The ENFJ (Extroversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Judgment) is a personality type under the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) framework, most commonly referred to as the Protagonist type.
ENFJ characters often appear in TV and streaming stories as those who rally others, mentor colleagues, or set the world ablaze when the need arises.
When people think of the ENFJ, the first image that comes to mind is likely that of a charismatic world leader or revolutionary figure actively fighting for a better tomorrow. Others may say they are overdramatic and fake. And none would be totally wrong, ideally. This personality type lies somewhere between these two extremes.
They are known for their exceptional communication skills, ability to inspire others, and ability to excel in social settings. Even the most virtuous traits can manifest in the darkest ways, transforming the ENFJ into a compelling villain, with the same goal as a “good” ENFJ, but with a very different execution.
Because of their innate ability to connect with people on a deep level, ENFJs possess an understanding of emotions and motivations, which can be twisted into manipulation and control when their intentions become misguided.
Here’s a list of ENFJ characters from the big screen who embody these traits in their unique way.
“Remember who you are.”
Mufasa was the most beloved king of the Pride Lands, as well as the ultimate ENFJ: a leader whose strength comes from empathy, conviction, and an unshakeable moral code. Guided by Extroverted Feeling (Fe), he carries a deep sense of responsibility for the Pride Lands and for Simba’s growth.
As a father, he’s loving and protective, doing whatever it takes to ensure the well-being and survival of his family and his Pride. Mufasa often thinks of others before himself and is a gentle guide who focuses on bringing out the best in those around him.
His worldview is shaped by Introverted Intuition (Ni), which leads him to believe that life follows a larger, interconnected order known as the Circle of Life.
Mufasa trusts this vision, often acting boldly to protect those he loves. Beloved by his kingdom and adored by his family, he is the textbook ENFJ: compassionate, visionary, and deeply committed to leaving the world better than he found it.
Professor Charles Xavier embodies the ENFJ’s idealistic core belief that compassion can heal the world. As the founder of X-Men, he is led by Extroverted Feeling (Fe). Charles builds his entire life around service, creating a safe community where young mutants can grow, understand their powers, and learn to live in harmony with humans.
He is so anchored in his belief that humans and mutants can coexist that he struggles to question it, even when Magneto repeatedly proves that humans can be hostile and fearful. Xavier’s moral compass is unwavering.
He willingly carries the emotional weight of others, rehabilitating Logan, guiding Jean, and extending grace to Magneto long after most people would have given up.
He represents the ENFJ characters at their most inspiring: individuals who believe in people more than they believe in themselves, and dedicate their entire life to building a world where everyone, mutant or human, has a place to thrive.
If Mufasa is the light of ENFJ leadership, Homelander is its shadow. He displays charisma, confidence, and an intense need to be admired, which drives his flaws.
He is motivated by a basic fear of being worthless or incapable of success, and a core desire to feel valuable. His downfall is the ENFJ’s worst-case scenario: empathy turning into ego, and leadership into control.
Multiple examples showcase Homelander’s process of trying to present himself as a saviour, in a bid to preserve his ego. Homelander has no sense of morality; all he has is the emotional feedback he receives from society.
His perception as “The World’s Greatest Superhero” is the only guide he has, and this leads him to commit so many questionable acts.
Donna Paulsen is one of the clearest ENFJ characters on television; warm, intuitive, and effortlessly in tune with the people around her.
She understands what people need before they say a word, and she uses that emotional intelligence to guide, support, and sometimes strategically nudge situations in the right direction. She can be bossy when necessary, but it always stems from a place of genuine care.
Her strength lies in Extroverted Feeling (Fe), the natural ability to connect, empathize, and influence. She has a deep understanding of people, predicting behavior, noticing patterns, and seeing the bigger picture long before others catch on.
She’s fiercely loyal to the Harveys, Mike, Rachel, and even Louis (considering how many times he had tried to sabotage them), and always protects them.
She leads with compassion and a strong moral compass, using her insight to build people up, unless, of course, they threaten her own interests.
“I will answer injustice with justice.”
Daenerys embarks on her journey as a compassionate leader, determined to liberate the oppressed.
She sees herself as a champion of the helpless, guided by a fierce moral vision for a better world. But as her power grows, so does the intensity of her convictions. The certainty in her destiny and her belief that only she can build a just world reflect the shadow side of ENFJ passion.
Like many ENFJ characters, Daenerys is deeply motivated by the suffering of others. Her decision to free the Unsullied and protect the powerless was fueled by her compassion and her vision for a better world. Her passion, however, becomes her weakness.
As she gains power, she becomes more rigid, emotional, and reactive. She demands loyalty, reacts strongly to betrayal, and begins to believe that only her vision is the “right” one. Her idealism turns into something extreme, leading to destructive choices such as the destruction of King’s Landing.
ENFJs are the storytellers, the visionaries, and the ones who make people believe in something bigger than themselves. They see the spark of potential in others and fan it into a flame. But being an ENFJ isn’t always easy. As shown, their empathy either builds bridges or burns them, depending on how they utilize their emotional insight.
These characters remind us that leadership is complex, empathy is powerful, and even the best intentions can shape worlds — for better or for worse. For anyone interested in determining their MBTI type, please visit here.
