Anime That Featured a Black Aromantic Ace Lead Who Still Gets the Spotlight

As a longtime anime fan, it’s awesome to see how much more diverse the characters and stories have become over the years. It’s really cool to finally see characters who are Black, or who are aromantic and asexual, getting some well-deserved screen time. What I’ve noticed is that their stories often focus on things like responsibility or their own personal journeys, which is a refreshing change from the usual romance plots. Seeing these characters take center stage really shows how anime can reflect all sorts of human experiences. I’ve put together a list of some of the most prominent examples – characters who really shine through their actions and stories.

‘Afro Samurai’ (2007)

Afro is a highly skilled swordsman driven by a quest for revenge and the desire to become the best. He travels through a unique Japan that blends old traditions with futuristic technology, constantly battling rivals who want to take him down. Throughout his journey, Afro remains completely focused on his goals and haunted by his past, showing no interest in romantic relationships. This allows the story to concentrate solely on his development as a warrior.

‘Yasuke’ (2021)

Inspired by the historical figure Yasuke, this animated series takes place in a magical version of Japan. It follows a Black samurai who is tasked with protecting a young girl with extraordinary abilities, all while confronting his own past. Throughout his journey, Yasuke consistently shows a strong sense of honor and dedication. The story focuses on his skills and unwavering commitment to protecting others, and deliberately avoids romantic subplots to emphasize his role as a guardian.

‘Cannon Busters’ (2019)

Philly the Kid is an immortal outlaw with a quick temper who journeys through a fantastical world alongside a quirky group of friends. In the series ‘Cannon Busters,’ Philly isn’t interested in romance and prioritizes his own survival. He’s a resourceful fighter who uses his intelligence and skills to overcome challenges, emphasizing his self-reliance over any need for relationships.

‘Carole & Tuesday’ (2019)

Carole Stanley is a dedicated musician living on Mars, determined to become a successful artist. She teams up with a girl who’s running from her past, and together they start making music. The story focuses on their friendship and commitment to their art, and notably, Carole doesn’t get involved in any romantic relationships. Her story is all about her music and the strong connection she has with her musical partner, making her a grounded and ambitious character who follows her dreams.

‘Black Lagoon’ (2006)

Dutch leads the Lagoon Company, managing their mercenary work in the city of Roanapur. A former soldier, he’s known for being calm and thinking strategically. Throughout the series ‘Black Lagoon,’ Dutch doesn’t show any interest in romance or sexual relationships, keeping his interactions with the crew strictly professional and prioritizing the success of their jobs. His level-headedness and maturity make him a notable figure in the violent world of Roanapur.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Canary is a talented and powerful bodyguard who works for the Zoldyck family. She’s responsible for keeping their estate safe, and is known for her strength and fighting skills. She’s deeply loyal to her friends and takes her job very seriously. Unlike many characters, Canary doesn’t show any interest in romance, and is completely dedicated to her duties as a protector. Her role in ‘Hunter x Hunter’ highlights the power of strong, non-romantic relationships and dedication to duty.

‘Fire Force’ (2019–2020)

Ogun Montgomery is a powerful pyrokinetic – someone who can create fire – and a member of Special Fire Force Company 4. He’s known for being incredibly strong and for manifesting fire as tattoos on his body. Ogun is a dependable friend and firefighter who always puts his team’s safety first. He doesn’t participate in any romantic storylines; his focus remains on fighting and helping to solve the bigger mysteries in the series.

‘Soul Eater’ (2008–2009)

Kilik Rung is a highly skilled student at the Death Weapon Meister Academy, known for fighting with two pots. He’s considered one of the best because he’s quick and a smart strategist. Kilik is a reliable teammate who often leads the charge in tough battles. He’s not interested in romance, preferring to concentrate solely on improving his skills. This commitment earns him the respect of his fellow students in ‘Soul Eater’, even without a love story.

‘My Hero Academia’ (2016–PRESENT)

Mirko is a powerful and highly respected hero, famous for her amazing strength and abilities inspired by rabbits. She’s a fiercely independent fighter who prefers to work solo. Romance isn’t a priority for her – she’s motivated by the excitement of combat. Mirko embodies self-reliance and a relentless pursuit of mastery, captivating audiences with her intense battles and confident personality.

‘Durarara!!’ (2010)

As a huge fan of ‘Durarara!!’, I’m always drawn to Simon Brezhnev. He’s this incredibly strong, yet gentle giant – a Russian-African guy working at a sushi restaurant in Ikebukuro. What’s really cool about him is that despite being able to handle himself in a fight, he’s a total pacifist. He’s constantly stepping in to break up trouble and keep the peace amongst all the crazy characters. I appreciate that he’s not caught up in any romantic drama; he’s just a solid, dependable force in a world that’s constantly spinning out of control. Honestly, he’s the moral center of the show and really grounds everything.

‘One Piece’ (1999–PRESENT)

I’ve always been fascinated by Kuzan in ‘One Piece’! He’s this incredibly powerful ex-Marine admiral who can just make ice, which is awesome. But what really gets me is that he doesn’t really care about following orders – he does what he thinks is right, even if it goes against the government. It’s cool how he just travels around, doing his own thing. And honestly, you never see him focused on romance or anything like that; he seems way more interested in the bigger picture and what’s happening in the world. That makes him such a compelling and respected character, in my opinion.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013–2023)

Onyankopon is a skilled pilot and a volunteer fighting against Marley who helps the people of Paradis. He’s a deeply religious and principled man who believes everyone deserves equal treatment. Throughout ‘Attack on Titan,’ he provides crucial support in many important battles. The story doesn’t focus on his personal life or romantic interests; instead, it highlights his technical skills and his thoughtful perspective on what it means to be human.

‘The Promised Neverland’ (2019–2021)

Sister Krone is a villain introduced as a supervisor for the children at Grace Field House. She’s very smart and strong, and her main goal is to become the head caretaker. Driven by a desire for power and her own survival in a harsh environment, Krone isn’t interested in romance – her story revolves entirely around her competition with the current head caretaker. Her determination and ambition make her a standout character in the first season.

‘Michiko & Hatchin’ (2008–2009)

Atsuko Jackson is a police officer with a shared history with the main character, Michiko – they both grew up in the same orphanage. Throughout the series, Atsuko relentlessly pursues Michiko across the country, all while grappling with her own beliefs about what’s right and wrong. She’s a dedicated professional, committed to her work and finding the truth. Atsuko doesn’t focus on romance, and her personal growth is deeply rooted in her past. When she takes center stage, viewers see her determination and the nuances of her strong, but often conflicted, moral code.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2008)

Rakshata Chawla is a highly skilled scientist who creates cutting-edge technology for the Black Knights. A mechanical engineering expert, she’s easily recognized by her ever-present pipe. Rakshata prioritizes intelligence and practical outcomes, dedicating herself entirely to her research and avoiding romantic relationships. Her work is crucial to the revolution’s success, and she’s widely respected for her sharp mind.

‘Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters’ (2000–2004)

Odion is a strong and dedicated duelist who fiercely protects Marik Ishtar and considers his foster family’s safety his top priority. Throughout the ‘Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters’ series, he consistently demonstrates unwavering loyalty and a strong sense of duty. Odion is a quiet, honorable character, and his serious nature offers a contrast to the more outgoing personalities within the show. He doesn’t have any romantic interests and is defined by his steadfast commitment and stoicism.

‘Darker than Black’ (2007)

I’ve been thinking about this character, April, and she’s fascinating. She’s a contractor with this incredible ability to control the weather – like, she can literally make it rain. She works with a small team on really risky assignments for this shadowy organization, and what strikes me most is how utterly professional she is. She’s all business, completely focused on the task at hand. There’s absolutely no romantic tension or anything like that with her coworkers or even the people she’s targeting. She’s the definition of someone who puts the job first, and leaves all personal feelings at the door. It’s a really compelling, almost cold, portrayal of dedication.

‘Run with the Wind’ (2018–2019)

Musa Kamala, a student from Tanzania participating in an exchange program, joins the university’s track club. He’s a friendly and encouraging teammate who brings a fresh outlook to the running group. Throughout the story, Musa prioritizes both his studies and becoming a better runner. He doesn’t get involved in any romantic relationships, but remains an important part of the team, with his story focusing on his athletic development and the bonds he forms with his teammates.

‘Great Pretender’ (2020)

Abigail Jones is a talented and cunning con artist who plays a vital role in a team of master thieves. Quiet and haunted by her past, she’s driven by the excitement of pulling off complex scams. Abigail isn’t interested in romance; her story centers on overcoming trauma and finding inner strength. She’s a leading character in many important storylines, captivating audiences with her intelligence and physical prowess. Ultimately, her journey emphasizes the power of self-reliance and healing over the need for romantic relationships.

‘Sword Art Online’ (2012–2020)

Andrew Gilbert Mills is an experienced player in the virtual world of Aincrad and runs a shop there. He’s a dependable friend to the main characters, frequently offering them helpful information and assistance. A man of strong principles, Andrew prioritizes helping others alongside running his business. He doesn’t participate in any romantic plots throughout ‘Sword Art Online,’ staying focused on his own objectives. His character brings a feeling of community and stability to the game world.

‘Basquash!’ (2009)

Dan JD lives in a futuristic city where basketball is played with huge robots. He’s a dedicated athlete determined to change the sport and ultimately play on the moon. Dan is fiercely independent and focused on improving his skills and winning. Though he meets a lot of people, the story doesn’t focus on romance; it’s all about his athletic goals and chasing a dream he’s had forever.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam SEED’ (2002–2003)

Dearka Elsman is a talented pilot who starts as an enemy but later becomes an ally. He’s known for being calm and quickly understanding what’s happening in battle. Dearka is a practical soldier who cares about getting the job done and looking out for his teammates. He doesn’t pursue any romantic relationships in ‘Mobile Suit Gundam SEED,’ dedicating himself to his work as a pilot. This makes him a dependable and respected professional, earning the respect of everyone he fights alongside or against.

‘Bleach’ (2004–2012)

Kaname Tosen is a blind captain in the Soul Reaper organization who eventually becomes a major villain. He’s a thoughtful and principled man who desires a peaceful world free from violence. Driven by his strong sense of justice and dedication to his superiors, Tosen’s character is highlighted by his powerful abilities and complicated reasons for acting as he does. Throughout the ‘Bleach’ series, he doesn’t show any romantic interest or have a partner.

Share your thoughts on these unique characters and their stories in the comments.

2025-12-22 14:17