For decades, The Addams Family has captivated audiences with their delightfully dark and eccentric personalities. Emerging from Charles Addams’ comic strips in 1938, this iconic family has solidified its place in pop culture through various television series, animated shows, live-action films, and the recent Netflix hit, Wednesday. Each member of the Addams clan brings a unique blend of humor and horror to the screen, but certain characters have resonated more strongly with modern audiences, particularly in recent adaptations. As we delve into the macabre magic of this family, let’s rank the most memorable The Addams Family Characters, exploring what makes each one stand out in the ever-evolving world of spooky and kooky entertainment.
9. Grandmama Addams
Originally Played By Blossom Rock
Grandmama Addams, or Grandma Addams depending on the iteration, is the enigmatic matriarch of the family, often depicted as Gomez’s mother or Morticia’s mother-in-law. This outspoken and opinionated character never hesitates to share her often barbaric views, whether they are welcomed or not. Described by creator Charles Addams as a “disrespectful old hag,” Grandmama has been brought to life by talented actresses such as Blossom Rock in the original television series, Carol Channing in animation, and Bette Midler in the 2019 animated movie.
While Grandmama Addams is undoubtedly a classic character within The Addams Family universe, she often lacks the spotlight compared to her more eccentric relatives. Notably absent from the first season of Wednesday, there’s potential for her to gain a more prominent role in future storylines as the modern saga of this family unfolds. For now, Grandmama Addams finds herself at the bottom of our list, awaiting her moment to truly shine in contemporary adaptations.
8. Cousin Itt
Originally Played By Felix Silla
Cousin Itt is undeniably one of the most visually striking and memorable Addams Family characters. Remarkable for his diminutive stature and complete covering of hair, this enigmatic cousin communicates in gibberish, understood only by fellow Addamses, and is often seen sporting a bowler hat and sunglasses. Created for the 1960s television series, a recurring comedic element involved Cousin Itt’s numerous career attempts, oblivious to how his unique appearance might be a hindrance. He has since appeared in the 90s live-action films and the 2019 animated movie, consistently bringing his hairy charm to each iteration.
As an extended family member, Cousin Itt’s presence in the Addams household is less constant compared to the core family. Consequently, he often has less screen time and character development across various Addams Family adaptations. This is particularly evident in Wednesday, set at Nevermore Academy, away from the usual Addams Mansion setting. Despite limited appearances, Cousin Itt’s unique appeal, especially to younger viewers, ensures his enduring popularity among The Addams Family characters.
7. Lurch
Originally Played By Ted Cassidy
Lurch, the towering and lugubrious manservant, is almost as synonymous with The Addams Family as the family members themselves. Having served the Addams for an undefined period, he’s practically become one of them. His imposing height (6’9″) and immense strength occasionally clash with the delicate nature of butler duties, yet he manages with characteristic moans and grimaces. The original television series maintained an air of mystery around Lurch’s origins, though a normal-sized mother did make a guest appearance. The 2019 animated film humorously reimagined his backstory, depicting him as an escapee from an insane asylum who is then accidentally recruited by the Addamses after they hit him with their car.
Lurch’s memorability is fascinating, especially considering his limited verbal communication. An underlying gentleness makes him a beloved, if quiet, member of the Addams household. He made a brief return in Netflix’s Wednesday as the family driver, presumably continuing his butler duties at home. While any Addams Family adaptation feels incomplete without Lurch’s presence, he doesn’t quite reach the central character status of the main family members in terms of overall impact.
6. Pugsley Addams
Originally Played By Ken Weatherwax
Pugsley Addams, with his iconic striped shirt, shorts, and innocent expression, might not initially appear as outwardly macabre as other The Addams Family characters. However, he is undeniably an Addams through and through. The 1960s TV series portrayed him as a prodigious engineer, frequently constructing guillotines, torture devices, and various contraptions for his sister Wednesday’s amusement (or torment). The 90s films shifted his persona to a less inventive, somewhat dim-witted accomplice to Wednesday. Wednesday on Netflix continues this trend, presenting a softer, more lovable, and less sharp-witted Pugsley, who is clearly deserving of his sister’s fierce protection.
In recent Addams Family adaptations, Pugsley’s character often serves to bolster Wednesday’s growing prominence. This supporting role can make him seem less individually compelling, but his function within the family dynamic remains crucial. In the 90s films, Pugsley’s willing participation as Wednesday’s “victim” emphasizes the family’s overall strangeness. In Wednesday, Pugsley’s vulnerability highlights Wednesday’s protective instincts and softer side. This dynamic makes audiences empathize with him, even if he isn’t always a top favorite Addams Family character in his own right.
5. Gomez Addams
Originally Played By John Astin
Gomez Addams, the charismatic patriarch, perfectly embodies the essence of The Addams Family. Fiercely loyal, wonderfully eccentric, and deeply romantic, he is a devoted father, a passionate husband, and a steadfast protector of his family. John Astin immortalized Gomez in the 60s television series, followed by Raul Julia in the 90s films. Gomez’s theatrical flair, his love for swordplay and dramatic performance, his ardent affection for Morticia, boundless energy, and sheer zest for life have consistently made him a highly popular character.
In recent years, Gomez has willingly taken a supporting role to his wife and daughter, proudly watching them take center stage with their intelligence and wit. His defining trait has become his unwavering devotion to Morticia and Wednesday, acting as if he is perpetually honored by their mere presence. This endearing self-deprecation leads to Gomez ranking slightly lower than the women he adores, a position he would likely embrace with theatrical flair and enthusiasm.
4. Morticia Addams
Originally Played By Carolyn Jones
Morticia Addams, the sophisticated and sultry matriarch, is a gothic icon, gliding through the Addams mansion with spectral grace and corpse-like pallor. Her hobbies include beheading roses, conducting séances to commune with deceased relatives, and igniting romantic passions in her husband, Gomez. Over time, Morticia has become a cultural icon and role model, influencing figures from Vampira to Elvira with her signature clinging black dress, dark hair, and supernatural allure. Beyond her darker pursuits, she is a devoted mother and wife.
Netflix’s Wednesday introduced a slight, and somewhat debated, shift in Morticia’s character and her relationship with Wednesday. While retaining her core essence, her unwavering understanding of her daughter was subtly lessened to allow for more individual character development for Wednesday. This nuanced alteration, layered upon the established versions of Morticia, ultimately makes her character even more intriguing and multifaceted, cementing her place as a beloved Addams Family character.
3. Uncle Fester
Originally Played By Jackie Coogan
Uncle Fester, the consistently hilarious and quirky uncle, is literally a bright spark in the gloomy Addams household. Famously generating 110 volts of electricity at random, he can illuminate a lightbulb simply by placing it in his mouth. Initially portrayed as Morticia’s uncle in the 60s series, the 90s films reimagined him as Gomez’s brother. Part of Uncle Fester’s charm lies in his perpetual lightheartedness and lack of seriousness. He embraces migraines for amusement, using a giant vice grip on his head for fun. Despite his bizarre looks and behavior, he has deep affection for his niece and nephew and greatly admires their parents.
As The Addams Family‘s primary comedic relief, Uncle Fester has achieved a unique level of fan adoration. This was clearly demonstrated by the enthusiastic reaction to his surprise appearance in Wednesday season 1. Despite being present for only one episode, Wednesday’s rare genuine smile and the widespread online excitement among The Addams Family fandom solidified Uncle Fester’s status as one of the franchise’s most cherished Addams Family characters.
2. Thing
Originally Played By Ted Cassidy/Jack Voglin
Thing, the disembodied hand, is a consistent presence across every Addams Family adaptation, although his origins are often left unexplained. In the 60s television series, Thing was described as “Thing,” too grotesque to be fully seen, only revealing his hand from a box. Advancements in special effects for the 90s films allowed Thing to become a mobile, independent hand, a concept continued in the Netflix spinoff. Wednesday even hints at Thing’s mysterious origins, suggesting he is an enigma even to the Addams family themselves.
Despite being merely a hand, Thing possesses a surprisingly rich personality. Initially a minor character, Thing has evolved into an indispensable part of the Addams Family franchise. Even with many Addams Family characters having reduced roles in Wednesday, Thing remains a crucial and constant presence. He aids Wednesday, acting as a moral guide of sorts, communicating through American Sign Language and a distinct, voiceless attitude. Thing’s unique design and personality have made him an unforgettable and highly ranked Addams Family character.
1. Wednesday Addams
Originally Played By Lisa Loring
Wednesday Addams, the perpetually morose daughter of Morticia and Gomez, has ascended to pop culture icon status since her debut in Charles Addams’ cartoons. Her macabre sensibilities, delivered with deadpan humor, have generated some of the most memorable comedic moments across her various incarnations. Initially depicted as a six-year-old with a fascination for sharp objects and spiders, the 90s live-action films portrayed her as slightly older, with Christina Ricci’s performance defining the character for a generation. Jenna Ortega’s portrayal in Wednesday has elevated the character to new heights of popularity.
Wednesday Addams’ own spin-off series is testament to her current cultural relevance. Despite her peculiar family and morbid outlook, Wednesday embodies the quintessential teenage experience, making her relatable to audiences across generations. Her sharp intellect, iconic dance moves, and signature deadpan stare have cemented Wednesday Addams as the most impactful and number one The Addams Family character across multiple generations.
Which Actor Best Embodies Each Character?
When considering the definitive portrayals of Gomez and Morticia Addams, two pairs of actors stand out. The originals, John Astin and Carolyn Jones, established the characters’ template. However, Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston in the 1990s movies arguably made the characters their own, creating the iconic figures recognized today.
For supporting characters like Lurch and Uncle Fester, Ted Cassidy and Jackie Coogan from the original TV show deliver performances that remain iconic, although Christopher Lloyd and Fred Armisen have also offered memorable interpretations. Carol Kane in Addams Family Values is often cited as the best Grandmama, surpassing Blossom Rock’s original portrayal.
Pugsley’s character gained significant interest in the 1990s films, with Jimmy Workman’s performance, particularly in Addams Family Values, being a highlight. Thing and Cousin It are unique as their performances are largely consistent across adaptations.
Ultimately, for Wednesday Addams, while Lisa Loring was commendable in the original series, Christina Ricci in the 1990s movies and Jenna Ortega in Wednesday are considered the two best. Ricci’s sardonic wit and combative nature are iconic, while Ortega brought a new layer of nuance. The preferred Wednesday often depends on individual fan preference, but both actresses have indelibly shaped this number one Addams Family character.
