Anime is definitely one of the most famous forms of entertainment. The best anime is exciting, sometimes humorous, includes different worlds where anything is possible, and has great story lines. To top it all off you can find ninjas, aliens, and people with some weird superpowers. The creators of great anime series definitely have some wild imagination and some shockingly brilliant skills.

However, what makes anime series all the more interesting, and why some of them have hundreds of episodes that people return to again and again, are the characters. It is safe to say that anime has some characters have become cultural icons for some people, with many dressing up as their favorites at conventions and festivals. Even after the end of the show (or the character), the viewers seem to be unable to get over them. It definitely makes sense, given how influential and well-developed these characters can be. Here is a list of some of the best anime characters of all time. Some of them might not be the protagonist or lead character of their respective anime, but they have definitely stolen the spotlight by having a huge impact on the viewers.

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

7 Sailor Mars (Sailor Moon)

     TV Asahi

Also known as Rei Hino, this particular character from Sailor Moon might have been introduced as someone with a rocky relationship with the protagonist, but Rei’s character development is one that is very commendable. Though stubborn, Rei is a very practical woman despite her anger issues. However, as the story develops, this character grows to become calmer and seems to be the most loyal to the protagonist, in turn, becoming a fan favorite. In addition to this, Rei’s flaws and insecurities make her a very relatable character, one who helped Sailor Moon be way ahead of its time.

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

6 Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)

     TV Tokyo / Wowow

It is, perhaps, safe to say that Spike Spiegel is one of the coolest but darkest characters that you will come across in the anime world. That is exactly what makes him, and part of Cowboy Bebop, interesting. Initially, you are introduced to a carefree character that leads a hard life but still seems to not care about the harshness. In fact, Spike is always eager for dangerous tasks that might put his life on the line. He seems quite laissez-faire at first but, as the story progresses, the character is slowly unpacked as a man with a death wish and an immense sense of loss. It is undeniable that Spike is a character that has strong bonds with his partner Jet Black and others in Cowboy Bebop. However, the viewer is also explained why Spike is so carefree. This particular character is one that makes the audience think more about life, and was so iconic that he transitioned into a now-canceled live-action Netflix series.

5 L (Death Note)

     Nippon TV

L is yet another character with an awkward personality. However, L is not a character with a high moral compass in Death Note. Given that he is very target-oriented, he does not care about not playing fair. In fact, he is determined to win, doing whatever it takes. So, why exactly is such a character loved so much? Well, Jessica Peri of Reel Rundown answers this question by comparing L to Bennedict Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Holmes. Even if Sherlock is a “high-functioning sociapath” (as per Cumberbatch’s character’s tagline), he is definitely loved. Similarly, L might have zero social skills and no sympathy but his intelligence and awkward nature makes his character quite likeable.

4 Goku (Dragon Ball)

     Fuji TV

Goku’s character in Dragon Ball, more often than not, has been regarded as just a simple persona with a good moral compass. However, this particular character has great development and reflects on many important aspects. Goku learns as he faces many experiences. For example, the Red Ribbon Army Saga arc, which initially focused on Goku seeking Grandpa Gohan’s four-star dragonball, allowed Goku to realize the importance of life and thus, developed his character immensely. Additionally, Goku is a pure character who looks beyond the social norms and conventions. He is a character that might seem dumb, prima facie, but has so much to give. It is possible to say that Goku’s big heart and strong moral compass are two key features that made many viewers applaud him. He was so popular that he’s been included in the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

3 Levi (Attack on Titan)

     MBS / NHK G

Even though not the protagonist of Attack on Titan, Levi is a character who is highly regarded by anime lovers and Attack On Titan fans. This character might not be very social nor very comical but he is definitely a unique person with much to unpack. What makes Levi’s character interesting is the paradox between his personality and his heart. Regardless of him being very task-oriented, intelligent, an exceptional fighter and non-nonsensical, he definitely cares deeply about his comrades. In a nutshell, this is a character who literally speaks his mind. It might be strange but it definitely illustrated his honest persona. In addition to this, Levi’s confidence is a huge plus point. It is safe to say his honesty and confidence makes up for his lack of social skills.

2 Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)

A character who gained a weird super power that turned his body into rubber, Monkey D. Luffy of One Piece is definitely one cheery protagonist. He’s optimistic, with a bright attitude and a perspective which trends toward the positive. However, what makes Luffy a character that leaves an important message is that even though he is optimistic, he is not unrealistic. This is evident through the way he is ready to accept both success and failure when it comes to his goal of becoming the pirate king; he’s a strong role model for young people in this way.

Moreover, even if Luffy carries his notably wide smile throughout the series, he is never reluctant to get serious when it comes to fights and tense situations. Thus, he is a perfect balance of positivity and necessary seriousness. Even if One Piece is quite long, Monkey D. Luffy surely entertains the viewers throughout, and has kept them coming back for more with his endearing charm. Perhaps the audience might expect a similar charm from the live-action version of Luffy who will be played by Iñaki Godoy.

1 Itachi Uchiha (Naruto & Naruto Shippudden)

     Pierrot / Aniplex

Itachi Uchiha, the elder brother of Sasuke Uchiha as well as the person that assasinated the whole Uchiha clan, is perhaps the most fascinating character of Naruto. This character is one who started off by scaring the viewers, and was introduced as an antagonist who was feared by many. Itachi became a rogue ninja and an international criminal following the murders he committed and his affiliation with the akatsuke. However, as the story progressed, Itachi became an absolute favorite amongst the audience.

Not only is he talented, smart and one superb ninja, but he is also someone that sacrificed his own life for the sake of his brother and Konohagakure (Hidden Leaf) village. Itachi’s final moments left a huge impact on the viewers as well as the characters of the show. Even after his resurrection, he ensured he was not used as a puppet, in turn, helping the fourth great shinobi war. Itachi Uchiha is one of the most brilliant characters of the series, and one of the most memorable in anime, due to his character development and empathy.