3 overrated Harry Potter characters

Harry Potter has easily become one of the greatest pop culture phenomena of all time. What started as a young adult fantasy series has blown up to movies, games, video games, theme parks, merchandise, and even an upcoming television series. With that kind of legacy, a massive fanbase naturally follows.

Because of the longevity of the franchise, there has been no shortage of characters to come and go, with the fanbase attaching itself to all different combinations. There have been shippers, stans, and a plethora of popular and lovable wizards. That being said, sometimes that love does not always match the reality of the character.

Who are the three most overrated characters in the Harry Potter universe? Characters that may get more credit and love than their impact and personality actually deserve?

1. Rubeus Hagrid

Is Hagrid a lovable teddy bear? Absolutely. He gives the impression of a fatherly figure for the title character Harry Potter, and guards him with his life, quite literally, on many occasions. This contributes to him being such a highly rated character.

That said, let's break him down a little more. Not on does Hagrid have wild swings of emotions and hard-headed stubbornness at the worst possible times, but he also often makes poor decisions. I am all for characters, especially male ones, showing emotions, but his are often not very sensible or timely. Add that to choices that put students in extreme harm's way, and perhaps the credit she earns should be evaluated a bit more before anointing him as such a top character.

2. Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger is likely the most polarizing figure, perhaps in the entire franchise. While she plays an integral role in the plot and often saves her friends time and time again, it is not always a smooth ride. She deserves credit for her fierce loyalty throughout all seven novels and eight films, and her struggles to connect in the beginning are often heartbreaking and relatable.

That being said, there is no question that her personality often leaves something to be desired. The exact reason that others end up targeting her is why her character is overrated. Having a smart, strong female character is an incredible asset to the franchise. The problem is, she is portrayed as cocky, arrogant, snarky, and annoying, which makes it very hard to support her throughout the series.

3. Professor Minerva McGonagall

Listen, I love the strength Professor McGonagall shows throughout the series. She is fierce, she is loyal, she is consistent in following rules and sticking with her gut, and she is one of the most powerful witches in the entire Harry Potter universe. All of that is to be commented, respected, and, dare I say, even loved.

The reason she finds herself here is not due to any of her plot-related character traits, but rather her actual personality. While her choices stand out, her personality itself does not. She comes off as a bit bland and boring, and far too buttoned up or even borderline prude. It is hard enough to even get a smirk from her. While I get that it is part of the overall character, let loose a little, Professor! Show us how to have a good time!