You love anime; that’s well-established. But you also have some favorite anime characters, and you are here to see who are the most popular anime characters of all time and whether your favorite character is among that list!
The anime shows are famous for multiple reasons – fantastic animation, gripping storylines, and a wide variety of characters, among other things. However, the characters play a huge role in shaping the anime’s future and deciding exactly how popular the show will become.
Some anime characters have become more popular than their show’s protagonists, and some characters are actually villains but still are more famous than the heroes. This just goes to show that a good character can be anyone, despite what sort of motivation they might have in the story!
It’s not a stretch to say that some characters leave a permanent mark in the hearts of otakus worldwide. These characters are not just animations but are breathing in many hearts. Many of them teach valuable lessons, and a few even end up making a difference in our lives. So, this list was a long time coming as I had to share some of the best anime characters of all time with you guys! Let’s get started!
The Most Popular Anime Characters Of All Time:
100. Astro Boy (Astro Boy)
I am sure we all remember the robotic superhero who has made the childhood of many memorable! When I say many, it means this anime greatly impacted multiple generations! Astro Boy is one of the earliest shows that introduced the world to Japanese anime talent in 1963.
The show gained massive popularity in the initial years of the 21st century, and the titular character, i.e., Astro Boy, became one of the most famous anime characters ever. The superhero robot is admired for its strong sense of justice, kindness, and bravery. Despite having the characteristics of a child, his moral values are unshakeable. A few robotic characters are loved for countless reasons, and Astro Boy remains constant among them.
99. Vash the Stampede (Trigun)
Trigun has one of the most classy and skilled gunmen who is famous for his kindness. Vash The Stampede is mainly popular for his aura and lively personality. Hiding one’s pains and true self for the sake of people must be learned from this man. He has won fans’ sympathy and immense love because of his loneliness and losses.
The handsome isn’t an ordinary human because he has an extended lifespan. It is also one of the main reasons for his forever young personality. Despite being loved off-screen, the character, also known as The Humanoid Typhoon, is feared onscreen and has a bounty of $$60 billion due to the fact that destruction accompanies him wherever he goes.
98. Senku Ishigami (Dr. Stone)
The most popular, genius minds and exceptional talents in anime and manga include Senku Ishigami from Dr. Stone. The science fiction, unique plot, and charming characters have skyrocketed its name. When one talks about vast knowledge, logic, and genius, it sums up as SENKU!
The genius opens his eyes where humanity has been frozen to stones. He vows to rebuild civilization, and science would be a leading factor in his mission. The confidence and determination of Senku have been praiseworthy. Not just that, he has positively impacted the lives of otaku who once hated science. Are you perhaps one of them?
97. Himura Kenshin (Rurouni Kenshin)
Rurouni Kenshin is the oldest and the finest anime of the 90s, and Himura Kenshin is the protagonist who has been winning hearts for over a decade. His samurai skills made him one of the most powerful warriors in the world of Rurouni Kenshin.
This master swordsman has won many popularity polls, and his character was adored to a great extent. Irrespective of his strength and skills, he is humble, polite, and selfless. Though he doesn’t experience self-sacrificing moments that much, he sure is fearless to sacrifice himself when needed. We can’t miss his name when we talk about the top swordsmen in anime history!
96. Dio Brando (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)
It’s very common to see the protagonist of an anime show being the most popular character ever, but that might not always be the case because sometimes the antagonist can steal the show! Dio Brando is one such character who has a huge fandom for his badass attitude and evil persona.
Like typical villains, his love for power is eternal. Though he has created major disasters in the series with his presence, he has not failed to be loved. His obsession with power has made him no less than a monster with no sympathy for others. Dio’s vampire traits are the source of his strength and weakness simultaneously! Most of the time, vampire characters are famous for their love life, heroic traits, and stuff. This man is rare among the lot and is known for his satanic ideals!
95. Emilia (Re: Zero)
Emilia has gained immense admirability and praise as the heroine of the Re:Zero anime series. It’s impossible for anyone not to get attracted to her doll-like appearance. Even before the anime adaptation, she enjoyed fame among otakus who had read the light novels.
Her being a half-elf makes her unique and extremely gorgeous effortlessly. Despite being a kind-hearted soul, she is despised by people because she resembles the antagonist of the series. Her hard life has played a significant role in making her one of the most popular anime characters in the world. Of course, her appearance isn’t the only reason for her fame, but her magical powers also play a huge role!
94. Gon Freecs (Hunter x Hunter)
Hunter X Hunter has maintained its name among the best shounen anime of the decade. Gon Freecs’ journey to find his father and become a renowned hunter has been inspiring. His determination to progress has won him both friends and foes.
Although he is a kid, he is far superior to many people in his world. Since the show is a shounen adventure anime, his action and powers have earned him stardom off-screen. Gon’s abilities make him more than just a hunter! Like every other anime protagonist, Gon is also the one who struggles in the beginning, but his unique aura makes him stand out the most. The anime’s plot, action, combat style, and adventures have made him a memorable character!
93. Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)
Cowboy Bebop is an iconic anime and perfectly manifests the saying, “OLD is GOLD.” And it’s mostly thanks to the main character, Spike Spiegel, for maintaining the anime’s fame even after decades.
Being a bounty hunter, his combat skills are admirable. His personality and love life with Julia hold a special place in the hearts of shoujo and shounen lovers. Unlike other characters, he has no supernatural abilities, making him stand out. Spike’s personality, looks, and profession make him one of the most memorable anime characters!
92. Mai Sakurajima (Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai)
Mai Sakurajima is the main protagonist of the light novel-based anime series, Rascal Doesn’t Dream Of Bunny Girl Senpai. There are countless reasons for her fame, with her being the bunny girl ranking at number one. Secondly, she is a tsundere, and we all know that all such girls enjoy a particular fandom.
Mai is an actress and model by profession, so we can say she is designed to be popular. Her unique character is the series’ heart and soul, which adds charm to Sakuta’s life and ours. Last but not least, Mai Sakurajima has long black hair, making her look absolutely stunning!
91. Chitoge Kirisaki (Nisekoi)
Chitoge Kirisaki from Nisekoi is not your typical protagonist who is polite and shy. She is an impulsive tsundere who can’t pretend to like people who annoy her. This is the dominating factor in her being unable to make friends. But her chemistry with the main character Raku is entertaining to watch.
The spicy story starts with a bitter-sweet interaction that makes it more interesting. The love-hate relationship between the two main characters gets pleasing with each passing episode. Chitoge is highly impossible to ignore because of her appealing beauty and blond hair! If you like tsundere girls, you will love her effortlessly, and you will understand the reason why she made it to this list!
90. Baki Hanma (Baki)
Baki Hanma, from the uber-popular Baki anime series, is considered an iconic character in the anime and manga community. The show’s plot plays a significant role in making the characters likable, and that’s precisely the case with this one. Baki’s will and determination to avenge his father have been a central point of the show.
Baki’s training, combat style, and personality are something unforgettable. The beauty of this character lies in his strength at such a young age. Very rarely does it happen that a character without supernatural powers shows such strengths! But it is to be expected because his father, Yujiro Hanma, is considered the strongest being on the planet.
89. Houtaro Oreki (Hyouka)
Heroes who are emotionally cold and usually hide their emotions are always well-received by fans, and the same goes for Houtaro Oreki. He is a sluggard, calm, chilled-out, and smart, making him a character worthy of attention.
The reason for his being famous is his beautifully designed character. Our cute Houtaro has some different ideals; he believes in energy conservation! There you go; this is the secret to his lazy persona. His motto behind not staying active is energy preservation. So, next time you are called a sluggard, take that as a compliment because you can justify it!
88. Killer Bee (Naruto)
Who doesn’t know this character? There is hardly any character in the Naruto series that doesn’t have a particular fandom. Killer Bee is an adorable character from the anime, and he became popular right from the moment he made his debut because of his insane fighting skills and energetic rap! Skilled swordsman, strong Jinchuriki, and an exceptional rapper, the man lacks nothing.
The duo of Killer Bee and Naruto created waves of laughter every time they were on screen. Can somebody imagine Sasuke Uchiha being fooled effortlessly? The Oscar for fooling him goes to none other than Killer Bee! That was one of the series’ most iconic scenes that instantly made him famous. Additionally, the back story of this iconic black anime character played a significant role in creating a bond with the fans.
87. Asta (Black Clover)
This character is often considered similar to Naruto because of his story and the will to never give up. The Black Clover series is extremely popular, both in manga and anime formats. Therefore, it is no surprise that the show’s protagonist, Asta, found a place among the most popular anime characters of all time!
Fans admire him because of his cheerful persona and because of the world he lives in. People despise him for not having any magic powers, but he doesn’t give a DANG! Seeing characters go against all the odds and make their way out of the impossible has always been soothing, and Asta is one such character!
86. Koro-sensei (Assassination Classroom)
The bond between a teacher and students doesn’t enjoy much praise in the real world. Nonetheless, seeing a cherishing bond between them is not very common. Assassination Classroom has remarkably portrayed the relationship of a teacher with his students. Koro-sensei is undoubtedly the best teacher in the whole anime world.
The way he teaches students ways to assassinate him while ensuring that they are educated in all the topics the school offers makes the anime worthwhile. Koro sensei’s life experiences, sorrows, and heartbreak have helped him gain the sympathy of his fans. This big yellow guy with tentacles is loved for his cheerful, talkative, and yet fearsome personality! Many characters gain popularity for their plot, but this anime got popular solely because of all its characters.
85. Byakuya Kuchiki (Bleach)
Almost every character in the Bleach anime is famous, and good looks with charming personalities are common among them. Byakuya Kuchiki is one such character with indescribable grace and elegance, making him stand out in the crowd.
He entertained the fans of the series in the beginning by giving off the aura of a negative character. However, later all the members of the Soul Society, including Byakuya, became Ichigo’s allies. The character went from fighting the main character to helping him out in his fight against others, to fighting alongside him to save the world from an unprecedented threat. That is some serious character development right there, and that’s one of the reasons why this character is so famous among the otakus!
84. Reigen Arataka (Mob Psycho 100)
Reigen Arataka, from Mob Psycho 100, is well known as Mob’s master. His character is different and entertaining, and despite lacking psychic powers, he never fails to amaze people with his ideas. He very smartly manipulates others for his own advantage. Seldom does it happen that you get to see a character with contradicting traits, but that’s why Reigen is such an amazing character.
He is like a con man but with a good heart. Although he uses others to his advantage, he genuinely seems to care about them as well. So, he is surely not short of the reasons that make him a unique character. Last but not least, his presence just makes the show entertaining with his comedic personality. Many love him because of his wits, which makes him a better-written comedic character.
83. Motoko Kusanagi (Ghost in the Shell)
Ghost In The Shell was a well-received anime of the last decade and is considered one of the most popular shows. Motoko Kusanagi, the show’s main character, is known for her commanding personality and enjoys a high level of popularity worldwide.
Being a cyborg makes her special onscreen and off-screen. She is famous among fans of every gender because of her appealing and perfect figure. Unlike typical girls, she is strong-willed, intelligent, and strong. Girls with such traits are not very common to see in anime, and that’s the reason behind this girl’s fame.
82. Misa Amane (Death Note)
Misa Amane from Death Note is a character designed to steal attention. She is an energetic model who holds the audience in her spell both off and onscreen. Fans like her dressing sense and fashion, and we often see them cosplaying her.
Though she is a supporting character, her affiliation with Kira makes her role significant. Her being popular among fans is not because of her positive traits. She is a negative character willing to kill innocents for her benefit and to get closer to Light Yagami. She loves him so intensely that she can go to any extent for him, even if she has to kill or be killed.
81. Iori Kitahara (Grand Blue)
Iori Kitahara is considered one of the hottest and most handsome characters of Grand Blue. His charming personality and attitude toward others have made him really popular.
He is very similar to any other college student who loves diving, chilling and partying, and getting into all kinds of shenanigans with their friends. We all know that boys who are tall, handsome, and above all, enjoy partying are considered heart-throbs by many girls. So undoubtedly, Iori had to be a popular anime character. But it’s not just among girls that he’s famous; even guys love this character because of how funny he can be!
80. Makise Kurisu (Steins;Gate)
A variety of anime characters are known for their looks, and Makise Kurisu is among them. Her chestnut hair is one of the major reasons for her being on this list, and she is also the ideal girl that everyone dreams about.
Everything about her defines elegance, be it her dress sense or the way she behaves. Though she often gets annoyed easily, this doesn’t make her less kind. Nonetheless, Makise enjoys the spotlight for being one of the show’s main characters. The crown for one of the most entertaining and intriguing sci-fi anime based on suspense goes to Steins;Gate and the show’s popularity has made its characters also stand out among the crowd!
79. Hyakkimaru (Dororo)
Have you ever heard of a person living without organs? That’s impossible, but not in the world of anime. Hyakkimaru was thrown into the river soon after birth because he had no body parts. This was because of a deal his father made with the demons where he sacrificed his unborn child’s body parts to gain victory in war and make his land a peaceful land. He thought the child wouldn’t survive, but a miracle happened, and Hyakkimaru managed to live.
His life full of grief and hardships made him gain sympathy from the fans. The way he gains his organs one by one by defeating all the demons is very soothing to witness. Hyakkimaru acquiring his lost body parts is more refreshing than seeing characters gaining powers. Dororo’s unique plot and characters surely make this anime memorable.
78. Ulquiorra Cifer (Bleach)
Ulquiorra is undeniably the most handsome, innocent, and pure soul imaginable. Although he served as one of the antagonists in the Bleach anime series, his character development is absolutely amazing to watch. Of course, he isn’t heroic, but it would be wrong to call him pure evil.
Ichigo nearly died battling with him, but things changed when he lost control and closed Ulqiorra’s chapter once and for all. Despite being a somewhat negative character, he gained love because of his innocence and purity. The depth of his character and dialogue when he asks about a “heart” from Orihime was one of the scenes that made everyone fangirl over him. That moment made him famous, and fans were forced to ship him with Orihime! Ulquiorra is and will remain one of the most popular anime characters of ALL TIME!
77. Guts (Berserk)
Whenever we think of warriors, the first name that crosses our minds is Guts! This man has set a standard for many because of his daring and headstrong personality. His compelling backstory, hardships, and how he deals with people make him an interesting character.
The world of Berserk is not a fairytale; it has beautifully highlighted the harsh realities, and Guts, the main character, is forced to suffer one tragic event after another. Berserk is considered one of the best-written manga, although its anime adaptation is forgettable. But that didn’t stop me from adding Guts to this list because he’s such a fascinating character. And if you’ve read the Berserk manga, you’d know how right I am!
76. Shirou Emiya (Fate Series)
Shirou Emiya is the protagonist that holds the whole Fate series perfectly. He gained love and sympathy because of the story setting of the anime. His personality developed after losing his parents, an event that made him somewhat different. Life didn’t stop its tests, and it continued to make his life harder after the death of his adoptive father.
Shirou vowed to protect others even if it meant sacrificing himself. Trauma and bad experiences change a person; either the person becomes apathetic or sympathetic. The second was the case for him because he became sympathetic! Despite all the odds and worst experiences, this boy always chooses to help others no matter the consequences!
75. Touka Kirishima (Tokyo Ghoul)
Touka Kirishima is undoubtedly one of the most famous female anime characters of all time, and you definitely know who she is because she’s one of the main characters in the Tokyo Ghoul anime series.
Don’t mistake her for a polite, soft-spoken girl; she is very cold in her ghoul form. She works as a waitress to survive and hide her ghoul identity. Her chemistry with Ken is likable to many fans, although that wasn’t the case at the story’s beginning. However, she soon warmed up to Ken and showed a completely different side of herself, and her character development throughout the show was phenomenal. She also has innocent and sweet looks, making her extremely popular among otaku boys!
74. Hikigaya Hachiman (OreGairu)
Main protagonists may be able to gain the spotlight effortlessly, but it’s not always that easy to win the hearts of fans around the globe. But that’s not the case with Hikigaya Hachiman from OreGairu, who has maintained his stardom with his attractive looks and honest attitude.
The characters who are cold from the outside but warm inside are ideal. This guy apparently hates showing his feelings and is highly independent. He is a perfect boy with beauty and brains. Another reason which makes him famous is his back story and loneliness, which attracts the sympathies of fans globally, making him one of the best anime characters of all time!
73. Manjirou Sano, aka Mikey (Tokyo Revengers)
Recently, Tokyo Revengers have become a record-breaking anime, and fans can’t get over it. The action, fight, plot, and cool guys make it watch-worthy. Manjirou Sano, aka Mikey, gained massive popularity because of his cool personality. There’s also the fact that we can’t figure out if he is the show’s protagonist or the antagonist because Mikey does whatever he feels like doing at the moment.
Although he has a cool and calm demeanor, often showing carelessness toward what’s happening around him, he cares about his loved ones. And he’s an exceptionally powerful character in the show, being the leader of the Tokyo Manji Gang. So, him being one of the most famous anime characters of the year was a given!
72. Yuno Gasai (Mirai Nikki)
We rarely have seen female protagonists with double personalities, but here we are. Yuno Gusai, from Mirai Nikki, is a character who is more famous than the show’s main character. I mean, she makes the show worth watching.
She is loved for her ambiguous persona and how she goes from sweet to sour! To many, she is a complete package because they can find both a polite, shy girl and a cold, badass girl in Yuno. The dark side of a person is the result of what it has been absorbing from the surroundings, right? Her dark personality is all because of her dark experiences. Yuno Gusai’s character is unpredictable, so fans are always intrigued about what she’ll do next.
71. Iruma Suzuki (Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun)
Comedy anime shows are always popular, and their characters always find a place among the most popular anime characters list every single time! So, it’s no wonder you are seeing Iruma Suzuki from Welcome to Demon School, Iruma-kun on this list.
Iruma has made fans laugh countless times, intentionally and unintentionally. Thanks to the demon school and him being a part of it, even though he is a human, he made things interesting. This guy is the perfect definition of being kind and sweet, but his life wasn’t always ideal; his parents sold him to a demon, but the demon turned out to be someone who just wanted a grandchild to dote on.
70. Johan Liebert (Monster)
Is it possible to ignore charming, strong-willed, and unpredictable characters? Johan Liebert, aka the monster, is the show’s main antagonist who never fails to gain attention. He is kind to his allies and, worst, to his prey.
This character knows how to catch his prey and manipulate others for his benefit. If we are talking about the best villains in the anime world, then Liebert will undoubtedly be in a high place on that list. He creates chills and fear among people without superpowers, which is an achievement. And he is also a character that makes the show what it is, and Monster anime is one of the best shows to watch because of his presence!
69. Akame (Akame Ga Kill)
We like cold boys with kind hearts, don’t we? Well, what if we find the same in a girl? Akame, from Akame Ga Kill, is a girl who appears apathetic but eventually reveals herself to be the exact opposite. She cares a lot about her comrades and the people in general, but she can be ruthless to her enemies.
Not many otakus would dislike her character because we all love a badass anime girl, and Akame fits that definition perfectly. Her strength and assassination techniques make her well-known among fans of every gender. One can not be strong, smart, and cool all at once, but Akame will prove you wrong by being even more than that.
68. Osamu Dazai (Bungou Stray Dogs)
Mysterious personalities have a different levels of charm, and Osamu Dazai is one such character who is difficult to judge. His mind is like a maze, not for him but for everyone, because he is always looking for ways to commit suicide, but he is also confessing his love to different women so that they can join him in his suicidal adventures.
But there’s more to him than his suicidal tendencies. Dazai’s intelligence, abilities, and physical prowess make him the most enjoyable character throughout the Bungou Stray Dogs anime series. There are always some characters who enjoy more spotlight than protagonists, and Dazai is one of them.
67. Yami Sukehiro (Black Clover)
Black Clover anime is filled with interesting characters, and Yami Sukehiro is one of the most popular among them. Being the captain of the Black Bulls Squad, he is known for his hot-headedness, but he is also highly protective of the people he cares about.
Yami has gained massive respect as a magic knight and as a character for his unique and entertaining personality. If you are a shounen fan, you’ll go crazy seeing this guy in action, and he is a pro at being unpredictable. Unlike other captains, he has a different way of dealing with problems. He was the only captain who decided to make Asta a part of his team because of his keen intellect. He is a dark magic user, which adds to his exceptional charm and strength.
66. Anya Forger (Spy x Family)
Spy X Family needs no introduction at this point because it’s clearly one of the best anime shows of 2022! It took the internet by storm as soon as it started airing, so there should be no doubt about the popularity of its characters, especially the main leads.
Anya Forger is loved for her smartness and bubbly nature. She has the guts to give the audience waves of laughter. Many adore her for her cuteness, and many for her mind-reading ability. How she deals with her adoptive parents, Loid Forger and Yor Forger, is the best thing to watch in the anime. The fact that she was deprived of familial love makes her adore Yor and Loid to the next level. Her past experiences make her gain sympathy from the fans, but her cuteness made her one of the most popular anime characters of the year!
65. Hitagi Senjougahara (Monogatari Series)
Hitagi Senjougahara, from the Bakemonogatari series, is an ideal girl for many. There are countless reasons to love this girl; the number one is her looks and figure. She is a combo of tsundere and yandere; nothing can be better.
She has a slightly complex personality because of her trust issues which means that this girl never lets anyone get close to her, and because of that, she is often claimed to be cold towards others. However, her character develops throughout the story, and she changes as a person. But there are many otaku fans who absolutely love tsundere and yandere girls, so it’s no wonder that this purple-haired beauty is so famous!
64. Kiyotaka Ayanokouji (Classroom of the Elite)
Kiyotaka Ayanokouji remained the most unpredictable character throughout the Classroom of the Elite anime series. Call him sneaky or reserved, but none could ever imagine his plans till the end. He is socially awkward and doesn’t unnecessarily involve himself with others.
His smartness and calmness have made him the most successful person in the classroom. If you think he is a typical protagonist, then you are wrong. Ayanokouji knows how to use others to level up, which we saw at the end of the first season. He is pretty popular among the girls onscreen or off-screen because of his attitude, looks, calm personality, and calculating nature!
63. Shinya Kōgami (Psycho-Pass)
What’s better than a handsome hunk who is a smart detective? There are not many things that come to mind, right? But this character is both a handsome hunk and a smart detective!
Shinya Kogami, from Psycho-Pass anime, gained an instant fandom for his looks and calm attitude while dealing with the cases. He is always up for taking risky jobs, making him a daring and interesting character, and he has won many popularity polls for these reasons. Shinya’s every case is worth watching because one can never imagine what he will do to solve it!
62. Hisoka Morow (Hunter x Hunter)
Hunter x Hunter is a popular anime series, and one of the reasons behind its popularity is the variety of characters that appear in the show. One such character is Hisoka Morow, who is not just entertaining but also highly unpredictable.
Hisoka is a thrill-seeker and a narcissist. For him, finding a worthy opponent to fight to his heart’s content is all that matters. If he doesn’t find the opponent worthy, he won’t hesitate to kill them, irrespective of their age or gender. Manipulating others for his good is a skill he has mastered. His abilities and unique appearance make his screen time entertaining! Villains who give tough times to the heroes are always memorable, and the same goes for Hisoka.
61. Erza Scarlet (Fairy Tail)
Erza Scarlet is unlike the typical girls who are damsels in distress because she is the one who will come to your rescue when you find yourself in trouble. She will make you fall in love with her dominating yet submissive personality. She is a capable fighter, as she is an S-Class mage, and she is among the strongest characters in Fairy Tail anime. She’s also one of the prettiest, so don’t forget that!
Though she appears cold at first, fans are quickly shown that she is the kindest soul deep down and is always there to offer help and support to whoever may need it. Finding strong-willed and powerful female fighters who are also extremely gorgeous is very rare, and this red-haired beauty is definitely a rare find!
60. Sasuke Uchiha (Naruto)
Sasuke Uchiha is a name that not only otakus but also people who haven’t watched a lot of anime know! Apart from being one of the main characters in the Naruto anime series, he is famous for other reasons, like being handsome, cool, cold, and tough.
The other reasons include him being an overpowered Uchiha, the best buddy, and rival of everyone’s favorite, Naruto. His fights are epic and the most adored ones of the series. Sasuke’s bond with Naruto and the way Naruto cared for him throughout made him gain massive popularity!
59. Tobio Kageyama (Haikyuu!!)
Tobio Kageyama is popular as a rival and best buddy of Shoyo Hinata in the Haikyuu anime series. He never fails to capture people’s attention because of his height, looks, and insane skills as a volleyball player.
As a person, he is very arrogant, cold, and self-centered, but he doesn’t remain the same throughout the series. All thanks to Hinata for changing this guy for good. Otaku, who are sports lovers, admire his skills and playing style. The reason behind his fame is that girls love cold and tall guys! I think I summed it up pretty well, right?
58. Miku Nakano (The Quintessential Quintuplets)
Miku Nakano from The Quintessential Quintuplets is not popular because she is shy, reserved, and incredibly gorgeous, but because she is considered the perfect anime waifu by many otakus worldwide.
Seeing her expressing her emotions is a treat for the eyes that often don’t get the chance to witness her. Miku is a perfect waifu, which is why she is loved. Though she is a kuudere, she is an ideal girl for many. Her pink hair, cute looks, and sweet nature make her one of the loveable characters of the show and one of the most popular anime characters right now!
57. Sanji Vinsmoke (One Piece)
There’s no reason to introduce Sanji Vinsmoke as he is one of the most loveable characters in one of the best anime shows of all time, One Piece! He is kind, cares for others, and never fails to entertain the audience with his charm.
Although he is obsessed with women and falls in love with almost every female character he comes across, he knows how to respect them and is never condescending. He is so respectful towards women that he never hits them, even if they are villainous and beating him within an inch of his life. He would rather die than beat up a woman. And that’s one of the many reasons why he is a popular anime character!
56. Loid Forger (Spy x Family)
The Spy X Family anime introduced the most devoted spy named Loid to the world. His focus is to maintain peace in his country, but that is not the case in his home.
Though he adopts Anya for his missions, his love for her is pure. His love for his fake family, intelligence, loyalty, and skills makes him a popular anime character. The anime was a massive hit; therefore, most of the credit for the popularity of its character goes to the plot. Fans love Loid because he is a perfect guy and a jack of all trades.
55. Bakugo Katsuki (My Hero Academia)
Some characters always push the main characters to work hard and give their best, and they serve as their rivals throughout the story. Bakugo Katsuki, from My Hero Academia, is one such character who brings out the best in Izuku Midoriya.
At first, he didn’t like Izuku, but their relationship improved with time. Bakugo’s constant teasing and bullying are why Izuku improved as a person and a Pro Hero. He is famous because his character is entertaining. Even though he is arrogant and loud, he has the skills to back up his nature. He is a great fighter, he is strong and quite tactical, and he never underestimates his enemies. These are the reasons why Bakugo earns his spot among the most popular anime characters of all time!
54. Nico Robin (One Piece)
The girls of One Piece are the epitome of beauty and gorgeousness, and Nico Robin rules a particular fandom because of her looks and styles. She is very smart, and Luffy also admires her intelligence as he always turns to her to explain tough situations to him.
She is one of the most important characters in the show as she is the only person who can read the ancient language. Even though she is gorgeous, she is known more for her bleak attitude and honest nature, which is totally opposite to her crew’s laid-back attitude. Her bleak attitude often leads to hilarious situations with her idiots in the crew.
53. Kakashi Hatake (Naruto)
Whenever we talk about sensei or teachers in the anime world, Kakashi Hatake is the first man we can imagine. Though he is not an Uchiha, his Sharingan has made him popular in the Naruto world. His fighting style and different way of dealing with things make him prominent.
There are many moments in the show where he stole the spotlight and gained massive popularity. Plus, his character has always been intriguing throughout the series for fans who want to see his face.
52. Esdeath (Akame Ga Kill)
Esdeath is known for her sadistic approach toward people, as she doesn’t hesitate to punish her enemies and even kill them if they cross her. She is mainly famous for her barbaric behavior towards her foes. The unstoppable is a name that suits Esdeath better because she gets what she wants, and no one can even dare block her path.
Though she is cruel, people admire her for being a complete badass. There’s also no denying that she’s incredibly beautiful, thanks to her prominent and curvaceous figure. Her falling in love with Tatsumi made her character even more intriguing and showed that this blue-haired beauty is not just cruel; she’s capable of love too!
51. Rintarou Okabe (Steins;Gate)
Rintarou Otakbe is the main lead of Steins; Gate anime and is famous as a mad scientist. He sometimes acts like a tsundere which also adds to his charm. Rintarou is apparently cool, and he has a somewhat mysterious aura.
Another reason for his popularity is his looks and personality. His name, mad scientist, is the perfect nickname because he often shows an eccentric attitude. You will often see him talking to himself, which makes him an intriguing guy!
50. Ken Kaneki (Tokyo Ghoul)
Ken Kaneki’s character development in the Tokyo Ghoul anime is literally crazy! The way he goes straight from being a sweet guy to a badass is phenomenal. Ken’s bad life experiences, how he was betrayed, and how he was unwillingly turned into a ghoul made him loveable.
Although he is broken multiple times, Ken’s character is very well-received by fans. The fact that he was living a simple life and was forced to face a lot of hardships made him one of the best and the most popular characters in the anime world. Nevertheless, he is a handsome, manly, and tough guy. So him being well known among girls is not a surprise!
49. Roronoa Zoro (One Piece)
No introduction is needed for this swordsman because he is undoubtedly among the most popular characters in anime fandom. Roronoa Zoro is the epitome of loyalty, strength, selflessness, and courage and is one of the most popular One Piece characters ever!
He is a master swordsman who wishes to be the strongest in the world, and he is the guy who even impresses his opponents. Zoro’s battles are epic, and one can’t stop watching them repeatedly. His badass attitude, personality, and everything about him are absolutely perfect. It’s impossible to explain this character in a few words, but you can watch One Piece because it only takes a few episodes to explain what a badass Zoro is!
48. Jotaro Kujo (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)
People adore this Jotaro Kujo for almost everything, be it his attitude and abilities or his sensational badassery. He is the perfect definition of a cool and chilled-out guy. His smartness level and the way he treats others have everyone’s heart.
This character has created a different standard for other characters. Fans enjoyed watching JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure because of this guy, and he is one of the recurring characters on the show. Apart from his calm and collected attitude and intriguing character design, he is considered one of the most popular anime characters because he is also one of the most powerful characters in his universe.
47. Yuuki Asuna (Sword Art Online)
If you talk about the isekai genre, then there’s no way you wouldn’t mention Sword Art Online because it’s one of the most popular titles in the genre. Its fame started right from its light novel, so all its characters enjoy different stardom. Asuna Yuuki is the main character in the show, which means she is the pretty, innocent, charming, and furious leading lady of the series. People adore her for her cute looks and brownish-orange hair.
Her personality and attitude fit Kirito the best. The main leads are selfless and would go beyond their limits to save their loved ones. Her skills are also like a blaze, and the way she never hesitates to challenge others is entertaining.
46. Yor Forger (Spy x Family)
Many consider Yor Forger a perfect waifu because of her politeness and innocence. Although she is an assassin by profession, she keeps it a secret by pretending to be a wife and a mother. You will never see any assassin who is better at being a mother and a wife than Yor.
Watching her in action and how she gives her opponents a hard time is very entertaining. She is a trained martial artist and an assassin, so things are easy for her to handle. She is considered a perfect mom and wife because she will never allow anyone to lay a finger on her loved ones.
45. Saber (Fate/Stay Night)
The Fate anime series is a popular series loved by otakus worldwide, and Saber is one of the most loved characters in the show for her traits and personality. She is a courageous, dauntless, and strong-willed knight. It’s a little rare to find such courageous anime girls.
Her loyalty is worth praising, and the way she considers herself first a knight and then a human is great. Saber started as a reserved girl who rarely showed her emotions. However, with time, Shirou’s company changed her as a person. Saber is also a popular choice among cosplayers because she is gorgeous!
44. Rem (Re: Zero)
Rem’s loyalty is the main reason why people want a girl like her in their lives. She speaks politely, and her cuteness and sky-blue hair add charm to her innocence. Her beautifully designed character and looks never fail to capture attention.
Though her role was a little negative initially, she gained fans’ sympathies later. Unfortunately, she is a side character, and that’s also why fans feel sad for her. Girls who are protective towards their loved ones, cute, and loyal are ideal! So now we know why this cutie is adored by so many otakus, right?
43. Rudeus Greyrat (Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation)
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation is a top-rated anime show, and Rudeus Greyrat’s sense of humor creates unexpected waves of laughter. It’s known that the character’s backstory impacts the anime’s tone; the same goes for our handsome hero, whose backstory is engaging and makes the show so popular and intriguing for fans.
In his previous life, he had no charm and died living a mundane life. His second life started in a magical world where he had everything. Don’t be fooled by his looks; his intelligence, magic skills, and character are highly entertaining. Rudeus started gaining fame from the light novel and later gained massive popularity from the anime adaptation.
42. Askeladd (Vinland Saga)
Despite not being the protagonist, he rules a massive following. Askeladd is very manipulative and knows how to turn things in his favor. Vinland Saga fans adore his fighting skills and how he smartly gets what he wants.
He is mostly ahead of his foes and is always planning to come out on top, no matter who his enemies are. If you think he is not interested in something, then it is because he wants to look uninterested. Cruelty and mercilessness are not uncommon for him. If fulfilling his goal demands taking lives, then it’s no big deal for this man. Don’t forget that he is a Viking through and through!
41. Natsu Dragneel (Fairy Tail)
Fairy Tail has a different type of fan following, and it is one of the most loved anime shows of all time. The anime is loved for its magic fantasy genre and interesting power system. And if the show is popular, it’s mostly thanks to its main characters. So Natsu Dragneel is a character that always finds a place in the popularity rankings, no matter what!
Fans love him because he goes beyond the limits for his friends. He uses fire dragon slayer magic, and it is always fun for the shounen fans to see him in action. Natsu is popular among fans for his straightforwardness, and countless reasons make him one of the most loved characters.
40. Zero Two (Darling in the Franxx)
Are you looking for a waifu? Zero Two, from Darling in the Franxx, would be an ideal choice for you guys. Her cheerful and happy nature adds charm to her character. She has a sad past because of the way people treat her. It is also the primary reason why fans sympathize with her.
Zero Two’s character develops throughout the series. There are different shades of her personality that fans get to see in the anime. The fact that she is not a human, but a hybrid makes her even more interesting.
39. Yuuji Itadori (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Yuuji Itadori is the main protagonist of Jujutsu Kaisen, and he instantly gained the spotlight because of his strength, courage, and looks. Another main reason he is everyone’s favorite is that he is the vessel of the king of curses, SUKUNA!
Being his vessel made him gain a massive fan following. Fans love to see his character shift from being nice to a massive badass when Sukuna takes over him. His combat style, abilities, and action made him a favorite among the shounen fans. Yuuji is a guy who won’t think twice about sacrificing himself for others. But he is also the vessel of a self-centered entity that would kill anyone without a second thought. This kind of duality makes Yuuji’s character extremely popular!
38. Ichigo Kurosaki (Bleach)
Ohh, man, how can words describe this man? He is the reason why the Bleach anime stands in the BIG 3. Ichigo Kurosaki’s character development throughout the show is crazy!!! With each passing episode, he gets stronger and stronger.
There are countless reasons behind his fame, and number one goes to his deadly looks and personality. The other reasons are his style, way of fighting, and power levels. Ichigo is the best definition of an overpowered character. His Zanpakuto and all forms of his power rule a different fanbase!
37. Kaguya Shinomiya (Kaguya-sama: Love is War)
Kaguya Shinomiya is the main female protagonist of the romance comedy anime, Kaguya-sama: Love is War. The anime enjoys insane popularity because of its humor and love battles between the leads.
Kaguya has different shades of her personality and experiences infinite mood swings. She is more like a child, very far from being called mature. This is the trait that makes her loveable and annoying simultaneously. Her obsession forces her to go beyond limits for her wants and desires. Her personality aside, many adore this black-haired beauty’s enthralling looks and her overwhelming cuteness!
36. Rimuru Tempest (That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime)
Rimuru Tempest is the main character of That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime. The idea of being reincarnated in another world isn’t unique as it’s an overused trope, but this show is unique because the main character reincarnated as a slime. This made the manga and anime loved all over the globe.
Rimuru’s slime power and adventures made him gain fame not only off-screen but onscreen as well. He is an overpowered character, and the anime focuses mainly on his character development. Rimuru started winning hearts from its light novel, then its manga series, and now from the anime adaptation. Fans like him for his empathizing and communicating abilities with others and his infinite strength capable of crushing his enemies in no time!
35. Saitama (One Punch Man)
One Punch Man is one of the most popular anime shows, and Saitama is one of the most popular anime characters of all time, period! This popular baldie is known for his single overpowered punches that can destroy almost anything and anyone, but he is also a pretty entertaining character. One can never judge him with the first glimpse, and that’s his specialty.
Usually, we assume the OP characters are cool with a fantastic design, but Saitama proves the assumption wrong. His actions and battles are always intriguing and full of fun. The idea of defeating the fans with a single punch made this loveable baldie hugely renowned. The fact that he has gained massive strength by following a strict workout routine leaves no chance of stealing the spotlight.
34. Violet Evergarden (Violet Evergarden)
Violet Evergarden was more like a robot than a normal human being. Therefore, she couldn’t understand others’ feelings and emotions. This also makes her innocent and yet naive. Since she lacked human emotions, it was not easy for her to express herself. However, things changed with time, and her character developed.
The anime was highly emotional and sad, significantly impacting the viewers. The storytelling and animation of the anime play a significant role in making its characters popular. Last but not least, people adore Violet because she is a perfect waifu for many.
33. Chika Fujiwara (Kaguya-sama: Love is War)
Bubbly and cheerful girls are the soul of any anime, and Chika Fujiwara from Kaguya-sama: Love is War is the perfect example of this! Chika is very lively, and her presence makes the environment happier. She also enjoys the spotlight for being one of the show’s main characters.
Many are fans of her dancing and rapping skills, so being with Chika means your time is guaranteed to be worthwhile. Her intelligence is undeniably exceptional, mainly due to her political clan. It’s impossible to fall in love with this pink-haired girl after seeing her changing expressions!
32. Tatsuya Shiba (The Irregular At Magic High School)
Tatsuya Shiba appeared mysterious right from the beginning of the series titled The Irregular At Magic High School. His enigmatic personality made everyone curious about him. Tatsuya’s magic abilities are insane, which makes him the most powerful character.
He hides his identity of being a good magician pretty smartly. Watching him reveal his personality makes the plot engaging. As the main lead, the creators have done their best to make him perfect. His looks, personality, and powers are impossible to ignore.
31. Holo (Spice And Wolf)
Holo is popular as a wolf deity in Spice And Wolf anime, who is protective of the male lead. Her bold and flirtatious personality made her adorable and loved by fans. She is like a typical lover who gets jealous seeing other girls around her love interest.
People who like tsundere girls will love Holo instantly. In the beginning, one finds her a little annoying, but her character becomes likable with the story’s progress. Since she is a wolf deity, she is blessed with many supernatural powers that make her intriguing.
30. Izuku Midoriya (My Hero Academia)
My Hero Academia has been a popular anime of the decade for multiple reasons. The character of Izuku Midoriya, aka Deku, is loved because he has all the traits of a shonen protagonist. Everyone can relate to his will to never give up and struggle to prove everyone wrong.
Whenever it comes to saving others, he will jump into danger without giving it a second thought. His strong will stole the attention of All Might, the strongest hero in the show, and he decided to transfer his power to him. Despite all odds, selfless and highly optimistic heroes need no reason to be popular.
29. Ryomen Sukuna (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Sukuna, the King Of Curses, is famous for his badass attitude, and the moment he made his onscreen debut, he instantly became one of the most popular anime characters. His relationship with Yuuji Itadori made his character more prominent.
He is the opposite of Yuuji, and everyone fears this cold-hearted, devilish man. Sukuna’s hand-to-hand combat, strength, speed, and overall abilities are thrilling. Despite being a negative character, he is loved for his personality and demeanor! Angering him is like giving an invitation to death!
28. Light Yagami (Death Note)
Light Yagami, aka Kira, is famous mainly for his intelligence and the way he gives tough competition to other geniuses. There has been a constant debate about calling him a hero, but many consider him a negative character because of his actions.
Death Note series is all about mystery and geniuses. Nothing is better than watching a genius playing mind games with people to fulfill his goals. He hates injustice; therefore, he vows to kill all criminals to create peace. Many admire his sense of justice, but it’s also what makes his character villainous, as he would go so far as eliminating innocent people to achieve his perverted goals!
27. Megumin (Konosuba: God’s Blessing on this Wonderful World)
Konosuba: God’s Blessing on this Wonderful World is one of the most popular anime shows, and Megumin, being one of the central characters, never fails to catch attention with her cool outfit and her looks. She is a high-level archmage with immense explosive powers.
Her destruction abilities are as strong as an atomic bomb. Despite being a powerful magician, she’s very immature. Well, it’s justified because she is hardly 14 years old, and her childish acts make her character entertaining. She is known for her crazy actions that always put her team at risk, but her shenanigans with Kazuma has made her one of the most popular anime characters of all time!
26. Kazuto Kirigaya (Sword Art Online)
Kazuto Kirigaya, aka Kirito, is the main character of Sword Art Online. The character achieved massive popularity from its light novel and the title’s anime adaptation. The couple of Kazuto and Asuna has won many popularity polls. Their chemistry as friends and lovers made both characters ideal.
Kazuto has all the qualities of a hero, and you’ll always find him in high spirits. Though he doesn’t have a lot of friends, he will jump into danger to save those close to him. In short, he is a selfless hero ready to sacrifice at any time. It’s very rare to see OP heroes getting emotional, but it’s not rare when it comes to Kazuto. He is very sensitive and compassionate about his loved ones.
25. Eikichi Onizuka (Great Teacher Onizuka)
There are few anime that manifest the saying “old is gold,” and Great Teacher Onizuka is among the list of such golden anime. Eikichi Onizuka, the main character, is one of the most vulgar teachers in the anime world; he is unlike typical teachers who are very well-mannered and ethical.
The fact that he is unpredictable makes him famous among fans. No one can guess his next move. He is a very unserious, chilled-out pervert but surprises everyone with his problem-solving skills when needed. Fans admire his confidence, style, and badass attitude despite being a teacher, which has made him one of the best anime characters of all time!
24. Nami (One Piece)
When it comes to One Piece, no one can beat the beauty and charm of its female characters. Nami is adored for her beauty and orange hair, and she is considered to be one of the most beautiful anime girls of all time!
Though she is very bossy, she is kind and caring toward her peers. She is a waifu material and is considered one of the best among all the female characters. Nami is often shipped with Luffy, which makes her well-known among otaku. Many fans liked Nami’s debut in the show and loved the trio of Luffy, Zoro, and her initially because of how entertaining they were and still are!
23. L Lawliet (Death Note)
L Lawliet from Death Note anime has been the heart and soul of the series. His innocence, genius intellect, and problem-solving skills often surpassed Light’s. According to popularity polls, he is more popular than the supposed “hero” of the show, and to be honest, this is somehow justified.
Aside from the debate between Light, aka Kira, and L’s fans, he is undeniably the most loveable character in the series. Kira had supernatural powers, but still, L gave him tough competition. His actions, behavior, and skills make him the most exciting and intriguing anime character.
22. Killua Zoldyk (Hunter x Hunter)
Killua Zoldyck is the deuteragonist of the Hunter x Hunter anime who is loved for his cheerful personality and is often considered more popular than the main character. He is very kind to this peer and exactly the opposite to his foes. No one can imagine him to be cold and ruthless, and he proved everyone wrong.
Coming from a family of assassins, he suffered a lot in his childhood and was brutally tortured in order to become strong. His experience also played a huge role in making him the person he is. He is not a simple character, but there is much to learn about him. He is complex and deep, which makes fans curious about him.
21. Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)
Itachi Uchiha is a name that will always remain in the hearts of Naruto fans. He is popular because of how his character played with the emotions of the series’ fans. He also happens to be one of the strongest characters in the show!
His character, sacrifices, skills, powers, secrets, and above all, his love for his brother stole the show. At the beginning of the series, he is perceived as a negative character. However, when his backstory was revealed, fans cried for this guy. No one can surpass his loyalty! He painted himself as a villain and gracefully died being misunderstood. Itachi rules million hearts, and few words can’t describe this legend!
20. Alucard (Hellsing Ultimate)
Alucard, from Hellsing Ultimate, is unlike cliché vampires, who are only known for their charming looks. This character is known for his strengths, and fans fear his character because of his thrilling fights.
Despite being a vampire himself, he despises others of his kind. He had immense respect and love for humans, making him a very rare vampire in anime. Alucard is loyal to Integra Hellsing and can do anything for her. His regeneration skills are remarkable; no matter the damage, he will stand back as if nothing happened.
19. Rias Gremory (Highschool DxD)
Rias Gremory is the main lead of the most popular ecchi anime, Highschool DxD. She is an exceptional beauty, and her long crimson hair makes it difficult to ignore her. Despite being a devil, she is very kind, optimistic, and loving.
Rias is obsessed with Issei and can’t tolerate any girl coming near him, but that’s a challenging task because so many girls are always fawning over him. The best thing is that she is willing to go to extremes to protect her loved ones. There is a lot of fanservice in the anime, and Rias is often shown in provocative poses, in seductive situations, and with virtually no clothing. This has made Rias one of the most popular anime characters of all time because otakus worldwide have loved her from the moment she made her debut in the show.
18. Shoyo Hinata (Haikyuu!!)
Underrated guys who surprise others with their skills are always likable, and Shoyo Hinata is the perfect example of this. He is a popular character among fans, and his presence makes watching Haikyuu anime a total treat!
Despite all the odds and his short height, he gives tough competition to other volleyball players. Since he is a character in a sports anime, fans adore him for his skills and playing style. Trust me, guys, there is so much to learn from this guy, and the number one is motivation. He is an entertaining character with a simple mind. There are many things about him that fans find cute, and he makes us laugh with his onscreen shenanigans!
17. Sinbad (Magi: The Adventures Of Sinbad)
The anime community loves Sinbad and his adventures. The character first appeared in Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic, and he got so popular that he got his own spin-off show, Magi: The Adventures of Sinbad. This anime is famous for its plot, which is based on adventure fantasy.
Fun-loving and adventurous heroes are impossible to hate, and Sinbad is the most adventurous of them all. He is extremely handsome, very cheerful and never stays behind when it comes to flirting. He is the kind of character who always wants to stay calm, young, and energetic, and this optimistic energy makes him likable!
16. Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan)
Attack on Titan has been the decade’s massive hit, and there is hardly anyone who doesn’t know this anime. Mikasa Ackerman is the main female lead of the show, which is why she is one of the most popular anime characters ever!
She is famous as a tough young girl who will do anything to protect her loved ones. Mikasa’s character development is very well received, and it’s heart-wrenching. She went straight from being a cheerful child to a tough girl. She is one of the strongest characters in the show, even without the titan powers. Her chemistry with the main character Eren was very much appreciated.
15. Sakata Gintoki (Gintama)
This guy is the soul and life of Gintama; he made people laugh their hearts out and cry with his words and actions. There are many incidents in the show where one sheds tears or laughs along the way with this character.
Fans adore this character because he is not a cliche one. The humor and comedy in the anime have made it well renowned. Gintoki’s character development is great to see. He is one of the best swordsmen, and his abilities are mind-boggling. This guy is known for turning the tide of battles. The life lessons this guy gives are unforgettable. Though he looks immature, he isn’t!
14. Nezuko Kamado (Demon Slayer)
Nezuko Kamado, from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, is the sister I am sure everyone would want in their lives. She is caring, kind, and strong-willed. Even after becoming a demon, she knows what is right and wrong and would never do anything to hurt others.
Fans love her because of her looks, charisma, and will to help others. Her inability to communicate has added an extra charm to her character. Her pastel pink eyes are the only thing we can see on her face because of the muzzle in her mouth. The muzzle doesn’t need to be removed from Nezuko, her eyes are more than enough for communicating, and they will undoubtedly imprison you.
13. Tanjiro Kamado (Demon Slayer)
Tanjiro Kamado has gone through so much in the Demon Slayer anime that fans lost their hearts to him right from the first episode. The way his character gained maturity is very heart-wrenching to see. He has to face brutality in its worst form at a young age.
Still, nothing could break him; he vowed to get stronger. Tanjiro’s training arc, his powers as a demon slayer, and his journey to find a cure for his sister has made him uber-popular. The anime’s story, animation, and power levels made Tanjiro and all its characters extremely famous in a short span of time!
12. Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan)
Anti-heroes are always popular because of their character development. There has been a constant debate about Eren’s character because even though he started as heroic, that doesn’t seem to be the case by the time the story concludes.
The way Eren went from being weak to overpowered is jaw-dropping. He was very kind, caring, and sensitive, but reality hit him hard. Eren was forced to be an anti-hero because of his pain. His action, battles, and titan forms have always fascinated viewers. But it doesn’t matter if he is a hero or the story’s villain; one thing is clear – he is and will remain one of the most popular anime characters of all time!
11. Kazuma Satou (Konosuba: God’s Blessing on this Wonderful World)
I consider Kazuma Satou one of the best anime characters because he is perfect. He isn’t heroic; he is selfish, he cares about his happiness, and he will run away if he thinks he is in trouble. He is completely opposite to the shonen protagonist that you see today, and that is what makes him so popular.
Before being reincarnated in a fantasy world, he used to be a NEET who just stayed in his room and played video games to pass the time. When he was reincarnated, he didn’t get any OP abilities, which made his life in the new world all the more difficult. But he is intelligent and quite an entertaining character which is why he’s got an insane fan following.
10. Lelouch Lamperouge (Code Geass)
Lelouch Lamperouge from Code Geass is known for his rebellious character. Although he is the show’s protagonist, he has more villainous traits, making his character undoubtedly the most interesting.
His foes know him for being brutal and ruthless. However, the definition is the exact opposite of his friend’s point of view. That’s what makes him a perfect character. He has won multiple popularity polls for countless reasons. Many otakus admire him for his handsomeness and many for his over-the-top intelligence.
9. Marin Kitagawa (My Dress-Up Darling)
Marin Kitagawa is a recent entry to the anime world, and she surprisingly became the most popular one of the year. The anime, My Dress-Up Darling, proved to be refreshing for those who wanted a break from the traditional shounen shows filled with over-the-top action.
Marin is similar to an otaku because of her immense love for anime, video games, and cosplay. She may be clumsy at times, but she is also very bold. Otakus love her femininity and have adored her for her heavenly good looks; there is nothing in her character that would stop her from being called a waifu. Not only among boys, but she is also very much popular with girls because of her aesthetics and fashion sense.
8. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)
Does this guy need an introduction? Levi Ackerman, from Attack on Titan, is one of those characters who are more popular than the show’s main characters. This is corroborated by the fact that he has been winning the popularity polls beating Eren Yeager in the first three seasons, and he has remained popular throughout the series.
Despite lacking the titan powers, he is considered the strongest and is feared by everyone. His expertise, passion, coldness, maturity, and looks make him the man he is. His talent justifies all the reasons for receiving an enormous amount of love.
7. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
I am sure we all have heard about the Elric brothers, right? Of course we have because Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is one of the best anime shows of all time. From the Elric brothers, there’s Edward Elric, the older of the two, and many consider him the best shounen protagonist, and there are justified reasons behind it.
Edward is an iconic character with extreme intelligence and skills. Selflessness and loyalty is the common trait that we see in every hero. Even though he is the main character, and his life experiences have been pretty heart-breaking, he always has a smile on his face and works towards achieving his goal with a singular focus!
6. Ash Ketchum (Pokémon)
Ash Ketchum is undoubtedly one of the most popular anime characters of all time, even people who don’t watch anime know him! He has remained at the top of the popularity polls for decades.
Ash’s kindness, friendship, and love for other Pokémon make him receive the same love from his fans. Unlike typical characters, his character feels closer to reality. Fans have seen Ash’s ups and downs as he has lost many battles in his journey to becoming the best Pokémon trainer but has never given up and worked his way to finally winning the World Championship!
5. Vegeta (Dragon Ball Series)
Just imagine the Dragon Ball series without Vegeta, can you? The series would have been colorless without this character. His power levels, training ability, action, and above all, his personality makes him entertaining, and his backstory makes him well-received.
He was the prince of his planet that got brutally destroyed by Frieza. Although he was introduced as an antagonist in the story, he became one of the protagonists through a series of events, and his character development has been phenomenal. Vegeta’s dark humor has a different fan following; you rarely see him exhibit humor, but it’s a treat for his fans when he does.
4. Gojo Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Jujutsu Kaisen may have recently stepped into the anime world, but it’s made quite a significant impact as it’s become one of the most influential shows in recent times. The portrayal of sorcery and magic has made this anime well-known, and its variety of characters is also the reason why the show enjoys such immense popularity.
Gojo Satoru is one such character who, despite not being the main character, enjoys a popularity that far surpasses other anime characters. His unique attitude, infinite powers, and sizzling eyes are some of the reasons behind his immense fame. His character is designed so beautifully that one finds it difficult to be freed from his charm.
3. Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)
When talking about the most popular anime characters of all time, there’s no way you’d not talk about Naruto because that’s a name that even kids of this generation know. It’s a rare anime that is not only loved for its heroes but for its negative characters as well; don’t forget the plot and the grasping story twists.
Naruto Uzumaki is the perfect example of a true hero. He has taught everyone to grow and win no matter the number of heartbreaks, betrayals, and hatred. Making friends and changing people with words is a skill he taught us. Everything about him makes him likable, be it his yellow hair, the nine-tailed fox residing within him, his optimism, or his unpredictability! Masashi Kishimoto has made Naruto an iconic, memorable, and the best anime character in history!
2. Goku (Dragon Ball Series)
No one asks whether they know Goku or not because everyone knows Goku. He is one of the most famous fictional characters in the world. The Saiyan brought anime to the world’s attention and made it popular, paving the way for other anime titles to shine.
The Dragon Ball series has been popular for more than a few decades, and almost everyone on this planet has watched it. Goku’s character development is massive; his hard work, his will to train tough, and his simple-mindedness makes him likable. Unlike typical characters, there is nothing complex about Goku. Despite being overpowered, he is not a bit egoistic about his powers, which is admirable.
1. Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)
One Piece is a series that holds the position of one of the longest-running anime shows, which is still running and is even more popular than before. Monkey D. Luffy is the show’s main character, a knucklehead most of the time but a genius when it comes to beating down his enemies or making fans laugh out loud with his stupidity.
Judging him will not be a good option as he is extremely good at shocking others. One Piece is among the BIG three, so it had to be legendary. Luffy’s combat abilities are unique and interesting, but there are many things that make Luffy entertaining, ranging from how he treats others to how overpowered he is in terms of power! Since Oda declared that the anime is near its end, Luffy’s hype has increased drastically, making him the best anime character of all time!
Conclusion
This brings us to the end of this massive article where we featured the most famous characters in anime. I am sure you agree with every character added to this list, but if you think I missed out on an obvious name that should’ve been featured, do let me know, and I’ll add them in the next update.
Before you go, though, make sure to share the article with your friends and tell them who are the most popular anime characters of all time!
