigo. Don't feel too bad for her though, because, as with everything else, this series played tragedy for comedy to excellent effect. Lucille 2 also had a thing for younger men, bagging more than one who were only half her age. Good for her! What show featured Lucille Austero?
Where have you seen Blaine De Beers?
Who knew a Big Bad could be so, well, good? Portrayed by David Anders, Blaine De Beers's allegiances are always questionable. The only thing that one can usually be certain of is that he will be looking out for his own interests. Blaine was a bad guy, but some conveniently timed amnesia gave him an opportunity to switch sides. Only time will tell what team he will continue to play for when this supernatural series returns! What show is Blaine on?
Can you recall where you've seen Stephanie Edwards?
Let's be honest: Stephanie Edwards was the most promising new intern this hospital had seen for quite some time. Played by Jerikka Hinton, Stephanie was very ill as a child. Luckily, she grew up to be an excellent doctor herself, saving the lives of others, just like someone did for her. Of course, Stephanie 's final episode really only served as a reminder of how awesome she was, but alas, then she was gone. What show was Stephanie a part of?
Why does Sharon “Boomer” Valerii seem familiar?
"So say we all." This space opera was an excellent update of an older series. Although writers kept certain elements of the original, this iteration aspired to be so much more. Played by Grace Park, Sharon "Boomer" Valerii was not at all who or what she appeared to be. The saddest part was that she didn't even really know anything about her true origins. Her story was actually quite heartbreaking, but then, the series wasn't exactly known for its humor. Which show was Sharon on?
What show did Audrey Horne appear on?
This strange and wonderful '90s show saw a reboot this year, and Audrey Horne - played by Sherilyn Fenn - made her long awaited return to the small screen. The series was known for its quirky small town setting, eerie nostalgia and central mystery, not to mention the special brand of weird associated with its creator. In the original, Audrey was a tenacious teenager with a huge crush on a certain special agent. On what show did Audrey Horne appear?
Where do you recognize Inara Sera from?
Sadly, this beloved space western was canceled before even finishing its freshman season. However, years later high DVD sales enabled the cast and creator to come together for a movie to give the series a proper sendoff. At the time of her playing the well respected companion, Inara Sera, Morena Baccarin was virtually unknown. These days, the actress can be seen on both the large and small screen in everything from Homeland to Gotham to Deadpool. What series featured Inara Serra?
Where have you seen Carla Espinosa?
Portrayed by Judy Reyes, Carla Espinosa was the head nurse in this hospital based comedy. Carla was wise and kind, but she was also no nonsense. She took her job very seriously, understanding how many lives were in her hands on a daily basis. Carla was also one of the only people that Janitor, who was generally the one that others feared, was actually afraid of. No one wanted to get on her bad side. What series was Carla Espinosa a part of?
Do you remember what show Alcide Herveaux was on?
The woman at the center of this supernatural show had her pick of beautiful men and Alcide Herveaux was certainly one of them. This werewolf, portrayed by Joe Manganiello, first appeared in season 3 and further complicated the main character's already very confusing love life. Since then, Joe Manganiello has appeared in films such as Magic Mike and has been cast as Deathstroke in the DCEU. However, it all began with his turn as a tortured werewolf. What series featured Alcide Herveaux?
Why does Olive Snook seem familiar?
Played by the amazing Kristin Chenoweth, Olive Snook worked at the Pie Hole and crushed on her boss big time. She also spend a great deal of time petting his dog, who sadly, the man was unable to show affection towards. Honestly, he was fairly emotionally detached, but he had god reasons for this. Before getting her job at the Pie Hole, Olive was actually a professional horse jockey. She was a woman of many talents. What one of a kind show included Olive Snook?
What series was Malcolm Merlyn part of?
This vigilante's given name was Arthur King. He was played by John Barrowman and was one of the better villains to appear on any recent DC superhero show. He wasn't always so villainous though, at times even working with our heroes. Assumedly, he was once a good man, but his wife's death at the hands of a mugger twisted him beyond all recognition. He was never quite the same after the loss. Which series was Malcolm Merlyn a part of?
On what show does Melinda May appear?
Nicknamed "the Cavalry" and with good reason, Melinda May is someone you wouldn't want to mess with. She is, however, someone that you would want in your corner and not just because she's basically a superhero - although that doesn't hurt. Played by Ming-Na Wen, she has been with this Marvel show since the beginning. Considering this is the best season this series has had so far, hopefully, it isn't the last one. What series does Melinda May appear on?