ABC's political thriller has gone from trashy fun to legitimately good TV. Here are the characters worth tuning in for.
Olivia Pope
This is Olivia Pope's show, and don't you forget it. Kerry Washington has finally found a showcase for her talents: Olivia is a fascinating figure, both fiercely driven and emotionally vulnerable. Her up-and-down journey this season cemented her as one of TV's best leads.
Image by ABC
Fitzgerald Grant
Fitz is unlike any TV president who came before him: he's sexy, charming, and a Republican. He also went very dark at the culmination of the election-rigging arc in a move that could alienate fans but makes him all the more compelling.
Image by ABC
David Rosen
Josh Malina is often cast in the nerdy side roles, but David Rosen is a part with some serious weight to it: sure, he serves his purpose as an adversary to Olivia. But he's also an obsessive, complicated man who keeps getting screwed by the system.
Image by ABC
Mellie Grant
Forget House of Cards: Scandal's power couple in the White House is all the political scheming and backstabbing you need. Mellie was a nuisance when she first showed up, but she has grown into an impressive (and terrifying) force of nature.
Image by ABC