In the Descendants universe, the legacy of the original villains (the parents of the Villain Kids, or VKs) looms large over Auradon and the Isle of the Lost. Though the villains are no longer present, their actions, personalities, and choices continue to shape the lives of their children, the kingdom, and the ongoing events of the series. The legacy left behind by these infamous villains serves as a constant reminder of the power they once held and how their children struggle (or sometimes embrace) their heritage.
Maleficent[]
Maleficent's tyrannical rule over the kingdom of the Moors and her transformation into a powerful dark sorceress left a legacy of fear and hatred, particularly in Auradon. The barrier between Auradon and the Isle of the Lost was created to separate the villains from the rest of the world, a consequence of Maleficent’s actions and her battle with Aurora (Princess Aurora). Mal’s internal struggle stems from her desire to escape the shadow of her mother's evil and to prove she can choose her own path.
Ursula[]
Ursula’s rule over the seas and her manipulation of those around her left a lasting impact, particularly through her daughter, Uma. Ursula's pursuit of power and domination of others' desires is reflected in Uma’s own ambitions to rule the Isle and challenge the heroes of Auradon.
Jafar[]
Jafar’s thirst for absolute control over Agrabah and his manipulation of the Genie are the hallmarks of his legacy. Though his son Jay initially embraces a life of crime, he ultimately rejects his father’s thirst for power and manipulation. Jay becomes a more ethical character, though he still retains leadership skills and ambition that were instilled in him by Jafar.
Evil Queen[]
The Evil Queen’s obsession with beauty, vanity, and jealousy shaped her entire world view, particularly in her dealings with her daughter, Evie. Though Evie initially struggles with her mother's superficial focus, she gradually realizes that beauty is more than skin deep, rejecting her mother’s shallow pursuits in favor of kindness and personal growth.
Cruella De Vil[]
Cruella’s obsession with fur coats and luxury status influenced her son Carlos’s early insecurities. Carlos’ fear of dogs and his mother's constant drive for status and wealth left him struggling to assert his own identity. However, Carlos gradually rejects these values, finding strength in his friendships and a love for animals that contradicts his mother's cruelty.
Queen of Hearts[]
The Queen Of Hearts' rule over Wonderland lead to the exclusion of kids from Wonderland to attend Auradon Prep after declining joining the worlds of Auradon. Her tyrannical rule lead to her daughter, Red, being a rebellious teen. Unlike the other VKs, Red didn't agree with her mother. She wanted freedom and when you got accepted to Auradon Prep, this was her chance. The Queen Of Hearts' coup in Auradon left a huge impack with the eventual death of Cinderella but it was all fixed by Red and Chloe Charming.