An "iconic villain" refers to a famous and memorable enemy character that is widely recognized and revered. They are often known for their evil deeds or distinctive traits that make them stand out in a story or media. Full definition
Is this what makes him one of the most iconic villains in modern culture? (n4g.com)
Treatment of iconic villain: No one could accuse Colin Farrell of not being able to play a brooding bad boy, though you end up wishing that the film took advantage of the actor more and really let him sink his, um, teeth into the part. (rollingstone.com)
In a way, this musical is a cautionary tale that forces us to look at one of the most iconic villains in cinematic literature (certainly of my childhood), one we associate with perfect wickedry and malevolence, and asks us to challenge those assumptions of what is right and what is wrong. (thedressedaesthetic.com)