7 Fictional Characters You’ll Relate to if You’re an INTP
Analytical and unafraid of breaking tradition, the INTP personality type appears calm on the outside despite the constant turning of their gears. The INTP’s deep inner world is working to uncover the mysteries of the universe, and it’s their devoted inner-thought processes that set this type apart from others. If you’re an INTP, you don’t care to fit in based on others’ ideals of what’s trendy. Your unique way of viewing and analyzing life leads you to exciting discoveries about what’s happening around you every day.
That thoughtful, sometimes quirky independence is exactly what makes INTPs so fascinating to watch in fiction. While they might not always take center stage, INTP characters often serve as the brains behind the operation — the ones who ask the deeper questions, challenge the obvious answers, and uncover truths others overlook. These characters may come off as eccentric or aloof, but under the surface, they’re always analyzing, theorizing, and exploring the “why” behind everything. Whether they’re solving supernatural mysteries, shaping the fate of galaxies, or penning investigative essays in a diner booth, INTPs show us the beauty of intellectual freedom and the quiet power of thinking differently.
Although it’s easy to debate the personality type of a fictional character, if you’re an INTP, you’ll be sure to relate to these INTP characters from books, TV shows, and movies, based on their combination of preferences.
1. Sherlock Holmes (The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes; BBC’s Sherlock)
Although the personality type of Sherlock Holmes is an oft-debated subject, he displays many traits that align with the INTP personality. His detective work combines logic, hard facts, and his gut feelings, so he isn’t a Sensing type; he’s an iNtuitive. Since he doesn’t let his own emotions get in the way, he’s also a Thinking type. Holmes is comfortable following his hound-dog-like instincts, and his indisputable wealth of knowledge is impressive. Because of his desire to uncover the truth and a clear detachment from emotions, this INTP character appears odd to other types and sometimes comes across as impolite, and in this way is not unlike others who share the personality type.
Furthermore, Holmes’ work requires him to be open and spontaneous with new developments in the case, and he doesn’t follow a structured schedule, which points to his Perceiving nature. In line with his job requirements, he’s open to change and operates on an as-needed basis, so it’s safe to say Holmes is one of the best examples of INTP characters in popular culture.
What also makes Holmes a quintessential INTP is his relentless curiosity and his tendency to retreat into intense thought. He often isolates himself to work through mental puzzles, relying heavily on his inner world of analysis and deduction—classic Introverted Thinking in action. He shows little interest in social niceties or traditions, preferring intellectual stimulation and abstract theorizing over small talk or emotional expression. In the BBC adaptation, Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal leans into the INTP stereotype of the “absent-minded genius”—brilliant but socially aloof, logical to the point of being cold, yet always seeking out complex challenges that exercise his intellect. Holmes isn’t driven by fame or money; he’s driven by the thrill of solving mysteries — an expression of the INTP’s love for uncovering deeper truths and patterns others might miss.
2. Indiana Jones (Indiana Jones franchise)
Dr. Henry Walton “Indiana” Jones is a famous INTP character who searches for ancient artifacts in the hope of discovering more about the world and the people around him. Most people type him as an ISTP, but I think his work and demeanor points more to an iNtuitive INTP rather than a Sensing type for several reasons.
First, he doesn’t seem to experience boredom when it comes to delving into theories, and an ISTP is more concerned with general knowledge in terms of practicality, rather than diving into deep meanings. Jones also appears more concerned with abstract ideas and concepts when hunting down treasures, and though he is skeptical at first, he’s much more easily converted to a believer of the unexplained than an ISTP would be. Finally, although he does have a fondness and knack for working with his hands, his interest in humanity and history through artifacts feels more akin to an INTP, who wants to unveil the mysteries of the universe, no matter how illogical they may seem on the surface.
His work as an archaeologist highlights his personality type. His feelings don’t lead him; instead, he exhibits a logical Thinking perspective. In addition to this, he’s also a reserved, Introverted personality who prefers solo adventures to group outings, which points to why he’d choose solo-based archaeology work.
One might guess that he’s a Judging type, due to his organized method of teaching, but his primary pursuit is his research, which takes him around the globe on short-notice trips, an idea that would make most Judging types break out in a cold sweat.
3. Luna Lovegood (Harry Potter series of books and movies)
Even though she’s a fan-favorite of the series, Luna Lovegood is an oft-overlooked character when it comes to personality type. Her quiet, unassuming intelligence is a key pointer to her INTP personality, and overall her example for other INTPs is spot-on.
Although one might assume she’s more emotional when making decisions, Lovegood is primarily led by her logical thinking. Even when she appears odd to other types (a telling problem for the INTP), her insight is invaluable, and when given enough faith, other witches and wizards discover she’s been right all along.
With her logical mind and Perceiving nature, Luna is ready to learn even more random facts about magical creatures other wizards forget about, like nargles and thestrals, and share her knowledge with others.
Luna also embodies the INTP’s love for independent thought and nonconformity. She doesn’t feel pressured to fit in with the crowd or follow social norms — an attitude that can make INTPs seem eccentric, but also deeply authentic. She questions authority and is unafraid to believe in things others dismiss, showing the INTP’s willingness to explore possibilities beyond the obvious. Her rich inner world, full of theories and uncommon knowledge, reflects a dominant Introverted Thinking process supported by an Intuitive openness to abstract ideas.
Like many INTPs, Luna processes the world internally and often surprises others with profound insights that seem to come out of nowhere. While her delivery might be dreamy or scattered, her perceptions are usually accurate, and her unique worldview adds unexpected depth to the group dynamic, much like the quiet but brilliant INTPs in real life
4. John Nash (A Beautiful Mind)
Mathematicians often fall into the category of introversion, and John Nash from the 2001 movie A Beautiful Mind is among the most notable of INTP characters. Setting aside his mental health, Nash displays a desire to work alone. He hates teaching students and is much more interested in discovering and completing new mathematical formulas to make a name for himself among the great mathematicians.
Although many people cringe at the idea of studying mathematics full-time, Nash recognizes it as a way to understand and unlock the mysteries of the universe, one equation at a time. One might guess someone so devoted to mathematics would fall into the Judging category, but his fluidity and drive for discovery makes it clear he is a Perceiving type, open to learning and growing through accepting the unexpected, rather than sticking to a set schedule.
Nash’s intense focus on abstract concepts and pattern recognition is a textbook display of the INTP’s dominant function, Introverted Thinking, paired with Extraverted Intuition. He thrives on theoretical exploration, often neglecting the outside world in favor of internal problem-solving. His breakthroughs come not from following procedure, but from spontaneous insight — hallmarks of the INTP’s mental flexibility and creative logic.
Nash’s resistance to conventional career paths, his difficulty in navigating social expectations, and his insatiable thirst for original thought are all traits that make him a compelling and relatable figure for many INTPs. Though his genius sets him apart, it’s his way of seeing the world that captures the essence of this personality type.
5. Yoda (Star Wars)
Yoda is a Thinking type, but he also has an ingrained iNtuitive side, making him wise and mystical. He isn’t afraid of taking the latest developments in stride and doesn’t live by an organized schedule as a Judging type would, so he’s a definite Perceiver.
His Introversion shows thanks to his secluded lifestyle, but he isn’t so closed off that he’s afraid to impart his wisdom and training techniques when it will mean bettering a person and the universe itself, as he does when he takes Luke Skywalker under his wing. As his logic drives his intellectual nature, he often instills that trying is a false action, something that feels quintessential to an INTP. “Do or do not. There is no try.”
What also aligns Yoda with the INTP personality is his philosophical, analytical approach to life. He isn’t just a warrior or a mentor, he’s a deep thinker who questions the nature of the Force, the self, and the universe. His ability to see patterns beyond the surface and speak in abstract wisdom reflects the INTP’s intuitive search for deeper meaning and truth. He often appears enigmatic or even frustrating to more action-oriented types like Luke, but that’s because he values inner reflection and reason over impulsivity.
Yoda doesn’t offer direct answers, rather he prompts others to think, observe, and come to conclusions themselves, which is exactly how an INTP would encourage learning. He thrives in the realm of ideas and possibilities, acting not as a rule enforcer but as a guide toward independent thought and understanding.
6. Jughead Jones (Riverdale)
Archie comics have been around since 1939, but the resurgence in popular culture comes from the popular CW show Riverdale. Jughead Jones is Archibald Andrews’ best friend. His INTP personality shines through his Introverted nature and his iNtutive character through his high school reporting and almost supernatural knowledge.
Although Jughead seems like a brooding person, he prizes knowledge and facts above all else and is as adaptable as possible when discovering new truths, crises, and otherwise.
Jughead also embodies the classic INTP skepticism and outsider mentality. He tends to hover on the edge of social groups, preferring to observe rather than participate in drama or conformity. His love for writing and journalism is an outlet for his analytical mind. He dissects people, events, and motivations with cool detachment, often serving as the voice of reason in chaotic situations.
Jughead also challenges authority, questions assumptions, and follows his own moral logic even when it isolates him. This independence of thought and nonconformist attitude are hallmarks of the INTP personality. Though he may appear aloof or cynical, Jughead is deeply curious, intellectually engaged, and quietly loyal — a thinker first, but not without heart.
7. Velma Dinkley (Scooby-Doo)
Scooby-Doo’s Velma Dinkley views the world with a calm and collected demeanor on the outside, but that doesn’t mean her brain isn’t busy processing clues and facts. She analyzes details with a fine-tuned comb, but she’s also spontaneous and uses her Perceiving nature to venture into the unknown with her pals. Her adaptable personality—combined with her iNtuitive, Thinking, and Introverted traits—make her the perfect detective, able to connect her emotions and hunches with hard facts and clues during investigations.
Velma’s reliance on logic and pattern recognition over emotional reactions firmly places her in the INTP camp. She’s rarely rattled by fear or drama. Instead, she retreats into her mind to break down the situation rationally. Her famous catchphrase, “Jinkies!” often marks the moment when she’s connected disparate pieces of information to reach a breakthrough, just like many INTPs who thrive on solving complex puzzles and spotting what others miss.
Unlike her more extroverted teammates, Velma isn’t concerned with recognition or social status; she’s driven by curiosity and the thrill of intellectual discovery. Whether it’s decoding cryptic messages or constructing elaborate theories, she reflects the INTP’s signature traits: analytical, independent, imaginative, and always a few steps ahead.
The takeaway
INTP characters in movies, books, and TV shows are not as rare as you might imagine. Although the personality type makes up 3% of the population, characters with the INTP personality include icons like Indiana Jones, Yoda, and Velma Dinkley.
What ties these characters together and makes them so compelling is their shared curiosity, independence, and desire to uncover hidden truths. Whether they’re solving mysteries, inventing theories, or challenging the status quo, INTPs thrive in roles that allow them to think deeply and freely. These fictional portrayals remind us that it’s not only okay to approach the world with a questioning mind and an unconventional lens — it’s a strength.
If you’re an INTP, you share a type with iconic characters that use logic and intuition to their advantage, whether that’s through detective work, archaeology, or other detail-oriented professions. So embrace your inner detective, philosopher, or innovator. There’s power in your perspective — and plenty of beloved characters who prove just how impactful that can be.
If you aren’t sure you’re an INTP, you can find out for free by taking the TypeFinder personality test.
