Every year, celebrity culture produces its share of admirers and critics — and in 2025, public opinion has been particularly vocal. A major Ranker poll, driven by thousands of online votes throughout the year, has revealed which high-profile figures people are most likely to “dislike.” The list sparks conversation about fame, public perception, and the reasons why certain personalities inspire strong reactions.
In a culture where social media and constant media exposure drive narratives, a celebrity’s image can shift rapidly. What was popular yesterday can be controversial today. The 2025 results reflect not just scandals or controversies, but also how visibility, behavior, and public narratives shape reputations in the modern era.
Meghan Markle at the Top
At the top of the list sits Meghan Markle, who has been ranked as 2025’s most disliked celebrity according to the ongoing vote. Public sentiment around the Duchess of Sussex has remained negative in recent years, often tied to widespread media coverage and polarising discussions about her role in royal life and her public projects. Despite her continued involvement in entertainment ventures and advocacy work, many voters expressed friction with her public image, contributing to her holding the top spot in 2025.
Meghan’s position has been a recurring topic in online discussions, with many viewers sharing opinions about why they feel strongly about her visibility in global media. Her relationship with her husband and the ongoing spotlight on their decisions abroad have often kept her in discussions beyond the usual celebrity gossip cycle.
Other Controversial Figures in the Top Rankings
Following Meghan, several other well-known personalities also appeared high on the list due to various reasons — from past legal issues to perceived public behaviour. Figures such as Prince Harry also featured near the top, drawing criticism tied to ongoing disagreements about loyalty, media narratives, and their public portrayal since stepping back from royal duties. Other names frequently mentioned in public sentiment and similar polls include controversial entertainers and media figures whose reputations have been shaped by high-profile controversies, lawsuits, or social media backlash. While Ranker itself updates dynamically with votes that change over time, these recurring names highlight how ongoing visibility — whether positive or negative — impacts public opinion.
Why Celebrities Become Disliked
There are numerous reasons celebrities might end up on a most-disliked list. Controversies such as legal troubles, perceived arrogance, or public behaviour can influence how audiences feel. Sometimes, a person’s media strategy or outspoken opinions generate backlash, especially when amplified across platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Another factor is familiarity. When personalities stay constantly in the spotlight — especially through documentaries, social media content, or high-profile deals — even neutral audiences may grow fatigued or critical. In Meghan’s case, her sustained visibility across multiple platforms and in media outlets appears to have contributed to her ranking.
Public Reaction and Debate
The rankings have ignited plenty of discussion online. Supporters of some named celebrities argue that such lists are unfair and reflect biased or superficial judgments rather than substantive critique. Others use the list as a barometer for public mood or as a starting point for deeper conversation about fame, accountability, and celebrity behaviour. Critics of the list point out that public voting systems can be influenced by vocal online communities, memes, and social sentiment that may not represent broader public opinion. However, fans and critics alike agree that these lists often reveal as much about online culture as they do about the celebrities themselves.
Looking Ahead
As the year draws to a close and this snapshot of opinion emerges, it’s clear that celebrity perception remains fluid. A ranking like this is not fixed — as public actions, new projects, or changes in behaviour can shift sentiment dramatically. Whether or not these figures will embrace the critique, respond publicly, or witness changes in their ranking remains to be seen as 2026 unfolds. Public opinion continues to be shaped by media narratives, social issues, and each individual’s personal experiences with these public figures. In the world of celebrity culture, what’s most disliked one year might be re-evaluated the next.
