3 underrated Harry Potter characters

Harry Potter is one of the biggest and most successful pop culture franchises in history, and it all started with a book series written by J.K. Rowling. Since the original book's release, there have been a total of seven books, a prequel play, a movie franchise, a spinoff franchise, and countless games, merchandise, and theme parks, as well.

With Max's upcoming Harry Potter television series set to start filming this summer, the blockbuster franchise is back at the forefront of conversations. While author J.K. Rowling remains an incredibly controversial and divisive figure, it has not taken away from the overall popularity of the franchise, and in fact, Max is actually projecting filming costs to be the highest in the industry's history, which they can manage thanks to expected success.

With such a loyal fan base, it is easy to understand why certain characters from the series would have a dedicated following. There are so many characters that it can be impossible to treat them all equally, and certain characters may resonate with readers in ways they may not for others. That said, there are many wizards in the Harry Potter universe who are underrated and do not get the respect they deserve.

Which characters do you believe deserve more overall recognition? Perhaps they have a reputation you believe is unfair? Maybe their character had a character arc that gets ignored in historical perception. Or maybe they get credit for what they accomplished, but just get forgotten in a sea of other memorable characters? Here are three of the most prominent characters that I feel best fit the bill.

1. Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom is pretty much the butt of the jokes throughout the entire series. He has a reputation for being goofy, clumsy, and at times completely incompetent. His backstory is memorable, albeit heartbreaking, and he does get some credit for his bravery at the end. While all of those traits may be accurate at times, it often gets overlooked just how much of an impact he actually had on the series.

Aside from the bravery he showed fighting at the end, he actually played a critical role throughout. His bravery helped Gryffindor win the House Cup. He became a leader towards the end of the book, as one of the main heads of the resistance against the Death Eaters at Hogwarts. His slaying of Nagini was also the reason Voldemort could finally be eliminated. Neville is a major character, even if he is the target of ridicule.

2. Nymphadora Tonks

Nymphadora Tonks is a largely forgotten character in the larger Harry Potter universe, which is an absolute tragedy. Generally, she is remembered as being part of the Order of the Phoenix as well as being in a relationship with Remus Lupin. You may also remember her as being a Metamorphmagus, which is Harry Potter lore is essentially means the ability to shapeshift.

What is often lost in translation, though, is her power as a witch. Not only did she train as an Auror alongside one of the greatest there ever was, Alastor Moody, but she was also a critical part of Harry Potter franchise history. She was there in every major historical battle, lending her prowess wherever possible. Even her love with Lupin was bravery given the possible physical ramifications of doing so. Tonks is a powerful and incredibly brave, and influential character who needs more recognition.

3. Fleur Delacour

Fleur Delacour was painted in a fairly shallow light by a good portion of the fanbase. She is mostly remembered for being an integral part of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, as being Beauxbatons Academy of Magic's strongest representative. She is described as highly beautiful, to the point where men are falling over themselves in her presence, part of her Veela background.

She is so much more than just a pretty face, however. Fleur was part of the Hogwarts Battle at the end of the storyline. She had her wedding attacked by Death Eaters, yet still continued on. She was recognized with medals of Bravery in both France and Britain by the respective Ministries of Magic. For many fans, she is mainly a filler character, but it is a shame to overlook her skills and strength.