List of Most Popular Anime Characters of All-Time
Anime has become one of the most popular forms of entertainment globally, and it’s not hard to see why. With its unique storytelling, breathtaking animation, and unforgettable characters, it’s no surprise that anime has captured the hearts of millions of people worldwide.
One of the main reasons anime has become so popular is because of its characters. Anime characters are often complex, multi-dimensional, and relatable, making them some of the most beloved characters in all of fiction. From the determined and passionate Naruto Uzumaki to the stoic and mysterious Rei Ayanami, anime characters have become an integral part of popular culture.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular anime characters of all time. Whether you’re a die-hard anime fan or just getting started, this list will introduce you to some of the most iconic characters in anime history. From classic characters like Son Goku to newer favorites like Ken Kaneki, we’ve got you covered.
Most Popular Anime Characters of All Time
Anime has become a global phenomenon, with millions of fans around the world. One of the most significant aspects of anime is its characters. From heroes to villains, anime characters have captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
Here are some of the most popular anime characters of all time.
Top 10 Most Popular Anime Characters
These are the anime characters that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, becoming some of the most iconic and recognizable characters in anime history.
| Rank | Character | Anime/Manga |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goku | Dragon Ball |
| 2 | Naruto Uzumaki | Naruto |
| 3 | Luffy | One Piece |
| 4 | Monkey D. Luffy | One Piece |
| 5 | Edward Elric | Fullmetal Alchemist |
| 6 | Ichigo Kurosaki | Bleach |
| 7 | Light Yagami | Death Note |
| 8 | Levi Ackerman | Attack on Titan |
| 9 | Sasuke Uchiha | Naruto |
| 10 | Vegeta | Dragon Ball |
Honorable Mentions
These anime characters may not have made the top 10, but they are still beloved by fans worldwide.
- Alphonse Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist)
- Asuna Yuuki (Sword Art Online)
- Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist)
- Gon Freecss (Hunter x Hunter)
- Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)
- Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter)
- Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)
- Saitama (One Punch Man)
- Vegeta (Dragon Ball)
- Zoro (One Piece)
Villains You Love to Hate
These are the anime villains that fans love to hate. They may be evil, but they are still some of the most iconic characters in anime history.
- Cell (Dragon Ball)
- Frieza (Dragon Ball)
- Johan Liebert (Monster)
- Kira Yoshikage (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure)
- Koro-sensei (Assassination Classroom)
- Light Yagami (Death Note)
- Madara Uchiha (Naruto)
- Meruem (Hunter x Hunter)
- Tetsuo Shima (Akira)
- Tokyo Ghoul (Ken Kaneki)
Naruto
Naruto is one of the most popular anime and manga series in the world, and it’s no surprise that its characters have become fan favorites. Here are some of the most beloved characters from the series:
Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto Uzumaki is the main character of the series, and for good reason. He’s a lovable underdog who grows into a powerful ninja over the course of the story. Naruto’s signature move is the Rasengan, a powerful ball of chakra that he forms in his hand. He’s also known for his never-give-up attitude and his catchphrase, “Believe it!”
Sasuke Uchiha
Sasuke Uchiha is Naruto’s rival and former teammate. He’s a member of the Uchiha clan, which is known for its powerful Sharingan eye technique. Sasuke is a complex character who struggles with his past and his desire for revenge against his older brother, Itachi. He’s also an incredibly skilled ninja, with a wide range of powerful jutsu at his disposal.
Kakashi Hatake
Kakashi Hatake is the mentor of Team 7, which includes Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura. He’s a skilled ninja who’s known for his use of the Sharingan eye technique, which he gained after receiving a transplant from his friend Obito Uchiha. Kakashi is a laid-back and somewhat aloof character, but he cares deeply for his students and will do whatever it takes to protect them.
Team 7
Team 7 is the main team in the series, and it includes Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura. The team is led by Kakashi Hatake, and they go on a variety of missions throughout the series. Naruto is the heart of the team, Sasuke is the cool and aloof one, and Sakura is the intelligent and capable one. Together, they make a formidable team that’s capable of taking on even the toughest opponents.
Overall, Naruto is a series that’s beloved by fans all over the world, and its characters are a big reason why. From Naruto himself to Sasuke, Kakashi, and the rest of Team 7, these characters have captured the hearts and imaginations of millions of fans.
Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a popular anime series that debuted over 20 years ago, and it still has a strong following of fans today. The show follows the adventures of a group of bounty hunters traveling through space on their spaceship called the Bebop. The characters are all unique and interesting, making it easy for fans to pick their favorites.
Spike Spiegel
Spike Spiegel is the main protagonist of Cowboy Bebop. He is a skilled fighter and a bounty hunter who is always on the lookout for his next big score. Spike has a cool and collected personality, and he is known for his impressive martial arts skills. He is a fan favorite and is often cited as one of the best anime characters of all time.
Faye Valentine
Faye Valentine is a beautiful and mysterious woman who joins the Bebop crew early on in the series. She is a skilled gambler and a talented fighter, and she quickly becomes an integral part of the team. Faye has a complex personality, and her backstory is slowly revealed throughout the series, making her an intriguing character to follow.
Jet Black
Jet Black is the captain of the Bebop and a former police officer. He is a father figure to the rest of the crew and is always looking out for their best interests. Jet is a skilled fighter and a talented mechanic, and he often serves as the voice of reason on the ship. He is a fan favorite and is known for his wisdom and leadership skills.
Cowboy Bebop is a classic anime series that has stood the test of time. The characters are all unique and interesting, and fans have their favorites for a reason. Whether it’s Spike’s cool and collected demeanor, Faye’s mysterious past, or Jet’s wisdom and leadership skills, there is something for everyone to love in this series.
Death Note
Death Note is a popular anime and manga series that has won the hearts of many fans. It features a story of a high school student named Light Yagami who discovers a mysterious notebook called the Death Note.
The notebook has the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it. As Light experiments with the notebook, he becomes a vigilante known as Kira and sets out to rid the world of criminals. However, his actions attract the attention of a brilliant detective named L, who sets out to catch him.
Light Yagami
Light Yagami is the main protagonist of Death Note. He is a highly intelligent and charismatic high school student who is dissatisfied with the state of the world. When he discovers the Death Note, he sees it as an opportunity to create a new world order and become its god. Light is a complex character who is both admired and feared by those around him. He is willing to go to great lengths to achieve his goals, including killing those who stand in his way.
L
L is a brilliant detective who is tasked with catching Kira. He is highly intelligent and analytical, and he uses his skills to try and outsmart Light. L is a mysterious character who wears a mask and rarely shows his face. He is known for his quirky mannerisms and his love of sweets. Despite his odd behavior, L is a highly respected detective who is determined to catch Kira.
Misa Amane
Misa Amane is a popular model and actress who becomes involved with Kira. She is a cheerful and bubbly character who is deeply in love with Light. Misa is willing to do anything to help Kira achieve his goals, including killing people. However, her actions are often misguided, and she sometimes ends up causing more harm than good.
Ryuk
Ryuk is a Shinigami, or death god, who drops the Death Note into the human world. He is a mischievous character who enjoys watching the chaos that ensues when humans use the Death Note. Ryuk is a neutral character who is neither good nor evil. He is often seen eating apples and providing commentary on the events that unfold.
Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is a popular anime and manga series that has captured the attention of audiences worldwide. The show is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is forced to live behind walls to protect themselves from Titans, giant humanoid creatures who devour humans without reason.
The show has gained a massive following due to its intense action scenes, complex characters, and gripping storyline.
Eren Yeager
Eren Yeager is the main protagonist of Attack on Titan. He is a hot-headed and determined character who has a strong desire to protect his friends and family. After witnessing the death of his mother at the hands of a Titan, Eren vows to eradicate all Titans from the world. He possesses the ability to transform into a Titan, which makes him a valuable asset to the Survey Corps, the military organization tasked with fighting Titans.
Mikasa Ackerman
Mikasa Ackerman is a skilled fighter and Eren’s adoptive sister. She is fiercely loyal to Eren and will do anything to protect him. She is known for her incredible combat skills and her ability to take down Titans with ease. Mikasa is a fan favorite due to her strong personality and her unwavering dedication to her friends.
Levi Ackerman
Levi Ackerman is the captain of the Survey Corps’ Special Operations Squad. He is known for his incredible combat skills and his ability to take down Titans with ease. He is a fan favorite due to his no-nonsense attitude and his dedication to protecting humanity. Levi is a complex character who has a tragic backstory, which makes him all the more interesting to watch.
Overall, Attack on Titan has become a fan favorite due to its intense action scenes, complex characters, and gripping storyline. Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Levi Ackerman are just a few of the many characters that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
Dragon Ball
Dragon Ball is a Japanese anime and manga series created by Akira Toriyama. It follows the adventures of Son Goku, a young martial artist who travels the world in search of the seven mystical orbs known as the Dragon Balls.
Son Goku
Son Goku is the main protagonist of the Dragon Ball series. He is a pure-hearted and fearless warrior who has saved the world multiple times. Goku is known for his signature move, the Kamehameha, and his ability to transform into a Super Saiyan.
Goku’s popularity has made him one of the most iconic anime characters of all time. He is often cited as a favorite among fans for his determination, loyalty, and love for his family and friends.
Vegeta
Vegeta is a former villain turned anti-hero in the Dragon Ball series. He is a proud and arrogant warrior who initially seeks to defeat Goku and become the strongest in the universe. However, over time, Vegeta develops a deep respect for Goku and his family and becomes a valuable ally in the fight against evil.
Vegeta’s popularity stems from his complex character arc and his iconic moments in the series, such as his first transformation into a Super Saiyan.
Gohan
Gohan is the son of Goku and one of the main characters in the Dragon Ball series. He is a gentle and intelligent young boy who possesses immense power inherited from his Saiyan heritage. Gohan’s character development throughout the series is a major highlight, as he transforms from a timid child into a powerful warrior.
Gohan’s popularity comes from his relatable personality and his unique role as a hybrid Saiyan and human. He is often cited as a favorite among fans for his heartwarming moments with his father and his epic battles against powerful foes.
Overall, the Dragon Ball series has produced some of the most beloved and iconic characters in anime and manga history. Son Goku, Vegeta, and Gohan are just a few examples of the many fan-favorite characters that have captured the hearts of viewers around the world.
Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter is a popular anime and manga series that has gained a massive following over the years. The series is known for its unique characters and intricate plot, which has kept fans engaged throughout its run.
Here are some of the most popular characters from Hunter x Hunter:
Killua Zoldyck
Killua Zoldyck is one of the main characters in Hunter x Hunter. He is a skilled assassin from a family of assassins and is known for his calm and collected demeanor. Killua is also a loyal friend to Gon Freecss, the main protagonist of the series, and is always willing to help him out in tough situations. Fans love Killua for his cool-headedness and his unwavering loyalty to his friends.
Gon Freecss
Gon Freecss is the main protagonist of Hunter x Hunter. He is a young boy who sets out to become a Hunter, a special kind of warrior who is skilled in tracking, hunting, and capturing dangerous creatures. Gon is known for his optimism and his determination to succeed, even in the face of adversity. Fans love Gon for his positive attitude and his unwavering spirit.
Hisoka Morow
Hisoka Morow is one of the most popular characters in Hunter x Hunter. He is a skilled fighter and a member of the Phantom Troupe, a group of thieves who are known for their skill and cunning. Hisoka is known for his flamboyant personality and his love of fighting strong opponents. Fans love Hisoka for his unpredictable nature and his love of a good fight.
Overall, Hunter x Hunter is a series that has captured the hearts of anime and manga fans around the world. Its unique characters and intricate plot have kept fans engaged throughout its run, and it continues to be one of the most popular anime and manga series of all time.
One Piece
One Piece is a popular anime and manga series with a vast cast of characters. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate with the ability to stretch his body like rubber after eating a Devil Fruit. Along with his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, Luffy travels the Grand Line in search of the world’s ultimate treasure, One Piece.
The series has gained a massive following for its exciting adventures, unique characters, and emotional moments.
Monkey D. Luffy
Monkey D. Luffy is the main character of One Piece and the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates. He is known for his carefree attitude, love of adventure, and determination to become the Pirate King. Luffy’s rubber powers make him a formidable opponent in battle, and he has defeated many powerful foes throughout the series. He is a fan favorite and consistently ranks as one of the most popular anime characters of all time.
Roronoa Zoro
Roronoa Zoro is the first mate of the Straw Hat Pirates and a skilled swordsman. He is known for his stoic personality, dedication to his captain, and impressive fighting skills. Zoro wields three swords at once and has developed a number of powerful techniques over the course of the series. He is a fan favorite and often ranks highly in popularity polls.
Sanji
Sanji is the cook of the Straw Hat Pirates and a skilled fighter. He is known for his suave demeanor, chivalrous attitude towards women, and signature cigarette. Sanji specializes in kick-based combat and has developed a number of powerful techniques over the course of the series. He is a fan favorite and often ranks highly in popularity polls.
Overall, One Piece has a vast and diverse cast of characters that have captured the hearts of fans around the world. The series has produced many memorable moments and has become a beloved part of anime and manga culture.
Tokyo Ghoul
Tokyo Ghoul is a popular anime and manga series that has captured the hearts of many fans. The series is known for its dark themes, intense action, and memorable characters.
Here are three of the most popular characters from the series:
Ken Kaneki
Ken Kaneki is the main character of Tokyo Ghoul. He starts off as a normal college student, but after an encounter with a ghoul, he becomes a half-ghoul himself. This means that he must consume human flesh to survive. Throughout the series, Kaneki struggles with his identity and the morality of his actions. He is a complex character that many fans have grown to love.
Touka Kirishima
Touka Kirishima is a ghoul that works at Anteiku, a coffee shop that serves as a safe haven for ghouls. She is a skilled fighter and is known for her quick reflexes. Touka is also a kind-hearted person who cares deeply for her friends. She has a complex relationship with Kaneki, as they both struggle to come to terms with their identities as ghouls.
Juuzou Suzuya
Juuzou Suzuya is a character that is introduced later in the series. He is a member of the CCG, an organization that hunts down and kills ghouls. Juuzou is known for his childlike appearance and his sadistic tendencies. He is a skilled fighter and is feared by many ghouls. Despite his violent nature, Juuzou has a tragic backstory that has endeared him to many fans.
Tokyo Ghoul has become a fan favorite for its unique characters and intense action. Ken Kaneki, Touka Kirishima, and Juuzou Suzuya are just a few of the characters that have captured the hearts of fans.
Whether you’re a fan of the anime or the manga, Tokyo Ghoul is a series that is sure to leave a lasting impression.