BBC Worldwide polled more than 7,000 18 to 64-year-olds from seven countries in the public vote, with Sherlock coming out on top.
Top 10 Most Loved BBC Characters
1. Sherlock, "Sherlock"
2. The Doctor, "Doctor Who"
3. Luther, "Luther"
4. Basil Fawlty, "Fawlty Towers"
5. The Stig, "Top Gear"
6. Patsy Stone, "Absolutely Fabulous"
7. Edmund Blackadder, "Blackadder"
8. Hyacinth Bucket, "Keeping up Appearances"
9. Geraldine Granger, "The Vicar of Dibley"
10. The Daleks, "Doctor Who"
Paul Dempsey, BBC Worldwide president of global markets, said: "This survey demonstrates the love and affection audiences have for our shows around the world and those defining TV moments that get viewers talking, wherever they are."
Dawn French's portrayal of a feisty female vicar in the village of Dibley was the ninth most loved character across the BBC's programming.
The show originally ran from 1994 to 1998 and won multiple awards.
It was created by Richard Curtis after the Church of England permitted the ordination of women in 1992.