Every soap opera has its fair share of beloved characters and those who viewers love to despise. Some figures stir up controversy with their actions, while others create drama that keeps audiences engaged. Currently, a handful of soap characters stand out as the most disliked, drawing intense reactions from fans. But do they truly deserve all the backlash, or is there room for redemption? Let’s take a closer look at six soap opera characters who are facing major criticism across popular daytime dramas, including The Young and the Restless.
1. Drew Quartermaine – General Hospital
Drew Quartermaine, portrayed by Cameron Mathison, has undergone a dramatic shift in behavior over the past year, making him one of the most polarizing figures in Port Charles. His shocking affair with his nephew’s wife left fans in disbelief, as he prioritized his romance over long-standing relationships in town. His actions have not only created turmoil within the Quartermaine family but have also impacted the Ashfords, the Robinsons, and even the Corinthos clan. On top of that, Drew’s desperate attempts to hold onto his family legacy—including suggesting relocating Tracy’s parents’ crypt—have left fans questioning whether he can ever redeem himself.
2. EJ DiMera – Days of Our Lives
EJ DiMera has made a name for himself as one of the most ruthless figures in Salem. Known for his lies, manipulations, and outright cruelty, EJ continues to stack up enemies. From deceiving Nicole about her baby to kidnapping Ray and replacing him with a doppelgänger to ruin J’s career, his schemes are relentless. Instead of taking accountability for his actions—especially his mistreatment of Sami—EJ is focused on revenge. His recent experiments with memory-erasing drugs and betrayals of multiple women have put him in a dangerous position. With so many people against him, it may only be a matter of time before someone takes drastic action to stop him.
3. Hope Logan – The Bold and the Beautiful
Hope Logan’s recent choices have left fans frustrated. Her role in the hostile takeover of Forrester Creations caused major tension, and while Carter may have devised the plan, Hope was fully invested in it. She showed little regard for the Forrester family’s downfall while enjoying her newfound power. Prior to that, her impulsive kiss with Finn led to her being fired and ostracized by those closest to her. Now, with Steffy and Ridge turning against her and even her mother, Brooke, struggling to support her, Hope has hit rock bottom. With Carter restoring the company to its rightful owners, what will Hope’s next move be?
4. Luna Nozawa – The Bold and the Beautiful
Luna Nozawa has crossed lines that few characters dare to, making her one of the most controversial figures on B&B. From endangering lives and trapping Steffy in a building scheduled for demolition to tampering with a crucial DNA test, Luna has made enemies at every turn. Her desperate attempt to manipulate paternity results to claim Bill Spencer as her father backfired, yet she didn’t stop there—she even kissed Bill in an attempt to gain favor. Some fans suspect she faked an injury while in prison to garner sympathy. Now, after being rejected by her mother, Poppy, and kicked out of Bill’s mansion, Luna has aligned herself with Sheila Carter—a dangerous alliance that could unleash even more chaos.
5. Bill Hamilton – Beyond the Gates
Though a newer character, Bill Hamilton has already managed to alienate almost everyone around him. His actions have strained his relationships with the DPR family, his daughters, and even his co-workers at the law firm. His numerous affairs during his marriage to Danny were bad enough, but leaving her for her daughter’s best friend was the final betrayal. Even after their divorce, Bill continues to undermine and humiliate Danny, seeing her pain as an opportunity to exert more control. His willingness to use blackmail and manipulate public perception through press conferences has only fueled the resentment against him. With so many enemies, it’s only a matter of time before he faces real consequences.
6. Adam Newman – The Young and the Restless
Adam Newman has always been a divisive figure in Genoa City, but recent events have placed him in an even more precarious position. While his family has begrudgingly accepted him, they remain highly critical of his every move. His history with Chelsea continues to haunt him—particularly their fateful night in Baltimore, which has left lasting emotional scars. Chelsea has distanced herself from him, turning to Billy Abbott instead. Meanwhile, a power struggle over the media empire is brewing between Adam and Billy, with Adam willing to go to any lengths to win. Fans are torn—does Adam deserve another shot at redemption, or is he doomed to repeat his mistakes?
Each of these characters has made choices that have alienated viewers and fueled controversy. But is redemption still possible for any of them? Some may find a way to repair their damaged reputations, while others seem destined to face the consequences of their actions. What do you think—who deserves forgiveness, and who should finally be held accountable?
