anti-hero

Principal protagonist of the plot who lacks the attributes or characteristics of a typical hero archetype but with whom the audience identifies are called an anti-hero. The anti-hero is often confused or conflicted with ambiguous morals, or character defects and eccentricities, and lacks courage, honesty, or grace (e.g., Walter White in Breaking Bad). The anti-hero can be tough yet sympathetic or display vulnerable and weak traits. Specifically, the anti-hero often functions outside the mainstream and challenges it.