10 Anime Side Characters Even More Popular Than The Real Main Character

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Many stories focus on the main characters, but some create supporting characters who are even more popular and memorable. The most successful of these side characters can quickly capture the audience’s attention and become fan favorites, sometimes even eclipsing the leads.

In anime like Jujutsu Kaisen, supporting characters such as Satoru Gojo often become more popular than the main character, sometimes even driving the entire fanbase. This shows fans are often more drawn to characters with strong personalities and charisma than to those simply destined for greatness.

Satoru Gojo Rules Jujutsu Kaisen as the Strongest Sorcerer

Satoru Gojo is notorious for stealing the show as an incredibly powerful side character. Even people new to anime have likely seen viral posts about this confident, blue-eyed character from Jujutsu Kaisen. While Yuji Itadori worked hard to gain his abilities, Gojo seems effortlessly powerful, with unwavering confidence and no concern for the consequences.

Gojo quickly became a fan favorite when he first appeared in Jujutsu Kaisen, especially after playfully dismissing Sukuna. His striking character design – particularly the reveal of his eyes – also generated a lot of excitement. Many viewers found him both incredibly attractive and seemingly unbeatable, which sometimes made it feel like he stole the spotlight from the main character, Yuji.

Every Attack on Titan Fan Fell For Levi Ackerman

Seven years ago, Attack on Titan Season 3, Episode 16 – titled “Give up on your dreams and die” – delivered a moment that remains incredibly impactful. No matter how stylish or morally complex Eren becomes, that episode’s climax still stands out as a defining point in the series.

While Eren struggled to stay motivated, Levi had already faced the harsh truths of the world. As humanity’s strongest soldier, he carried immense responsibility and had gained a large following. No one in Attack on Titan can defeat Titans as quickly and efficiently as Levi Ackerman, leaving a clear path of destruction in his wake.

Zero Two Became the Perfect Anime Waifu in Darling in the Franxx

I remember when Zero Two from Darling in the Franxx really took off – she quickly became one of the most beloved anime girls ever. Everything about her, from how she looked to her unusual personality, just made her stand out. It wasn’t surprising she became popular so fast.

I’ve noticed she’s a total rule-breaker, constantly pushing boundaries, and it’s actually what pulls the hero out of his funk. Honestly, she’s the one really carrying the story in Darling in the Franxx – it’s Zero Two, not Hiro, who makes things happen.

Osamu Dazai Went From Gag Character to Legend in Bungou Stray Dogs

Osamu Dazai first appeared in Bungou Stray Dogs as a character known for his self-destructive tendencies and eccentric behavior. Despite the anime’s often serious and heartbreaking storyline, Dazai provides much-needed comedic moments. He’s not only intelligent and resourceful, but also enjoys playfully teasing everyone around him.

Dazai is quite different from the main character, Atsushi, who is earnest and inexperienced. Initially presented as a playful figure, Dazai gradually develops into a complex, morally ambiguous, and ultimately tragic character.

Sebastian Michaelis’ Grace & Skills Stole the Show in Black Butler

The line, “I am simply one hell of a butler,” is instantly recognizable to fans of Black Butler. It’s understandable that the character who says it, Sebastian Michaelis, often steals the spotlight from the main character, Ciel Phantomhive.

He’s a perfect character: impeccably polite as a butler, yet completely without morals as a demon. This intriguing combination, along with his striking appearance, makes him a compelling side character—one who often steals the show from the protagonist.

Studio Ghibli Invented an Iconic Anime Mascot With My Neighbor Totoro

Totoro first appeared in the film My Neighbor Totoro and quickly became the face of Studio Ghibli. It’s rare to find a Ghibli fan who doesn’t own something with Totoro on it! The beloved character has also made brief appearances in other Ghibli films, including Pom Poko, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and Ponyo.

Totoro is so beloved that it even appeared briefly in Pixar’s Toy Story 3. Though Mei and Satsuki are the central characters in My Neighbor Totoro, it was the charming, furry Totoro that truly captured audiences’ hearts and became a lasting symbol of the film.

L Played Mental Chess in Death Note

Despite his slouching posture and constant snacking, L became a major force in Death Note. While Light drove the story forward, L was the one who consistently took the biggest chances and surprised viewers with his clever tactics. L demonstrates that you don’t need to be perfect to become well-known.

While Light seemed to have an unfair advantage with his supernatural notebook, L relied solely on his intelligence and ability to solve mysteries. Watching L work was like watching a complex chess game unfold. Unlike Light, L didn’t have an inflated ego, which made him a likable and relatable character.

Naruto Uzumaki Is Still the Strongest in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations

Despite any changes, Naruto will always be the more beloved character. For over ten years, fans followed Naruto’s journey as an underdog, so when the story shifted to his son, Boruto, in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, viewers weren’t ready for a new main character, especially since Naruto had finally achieved his dream of becoming Hokage.

Boruto sometimes seems spoiled, making it difficult for viewers to really relate to him. Because fans have such strong memories of Naruto, he remains the most popular character. Even with all of Boruto’s growing strength, he’s unlikely to become as beloved as his father.

Rengoku Delivered Max Emotional Damage With Limited Screentime in Demon Slayer

While Tanjiro Kamado is the central character in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, it was Rengoku who truly connected with audiences on an emotional level. His unique appearance, compelling personality, and unwavering principles immediately made him a fan favorite.

Even though he only appeared in one movie, Rengoku was a major reason many people started watching Demon Slayer. He made such a strong impression that fans are sure to remember him for years to come. More than any other character in Demon Slayer, Rengoku truly represented the ideals of a demon slayer, remaining a hero until the very end.

Captain Yami Threatened His Way Into Hearts in Black Clover

Yami, the captain of the Black Bull squad in Black Clover, is known for being impulsive and quick to anger. What really sets him apart, though, is his laid-back personality, especially for someone in a leadership position. He’s a crucial figure in Asta’s journey, providing the support and guidance Asta needed to reach his full potential.

I’m a huge fan of Yami! He’s not one for a lot of talk – he truly leads by example. Honestly, he’s pretty intense and loves to scare people, though his fun usually stops when Mereoleona shows up. It’s hilarious how he never gets a moment to himself in the bathroom! But beneath that tough exterior, he really cares for the Black Bulls like they’re his family, and that’s what I love most about him. He’s a total softie deep down!

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2026-01-07 07:41