Karen Gillan’s Most Iconic Roles
From Inverness, Scotland to the heights of Hollywood, Karen Gillan has become one of the most recognizable and beloved actresses of her generation. With a mix of charm, wit, and raw talent, she’s earned her place in both cult classics and blockbuster franchises. Whether she’s time-traveling with The Doctor or saving the galaxy alongside Marvel’s mightiest heroes, Karen’s screen presence leaves a lasting impression.
In this article, we explore the Top 10 Roles That Made Karen Gillan a Fan Favorite. These characters helped define her career, build her fanbase, and showcase her wide range as a performer.
1. Amy Pond – Doctor Who (2010–2013)
Karen’s breakout role as Amy Pond in Doctor Who made her an instant star. As the companion to the Eleventh Doctor (Matt Smith), Amy was brave, curious, and fiercely loyal. Her Scottish accent, fiery personality, and emotional depth resonated with fans globally.
This role not only launched her into the public eye but also gave her the opportunity to explore complex storylines, from childhood trauma to alternate realities. Amy remains one of the most popular companions in the show’s long history.
2. Nebula – Marvel Cinematic Universe (2014–2023)
Karen took a sharp turn from Amy Pond when she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Nebula, the emotionally tormented adopted daughter of Thanos. First appearing in Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), Nebula started as a villain but gradually transformed into one of the franchise’s most complex and heroic characters.
Karen’s physical transformation—shaving her head and enduring hours of prosthetics—was matched by her ability to bring vulnerability and rage to the screen. Over several films (Infinity War, Endgame, Thor: Love and Thunder, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3), Nebula became a fan-favorite redemption arc.
3. Ruby Roundhouse – Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) & Sequel
In Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Karen played Ruby Roundhouse, the avatar of a shy high school girl trapped in a video game. Equal parts badass fighter and socially awkward teen, the role gave Karen a chance to shine comedically and physically.
The role’s success continued in Jumanji: The Next Level (2019), where she further flexed her comedic timing. Fans loved the contrast between Ruby’s powerful exterior and the nerdy personality inside—brought to life perfectly by Gillan.
4. Eliza Dooley – Selfie (2014)
Although short-lived, the ABC sitcom Selfie developed a cult following, largely due to Karen’s endearing performance as Eliza Dooley. A social media-obsessed influencer forced to re-evaluate her life, Eliza was both hilarious and relatable.
Karen’s sharp comedic instincts and emotional vulnerability gave depth to what could’ve been a one-note role. Fans continue to call for the show’s revival years after its cancellation.
5. Sam – Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)
Karen led the female-driven action film Gunpowder Milkshake as Sam, an elite assassin caught between duty and family. In this stylized, neon-soaked thriller, she fought alongside legends like Lena Headey and Angela Bassett.
Her performance was praised for its emotional grounding amid all the action, showcasing Karen as a viable lead in gritty, R-rated cinema. The role also expanded her appeal as an action star.
6. Jane Lockhart – Not Another Happy Ending (2013)
In this indie romantic comedy, Karen starred as Jane Lockhart, a quirky and stubborn author navigating writer’s block and complicated relationships. The film was set in Glasgow and embraced Scottish humor and charm.
Though it didn’t make waves internationally, the movie showcased Karen’s flair for romantic comedy and helped cement her status as a leading lady in UK cinema.
7. Kaylie Russell – Oculus (2013)
In Oculus, a psychological horror film by Mike Flanagan, Karen played Kaylie Russell, a woman determined to prove a haunted mirror was responsible for her family’s destruction. The film was critically acclaimed and a major step into Hollywood for Karen.
Her intense and nuanced performance helped set her apart from typical horror movie tropes. Kaylie’s descent into madness remains one of Karen’s most gripping performances.
8. Patricia – Dual (2022)
Karen delivered a unique double performance in Dual, a dark sci-fi satire where she played both a woman and her own clone. The story explores questions of identity, autonomy, and mortality in a dystopian future.
Gillan’s portrayal of both versions—each with distinct personalities—was subtle, controlled, and often darkly funny. The role was a testament to her evolving skills as a character actress and her willingness to take on challenging, offbeat material.
9. Lena – The Party’s Just Beginning (2018)
The Party’s Just Beginning wasn’t just a starring role—it was also Karen’s directorial debut. The film tackled themes of grief, suicide, and mental health in her hometown of Inverness. Karen played Lena, a young woman processing the loss of her best friend.
Personal, raw, and unflinching, the film was well received in the indie circuit. It established Karen as not only an actress but a serious filmmaker with vision and depth.
10. Nebula (Voice) – What If...? (2021–2023)
Karen brought Nebula to life again in a new way—through voice acting in Marvel’s animated What If...? series. The show explored alternate versions of MCU characters, and Gillan added new emotional notes to the character.
Fans appreciated her ability to adapt her voice performance while retaining Nebula’s personality, giving the animated version the same gravitas as her live-action portrayal.
Conclusion
Karen Gillan’s path to stardom is a masterclass in versatility and growth. From British TV companion to intergalactic antihero, comedic gamer to troubled author, she’s built a career that reflects not only talent but bravery in role selection.
If you’re discovering her for the first time or revisiting her greatest performances, the Top 10 Roles That Made Karen Gillan a Fan Favorite prove why she continues to inspire audiences around the world.