10 Best Buffy The Vampire Slayer Characters

Willow is one of the most beloved characters in the show, and with good reason. She’s instantly charming as a shy yet enthusiastic brainbox. With the possible exception of Giles, no other character has such a high level of intelligence.

Her shy persona soon changes, however. She fully embraces her role as the go-to computer expert and the all-around clever clogs of the gang. Willow also discovers her aptitude for magic whilst at Sunnydale High. Indeed, her spells and enchantments are a vital tool in the Scooby Gang’s arsenal.

However, this magical gift is also the catalyst for her downfall. In the sixth season, she starts to use magic excessively, and her relationship with Tara crumbles. Her magic addiction then reaches its peak following Tara’s death and she becomes the primary villain for the remainder of Season 6. Whilst some find Dark Willow too extreme, there's plenty of build-up to her transformation during the season.

Alyson Hannigan brought humanity and vulnerability to all the stages of Willow’s arc from her innocent beginnings through to her role in the final battle. And though all the main trio are great, Willow has the most versatile journey of the three.