Anime That Featured a Couple Adopting a Magical Kids

More and more people watching animated shows want to see families that look like all types of families. Stories about “found families” – groups of people who become family through shared experiences, not just by birth – are especially popular. These stories often include fantastical elements, making them even more engaging. It’s exciting to find shows with Black characters or LGBTQ+ couples as parents or caregivers, offering fresh perspectives on family and growing up. This collection showcases several animated series that beautifully explore these themes of diversity, acceptance, and finding where you belong.

‘She-Ra and the Princesses of Power’ (2018–2020)

The show takes place in a colorful world where people from all walks of life battle to save their home from a powerful, oppressive empire. At the heart of the story is Bow, whose loving and stable upbringing is provided by his fathers, Lance and George – a Black gay couple who also happen to be scholars and librarians. Their warm and genuine relationship is a key part of what makes the show known for its inclusive storytelling, demonstrating the importance of supportive family bonds even amidst a magical and dangerous conflict.

‘The Loud House’ (2016–Present)

This funny animated series centers around a big family and their friends. Howard and Harold McBride, an interracial gay couple, are parents to Clyde, who is best friends with the main character. They’re known for being caring, and sometimes a little overprotective, as they raise their son. The McBrides are important because they offer a positive portrayal of a same-sex couple as parents on a popular TV show. While the series is primarily a comedy, the way it depicts this family is a significant example of modern representation.

‘Yasuke’ (2021)

Yasuke tells the story of a famous Black samurai who wants to leave his violent past behind and live a peaceful life. But his quiet days are disrupted when he meets Saki, a young girl with amazing magical powers, and becomes her protector. As they’re pursued by those who want to use Saki’s abilities, a deep bond forms between them, exploring themes of family and belonging. The series blends historical events with fantasy, creating a compelling story about responsibility and kindness.

‘Michiko & Hatchin’ (2008–2009)

I recently discovered this incredible show about a woman named Michiko who breaks out of prison searching for a little girl who seems connected to her history. The girl, Hatchin, is living a really tough life in foster care until Michiko comes along and basically rescues her. What follows is this amazing journey across a beautifully realized world, with Michiko acting as this wild, but fiercely protective, guardian. They’re constantly on the run from the cops and other threats, and it’s fascinating to watch their relationship develop. It’s not a typical family, obviously, but it feels so real and explores the bonds they form despite everything. Honestly, the characters are so uniquely designed, and the heart of the show is definitely the connection between Michiko and Hatchin – it’s really special.

‘Buddy Daddies’ (2023)

After a job gone wrong, two skilled assassins, Kazuki and Rei, unexpectedly become caregivers for a young girl. The series follows their journey as they juggle their dangerous profession with the challenges of parenthood. It’s a story about building an unconventional family, as the two men form a strong bond while protecting the child and raising her together. Though not a traditional romance, the show highlights their deep commitment to one another and the heartwarming way accidental guardians can become a real family.

‘Tokyo Godfathers’ (2003)

The film centers around three people experiencing homelessness who find a baby abandoned on Christmas Eve. Hana, a transgender woman who longs to be a mother, steps up to care for the child, and together, the group sets out across Tokyo to locate the baby’s parents. Along the way, they confront their own personal histories. The story beautifully portrays the idea of chosen family and the connections formed through hardship. It’s celebrated as an animated masterpiece for its emotional resonance and inclusive representation.

‘Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts’ (2020)

Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts centers around a young girl named Kipo as she journeys through a world after a cataclysmic event, now populated by intelligent animals and unusual magic. Along the way, she befriends Benson, a musically talented and resourceful Black gay teenager, who becomes a key member of her team. Together, they face the challenges of this new world, and the show is praised for its natural and uplifting representation of LGBTQ+ characters and its richly imagined setting. At its heart, the series highlights the power of friendship and working together to overcome difficult times.

‘Spy x Family’ (2022–Present)

Loid Forger, a spy, is tasked with a secret mission that requires him to create a fake family. He ends up adopting Anya, a young girl with the ability to read minds, and marrying Yor, who is secretly an assassin. They all live together, trying to hide their true identities from each other. Surprisingly, despite starting as a charade, they begin to genuinely care for one another, showing that a family built on connection can be just as strong as one by blood.

‘Hinamatsuri’ (2018)

Yakuza boss Nitta’s life is disrupted when a girl named Hina, who has powerful psychic abilities but struggles with social interaction, unexpectedly appears in his home. He reluctantly becomes her guardian, and their bond grows as he starts to see her as a daughter. The series is a heartwarming and funny story about their unusual family, exploring themes of adoption with a supernatural twist.

‘Somali and the Forest Spirit’ (2020)

In a nearly empty world, a golem finds a young girl wandering in the forest and dedicates himself to protecting her. They journey across the land searching for a safe haven, meeting magical creatures and forging friendships along the way. As the golem cares for the girl, named Somali, he begins to understand emotions and essentially becomes her father. This story is a heartwarming and lovely look at the bond between a parent and child, even when they come from different worlds.

‘Alice & Zoroku’ (2017)

Sana, a girl who can bring her imagination to life, runs away from the research lab where she was held. She finds an unlikely protector in Zoroku, an older man who wants to help her experience a normal childhood. He becomes a father figure to Sana, offering the love and guidance she’s always needed. The story highlights how families can be built with anyone, and follows Sana as she discovers the world with Zoroku’s help.

‘Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid’ (2017–2021)

Kobayashi is an ordinary office worker whose life is turned upside down when she rescues a dragon named Tohru. Tohru transforms into a human and becomes her maid, and soon other dragons join their household. They become a unique, found family, with Kobayashi taking on a motherly role to the younger dragons. The show playfully hints at LGBTQ+ themes and explores the difficulties and fun of bringing different worlds together. It’s a heartwarming and funny series that celebrates acceptance and the beauty of a diverse family.

‘The Ancient Magus’ Bride’ (2017–Present)

Chise is a young girl haunted by a difficult past. She’s bought by a reclusive mage named Elias Ainsworth, who intends for her to become his apprentice and eventually, his wife. However, their relationship grows into something more—a deep connection built on support and shared growth. They live in a cozy cottage surrounded by magical beings and old mysteries. Through Elias, Chise discovers a sense of family and acceptance in a world she never knew existed, and the story focuses on her journey to heal and find where she truly belongs.

‘If It’s for My Daughter, I’d Even Defeat a Demon Lord’ (2019)

Dale, an adventurer, finds a young demon girl lost in the woods and decides to raise her as his own. He names her Latina and becomes a loving father figure, protecting her as she grows up in a human village. The story follows their daily lives and the unique challenges of raising a magical child, showcasing a heartwarming bond built on selfless love and protection.

‘Usagi Drop’ (2011)

Daikichi, a thirty-year-old single man, learns at his grandfather’s funeral that he has a half-sister named Rin. When his family shuns her, Daikichi steps in and decides to raise Rin as his own. The show realistically depicts the difficulties and compromises that come with unexpected parenthood, and how Daikichi and Rin form a loving, unconventional family. It’s praised for its honest and moving depiction of adoption and family bonds.

‘Poco’s Udon World’ (2016)

After his father passes away, Souta goes back to his hometown and discovers a mysterious young boy secretly living in the family’s udon shop. He quickly learns the boy is actually a magical, shapeshifting tanuki, and decides to care for him, naming him Poco. As they explore the countryside together, Souta begins to reconnect with his past and find a renewed sense of direction in his life. The story is a heartwarming tale about the special connection between a caretaker and a magical child.

‘Barakamon’ (2014)

I recently discovered this beautiful anime about a calligrapher named Seishuu. He’s going through a rough patch with his art, so he retreats to this quiet island hoping to rediscover his passion. It’s just lovely watching him connect with this spirited little girl, Naru, who basically adopts him! She really pushes him to loosen up and enjoy life. He ends up becoming a kind of big brother figure to her and all the other kids on the island, and it’s heartwarming to see how much they all mean to each other. Honestly, it’s a really feel-good story about finding family where you least expect it, and it’s genuinely funny too. It’s a show that really celebrates the simple joys of life and the power of community.

‘Carole & Tuesday’ (2019)

On a future Mars, two very different young women, Tuesday and Carole, team up to chase their shared dream of becoming musicians. Tuesday comes from a privileged political family, while Carole has grown up as an orphan, fending for herself. As they navigate the music industry together, they form a strong and supportive friendship that feels like family, offering each other the acceptance they’ve been searching for. The show also features a diverse group of characters and tackles relevant social issues through its storytelling.

‘Cannon Busters’ (2019)

S.A.M., an advanced robotic friend, embarks on a quest to reunite with her best friend, and along the way, she’s joined by Philly the Kid, a legendary outlaw who’s lived for centuries. Though hesitant at first, Philly ends up protecting S.A.M. as they navigate a bizarre world—a mix of magic and technology, filled with both danger and incredible sights. This unlikely duo forms a close bond and must rely on each other to overcome the challenges they face. The story is celebrated for its diverse cast of characters and its unique combination of fantasy and western themes.

‘Neo Yokio’ (2017)

I recently discovered this amazing show about Kaz Kere, a young Black man who’s basically a protector of this super cool, futuristic city. He deals with all sorts of supernatural baddies, and it’s awesome! He’s part of this ruling class, but also a demon hunter, so he’s got a lot on his plate. Plus, he has this robot butler named Charles who’s hilarious and always offers the best advice. What I really love is the show’s style – it’s totally unique. It’s also really thought-provoking, exploring issues of class and identity in this magical city. And it’s fantastic to see a Black lead in such a powerful and responsible role – it’s a fresh perspective I haven’t seen much of before.

‘Given’ (2019)

Okay, so this show really got to me. It’s about a rock band, but it’s so much more than that. You follow these guys as they navigate not just their music, but really deep feelings for each other. There’s this one character, Mafuyu, who’s super closed off at first, and joining the band – and especially his connection with Ritsuka – helps him work through some really tough stuff from his past. What I loved most is how honestly and sensitively it portrays gay relationships. It’s not just romance, though; it’s about how they build this incredible found family, supporting each other and growing as people through their shared love of music. Honestly, the emotional depth and how real the characters feel is what makes this show so special.

‘Sasaki and Miyano’ (2022)

Sasaki, an older student, starts to notice Miyano, a younger one, when they discover they both love manga. As they spend more time together, a sweet and respectful romance develops. The series beautifully portrays the little moments of their lives and how their feelings grow. It’s a heartwarming and realistic depiction of a gay relationship, avoiding typical clichés, and highlights how important it is to understand and be truly seen by someone you love.

‘No. 6’ (2011)

In a bleak future, Shion, a boy from a comfortable background, encounters Nezumi, a runaway with a hidden past, and his life is turned upside down. Together, they flee the strict rules of their society and build a life among the ruins beyond the city walls. As they struggle to survive, a strong connection of trust and love grows between them, and they begin to uncover the secrets of their world. The story is a powerful exploration of freedom and the importance of human connection, focusing on how two young men create a family for themselves in a difficult world.

‘Banana Fish’ (2018)

Ash Lynx, a young leader of a New York gang, develops a surprising connection with Eiji Okumura, a Japanese photographer. Their bond becomes the heart of the story as they face a world filled with danger, crime, and secrets. Ash finds a sense of calm and security with Eiji that he’s never known before. The series is a raw and powerful look at overcoming trauma and how a strong relationship can help heal. It’s highly regarded for its well-developed characters and its moving depiction of a deep connection between two people.

‘Bloom Into You’ (2018)

Yuu dreams of a grand, storybook romance, but feels disconnected from how love is usually portrayed. When she meets Nanami, the student council president, she discovers Nanami feels the same way. They connect over their shared feelings and begin to explore what their connection means. The series offers a genuine and insightful portrayal of young love and discovering who you are, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the value of self-acceptance and finding someone who truly understands you.

‘Stars Align’ (2019)

This show follows a middle school soft tennis club whose members are facing tough times both on and off the court. The team is made up of diverse characters dealing with personal struggles, including exploring who they are and difficult family situations. They find support and a sense of belonging in each other, creating a close-knit ‘found family’ that helps them navigate the challenges of growing up. It’s a realistic portrayal of the issues young people face today, and emphasizes how important friendship and a safe environment can be.

2026-01-12 22:19