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In most anime shows, the spotlight shines the brightest on the main character, focusing on their journey of growth, redemption, power, etc. However, there are some series that feature strong anime side-characters who can effortlessly steal the show, even outshining the heroes and becoming fan favorites.

Whether through their heartbreaking backstories, unique abilities, or charismatic personalities not bound by “main-character tropes,” these are the side characters that have left a lasting impact on audiences and stepped out from under the shadow of their lead.

10

Killua Zoldyck: The Assassin Turned Ally Who Stole the Show in Hunter X Hunter

Fans Can’t Get Enough of Killua’s Complexity

While Hunter x Hunter’s protagonist Gon Freecss is a determined and kind-hearted boy on a quest to find his father, his best friend Killua Zoldyck is his cheeky and ruthless counterpoint. Killua also is fairly popular with fans to where he’s actually come in first place on both of the show’s popularity polls. Born into and tied to a family of deadly assassins, Killua has a mix of lethal skills, wit, and a surprising amount of emotional depth for a side character.

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25 Strongest Hunter X Hunter Characters EMAKI-1

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The 30 Strongest Hunter X Hunter Characters

Since its debut in 1998, Hunter x Hunter has introduced some very powerful characters, and some Nen users are stronger than others.

​​​​​​Partner that with electrifying Nen abilities and a charged struggle to break free from his family’s oppressive expectations, and fans get an exceptionally complex character that some consider an even better main character than Gon. From his shocking intro as an assassin riding in on a skateboard to taking his place as Gon’s staunchest ally, Killua is a study in some of the best character development, making his arc even more compelling than the main character’s more straightforward evolution.

9

Megumi Fushiguro: The Sorcerer Who Quietly Outshines Yuji in Jujutsu Kaisen

The Mystery and Strength Behind Megumi’s Appeal

Megumi Fushiguro uses a Cursed Tool sword against a Cursed Spirit in Jujutsu Kaisen

Yuji Itadori may be the vessel for Sukuna, the King of Curses, but it is Megumi Fushiguro who often takes center stage with fans. Megumi is the epitome of calm, calculated power and a Jujutsu Sorcerer capable of summoning powerful shikigami, and it simply captivates viewers. It helps that his reserved nature contrasts so sharply with Yuji’s more extroverted and impulsive character, allowing him to stand on his own even when the two are together in a scene.

Plus, it always helps when there is a bit of mystery around a person, rather than everything being laid out on the table. What really sets Megumi apart is his deeply layered backstory, including his connection to the Zenin clan and his secret potential as a sorcerer. His battles–like his unforgettable fight against Sukuna, in which he is pushed beyond his limits–help reveal his inner strength and make him a fascinating character in his own right.

8

MHA’s Shoto Todoroki is a Hero Forged in Fire and Ice

Todoroki’s Emotional Layers Make Him Unforgettable

Shoto grimacing with with ice covering his hand after using Great Glacial Aegir on Dabi again.

In a world chock-full of colorful characters with larger-than-life Quirks, Izuku Midoriya’s earnest determination and drive to protect all those around him is inspiring, but Shoto Todoroki’s dual-element powers and tumultuous family dynamics are on another level. As the son of the abusive and ambitious pro hero Endeavor, Todoroki has a lot on his shoulders, and his journey to reconcile his past and embrace his identity resonates deeply with fans.

Shoto’s initial icy demeanor, sheer devastating combat prowess, and reluctance to use his fire abilities when first introduced drew fans in, but it is his emotional vulnerability and growth that makes them stay. It helps that Shoto has some of the most iconic scenes throughout the series. Overall, many see themselves in the struggling young hero as he comes to terms with his father’s actions and charts his own blazing path forward. His standout moments often make him the highlight in a series brimming with exceptional characters.

7

Rengoku Kyojuro: The Flame Hashira Who Burned Brightly in Demon Slayer

His Short-Lived Role Left a Lasting Impact

Kyojuro Rengoku is fighting fiercely in Demon Slayer.

In Demon Slayer, Tanjiro Kamado’s seemingly never-ending compassion and determination are the clear anchor of the entire series, but the late Flame Hashira Renjoku Kyojuro shone just as brightly. While his time on screen was not necessarily the longest, his passion for justice, larger-than-life personality, and remarkable swordsmanship make him a much-beloved character.

While his death was shocking, Renjoku’s sacrifice and death during the Mugen Train arc had an emotional impact that resonated heavily with both the characters and viewers. His death is even seen as essential to Tanjiro’s growth, allowing him to continue his journey and become the type of warrior and person he needs to be to succeed in the world. Rengoku’s brief but brilliant time in the spotlight highlights how important side characters really are, especially when they are written as well as he was. There’s no wonder, then, why this Hashira remains a fan-favorite even among an all-star cast of characters.

The poster for Demon Slayer depicts Tanjiro Kamado, Nezuko Kamado, Zenitsu Agatsumu and Inosuke Hashibira leaping forward.

Release Date

April 6, 2019

Cast

Natsuki Hanae
, Zach Aguilar
, Abby Trott
, Akari Kitō
, Yoshitsugu Matsuoka

Seasons

5

6

Naruto’s Itachi Uchiha was a Tragic Villain Who Became a Hero in Naruto

Sometimes, It is the Baddest Guy With the Best Backstory

Itachi Uchiha with his mangekyo sharingan active and his eye bleeding

Naruto Uzumaki’s journey to become Hokage and save the world makes up the heart of the Naruto series, but few characters have captured the fandom’s attention quite like Itachi Uchiha. As a prodigy of a ninja who sacrificed everything (and almost everyone) for the sake of peace, Itachi’s tragic tale of love, loss, and ultimate loyalty is nothing short of heartbreaking.

A split-image of Itachi Uchiha, on the left in battle, on the right in contemplation

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The Best Itachi Uchiha Quotes In Naruto and Naruto Shippuden

Itachi Uchiha is one of Naruto’s most complex, beloved characters, and across his devastating rivalry with his brother, he spoke a lot of wise words.

Sure, he starts out, and spends most of the series as a bad guy, but his stoic nature and incredible shinobi skills quickly elevated him to legendary status. Many fans even consider him a far more compelling character than the series’ actual main character, at least in the beginning. Itachi’s presence looms large over the narrative, casting a heavy shadow on the main cast that continues long after his death and solidifies his legacy as one Naruto character fans love to this day.

5

Levi Ackerman’s Cool Factor Eclipses Everyone Else in Attack on Titan

Humanity’s Strongest Soldier and the Ultimate Scene-Stealer

Levi Ackerman in the woods in Attack On Titan.

Eren Yeager’s transformation from naive dreamer to hardened revolutionary might be the anchor for the plot of Attack on Titan, but it’s Captain Levi Ackerman who steals the show with an unparalleled level of “cool.” As humanity’s strongest soldier, Levi pairs incredible battle prowess with an incredible dedication to protecting his comrades in a way that has earned him legions of fans.

Levi’s sharp wit, no-nonsense attitude, and tragic backstory make him, in some ways, a far more nuanced and captivating character than Eren. Iconic moments, like his jaw-dropping battle against the Beast Titan or when he devours the War Hammer Titan, simply underscore his immense skill and resolve, solidifying his status as one of the coolest characters in the series.

4

Kenpachi Zaraki: The Battle-Loving Captain Fans Adore in Bleach

The Shinigami’s Unstoppable Spirit Kept Fans Watching

kenpachi zaraki is bloody while fighting in an alleyway.

When it comes to characters in Bleach, there is obviously the hero, Ichigo Kurosaki, but there are few who can match the raw energy and sheer charisma of Kenpachi Zaraki. As the captain of the 11th Division of the Gotei 13, Kenpachi lives for battle, and his love for combat is absolutely infectious.

Kenpachi’s immense strength, paired with his devil-may-care attitude, has made this Shinigami an unforgettable presence in the series. His iconic battles, particularly his clash with Ichigo and later fights against overwhelmingly powerful foes, can occasionally overshadow the main story but tend to almost always hype fans. Fans are often more excited to see Kenpachi in action over the main protagonist, which only highlights his incredible stage presence and dynamic energy.

3

Reigen Arataka: A Con Artist with a Surprising Heart of Gold in Mob Psycho 100

The Mentor Who Proves You Don’t Need Powers to Be a Hero

Reigen Arataka in Mob Psycho 100.

Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama’s overwhelming psychic powers might make him the centerpiece of Mob Psycho 100, but his mentor Reigen Arataka might just be the true star of the show. A con artist posing as a psychic, Reigen’s charisma, street smarts, and often hilarious antics tend to steal every scene that he is in.

Despite his… dubious methods, Reigen genuinely cares for Mob, often giving out surprisingly profound life advice and adding layers of complexity to his character. His ability to navigate dangerous situations without powers–using only his quick thinking and charm–makes him a unique and endearing figure, plus one of the best anime mentors.

2

Roronoa Zoro: Luffy’s Most Loyal Legendary Swordsman in One Piece

This Pirate’s Sacrifice and Strength Make Him an Icon

Roronoa Zoro from the One Piece anime series with 3 replica swords

While the outgoing and energetic Monkey D. Luffy leads the charge in One Piece as both the future Pirate King and main character, it’s Roronoa Zoro’s stoic strength and loyalty that make him a standout in a clearly colorful cast. As the Straw Hat crew’s swordsman, Zoro’s three-sword style and penchant for epic battles have landed him at the top of plenty of popularity polls and fan favorite lists.

But it is Zoro’s commitment to becoming the world’s greatest swordsman and his willingness to sacrifice himself for his friends that cements this character as one of anime’s coolest side-characters. Zoro’s moments of selflessness and his larger-than-life presence helps make him a scene-stealer to rival Luffy in just about any fan’s estimation.

The cast of One Piece, including Brooke, Nami, Monkey D. Luffy, Sanji, Chopper and Carrot, run together during the Whole Cake Arc of One Piece.

One Piece

Created by Eiichiro Oda, the One Piece franchise explores the adventures of pirate Luffy D. Monkey and his crew, the Straw Hats. Since the manga first debuted in 1997, One Piece has been adapted into an ongoing anime that has seen multiple movies. Most recently it was adapted into a live-action series by Netflix.

Created by

Eiichiro Oda

First TV Show

One Piece

Latest TV Show

Netflix’s One Piece

First Episode Air Date

October 20, 1999

Cast

Mayumi Tanaka
, Kazuya Nakai
, Colleen Clinkenbeard
, Christopher Sabat
, Kerry Williams
, Kappei Yamaguchi
, Sonny Strait
, Hiroaki Hirata
, Eric Valette
, Ikue Ootani

1

Dragon Ball’s Vegeta Perfectly Balances Arrogance and Growth

From Rival to Reluctant Ally — Unforgettable Journey

Dragon Ball Z is another series that has been around forever and has a colorful cast and crew. Yet, even with Goky’s energy, optimism, and unparalleled power being central to the series, it’s Vegeta’s fiery pride and relentless drive that makes him arguably more interesting.
Majin Vegeta

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Dragon Ball Z: 10 Worst Things About Being Vegeta

Vegeta is one of Dragon Ball’s strongest and most important characters, but he’s a flawed individual who has his share of shortcomings.

The former prince of the Saiyans has come a long way on a complex journey from villain to antihero to reluctant ally, all while maintaining the trademark arrogance and strength that has made him so popular with fans. Plus, his struggles to surpass Goku and his (few) moments of vulnerability help reveal a depth that few characters in the series can match. Overall, Vegeta’s relentless ambition and emotional growth help make sure that he remains one of Dragon Ball Z’s, and all of anime’s, most beloved and interesting characters.

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