Top 10 Evil Preachers In Movie and TV History

Father Paul Hill - Midnight Mass

Father Paul Hill arrives on a remote island as a young priest who inspires renewed belief among the residents. Strange events soon follow, which he describes as miracles sent by God. His devotion slowly turns extreme as he begins justifying horrifying actions through scripture. He believes faith matters more than human suffering. This belief leads him to encourage violence and destruction while remaining convinced he is doing good.

Harry Powell - Night Of The Hunter

Harry Powell pretends to be a preacher while secretly living as a violent criminal. He uses religion to earn trust, especially from vulnerable people who believe he represents God. His targets include a widow and her children, who know where stolen money is hidden. The famous “LOVE” and “HATE” tattoos on his hands show the false morality he lives by.

Pastor Eli - There Will Be Blood

Eli Sunday presents himself as a man of faith, but his actions slowly reveal deep hypocrisy. He enjoys authority and attention far more than spiritual duty. As oil money brings power into his town, Eli grows resentful and insecure, especially toward Daniel Plainview. His public preaching hides personal bitterness, jealousy, and pride. Eli often ignores his own teachings when they no longer serve him.

Brother Justin - Carnivale

Brother Justin Crowe is a radio preacher during the Dust Bowl who believes he has been chosen for a higher purpose. After discovering supernatural abilities, he begins using them to punish others for their sins. His sermons attract followers who see him as a holy figure, but his actions show cruelty rather than mercy. Justin manipulates people through fear and belief, treating resistance as evil.

Silas - The Da Vinci Code

Silas is a devoted religious follower who believes pain proves loyalty to God. Though not an ordained priest, he lives like one and carries out violent acts under religious orders. He punishes himself physically and sees murder as sacred duty rather than crime. His obedience removes all personal judgment, allowing others to control him completely. Silas commits brutal acts while believing he serves a holy purpose.

Margaret White - Carrie

Margaret White is Carrie’s deeply religious mother who rules her household through fear and punishment. She teaches her daughter that natural bodily changes are sinful and deserving of shame. Her beliefs lead to emotional and physical abuse disguised as religious discipline. Prayer becomes a tool for control rather than comfort. Margaret isolates Carrie from the world and fills her with guilt and terror.

Caleb - Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Caleb is a former priest who becomes a servant of the First Evil during the show’s final season. He uses religious language to justify violence, especially toward women. His hatred is deeply rooted, and he enjoys causing suffering while claiming moral authority. Caleb believes power proves righteousness and sees cruelty as deserved punishment. His physical strength and twisted belief system make him especially dangerous.

Patrick Roark - Sin City

Patrick Roark holds a powerful position within both the church and Basin City’s ruling family. Instead of protecting others, he hides horrific crimes committed by his nephew. His loyalty lies in power and bloodlines rather than faith or justice. Roark even takes part in violence, proving how far he has fallen from any moral duty.

Reverend Shaw Moore - Footloose

Reverend Shaw Moore becomes the moral leader of a small town after a tragic accident involving local teenagers. Believing joy leads to danger, he pushes laws banning music and dancing. His decisions are driven by fear and grief rather than compassion. The town slowly loses freedom under his influence. Though not violent, his rigid belief system damages relationships and stifles expression.

Reverend Henry Kane - Poltergeist II: The Other Side

Reverend Henry Kane is a former cult leader who continues spreading terror even after death. He once controlled followers by convincing them the end of the world was coming. Their spirits remain trapped under his influence. Kane now targets the Freeling family, attempting to enter their home and continue his rule. His polite speech hides cruel intent, making him deeply unsettling.