Ben Linus is a fictional character from the television series Lost, created by J.J. Abrams, Damon Lindelof, and Jeffrey Lieber. He is portrayed by actor Michael Emerson and is introduced as the leader of the Others, a mysterious group living on the island. Ben is known for his manipulative nature and complex personality, often blurring the lines between villain and anti-hero. Throughout the series, Ben's backstory reveals his troubled childhood and his desire for power and control. His character plays a crucial role in the overarching narrative, interacting with main characters like Jack Shephard and John Locke. Ben's actions significantly impact the fate of the island and its inhabitants.