9 best Disney villains ranked from bad to evil

Disney villains are the unsung heroes of storytelling, adding flavor and challenge to the mix. Let's look at 9 of the best ones and see how they rank.
The Little Mermaid - Courtesy of Disney via Image.net
The Little Mermaid - Courtesy of Disney via Image.net /
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7. Jafar (Aladdin)

Landing at number 7, Jafar isn't just your garden-variety villain.

This man is a power-hungry sorcerer with style and a lack of patience for nonsense (unless it's his own). What makes Jafar stand out in the villainy lineup is his absolute dedication to the craft of being... bad. With his sinister plots and dark magic, he almost turns Agrabah into his own personal puppet show. But, despite his grand plans and magical prowess, it's his over-the-top ambition and flair for the dramatic that really cements his place.

Jafar isn't just evil - he's theatrically evil, making him a memorable and entertaining bad guy who nearly steals the show.

6. Cruella De Vil (101 Dalmatians)

Landing at number 6 on our villain hit parade is none other than Cruella De Vil from 101 Dalmatians.

Let's just get to the point - the woman is evil. Anyone who dreams of turning the cutest puppies into a fur coat has more than just a screw loose - they've lost the whole toolbox and it's impossible to get it back. Cruella's obsession with fur doesn't just border on bonkers - it blasts past it at full speed. She's a fashionista turned fiend, making her the kind of villain you love to hate - or just hate with every fiber of your being.

With a name that literally spells "cruel devil," she's a style icon with a seriously twisted sense of chic, making her unforgettable in the rogue gallery of Disney villains.

5. Hades (Hercules)

Ah, Hades. He is like the misunderstood bad boy of Disney villains - and secretly but not-so-secretly, he's my all-time favorite.

He's got flair, fiery hair, and a bone to pick with Olympus. What makes Hades stand out is his devilish charm and quick wit, making him more than just a villain - he's a character with depth, humor, and a touch of tragedy. Unlike others who are evil for the sake of it, Hades feels like he's just trying to level the playing field - albeit in a diabolically ambitious way. His plot to overthrow Olympus is more about sibling rivalry gone extreme than pure malice.

Plus, let's be honest, his sarcastic one-liners are pure gold. Hades, you fiery fiend, you're the reason we root for the bad guy sometimes.

4. Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty)

Landing at not-surprising number 4, Maleficent is the epitome of pettiness turned pure evil.

Who else but the Mistress of All Evil could hold a grudge over a party invite so fiercely that she curses an innocent baby? It's not just the curse, though, it's the flair - showing up uninvited, dramatic entrance, all eyes on her. Maleficent takes villainy to an art form, blending power and confidence in a way that's as terrifying as it is mesmerizing.

Oh, and her ability to turn into a freaking dragon?! That's the cherry on top of her wickedly delicious evil sundae.