25 Best Black Anime Characters That Will Blow Your Mind

As a passionate connoisseur of animated cinema, I must confess that while the human characters in anime often deviate from the physical appearance of typical Japanese individuals, they tend to resemble Caucasians more frequently. However, it’s essential to note that the genre has not shied away from showcasing diverse ethnicities, and this is particularly evident when we consider characters with darker skin tones, such as those of African descent, who have graced many anime series in prominent roles.

In the world of anime, black characters may not be as prevalent as others, yet they have left significant impacts throughout its history. Here’s a list featuring the top 25 Black anime characters of all time, showcasing heroes, antiheroes, and villains alike. Each one is remarkable in their own way, and we’ll share some insights about them to give you an appreciation for their awesomeness.

25. Kaname Tōsen

Series: Bleach
Created By: Tite Kubo
Voiced By: Toshiyuki Morikawa

Our top list of outstanding Black anime characters kicks off with Kaname Tōsen, commander of the Ninth Division. Born without sight, he skillfully conceals this disadvantage behind his visor glasses; instead, his other senses are extraordinarily keen, enabling him to effortlessly detect the presence of others.

He has a deep complexion and keeps his lengthy, dark-brown (or dark-purple in the anime) hair styled in twin tails, occasionally gathered into a single ponytail. A vibrant orange scarf adorns his uniform, consistently draped around his neck.

He has a rich skin tone and his long, dark-brown (or dark-purple in the anime) hair is styled as twin tails, often pulled back into a ponytail. An orange scarf is always worn around his uniform.

Both versions maintain the original meaning while using more natural and easy-to-read language.

A rigid and introspective individual, deeply devoted to his own convictions, he is prepared to take any action to safeguard his beliefs; his life philosophy, shaped by the tragic loss of a cherished friend at the hands of her husband for senseless reasons, emphasizes choosing the path with minimal violence. In his view, those who do not tremble at the sword they bear have no business wielding one, a belief echoed by his lieutenant as well.

24. Coffee

Series: Cowboy Bebop
Created By: Hajime Yatate
Voiced By: Atsuko Tanaka

In my own words, I’d say: On the moon of Io, I played the role of a curious admirer, tracking the elusive Domino Walker, a bounty hunter known far and wide. As I journeyed from one location to another, seeking clues about him, I found myself in a quaint marketplace. In an attempt to gain favor with the vendor for future assistance, I purchased a luscious watermelon. Coincidentally, at that moment, Edward and Ein, who were captivated by a nearby display of melons, had inconspicuously hidden themselves within the trunk of my vehicle.

Later in town, Coffee encountered two policemen who were hunting for Walker. At a gas station, these officers approached her vehicle with the intention of searching it. She consented without hesitation. But when they discovered Ed and Ein inside, they transported them to the police department in Io.

Although she repeatedly claimed ignorance regarding the child, Sergeant Jeffly Frank found it necessary to interrogate her. Spotting Edward pass by the station once more, she seized an opportunity when he was engrossed in a phone conversation, and discreetly trailed after him.

In quick succession, she trailed after Ed, locating Walker leaping onto a speeding train. She kept close tabs on him, firing at Walker but failing to catch up. Edward eventually reached the train, utilizing Coffee’s vehicle as a makeshift step, and followed suit. Not long after, Shaft, who was in hot pursuit, tumbled off the train right onto the car and fell down. Remarkably, they both managed to escape unscathed.

23. Kilik Rung

Series: Soul Eater
Created By: Atsushi Ōkubo
Voiced By: Kenichi Suzumura

Kilik Rung serves as the master of potion-making, teaming up with the Fire and Thunder Dual Weapons in combat. He’s renowned as one of the top three martial arts students at the Death Weaponry Academy.

Kilik exhibits a robust, fiery spirit with an unquenchable passion for thwarting witches. He’s known for his strategic mindset and ambition. In terms of fashion, he often adopts a distinctive hip-hop aesthetic.

22. Nessa

Series: Pokémon
Created By: Satoshi Tajiri, Ken Sugimori, Junichi Masuda
Voiced By: Sora Amamiya

At the Hulbury Stadium, popularly known as Hulbury’s Gym, Nessa serves as the Gym Leader. Her expertise lies in Pokémon of the Water type. Those trainers who manage to defeat her are awarded the Water Badge. However, it was Milo who outshone her during the Champions Cup, securing a victory against Nessa.

Later on, Rose spoke to her, suggesting that the incident happened due to her being preoccupied with her simultaneous modeling job. This comment angered her, and she vented her annoyance to Sonia.

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Rose later suggested that the accident was caused by her divided attention, as she was also busy with her modeling career at the time. This remark made her upset, and she shared her displeasure with Sonia.

In the course of a photo session, Nessa encountered once more a Feebas from her childhood days, now transformed into a majestic Milotic. Subsequently, she opted to disregard Rose’s advice and persist in dual roles as a Gym Leader and a fashion model.

At a modeling photography studio, she was employed when she got a letter inviting her to the Galarian Star Tournament. Later, she was seen strolling onto the Wyndon Stadium grounds during the tournament’s inaugural event.

21. Carole Stanley

Series: Carole and Tuesday
Created By: Shinichirō Watanabe
Voiced By: Miyuri Shimabukuro

Carole Stanley, a lively young woman without family, navigates life in bustling Alba City through multiple temporary work engagements, all the while nurturing her ambition to be a renowned musician. She can be found on Instagram under the handle “Carole Stanley Official”.

Generally speaking, Carole is friendly, warm-hearted, and very patient, which has helped greatly in forming a strong connection with Tuesday. It’s surprising that she doesn’t appear to have many friends, if any (other than Tuesday), given her vibrant and sociable nature.

20. Bob Makihara

Series: Tenjho Tenge
Created By: Oh! great
Voiced By: Shin’ichiro Miki

Originating from South Africa, yet often referred to as “the outsider” by fellow cast members due to his unfamiliarity, Robert Makihara presents an intriguing character. While he possesses the typical features of a South African, such as brown eyes, on this particular show, he is depicted with blue eyes and a name that suggests Japanese origins (although his real surname may be of African descent).

1) He’s recognized for his lengthy dreadlocks and muscular stature (it should be noted that he ranks among the most powerful characters in the series, physically). Not much is known about his background, but we do know that his father served as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, and he formed an acquaintance with Souichiro Nagi during his second year of elementary school, where they became known as the “Knuckle Bombs”.

In this heartwarming tale, I find myself captivated by the deep affection shared between the protagonist and Chiaki Konoike. As a confidant, Souichiro stands admirably, demonstrating a profound respect for Masataka Takayanagi that echoes through the screen.

19. Michiko Malandro

Series: Michiko & Hatchin
Created By: Sayao Yamamoto, Takashi Ujita
Voiced By: Yōko Maki

A resilient and self-reliant woman, Michiko, manages her fourth daring escape from an extremely fortified prison worldwide. She subsequently liberates Hana from the cruel custody of her abusive adoptive family by sneaking into their house via a window on a scooter.

In my perspective, I’m revealing a fascinating fact: this character professes to have known Hatchin’s father personally. She paints him as an honorable man, and what captivated her instantly was his charm. There’s also a hint of enigma about her; she bears a peculiar tattoo on her abdomen that adds another layer to her intriguing personality.

18. Nils Yajima

Show: Gundam Build Fighters

Crafted By: Kenji Nagasaki and Yōsuke Kuroda

Voice Actors: Shin’nosuke Tachibana

In the anime series “Gundam Build Fighters” and “Gundam Build Fighters Try”, Nils Yajima, formerly known as Nils Nielsen, plays a secondary character.

Initially, Nils’ focus during his early interactions was solely on science, eschewing the Gunpla battles for amusement. Rather, he pursued the examination of Plavsky particles. Following his encounter with Sei and Reiji, however, he unexpectedly discovered a passion for Gunpla within himself.

17. Claudia Lasalle

Series: Macross
Created By: Shōji Kawamori
Voiced By: Noriko Ohara

Claudia LaSalle is a character who features in the television series titled “Super Dimension Fortress Macross,” specifically in “The Super Dimension Fortress Macross: Do You Remember Love?” and its 2012 OVA spin-off, “Flash Back.

Claudia serves as a crew member on board the SDF-1 Macross. She’s most recognized for her close friendship with Misa Hayase and romantic relationship with Roy Focker.

16. Marik Ishtar

Series: Yu-Gi-Oh!
Created By: Kazuki Takahashi
Voiced By: Tetsuya Iwanaga

Marik Ishtar hails from the Yu-Gi-Oh! manga and anime series. Within this franchise, Marik Ishtar possesses the Millennium Rod, a powerful artifact that enables him to craft shadow puppets and manipulate people’s thoughts. With this tool, he established his hidden criminal empire.

His aim is to seek retribution against Pharaoh Atem, Yugi’s counterpart, and seize his endless powers to assume his position. To achieve this, he needs to secure the three Egyptian God cards: Obelisk the Tormentor, Slifer the Sky Dragon, and the Winged Dragon of Ra.

Marik, together with his sibling Isis and Odion, will later greet Yugi and their companions, who are in Egypt to assist the Pharaoh in recovering his long-lost recollections from the past.

Following their triumph over Zorc the Dark, Atem having recovered his memories, Yugi and his group journey to the spot where the Pharaoh’s spirit is to be freed. Meanwhile, Marik and his entourage witness the confrontation between Atem and Yugi in a duel.

15. Darui

Series: Naruto
Created By: Masashi Kishimoto
Voiced By: Ryōta Takeuchi

Darui serves as the deputy to the Fourth Leader of Kumogakure’s Raikage faction, eventually taking over as the Fifth Raikage. Previously, he was a pupil under the Third Raikage.

During his apprenticeship, Darui mastered, in addition to other skills, the distinctive dark art of rai, which is specific to the Raikage. Together with companion C, he also provided assistance to the Third Raikage.

Darui exhibits exceptional abilities and skill as a shinobi, earning him positions such as a personal guard and trusted advisor to the Fourth Raikage, and later, commander of the Allied Shinobi Forces’ First Division during the Fourth Shinobi World War.

Through his exceptional abilities, he managed nearly on his own to conquer the Gold and Silver Brothers, who were masters of the Sage of the Six Paths’ powerful artifacts. Later in life, Darui honed such a remarkable talent that made him the Fifth Leader of the Raikage.

14. Atsuko Jackson

Series: Michiko & Hatchin
Created By: Sayao Yamamoto, Takashi Ujita
Voiced By: Maki Sakai

Another character on our Black anime characters list from Michiko & Hatchin is Atsuko Jackson.

In the very same orphanage resided another girl, known as Jumbo, who shares a history with Michiko. Twelve years prior to the story’s beginning, it was Jumbo who made the arrest that sent Michiko behind bars. To provoke Jumbo, Michiko often refers to her by this nickname.

She appears to have mixed emotions towards Michiko, occasionally showing kindness by assisting her in difficult circumstances.

13. Muhammed Avdol

Series: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Created By: Hirohiko Araki
Voiced By: Kenta Miyake

Muhammad Avdol serves as a crucial companion in “Stardust Crusaders”. He is portrayed as an Egyptian confidant of Joseph Joestar, later joining their expedition against DIO. Throughout their journey, he shares valuable insights about dangerous Stand Users and offers cultural guidance from various localities, all while being part of the group.

As a passionate film aficionado, I’d rephrase that as follows: I, much like Avdol, am a Stand user wielding the fire-manipulating ability known as Magician’s Red. Portraying a serious and responsible demeanor is crucial for me, as it’s an integral part of my persona. In my confrontation with Mariah, this image of mine as a reliable individual holds significant weight.

12. Kaz Kaan

Series: Neo Yokio
Created By: Ezra Koenig
Voiced By: Jaden Smith

Kaz Kaan, in simpler terms, serves as both a ruler and a bachelor within the official ranks of Caprese, also moonlighting as an occasional demon slayer. He is one of the primary characters featured in the Netflix animated series “Neo Yokio.” Kaz is often described as refined and well-mannered.

He’s often quite blunt and won’t think twice about acting or speaking, regardless of potential harm to others. At times, he can be self-centered, even going so far as to manipulate situations for personal gain, like using Lexy to provoke jealousy in Cathy when he was transformed into a woman due to his cousin Jeffery’s curse on his uncle’s swimming pool.

11. Edward

Series: Cowboy Bebop
Created By: Hajime Yatate
Voiced By: Aoi Tada

Hailing from Earth, the individual known as Edward Wong Hau Pepelu Tivrusky IV, commonly referred to as “Ed,” is a youthful hacker with an androgynous appearance, claiming to be thirteen years old. Ed’s character can be described as free-spirited; she has a tendency to shout unexpectedly and enjoys using childish rhymes.

She’s frequently preoccupied and serves as the main provider of physical comedy in the show. Instead of walking, she tends to dash, scamper, leap, roll around, even walk on her hands – she abhors wearing anything on her feet, preferring them bare. Moreover, she often refers to herself in the third person when speaking.

She was mainly raised in an orphanage, as her father, a man called Appledelhi Siniz, left her there when she was young. Her early life remains largely unknown.

As a dedicated fan of manga, I discovered that there was a reticent young lad named “Tomato,” whose name was penned in katakana on the forefront of his computer, whom she befriended. Remarkably, he shared her proficiency in computers, and it’s plausible to assume that he played a pivotal role in transforming her into the prodigious hacker she is today.

10. Andrew Gilbert Mills

Series: Sword Art Online
Created By: Reki Kawahara
Voiced By: Hiroki Yasumoto

In the digital worlds of Sword Art Online, Aincrad Arc, Alfheim Online, and Project Alicization, Andrew Gilbert Mills – often referred to as Agile – is a significant supporting character initially introduced, then reappearing consistently across the entire Sword Art series.

As a devoted cinephile, I found myself ensnared among thousands in the digital realm of Sword Art Online (SAO), where I thrived as a cunning rogue and successful merchant, my shop nestled within the heart of Algade, a bustling town high atop the 50th floor of Aincrad. Upon our escape from that virtual nightmare, I, Andrew, stepped back into the physical world. Now, I’ve found myself drawn once more to the pixels, this time as a gnome in ALfheim Online (ALO). In the real world, my wife and I run the Dicey Café, where we serve up more than just coffee – we offer a sanctuary for fellow gamers.

9. Mr. Popo

Series: Dragon Ball
Created By: Akira Toriyama
Voiced By: Toku Nishio, Kawazu Yasuhiko

As a cinephile, allow me to rephrase that in the first person perspective: In the realm of my favorite films, I’d be equivalent to Mr. Popo – the devoted servant of the one who bears the title of Earth’s Deity. This character is a rotund humanoid with ebony skin, round eyes, and voluminous red lips, unique in his lack of both nose and hair. My unwavering loyalty extends to the Divinity and Dende, such that I would willingly lay down my life for their protection.

1. He oversees the tutoring of Goku and his teammates, preparing them for battles against Piccolo, Nappa, and Vegeta. Later, he recovers the Earth’s Dragon Balls and summons Shenlong to revive Frieza’s slain followers.

2. He takes responsibility for teaching Goku and his friends how to fight in preparation for encounters with Piccolo, Nappa, and Vegeta. Later, he secures the Earth’s Dragon Balls and requests that Shenlong bring back Frieza’s fallen warriors.

3. He manages the training of Goku and his allies for the upcoming battles against Piccolo, Nappa, and Vegeta. Then, he retrieves the Earth’s Dragon Balls and asks Shenlong to revive those killed by Frieza.

4. He supervises the education of Goku and his comrades in preparation for their fights with Piccolo, Nappa, and Vegeta. Later, he gathers the Earth Dragon Balls and orders Shenlong to resurrect the victims of Frieza.

8. Kuzan, a.k.a. Aokiji

Series: One Piece
Created By: Eiichiro Oda
Voiced By: Takehito Koyasu

Originally called Aokiji but more commonly recognized as Kuzan these days, he served as a Navy Admiral before anyone else was unveiled in this role. He was selected by Sengoku for the prestigious position of Fleet Admiral, but later lost it to Sakazuki, leading him to step down from the Marines.

I’ve recently found myself among the ranks of the Blackbeard Pirates, and I can’t help but wonder what drew me to this infamous crew. In the Long Ring Long Land Arc, I served as a secondary adversary, though my role expanded during Foxy’s Return Arc in the anime. Furthermore, within the Marineford Arc, I stand alongside the Marines as one of the principal antagonists.

7. Katara

Show Series: Avatar: The Last Airbender

Creators: Created By: Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko

Voice Actors: Voiced By: Mae Whitman, Eva Marie Saint (Original Voices)

In the Nickelodeon animated series “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” Katara is a significant character. At the age of 14, she’s a skilled Waterbender from the Southern Water Tribe and plays a pivotal role in the story. Alongside her brother Sokka, she discovers Aang, who is the Last Airbender and the Avatar, a role that had been vacant for a century due to his long disappearance.

Katara, Sokka, and Aang journey together on a mission to vanquish the Fire Nation and reestablish tranquility among the world’s four nations. The name Katara may originate from Spanish or Portuguese, where it signifies ‘waterfall’ or ‘cascading water’.

From the very first episode onwards, she’s been endowed with the skill of Waterbending. At first, she’s just a novice, but as the series unfolds, she gradually gets a firmer grasp on her abilities. Her journey involves learning to effectively manage her power. Moreover, she’s in the process of mastering healing techniques using her skills.

In the last season’s penultimate episode, Hama guides her on mastering Waterbending techniques, including the skill known as “Bloodbending”.

6. Jet Black

Series: Cowboy Bebop
Created By: Hajime Yatate
Voiced By: Unshō Ishizuka

Hailing from Ganymede, the satellite of Jupiter, Jet Black – nicknamed “Black Dog” for his unyielding spirit – is a 36-year-old ex-cop, boasting an imposing physique. He sports a full beard but no mustache, with only the back of his head retaining strands. In terms of height, he towers over most.

Spike exhibits a lack of drive and generosity, while Jet is a valiant individual with diverse passions. Once a dedicated investigator with the Interplanetary Solar System Police (ISSP), Jet served for numerous years until a case turned sour when his untrustworthy partner, who was also a friend at the time, sold him out.

Despite various options for biological prosthetics, his arm was changed into a cybernetic limb – a choice he made to always remember his past. The injury and the corruption that affected the Integrated Space Security Program left a bad taste in Jet’s mouth, leading him to become a freelance bounty hunter. Jet views himself as a “Renaissance man”.

5. Killer B

Series: Naruto
Created By: Masashi Kishimoto
Voiced By: Hisao Egawa

Killer B hails from the cloud village, Kumogakure. Being the latest among the eight-tailed Jinchūriki, he stands out due to his unique ability to form a bond with the beast within him, which benefits Kumogakure. Despite being tasked with guarding the village, Killer B dreams of becoming the greatest rapper on the planet.

With Kumo’s guardianship and years of honing his extraordinary abilities, Killer B stands as an incredibly powerful ninja capable of outmuscling Taka’s entire squad of formidable adversaries single-handedly. In his youth, he undertook missions that were intended for a team with his partner A, which led him to the realization that his younger brother was even more gifted than himself.

It’s also been acknowledged by Minato Namikaze that B exhibits extraordinary ninja power, not just being a Jinchūriki. B managed to confront Kisame Hoshigaki of Akatsuki and later face the Two-Tailed Beasts during The Second Shinobi World War.

4. April

Series: Darker than Black
Created By: Bones, Tensai Okamura
Voiced By: Takako Honda

On the 11th of November, April served as an MI-6 agent. Details about her past are scarce, but it’s reasonable to infer that she has been collaborating with both November 11 and July for some time. They appear to be familiar with each other and function exceptionally well together.

April and her team have a bond because each of them depends on each other to complete a mission.

She works harmoniously with the rest of her team, with November 11 serving as their leader. April has a tendency to indulge in alcohol, often using it as a form of payment, or reward, if you will – by drinking beer. She is known for her heavy drinking habits and sometimes even outdrinks bar owners.

As a devoted admirer, I’d put it like this: When the situation calls for it, I stand alone, just as she did when pursuing Amber. Following his untimely demise on November 11, I found myself back at the place where he breathed his last in July – a place that stirred profound feelings within me regarding his passing.

3. Canary

As a devoted movie enthusiast, allow me to share my thoughts on the captivating series, Hunter × Hunter, brainchild of the brilliant Yoshihiro Togashi. The 1999 and 2011 adaptations, respectively voiced by Reiko Kiuchi and Motoko Kumai, have left an indelible impression on me.

This gripping tale follows the journey of Gon Freecss, a young boy on a quest to find his father, who is a world-renowned Hunter. Along the way, he encounters various challenges that test not only his physical abilities but also his moral compass. The series masterfully blends elements of adventure, mystery, and drama, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish.

The character development in Hunter × Hunter is nothing short of exceptional. Each character has a unique backstory, making them relatable and compelling. The animation quality of both adaptations is top-notch, with stunning visuals that bring the world of Hunters to life.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Hunter × Hunter is a must-watch. It’s a testament to Togashi’s storytelling prowess and the exceptional work of voice actors Reiko Kiuchi and Motoko Kumai. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey!

Canary serves as the devoted household servant of the Zoldyck family, and anyone attempting to displace her within their premises will be physically ejected.

At first glance, she appears as a relentless protector with no qualms about attacking trespassers. However, as Gon observed, her tough exterior hides a more compassionate side that she tends to downplay.

As a devoted fan, I found myself profoundly touched by his valiant efforts to connect with Killua, as my heart held a soft spot for this young prodigy. While Killua was gracious towards me and suggested we become friends, I respectfully declined due to my station. Time and again, my unwavering loyalty towards Killua has led me to disregard his directives, albeit to different extents.

The girl is around her teenage years. Her eyes are gray, and her hair, a deep shade of purple, is pulled back into chunky braids, each end adorned with a string that looks like tiny stars. She has a round face, a petite nose, and full lips. Her skin is richly brown. She dons the typical butler attire of the Zoldyck family.

2. Afro Samurai

Series: ΛFΓO SΛMUΓΛI
Created By: Takashi Okazaki
Voiced By: Samuel L. Jackson

In the “Afro Samurai” series, commonly recognized as “Afro,” the central character is Afro. This remarkable swordsman witnessed his father’s decapitation as a young child, a traumatic event that deeply impacted him.

After a harrowing ordeal, an unsuspecting young boy was driven by a thirst for vengeance, transforming Afro into a calculating assassin, prepared to eliminate anyone to achieve the top position. Initially, as second-in-command, Afro took lives in retaliation and defense, seeking justice for his slain father.

1. Yoruichi Shihōin

Series: Bleach
Created By: Tite Kubo
Voiced By: Satsuki Yukino

And now, the last characters on our list of best Black anime characters.

Yoruichi Shihōin has been a close companion to Kisuke Urahara for quite some time, and was among the initial allies of Ichigo and his group. She assisted them in uncovering and enhancing their abilities as they prepared for the confrontation against the Shinigami, with the ultimate goal of rescuing Rukia.

At first glance, she appears as a cat-like woman, capable of changing her form spontaneously. In her human form, she possesses luscious curves, has dark skin, and features vibrant purple hair.

She has a relaxed personality and delights in surprising people by shifting unexpectedly or adopting a masculine demeanor when playing as her cat, making it unclear to others that she is actually female.

According to Tite Kubo, Yoruichi and Rangiku Matsumoto are among his favorite female characters to create and illustrate, as he finds great pleasure in developing their stories.

2025-05-29 01:17