Schitt's Creek has become a beloved and critically acclaimed comedy series since its release in 2015. First airing in Canada and the United States in early 2015, the show was a slow hit until it was made available for streaming on Netflix in 2017. Also, with the rise of streaming due to the pandemic in 2020, when the show released its final season, it became more widely known. Since its conclusion, Schitt's Creek has set the record for most Emmy wins for a comedy series in a single season, and continues to win fans over with its relatable plot points and, specifically, its memorable characters. Here is a ranking of the show's main characters and a dive into how they relate to us, the audience.
11 Mutt
Initially appearing as the polar opposite of Alexis, Mutt’s brooding characteristics were enough to carry the plot only so far. Unfortunately his stylized ruggedness and hunky charm were really all there was to offer, other than humbling Alexis to help with her progression. That said, Mutt still has good comedic moments and has a very interesting backstory, earning him a spot on this list.
10 Roland
Roland certainly exists to remind you of the people that grind your gears most in life, but there is an importance here. A yin and yang symbolic reasoning. The conflict of Schitt’s Creek exists because of him. He is written in such a manner that you cannot hate him, but you can be frustrated while also rooting for him. Though Roland’s most redeeming moments arrive later in the story, we have him to thank for some of the show’s funniest moments.
9
Ted
Loveable, charming, and simple. Taking the place of Mutt, Ted does not offer much else to the story other than helping Alexis’ development yet again. What stands out for him, however, is his innocence and devotion to the things he cares about in life. Though we see that these traits harm him, they still make his character likable and a joy to see on screen.
8
Johnny
At times, Johnny is the most rational and sensible character on the show. This is his downfall when he is outnumbered by citizens in a lackadaisical town. Sometimes we want to point to Johnny to make things right, but his inept emotional abilities stagger him. This leaves much room for growth throughout the series that is rewarding to watch.
7
Twyla
What seemed like a one-off character turns into the embodiment of the show’s meaning; appreciating what you have and turning lemons into lemonade. Twyla’s character is perfectly sprinkled throughout the show to deliver memorable lines and always being there when needed. Her aloofness gathers mystery but simultaneously feels like oversharing, which becomes the core of her character. Twyla is portrayed by Sarah Levy, the daughter of Eugene Levy, which adds to the curiosity of her character.
6
Jocelyn
Mostly acting as Moira’s rival throughout the show, Jocelyn is the embodiment of Bowling for Soup’s song, “1985”, as she appears almost stuck in time, something Moira fears. She shows her own development being a true friend to the Rose family. Jocelyn eases the frustration caused by her husband, Roland, but sometimes adds fuel to the fire. The duality of her character being a source of conflict and support is what makes her one of the most valuable characters on the show.
5
Patrick
Offering character development for David, and arguably the most important character to be introduced later in the series, Patrick begins the permanence of the Rose family’s ties to Schitt’s Creek. After appearing as a business partner to David and quickly falling in love with each other, his character is taken one step further by showcasing the struggle of coming out later in life. His character adds to the realism behind this small town and contributes reflection within David’s character.
4
Moira
Arriving at Schitt's Creek with almost nothing but a collection of wigs, Moira is a force to be reckoned with. Her self-importance and lavish looks clash with the fellow townspeople and her own family, who she struggles to connect with on a deeper level. Her development throughout the show may be slow moving, but all the more rewarding as she finally comes into her motherhood. Moira, played by Home Alone's Catherine O’Hara, is an iconic character who is cleverly written and acted, and never fails to light up the screen.
3
David
David is conceited enough to convince you the show is about him, which makes his development with other characters some of the show’s best written moments. David exudes overconfidence, and his sassiness is the most meme-able part of the show. Paired with his ironically great outfits, he is a hilarious depiction of youth culture today. There is great relatability with his character thanks to his portrayal by showrunner Dan Levy.
2
Alexis
Hands down the character with the most development is Alexis. Her growth is seemingly unexpected given her carefree attitude that she maintains throughout most of the story, however Alexis is capable of some of the most deep introspection not seen from any of the characters. Majority of the show we see Alexis piece together and learn about herself and why she hasn’t found true happiness. This process for her impacts not only herself, but the growth of the characters around her as she becomes a voice of change for everyone. Alexis sets an example for human growth through trying and failing and the importance of independence.
1
Stevie
Jaded by small town life, Stevie takes interest in the Rose family, but not without keeping herself protected by showing her indifference toward the family’s pompous lifestyle. Stevie is a representation of people who scoff at the upper class and reject the norm, but only due to a shared lack of human connection. She is a hard shell to crack, but begins to unravel when she sets her differences aside and shows her vulnerability. Stevie exemplifies many qualities people strive for throughout the show; humility, knowing yourself, and resilience. Her relatability acts as a bridge between the audience and the characters within the show.