This was a tough question and the answer is not what I expected. I have read tons of books and several comic books. I have watched more than my share of movies and television shows.
In the end, I have determined that my favorite character is Johnny Depp as Barnabas Collins. Most of my other favorite characters have also been played by Johnny Depp – Captain Jack Sparrow, Sands in “Once Upon a Time in Mexico.” and the Mad Hatter.
Barnabas Collins is an interesting character and a snazzy dresser. He’s definitely not perfect. Even when he was a mortal, he was seriously flawed. He’s not completely good but he’s not without some ethics. Barnabas was protective of his 20th century family, especially the little boy, David. Barnabas was so unlucky in love. Of course, most of it was his own doing but I still wished that he could find a companion.
I just started watching the “Dark Shadows” television series. Unfortunately, I was not born when it was originally on television.

P.S. I found a “Dark Shadows” character quiz. 🙂 I’m Elizabeth Collins Stoddard.
http://apps.warnerbros.com/darkshadows/characterquiz/us/

Photo from:
http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/tim-burtons-dark-shadows/images/30775984/title/barnabas-collins-photo