Barnabas Collins

Barnabas Collins is a vampire from the 18th-century gothic soap opera Dark Shadows who becomes the show's protagonist and a beloved character despite his monstrous nature. Born in 1760, he was a scion of the wealthy Collins family who was turned into a vampire and later becomes their protector. His story involves his tragic love for Josette du Pres, his complex relationship with Dr. Julia Hoffman, and his struggle against his vampiric curse. The character has been portrayed by various actors, most famously Jonathan Frid, and was also played by Johnny Depp in the 2012 film adaptation. He became a vampire after being cursed by Angelique Bouchard, a sorceress. Relationships: His great love was his fiancée, Josette du Pres, but he also had relationships with other women, including Maggie Evans and Victoria Winters. He had a close ally in Dr. Julia Hoffman, a doctor who was quietly in love with him. Character development: He was originally a terrifying villain but developed into the show's hero, repeatedly risking his life to save the Collins family. Weaknesses: As a vampire, he becomes sleepy as the sun rises and enters a coma-like state during the day. Portrayals: The iconic role was originated by Jonathan Frid on the original television series, which helped the show's ratings soar. Other actors who have played him include Alec Newman (in the 2004 pilot), Andrew Collins (audio dramas), and Johnny Depp (2012 film).