Anybody who watches anime knows that it’s easy for a good side character to steal the show. Next thing you know, the entire plot line has shifted, and you find yourself wishing the main character would step out of the spotlight for a bit. The machinations of protagonists and antagonists aside, an anime can quickly find itself having a large supporting cast as well. With so many options, though, who are the top underdog anime side characters?
Mainstream anime is full of these underappreciated cast members. Buckle up for a slew of intricate personalities, mysterious backstories, and characters who leave fans yearning for more.
10 Kenpachi Zaraki: Bleach
Kenpachi Zaraki kicks down Bleach’s door and establishes himself as one of the strongest characters on the show. Powdered by endless spiritual energy and a persistent agenda, Zaraki upholds the name “Kenpachi,” meaning “eight swords.” The title is given only to people who have an insatiable appetite for fighting. Zaraki Kenpachi has claimed this title for years, and hasn’t lived it down since.
In Bleach: A Thousand-Year Blood War, Kenpachi’s character continuously gains importance in the storyline. His strength becomes vital for the conflict against the Wandereich, an assembly of Quincies ruled by the new villain, Yhwach. Kenpachi’s ruthless and instinctive combat style is what makes him one of the most powerful Soul Reapers. However, after his development there, it seems his strength is just beginning. There’s much more to see from this mighty warrior.
9 Aki Hayakawa: Chainsaw Man
Aki Hayakawa is known for his nonchalant demeanor, especially when it comes to fighting devils. He fights on edge, continuing forward until he can capture and kill the dreaded Gun Devil. His character is infatuated with a certain goal. This is all the more reason why Aki’s character is intriguing to watch.
Aki’s tragic backstory in Chainsaw Man hit a vulnerable spot. His entire family meets their demise by the Gun Devil. Empty, lost, and full of vengeance, Aki swears that he will dispose of the very devil who took away his family. He lives his life by this goal and continues to fight even after losing various close companions on the way.
8 Armin Arlert: Attack on Titan
Lacking in brawn isn’t so bad when you’re like Armin Arlert, a character that embodies intelligence and quick wit. Armin steals many hearts with his introverted and shy personality.
However, as Attack on Titan seasons progress, Armin’s character development begins to outshine even the antagonist. His persistence, dedication, and brilliance make for a side character no one can compare to. In fact, without his help, the characters could have been in way more trouble than they ultimately encountered. The show is undeniably brutal, but it could’ve been far more so without this underappreciated mastermind.
7 Killua Zoldyck: Hunter x Hunter
Killua Zoldyck was originally introduced to Hunter x Hunter as a child with violent capacities. As his friendship developed with Gon, however, Killua’s gentle and caring side emerges and steals viewers’ hearts. Not only that, but his complex relationship with the Zoldyck family intrigues and thoroughly entertains fans.
Killua’s personality directly complements that of the main character, Gon, in many instances. In situations where Gon is reckless, Killua is calm. He presents the perfect foil to a main character who can be a bit too headstrong.
6 L Lawliet: Death Note
The mysterious L excels himself as one of anime’s most cunningly written characters. He acts as a mirror to the main character, Light Yagami, to show the different ways power, intelligence, and morality can evolve. In Death Note, L embodies the “good,” while Light was the “bad.” Nonetheless, both characters are constantly challenging each other, ultimately making L one of the most important side characters in the series.
On a lighter note, L’s quirky personality make him a unique character. His idiosyncratic actions make him endearing to watch, especially when set against the ever-so-serious Light Yagami.
5 Zenitsu Agatsuma: Demon Slayer
Zenitsu Agatsuma is one of Demon Slayer’s many formidable warriors. Well, when he’s asleep, anyway. Zenitsu’s quirky way of gaining power is by falling asleep. By doing so, all of his anxieties fade away, and he’s able to engage in some terrifying battles.
Though having amazing strength, Zenistu is still known for his sensitive personality. He doesn’t like scary situations, and he certainly doesn’t think he can make it through one. However, that’s what makes him a relatable side character. He acknowledges that fear exists in battle, but can still overcome it through mastery and training. That makes him a character fans could never forget.
4 Gojo Satoru: Jujutsu Kaisen
Gojo Satoru’s introduction to the Jujutsu Kaisen show is astonishing. His profound strength and mysterious history had some quickly declaring him as their favorite character. Gojo naturally steals the glory when he appears on the screen. This is also because of his rather goofy personality.
Gojo’s mentorship of the main character, Yuuji Itadori, is central to Yuuji’s physical and mental development as a curse user. Though Gojo is a side character, he influences many vital people in the show, including students Megumi Fushiguro and Yuuta Okkotsu. He mirrors Yuuji’s potential, thus proving to be a well-rounded, influential side character.
3 Kurapika: Hunter x Hunter
There aren’t too many side characters that have an entire arc to themselves. However, one of those special characters is Kurapika from Hunter x Hunter. We were thrown off when the entire focus of the show shifted from Gon (the protagonist) to a character with a strong sense of vengeance (Kurapika).
The Yorknew City arc adds a deep emotional layer to the usually-composed Kurapika. Since his clan’s demise, Kurapika has been searching for ways to fill the void within him. However, this leads to Kurapika seeking brutal revenge, where he may end up losing himself through violence. Kurapika’s melancholic history makes for beautiful storytelling. Not only that, but his backstory is a great transition for Hunter x Hunter to dive deeper into heavy topics.
2 Todoroki Shouto: My Hero Academia
Todoroki Shouto stole hearts in My Hero Academia, mostly due to his unique character design and innocent personality. Nonetheless, Todoroki’s family drama is endlessly mysterious throughout the show. The constant questions keep viewers on the edge of their seats, begging for some answers.
In My Hero Academia’s later seasons, we start to see Todoroki heal from his childhood trauma and grow into the hero he would admire. He mimics the protagonist, Izuku Midoriya, when it comes to fighting against your flaws. That’s what makes him a vital character in the show, even if his screen time fluctuates.
1 Levi Ackerman: Attack on Titan
Last but not least, Levi Ackerman steals the ultimate spot due to his outstanding character development and skills as a soldier. The world of Attack On Titan is the furthest thing from easy. It’s possibly the worst dystopian scenario in the wide world of anime. Nonetheless, Levi maintains the title of Humanity’s Strongest. He has lent the show some of its most phenomenal fight sequences, as well as iconic dialogue and backstory. If there was any side character that could gain great success from having their very own show, it’s certainly Levi.
