Summary
Dungeons & Dragonsis one of the biggest pop culture media phenomena. Itbegan as a tabletop RPGbut expanded into other media like video games and movies. Its influence is enormous, also inspiring shows like Vox Machina and Stranger Things. Now, rumors suggest that Netflix may bring the Forgotten Realms to a TV Show adaptation.
Even though no script and cast details have been revealed, theDungeons & Dragonsuniverse is packed with unforgettable characters that could enrich the series. From legendary heroes to memorable villains, there are figures that deserve to appear as main characters or special cameos. Any of these characters have the potential to further expand the tabletop RPGuniverse in the Netflix TV show.
8Strahd
Barovia Is Not Specifically In The Forgotten Realms, But It Can Be Adapted
Barovia, the domain of Strahd von Zarovich, does not canonically exist withinForgotten Realms, the chosen setting for theDungeons & Dragonsadaptation. However, since it lies on a parallel plane to Faerûn, there’s room to integrate the iconic villain ofCurse of Strahd, whose presence and design make him a standout antagonist.
What makesStrahd such a unique villainis his personality and commanding presence. Despite being a vampire, he still retains certain human traits. Additionally, Barovia is one of the most fascinating locations in theDungeons & Dragonsuniverse, filled with a dark atmosphere that would serve as the perfect setting for an adaptation aiming to showcase a more serious side of tabletop RPGs. This makes him an excellent antagonist to develop over multiple seasons, with great potential to become a fan favorite.
7Astarion
Character From Baldur’s Gate 3 Deserves A Place In The TV Show
All the companions fromBaldur’s Gate 3, created by Larian Studios, are charismatic enough to stand out in aDungeons & DragonsTV Show adaptation. Still, among them, the mostbeloved by fans is Astarion, the vampire elf interpreted by Neil Newbon in the game and one of the most iconic figures in the isometric RPG.
Astarion’s main highlight is his natural charm and complexity, blending an eloquent manner with a sarcastic personality full of cynical remarks. He also has a memorable accent. If the producers of theDungeons & DragonsTV Show had to choose one character fromBaldur’s Gate 3to include, he would be one of the best picks.
6Szass Tam
This Lich Leads The Red Wizards Of Thay
InDungeons & Dragons:Honor Among Thieves, fans got a glimpse of the power wielded by the Red Wizards of Thay, a group of nefarious spellcasters who stand among the story’s main villains. However, although mentioned, Szass Tam, the leader of this cult, has little influence on the movie’s plot, appearing in only a few scenes to explain the group’s origins.
Because of this, Szass Tam has great potential not only to appear in the Netflix TV Show that is in production but also to serve as the major villain for the first seasons, given the character’s formidable power and narrative possibilities. Especially since Vecna, another well-known lich villain to players, was already used in Stranger Things, Szass could offer something new and original.
5Elminster Aumar
A Wizard And One Of The Most Powerful Figures In Dungeons & Dragons
Inspired by icons like Merlin and Gandalf, Elminster is what comes to mind when thinking about a powerful being in this universe, complete with a long gray beard, pointy hat, and magical abilities beyond comprehension. He canemerge as a mentor to the characterswhen theDungeons & Dragonsseries raises the stakes with major threats.
Moreover, his presence, as in any other appearance he makes, such as when speaking with Gale in Baldur’s Gate 3, brings an even greater sense of grandeur to the story. Therefore, depending on the plans of the producers of the Dungeons & Dragons series on Netflix, Elminster could be a central figure throughout the entire narrative.
4Xanathar
This Beholder Is One Of The Most Eccentric Villains In The Tabletop RPG
Xanathar is much more than a name - it is a stolen title, passed between beholders throughout the underworld history of Waterdeep. The current bearer of this name, Zushaxx, is a paranoid and megalomaniac crime lord who rules Skullport and commands Xanathar’s Thieves' Guild, wielding influence over the region’s politics and crime. Unlike predecessors, he does not remain completely hidden, letting rumors about his real identity spread, which amplifies his aura of mystery and fear.
Besides his power,Xanathar is eccentric, obsessed with knowledge and with his unusual pet - a goldfish named Sylgar, treated like a sacred relic. His unpredictability makes him a fascinating villain for a television adaptation, bringing danger with a touch of bizarre humor. His criminal empire and chaotic personality would make him unforgettable, posing a constant threat to the protagonists and expanding the complexity of the Netflix series.
3Volothamp Geddarm
A Bard Well-Known To Dungeons & Dragons Players
Volothamp Geddarm,or simply Volo, is one of the best-known characters among both tabletop RPG players and fans ofBaldur’s Gate 3. Famous for his guides full of information - and some inaccuracies - this charismatic figure could appear in theDungeons & Dragonsseries that Netflix is producing, whether through a small reference or even as a narrator guiding the story.
In addition, Volo is known for being present at many important events in the Forgotten Realms, which would make his presence in the show something that fans would anticipate. As a recurring character or a source of knowledge for the protagonists, his eccentric style and charm would make him a memorable addition, akin to how Jaskier worked inThe Witcher.
2Drizzt Do’Urden
A Hero Who Is One Of The Most Important Characters In Forgotten Realms Lore
AlthoughDrizzt Do’Urden’s story is already well establishedin R. A. Salvatore’s books, he deserves to appear on the Netflix TV Show, as he is one of the most recognized and significant faces in all of Forgotten Realms lore. He is a legendary drow ranger, known for his unique design and his struggle against the evil legacy of his people, giving him rich character development.
He might not be the best candidate for a lead or a direct appearance in the series, but it would still be possible to sprinkle references to Drizzt, whether in dialogue, paintings, or even books. The drow’s story is so good it needs to be acknowledged in any Forgotten Realms adaptation.
1Minsc and Boo
One Of The Funniest Duos In The Forgotten Realms
Originally created for the firstBaldur’s Gategame, Minsc and Boo are among the greatest icons ofDungeons & Dragonsand deserve at least a reference in the TV Show. The two characters offer a perfect balance between humor and heroism, serving as comic relief since Minsc firmly believes that Boo is a giant space hamster in miniature size.
Beyond being recognized by most longtime tabletop RPG fans, Minsc and Boo also capture the irreverent spirit many players embrace when creating their ownDungeons & Dragonscharacters. Because they are so popular, they would be a perfect choice for comedic interactions and for the entertaining dynamic they share.
