10 Greatest TV Characters of the 2000s, Ranked

Television in the new millennium was quite fascinating. With some holdover series entering the 21st century, much of how we view the 2000s on the small screen was shaped by new series that emerged. YouTube arrived mid-decade, networks still tried to battle HBO with AMC gaining ground, and sitcoms shifted from multi-camera live-studio hits to drier single-camera comedies.

Above all, the characters of the time became more profound and iconic. Betty Suarez (America Ferrera) of Ugly Betty (2006–2010) turned the ugly-duckling trope into an internal journey about confidence and individuality, a lovable underdog who succeeds through intelligence and heart.

Lorelei Gilmore (Lauren Graham) of Gilmore Girls (2000–2007) brought a self-made, flawed, and devoted energy to Stars Hollow: a mother you wished you had and a woman still learning and growing.

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