10 Anime Side Characters Who Stole The Show From The Protagonist

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As a huge anime fan, I’ve noticed something really interesting: sometimes it’s not the main character who steals the show! Often, it’s a supporting character – someone who starts off in the background but ends up being way more compelling. They might have a really tragic past, or just a special talent that makes them unforgettable. Honestly, there are times when a side character is the only reason I keep watching a series. I’ve put together a list of characters who totally blew past the main hero in terms of grabbing my attention.

Levi Ackerman

Levi Ackerman is a standout character in ‘Attack on Titan’ thanks to his incredible fighting ability and calm, serious personality. The animation studio, Wit Studio, brilliantly showcases his skills with smooth and dynamic action sequences, especially when he’s using his 3D maneuver gear. Often, Levi’s compelling past and strong leadership make him more captivating than the main character, Eren. As humanity’s most powerful soldier, he brings a reassuring presence to every scene, and his unwavering loyalty to the Survey Corps makes him central to the story.

L

As a huge fan of ‘Death Note’, I’ve always been captivated by the character of L. He’s this incredibly quirky, almost unbelievably smart detective who’s determined to take down Kira. The animators at Madhouse really nailed his personality – everything from the way he sits to his constant snacking just feels like L. Honestly, the cat-and-mouse game between him and Light Yagami is what kept me hooked – L is often the most fascinating character to watch. I found myself really wanting to know his backstory, and I admired how completely devoted he was to justice, even when it came at a personal cost. He constantly pushes Light, and throughout the whole series, he feels like the one character you can really rely on to do the right thing, which is essential for a thriller like this.

Satoru Gojo

Satoru Gojo is a standout character in ‘Jujutsu Kaisen,’ captivating audiences with his incredible strength and charming personality. The animation studio, MAPPA, brilliantly displays his powers, especially in visually impressive scenes of his Domain Expansion. While he guides Yuji Itadori, he often steps in to solve problems that are beyond his students’ capabilities. Despite his playful nature, Gojo is secretly the most powerful sorcerer alive, and his arrival dramatically changes the power dynamics of the series’ world.

Killua Zoldyck

Killua Zoldyck starts out as Gon Freecss’s equal, but quickly becomes a much more complex character with a sad past. The animation studio Madhouse brilliantly brought his fast, lightning-powered abilities to life, showcasing his upbringing as a highly trained assassin. While Gon focuses on adventure, Killua battles to escape his family’s controlling influence, adding a darker layer to the story. He’s remarkably intelligent and mature, often outthinking others in dangerous situations. Above all, Killua is fiercely loyal to his friends, which makes him a beloved character.

Vegeta

Vegeta begins as a villain in ‘Dragon Ball Z’, but evolves into a deeply complex character. Throughout the series, Toei Animation emphasized his fierce personality and pride with powerful attacks and expressive animation. Driven by his constant desire to be stronger than Goku, Vegeta’s rivalry with him is central to the story’s development. Over time, he learns the importance of humility and family, all while remaining a proud warrior. Vegeta frequently provides the series’ most impactful emotional scenes as he confronts his identity as a Saiyan.

Rem

Rem is a beloved character in ‘Re:Zero’ because of her strong and constant loyalty to Subaru. The animation beautifully portrays her intense emotions and action-packed fights, blending grace with power. She’s essential in helping Subaru overcome his toughest challenges and moments of pain. Her heartfelt confession of love is a standout scene for many fans. Rem is incredibly strong physically, but also kind and often considered more compelling than the main female character.

Kakashi Hatake

Okay, let me tell you about Kakashi Hatake from ‘Naruto’. He’s this incredibly cool ninja who leads Team 7, but beneath that relaxed exterior is a seriously tragic backstory. Studio Pierrot did a fantastic job bringing his ‘Copy Ninja’ abilities to life – every jutsu he uses looks unique and powerful. We see him mentoring Naruto, all while he’s quietly grappling with his own demons, specifically surrounding his father and past comrades. Honestly, throughout the entire series, I – and a lot of fans – were totally captivated by his mysterious vibe and that ever-present mask. It’s no surprise he eventually becomes Hokage; the guy’s a strategic genius and consistently proves it!

Shoto Todoroki

In ‘My Hero Academia,’ Shoto Todoroki’s story is a powerful one about dealing with a difficult upbringing and discovering who he truly is. The animators brilliantly used contrasting colors to showcase his fire and ice abilities in exciting battles. At first, he’s reserved and keeps people at a distance, but he gradually becomes closer to his classmates and fully accepts his path as a hero. Many viewers connect with his internal conflict – his fight to pursue his own goals instead of living up to his father’s expectations. Todoroki is incredibly strong, putting him on par with the main character and making him a serious threat.

Roy Mustang

As a huge anime fan, I’m always impressed by Roy Mustang in ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’. He just commands the screen as the Flame Alchemist! The way Bones animated his fire alchemy is incredible – it’s so fluid and really sells the sheer power and heat of his attacks. What’s really fascinating is that while he seems like a loyal soldier, he’s secretly planning to overhaul the entire military from within. And it’s not just about power for him; his relationship with his team and his burning desire to get justice for Maes Hughes make him a really complex and compelling character. Honestly, some of the best, most satisfying moments of the whole series come when Mustang finally gets his revenge in the final episodes.

Kamina

Kamina is the driving force behind ‘Gurren Lagann,’ known for his unwavering spirit and memorable lines. The creators, Gainax, made him larger than life through his dramatic design and energetic actions. He empowers the main character, Simon, to believe in himself and strive for the impossible. Leading the fight against the Beastmen with incredible courage, Kamina unites everyone. Even after he’s gone, his influence continues to shape the story.

Please share which anime side character you believe deserves the spotlight in the comments.

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2025-11-23 06:47