Unmasking the 20 Most Notorious Anime Killers You Never Knew Existed!

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Most popular anime series often feature antagonists and fatalities. This is generally true, unless your preference lies more towards romantic comedies or lifestyle-oriented shows. In any case, serious shonen or seinen anime usually present a main adversary who is also a killer. These killers range from serial murderers to those with a high number of victims. For this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 deadliest anime characters; the ranking isn’t determined by their victim count, but rather by the overall impact and terror they instill.

20. Yakumo Ōmori (Jason)

Franchise: Tokyo Ghoul

Yamori, often referred to as the “Jason of the 13th,” is an exceptionally strong and ravenous ghoul, distinguished by his scaly kagune. He holds the title of the most powerful ghoul in the capital’s 13th district, though this recognition comes with a dark reputation for his brutal actions during conflicts. His penchant for torment can be traced back to his time at the ghoul prison, where a cruel inspector delighted in torturing him.

After seizing Kaneki, he employed it as a tool for torture and exploited its regenerative powers. He was instrumental in Ken Kaneki’s psychological transformation. Following his defeat at the hands of Kaneki who consumed his kagune, this individual was left to suffer; eventually, Yamori would meet his end at the hands of Suzuya. Known as “Jason,” he led the White Suit Gang and earned that name due to his cruelty, a nod to Jason Voorhees from the movie Friday the 13th, whose hockey mask was also his signature.

19. Petelgeuse Romanee-Conti

Franchise: Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World

The initial Bishop of Sin, as history tells us, is a unique character. He possesses the ability to craft and control weapons that are invisible to everyone except Subaru. Furthermore, he has the power to reincarnate within his “Phalanges” (subordinates), or even invade Subaru’s body. His actions can be erratic due to his extreme devotion, psychological instability, and unpredictable behavior. During episodes of severe madness, he exhibits a morbid urge to self-mutilate, occasionally causing his eyes to bleed.

18. Ladd Russo

Franchise: Baccano!

Nephew to the head of an infamous criminal family, he strives relentlessly to take as many lives as he can, preferably without any trace of violence. He derives a peculiar satisfaction when his victims underestimate him, believing they could overpower him. In essence, he’s a cold-hearted psychopath and even his own uncle doubts his loyalty. On the “Flying Pussyfoot”, he instills fear in his enemies by mercilessly eliminating all of Chane’s men.

1. Additionally, he ends Czeslaw Meyer’s life, oblivious to the fact that shattering the boy’s head into pieces does him no harm. However, he is enraged when an unknown individual (Claire Stanfield in reality) dispatches his men. He confronts Chane on the rooftop, and finds himself quite impressed by the swiftness and precision of the young woman.

2. Besides killing Czeslaw Meyer without realizing that fragmenting the boy’s head into fragments doesn’t hurt him, he is infuriated when a mystery man (Claire Stanfield in truth) takes out his men. He crosses paths with Chane on the rooftop, and is taken aback by the girl’s quickness and mastery.

3. In another turn of events, he dispatches Czeslaw Meyer, not knowing that annihilating the boy’s head into a thousand fragments fails to harm him. Yet, he gets angry when an anonymous man (Claire Stanfield in fact) eradicates his troops. He faces off with Chane on the rooftop, and is awestruck by the girl’s agility and skill.

4. To add to that, he annihilates Czeslaw Meyer, not comprehending that reducing the boy’s head into shards does him no damage. On the contrary, he becomes irate when a shadowy figure (Claire Stanfield in reality) exterminates his soldiers. He squares off with Chane on the rooftop, and is astounded by the girl’s speed and accuracy.

5. Furthermore, he takes Czeslaw Meyer out, not understanding that obliterating the boy’s head into a thousand pieces has no impact. However, he is incensed when an unknown character (Claire Stanfield in truth) dispatches his men. He comes face to face with Chane on the rooftop, and is deeply impressed by the young woman’s swiftness and precision.

Eager about this confrontation, he’s displeased by Stanfield’s sudden appearance, vowing immediately to eliminate the interloper. However, astonishingly, he stumbles for the first time against someone more powerful, and is thrown off the train. In the process, he loses an arm, which only causes him to erupt into a mad laugh.

17. Muzan Kibutsuji

Franchise: Demon Slayer

As the story unfolds in the series, it becomes clear that Muzan’s speed had been gradually decreasing. This decline was a result of the accelerated aging effect brought about by the medicine administered by Tamayo. In spite of this, Muzan managed to overpower the Hashira who confronted him and Tanjiro, who was still in the process of mastering Sun Breathing technique.

As a die-hard fanatic of all things supernatural, let me tell you about this character whose abilities outshine any typical demon we’ve seen on screen. This guy’s physical prowess, agility, resilience, and healing factor are second to none. But what sets him apart is his unique skill set:

1. Telekinesis – Moving objects with just his mind.
2. Energy manipulation – Harnessing and controlling energy for various effects.
3. Shapeshifting – Altering his physical form at will.
4. Superhuman senses – Enhanced perception beyond normal human limits.
5. Time travel – Jumping through the temporal dimensions with ease.

This guy is a force to be reckoned with, and I can’t wait to see what he does next!

16. Retsu Unohana (Yachiru Unohana)

Franchise: Bleach

Retsu Unohana served as head of Division 4 within the Gotei 13, one of its original members, and initially known as the first Kenpachi, a designation assigned to captains of Squad 11. Prior to her captaincy, Unohana had a reputation for being a ruthless criminal in Soul Society, infamous for her bloodthirsty passion for combat.

Yachiru Unohana, who is renowned for mastering the art of combat and killing, bestowed herself with this name. She excelled in numerous fighting techniques. However, her thirst for formidable adversaries was insatiable until she encountered Kenpachi. In their encounter, she recognized him as a stronger opponent, having left a scar on his chest.

Nevertheless, it’s unclear why, upon assuming the role of Captain in Division 4, Unohana transformed into a calm and composed woman, rarely showing signs of distress, even in perilous circumstances. In response to trying situations, she often displayed a keen intellect and strategic thinking.

15. Rize Kamishiro

Franchise: Tokyo Ghoul

Rize Kamishiro is a ghoul with a scaly appearance, often referred to as “The Glutton” due to her insatiable hunger. Originally from the 11th ward, she relocated to the 20th six months prior to her demise. At the onset of the storyline, she targets Ken Kaneki, a student who is smitten with her, manipulating him to facilitate her feeding. During their encounter, debris falls upon her, leading to her death.

1) Ken Kaneki receives transplanted organs that metamorphose him into a hybrid of human and ghoul. Rize Kamishiro, a strong, intimidating, and especially cruel ghoul, delights in employing her allure to ensnare prey and look down on others with contempt.

14. Kenpachi Zaraki

Franchise: Bleach

Kenpachi Zaraki, a towering figure among Shinigami, possesses an unusual and somewhat sinister strength. Uniquely, he ascended to the rank of captain within his division without ever learning the name of his Spiritual Weapon (Zanpakutō) or successfully completing the Shinigami entrance examinations. His position was achieved through a dramatic event where he defeated the previous captain of the Kenpachi Kiganjō division in front of 200 witnesses.

In the Bounts arc, Maki Ichinose was a shinigami within the Eleventh Division. Mistaking Kenpachi as an ordinary shinigami instead of a captain, he chose self-exile. Kenpachi is fondly referred to as “Keni” by his vice-captain Yachiru, being the only one who can communicate with him in a regular manner.

In his youth, he was exceptionally strong, a fact demonstrated by his ability to slaughter countless individuals and overpower Yachiru Unohana, a formidable adversary who later became the kind-hearted Retsu Unohana, captain of the 4th Division.

13. Clementine

Franchise: Overlord

Originating from Zuranon and once belonging to the Black Scripture, she was the most formidable figure within the Slane Theocracy. Known for her psychopathic tendencies and fixation on inflicting pain and death, this warrior’s armor is crafted from medals she obtained by slaying adventurers. Her partner was a necromancer named Khajiit, whose ambition was to transform E-Rantel into a city of the undead. However, her schemes were thwarted by Ainz, who effortlessly destroyed her with a deadly embrace known as the “Dance of Death.

12. Kishō Arima

Franchise: Tokyo Ghoul

As a fervent cinephile, allow me to recount my take on the principal character from the film “Tokyo Ghoul: JACK“. This fellow goes by the name Arima, a man who, within the realm of the CCG, is nothing short of legendary. He stands tall as the most formidable of all investigators under their command. His visage is instantly recognizable – glasses perched upon his nose, snow-white (or electric blue in his teenage years) tresses cascading down his back, and a demeanor that seldom betrays much emotion.

Seldom expressing his feelings openly, he maintains a courteous demeanor and politely smiles around his coworkers. However, when confronted by ghouls, Arima exhibits no mercy, swiftly taking action to eliminate them without hesitation. His extraordinary abilities have left an indelible mark on the history of the CCG.

He seldom reveals his emotions and keeps a polite smile for his coworkers. But when it comes to ghouls, he shows no mercy, acting quickly and decisively. Arima’s remarkable power has made a lasting impact on the history of the CCG.

Often referred to as the “Angel of Death,” Arima’s exceptional abilities in both combat and investigations have earned him great respect from fellow inspectors such as Kōtaro Amon. Yet, there are numerous individuals who envy his battle prowess; seasoned inspectors, recognizing their own shortcomings compared to Arima, find themselves feeling inferior.

11. Frieza

Franchise: Dragon Ball

Frieza and his kin gain control over various planets by annihilating the native populations and then selling these planets off. As the desire for new planets grows, Frieza empowers the Saiyans to seize planets on his behalf. This arrangement works smoothly for quite some time, but with each battle they fight, the Saiyans grow stronger, approaching the power level of Frieza’s most elite soldiers.

King Vegeta, ruler of the Saiyans, defies Freeza and launches an attack, yet his efforts are ineffective and ultimately cost him his life. In contrast, Prince Vegeta chooses to serve under Freeza. Frezza starts to worry that a Saiyan might one day rise up to vanquish him, leading to his decision to annihilate the planet Vegeta. Only four Saiyans manage to avoid this destruction; Son Goku, Raditz, Vegeta, and Nappa. Nevertheless, it is subsequently disclosed that more Saiyans had survived, among them Tullece, Paragus, Broly, and Tarble.

10. Beatrice

Appears in: Umineko no Naku Koro ni

Beatrice, known as The Golden-Butterfly Witch, is believed to be an ancient sorceress who supposedly lived for more than a millennium. She’s famously associated with golden butterflies that surround her. Legend has it that she could conjure the 72 demons detailed in the Ars Goetia of the Lemegeton Clavicula Salomonis as her servants.

It’s been suggested that people have the ability to summon it, granting their desires, but at a cost. Eventually, she forfeited most of her abilities and wound up on Rokkenjima Island, stranded, following an encounter with Kinzo who required in return the weight of 10 metric tons of gold.

9. Orochimaru

Franchise: Naruto

Orochimaru’s character is intricate, but many people, including Tsunade, have referred to him as twisted. Jiraiya believes that his distaste for the vulnerability of human existence might stem from the loss of his parents at a young age and the emotional turmoil he witnessed when Tsunade lost Nawaki and later Dan. This resentment could have driven Orochimaru’s relentless pursuit of immortality.

For this objective, Orochimaru conducted human experiments mainly to discover how much a human body could endure modifications, and to exploit each subject’s unique skills for personal gain. Once he succeeded in reaching this aim, Orochimaru aspired to be recognized as the “supreme being,” becoming immortal and capable of mastering all ninja techniques globally – a feat that would typically require multiple lifetimes.

8. Hollywood (Ruri Hijiribe)

Franchise: Durarara!!

In essence, Ruri is widely recognized as an acclaimed singer and an adored idol among many. However, hidden beneath this glamorous facade lies a notorious serial killer known as Hollywood, who preys on her victims while concealing herself in various disguises. In a surprising turn of events, she was attacked by Shizuo but fortunately rescued by Kasuka. Over time, they developed a romantic relationship after spending quality time together.

7. Barry the Copper (Number 66)

Franchise: Fullmetal Alchemist

66, together with 48, serves as the custodian for the Fifth Research Lab; however, in truth, 66’s number, 66, was assigned due to him being a test subject for specific experiments, having previously been a notorious serial killer called Barry the Chopper. Similar to Alphonse Elric, he exists without a physical body, with his soul being connected to an armor.

In the heat of their confrontation, Number 66 will uncover that Al does not possess a physical form, an astonishing revelation that makes him suspect that Al might be one of his fellow associates. Contrasting Number 48, he’ll live longer because he flees just as the Fifth Laboratory begins to crumble, and he decides against revisiting his employers since they would undoubtedly terminate him.

In a surprising turn of events, we encounter this individual attempting to assault Lieutenant Hawkeye. However, it’s not him who will come out on top in this situation; instead, she will hold the advantage. Later on, he will address her as “boss” and develop romantic feelings for her. Under the watchful eye of Chief Warrant Officer Falman, he is initially confined. Yet, he breaks free to assist Second Lieutenant Ross in escaping from Central-City’s prison. Furthermore, he will act as a go-between for Colonel Mustang and Lin Yao to facilitate her departure from the country.

We stumble upon this person trying to attack Lieutenant Hawkeye, but it turns out she who has control of the situation. He later refers to her as “boss” and develops feelings for her. Initially kept under Chief Warrant Officer Falman’s supervision, he manages to escape to aid Second Lieutenant Ross in fleeing from Central-City prison. Additionally, he will serve as a liaison between Colonel Mustang and Lin Yao to help her leave the country.

Upon realizing his body still pulses with life, he’s determined to end this life, a prospect that ignites him as much, if not more, than when he took his wife’s life. Lust will dissect 66 into pieces, and in a twisted twist of fate, it’s his own body that will bring about his demise by removing the mark that bound his soul to the armor. In this way, they both meet their end, finding freedom.

6. Shōgo Makishima

Franchise: Psycho-Pass

The primary villain in the first season is a complex character, deeply rooted in humanism, boasting an impressive literary background, and possessing an extraordinary charm. This allure leads others into criminal activities. Remarkably, due to his elusive nature, he’s referred to as “criminally asymptomatic,” making it difficult for the authorities to accurately profile him despite his involvement in heinous crimes.

Initially in the series, he’s happy to aid people seeking to engage in criminal activities, with the aim of concealing them from Sybil.

After discovering ways to replicate the Psycho-Pass of a normal acquaintance and hide his own, causing chaos in the city by distributing these helmets, he eventually targeted the Ministry of Welfare with the aim of dismantling the Sibyl system.

Tsunemori and Kogami were captured, and Sybil, speaking through a representative, proposed that Kogami become part of a system populated by beings much like himself – a community made up of souls similar to his own.

5. Shion Sonozaki

Franchise: Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni

Residing in the adjacent village of Okinomiya is Mion’s identical sibling. This woman was exiled by her grandmother who belongs to the oldest family that founded Hinamizawa. In contrast to Mion, she exhibits a more delicate and refined demeanor. However, beneath this gentleness lies a fierce resolve, capable of manifesting harshness and even ruthless brutality. Without hesitation, she is willing to shed blood and unleash a killing spree to serve her own purposes.

4. Vicious

Franchise: Cowboy Bebop

Savage, much like its title implies, is relentlessly cruel, power-hungry, cunning, and aggressive, willing to go to any lengths to attain power. He is associated with the Red Dragons crime syndicate in Tharsis and is frequently likened to a venomous serpent.

In various accounts and manuals, it’s been stated that he wasn’t consistently the villain we know today; rather, it was the treachery of Spike, his confidant, and Julia, his cherished one, that set him on this path. Interestingly, while a gun isn’t his preferred weapon, he excels in wielding a katana, demonstrating mastery even against firearms.

During the War on Titan, he served as a marksman, and he had an automatic sidearm both then and when partnering with Spike.

3. Johan Liebert

Franchise:  🢒M⊙NS†ER🢐

In simpler terms, the story’s central character is Johann Liebert, often referred to as a monster, a new Hitler, or even the devil himself. Despite being critically injured, Kenzō Tenma saves him. Later, Johann sees Tenma as a father figure. He expresses deep affection for his twin sister and remains loyal to her. His childhood was spent moving around different places and families, which meant he had multiple identities.

This individual is exceptionally talented, incredibly intelligent, and adept at deceiving and manipulating others. Yet, he displays an incredible kindness and compassion towards children. In his personal aspirations, he yearns to be the solitary survivor in a post-apocalyptic world. As for Tenma’s character, Johann bears some resemblance to a character from an Osamu Tezuka manga. Similarities can be drawn between him and Michio Yuki, such as their involvement in a clandestine military experiment, their ability to manipulate people, and their shared desire to bring about the world’s end.

In the recent installment, he gets wounded gravely, struck in the head for a second time. Remarkably, Tenma succeeds in reviving him, but this instance pushes him into a prolonged coma. Consequently, he is admitted to a law enforcement medical facility. The final frame hints at his escape, as it portrays an unoccupied bed and an open window.

2. Yuno Gasai

Franchise: Future Diary

Yuno Gasai, often referred to as “The Second,” is a classmate and supposed fiancée of Yukiteru. She’s an exceptional student who goes to great lengths to safeguard him, even risking her own life in the process. She follows him tirelessly during the game and hopes for his victory, although she struggles to manage her reactions and conceals substantial secrets.

In her possession is a cell phone known as “Mirai Nikki,” which offers her insights into the next ten minutes of Yukiteru’s future. This device could be described as the “Diary of Love’s Forecast.

1. Light Yagami

Franchise: DEATH NOTE

The protagonist of our tale, Light, is an exceptionally intelligent high school student who views the current society as corrupt and twisted. After serendipitously discovering the Death Note left behind by a death deity (Ryuk), he opts to wield it for the purpose of eliminating all criminals under the moniker Kira. His ambition is to establish a crime-free utopia, where he can rule as a divine figure. As the narrative unfolds, his mental stability and humanity begin to shift.

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2025-05-27 23:47