Red Dwarf: Every Major Character Ranked From Worst To Best

9. Kryten 1

The first iteration of subservient android Kryten was meant as a one-off character, and from his portrayal in his titular episode, it’s not too hard to figure out why. David Ross’ simpering performance is funny in small doses, but no way could the ‘bot have become the missing piece of the Red Dwarf crew in this iteration.

The episode itself has plenty to enjoy, including the ghoulish sight of the unwitting Kryten continuing to serve dinner to his long-dead crew, but from there it’s pretty by the numbers stuff - Rimmer takes control of the droid and bosses him about until Lister teaches him the value of rebellion, allowing Kryten to whip off into space, presumably never to be seen again.

Ross does exactly what’s asked of him but is hampered not only by the greater depth afforded to Robert Llewellyn’s Kryten but the shoddy costume, giving the actor very little room to actually perform.

While Kryten would go on to become one of the most likeable characters seen on Red Dwarf, the initial version is at times offputting, and the reboot was unquestionably the right move.