The main protagonist of "Ozark," Marty Byrde (played by Jason Bateman) lands right about in the middle of the ranking when it comes to likability. He's a complex, morally-gray character, and that is exactly what makes him such an effective lead. If he were more likable and did fewer detestable things, he would be a less compelling protagonist. On the other hand, if were any less likable, he would run the risk of losing audiences all together. It's a tricky balance, one necessary to keep viewers engaged and invested in Marty's goals and troubles, and "Ozark" nails it.
Marty is guilty of plenty of crimes and other contemptible decisions and actions, but he is also charismatic to a degree and cares greatly for his family — or at least for his children, as his feelings for Wendy fluctuate throughout. His bad actions are almost always done in the best interest of his family. He repeatedly tries, and fails, to get out from the arrangement he has with the cartel to sever ties with them altogether. Marty is often on the back foot, trying to wriggle out of dangerous situations rather than explicitly causing the dangerous situations; an important distinction that saves some of his likability, even when he crosses certain lines.
