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Revealed: The public’s all-time favourite on-screen characters of film, TV and gaming
gaming
- If search volume equated to Instagram followers, the Joker could charge $102k (£74.5k) for a sponsored post
- Rachel Green has the most Instagram posts hashtagged with her name of all sitcom characters (1 million)
- Pennywise, Chucky and Jigsaw are the most searched-for horror characters
- Games featuring Pikachu rake in highest revenue ($90 billion/£65.9 billion) of all the top gaming characters
There are hundreds of iconic characters from film, TV and gaming who will forever be household names. But which characters are the public’s all-time favourites? New research by Currys looked at online search volumes and social media posts that talked about some of the most famous personalities from various media genres. Below you can find out who topped each list as the most legendary icons of their genre.
The most iconic gaming characters
- If search volume equated to Instagram followers, Sonic could charge $67k (£48.9k) for a sponsored post
- Pikachu has the most Instagram posts hashtagged with his name of all gaming characters (7.4 million)
- Mario has appeared in the most games of all characters (259)
- Total revenue for the Pokemon game series ($90 billion/£65.9 billion) is higher than any other game, with second-placed Mario Bros lagging far behind ($30.3 billion/£22.2 billion)
The world of gaming has transformed over the decades, but is it the high-definition characters of today that are the fan favourites, or the iconic cartoons of decades gone by? The answer appears to be the latter. The ever-so-speedy Sonic the Hedgehog raced to the top of the search volume ranks, followed by Pikachu and Pac-Man. It’s a similar story on Instagram, with Pikachu, Mario and Sonic receiving the most posts.
| Rank | Character | Global Monthly Search volume | No. of Insta posts with name hashtagged |
| 1 | Sonic | 6,700,000 | 3,273,487 |
| 2 | Pikachu | 3,700,000 | 7,430,874 |
| 3 | Pac-man | 3,000,000 | 1,642,920 |
| 4 | Mario | 2,100,000 | 5,559,810 |
| 5 | Big Boss | 712,500 | 2,800,000 |
| 6 | Luigi | 641,200 | 1,300,000 |
| 7 | Lara Croft | 607,700 | 735,000 |
| 8 | Kratos | 571,900 | 654,000 |
| 9 | Yoshi | 556,700 | 1,800,000 |
| 10 | Diablo | 490,900 | 1,100,000 |
The most terrifying horror characters
- If search volume equated to Instagram followers, Pennywise could charge $15k (£10.9k) for a sponsored post
- Pennywise has the most Instagram posts hashtagged with his name of all horror characters (2 million)
- Hannibal Lecter has the highest average IMDb rating (rated 7.2)
Although many of us would probably rather forget some of the most memorable horror characters, the fact that we can’t makes them all the more iconic. Taking first place for search volume and number of Instagram posts is killer clown Pennywise, who has really had a lasting impact on audiences. He’s followed by evil doll Chucky and Saw’s murderous mastermind Jigsaw in terms of search volume, and Dracula and Halloween’s Michael Myers in number of Instagram posts.
| Rank | Character | Global monthly search volume | No. of Insta posts with name hashtagged |
| 1 | Pennywise AKA IT | 1,500,000 | 2,000,000 |
| 2 | Chucky | 1,400,000 | 1,100,000 |
| 3 | Jigsaw | 967,000 | 844,000 |
| 4 | Freddy Krueger | 943,000 | 991,000 |
| 5 | Michael Myers | 798,000 | 1,200,000 |
| 6 | Frankenstein’s Monster | 673,900 | 124,000 |
| 7 | Hannibal Lecter | 635,000 | 332,000 |
| 8 | Dracula | 632,000 | 1,500,000 |
| 9 | Slenderman | 579,500 | 517,000 |
| 10 | Eli | 324,100 | 1,000,000 |
The Best-loved sitcom characters
- If search volume equated to Instagram followers, Mr Bean could charge $11k (£8k) for a sponsored post
- Rachel Green has the most Instagram posts hashtagged with her name of all sitcom characters (1 million)
- Rachel, Monica, Ross and Phoebe from Friends have the joint highest average IMDb rating (rated 8.9)
There have been plenty of memorable sitcoms over the decades, each attracting die-hard fan bases. So, it’s interesting to see that the data reveals a landslide victory for Friends, with the cast beaten only by Mr Bean in search volume. Not only does this suggest that Friends could be the most iconic sitcom of all time, but it also answers the question many Friends fans have been dying to know – who is the most popular ‘Friend’? It turns out the on-screen couple, Ross and Rachel both take the crowns.
| Rank | Character | Global monthly search volume | No. of Insta posts with name hashtagged |
| 1 | Mr Bean | 1,100,000 | 568,000 |
| 2 | Ross Geller | 589,300 | 932,000 |
| 3 | Rachel Green | 509,400 | 1,000,000 |
| 4 | Monica Geller | 491,700 | 969,000 |
| 5 | Joey Tribbiani | 470,000 | 957,000 |
| 6 | Will Smith | 364,000 | 247,000 |
| 7 | Phoebe Buffay | 338,000 | 812,000 |
| 8 | Bart Simpson | 303,000 | 590,000 |
| 9 | Jerry Seinfeld | 273,000 | 125,000 |
| 10 | Homer Simpson | 266,000 | 688,000 |
The most legendary superheroes and villains
- The Joker, Spider-Man and Black Panther are the most searched-for superheroes and villains in the world
- Batman has the most Instagram posts hashtagged with his name of all superheroes and villains (28.2 million)
- Black Panther has the highest average IMDb rating for all films he has featured in (rated 8.1)
Who steals the title as the greatest superhero is a popular topic of debate. As is the Marvel vs. DC Comics rivalry. To settle these disputes once and for all, the data reveals that Batman, and his nemesis the Joker, take the victory as the most-searched-for and posted about characters. But if we’re basing the win on a majority vote, Marvel and DC Comics are neck and neck, with five characters each ranking in the top 10 – leaving the competition very much open between the two market leaders.
| Rank | Character | Global monthly search volume | No. of Insta posts with name hashtagged |
| 1 | Joker | 10,200,000 | 13,700,000 |
| 2 | Spider-Man | 7,200,000 | 20,500,000 |
| 3 | Black Panther | 4,400,000 | 6,000,000 |
| 4 | Wonder Woman | 3,800,000 | 9,300,000 |
| 5 | Iron Man | 3,400,000 | 16,600,000 |
| 6 | Batman | 3,200,000 | 28,200,000 |
| 7 | Harley Quinn | 3,200,000 | 6,600,000 |
| 8 | Thor | 2,800,000 | 10,900,000 |
| 9 | Deadpool | 2,700,000 | 6,100,000 |
| 10 | Aquaman | 2,600,000 | 2,500,000 |
Methodology
The top characters were identified using Google searches for the “top sitcom characters”, etc. From this, a list of approximately 100 characters was curated for each category, which was narrowed down to 15 based on the highest search volumes (found using SEMRush). Instagram hashtag counts are based on the number of posts hashtagged with the characters’ names, e.g. #Sonic, etc. Potential Instagram earnings were calculated by using the search volume for each character as a hypothetical ‘follower count’. With these figures, we calculated an earning per post based on an unspoken industry standard rate of $100 per 10,000 followers. IMDb ratings were calculated by averaging the IMDb rating of all TV shows or films the character has featured in. For gaming, we identified the total number of games the characters have featured in.
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WhichBingo.co.uk has just published its 2025 Bingo Players Survey, offering a clear window into how UK bingo players are evolving, both in terms of spending and experience preferences.
Despite economic pressures, the data shows that bingo continues to occupy a resilient niche in the broader gambling ecosystem, especially as players become more value-conscious and hybrid in their play habits. Here are a few key industry-facing insights:
- Average monthly player spend is now £15.77 down sharply from £35.25 in 2023, highlighting a pivot toward budget-friendly engagement and lower-stake recreational play.
- 70.79% of players report playing as much or more than last year, suggesting continued demand despite tightened wallets.
- 44.67% of players now split their time between online and in-person bingo, underscoring the increasing appeal of hybrid play models and opportunities for cross-channel loyalty.
- Millennials now make up nearly 46% of the UK bingo-playing audience, while Gen Z participation is steadily growing, indicating that platform design, tone, and features must evolve to suit younger consumer expectations.
- “Increasingly we are seeing groups of players attending Bingo Clubs representing up to three generations, grandchildren, parents, and grandparents!” Bingo Association Chief Executive Miles Baron said.
- Players cite a preference for brands offering value promotions, flexible payment options, and socially engaging formats, with digital convenience and real-world community experiences both playing pivotal roles.
The full survey results dig deeper into:
- Brand trust signals and social media perceptions
- Preferred game types and device usage
- Emerging attitudes on AI-driven features, sustainability, and call culture
Comments from WhichBingo’s new Managing Editor: “As AI becomes more ingrained in daily life, from ChatGPT to driverless cars, the bingo world will need to adapt too. I believe bingo chat rooms and immersive experiences will grow in value, especially as people seek out the kind of community that bingo naturally fosters.”
“We also recognise that only 61.1% of players currently find comparison sites very valuable. That’s why we’re evolving WhichBingo, starting with changes to our rating system and key user tools to provide clearer, more personalised, and trustworthy guidance for modern players.”
The post WhichBingo Players Survey 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Online casino comparison site launches debut white paper with contributions from Big Time Gaming, SPRIBE and Gaming Corps
Comparasino has launched its first industry report, Meet The Game Changers – A Comparasino White Paper.
The white paper goes behind the scenes at three of the most pioneering studios the industry has ever seen to learn more about how they brought their breakthrough products to market.
Contributors include:
· Nik Robinson – Founder and CEO of Big Time Gaming
· David Natroshvili – Founder and Managing Partner of SPRIBE
· Alex Lorimer – Chief Operating Officer at Gaming Corps
Key sections include:
Genesis – learn about where the ideas for Megaways, Aviator and Smash4Cash came from.
The long haul – no one said changing the game was easy. This is how they did it.
Instant success or a slow burn – did the game changers find success early, or did it take a while?
An appetite for risk – find out if risk is inherent to innovation and how to mitigate potential downsides.
The difficult second album – how have these studios approached the “what next” question?
A lasting legacy – how do the game changers perceive their innovations and the impact they have had?
Over to you – get actionable advice from the game changers as to how you can bring the next Hall of Famer product to market.
Standout quotes from the white paper include:
“Look, if you’re not willing to roll the dice, you’re not playing the game. Megaways™ was a high-stakes gamble, and we knew it. This wasn’t a tweak or a slight deviation from a proven blueprint; Megaways™ was full-scale disruption.” Nik Robinson – Founder, Big Time Gaming
“There were moments we doubted it, especially when some partners told us it was ‘too different’ for casino players. But we believed in the mechanic. We also knew the market was evolving, and we had to evolve with it.” David Natroshvili – Founder and Managing Partner, SPRIBE
“With arcade games, the development costs are far cheaper and, generally speaking, the lifecycle far longer than slots, so it wasn’t really a huge financial hole to go down. It was always going to be produced once we started, especially after the customer feedback received during the concept phase.” Alex Lorimer – Chief Operating Officer, Gaming Corps
Meet The Game Changers has been written by Comparasino, the online casino comparison site for players in the UK.
Comparasino Co-founder and MD, Martyn Hannah, said: “This is our debut white paper, and it covers a thrilling topic with contributions from some of the biggest names in the industry.
“To speak directly to the likes of Nik Robinson, David Natroshvili and Alex Lorimer is a unique opportunity and one that we are grateful to have had.
“Meet the Game Changers – A Comparasino White Paper brings genuine value to those who read it, whether you are a studio working on your own breakthrough product or simply interested to learn more about the businesses and people that have shaped the industry in recent years.
“I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it.”
The post Meet The Game Changers – A Comparasino White Paper appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
WinCasino network has officially launched its newest casino in the heart of Warsaw, marking a significant expansion of the Polish casino chain. Located at 40 Smolna Street, within the elegant interiors of Hotel Indigo near the De Gaulle Roundabout, the venue brings over 100 new jobs to the capital and introduces a new premium destination to Warsaw’s gaming and entertainment scene. This is the fifth WinCasino in Poland and the first casino to open in Warsaw in nearly two decades under a new license. Developed by the Wintoro company with an investment of approximately 5 million euros, the Warsaw casino is the largest and most exclusive venue in the WinCasino network.
“This is our fifth casino in Poland, but undoubtedly the most important and prestigious one. We wanted to create a space that offers top-tier gaming while also setting new standards in guest experience — from interior design to customer service. WinCasino Warsaw is part of a broader strategy to integrate casinos into the urban landscape and to redefine them as modern social and entertainment venues. It’s an approach that, until now, has been more the exception than the rule in Poland. Guests nowadays are looking for unique, relaxing, high-end experiences. Our ambition is to meet those expectations and help shape the future direction of the industry in Poland” – comments Monika Paliwoda, CEO of E-fun, owner of Wintoro.
The WinCasino brand, over the past few years, has been steadily building its presence in Poland’s major cities, offering gaming that reflects the latest trends and meets the expectations of a quality-conscious clientele. As a result, the Warsaw-based WinCasino offers the most modern and exclusive VIP zones in Poland, designed for the most demanding players. It features the highest level of luxury, privacy and personalized service with limited yet automatic access control. Key highlights include Poland’s first gold gaming table and gold slot machines modeled on those in Monte Carlo casinos and developed specifically for this venue by Polish manufacturer Promatic, what underlines the luxurious character of the entire investment. In addition, the newest WinCasino in the capital of Poland is outfitted with wooden gaming tables from the renowned Italian brand Abbiati, a supplier to some of the world’s most prestigious. The venue also offers state-of-the-art slot machines, including Poland’s largest selection of VIP machines — featuring oversized monitors and surround-sound seats for a truly immersive gaming experience. WinCasino at Hotel Indigo in Warsaw also stands out with the largest slot machines in the country, each featuring dual 65-inch screens.
“Warsaw is a key market for us — demanding, yet incredibly inspiring. Opening the casino on Smolna Street is the result of long-term planning and a commitment to quality. We want everyone who visits our casino to feel like they’re in a place unlike any other — and to want to come back” – says Mariusz Grzejszczak, CEO of Wintoro.
WinCasino Warsaw operates under a license granted by the Polish Minister of Finance, following a competitive tender process and compliance with stringent regulatory standards. It
stands out for its atmosphere and carefully curated interior design, where modern aesthetics blend seamlessly with elegance and comfort. Clearly designated smoking and non-smoking areas, optimized acoustics, subtle lighting, refined materials, and spacious interiors create an environment friendly both to gaming and socializing. The overall concept draws inspiration from the standards of London, Singapore, and Las Vegas. One of key assets of the new casino is its location, right in the heart of the city, surrounded by renowned restaurants, clubs, and hotels. The casino is open 24/7, providing flexibility and access at any time of day or night. During their stay guests can enjoy a spacious bar offering a wide range of cocktails and premium beverages. A part of the infrastructure of WinCasino Warsaw is also parking for guests – which is a rarity in the city center locations in Warsaw.
The post WinCasino debuts in Warsaw with a new flagship venue appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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