Every work of fiction is populated with a diverse range of characters that either makes them lovable or be hated by fans. The main characters of any series have the power to influence people. However, it depends on whether their ideologies are good or bad. A classic example of this is Eren Yeager, whose transition from a classic shonen protagonist to an anti-hero with problematic views proved to be divisive for the Attack on Titan fandom.
Then there are characters like Kakashi Hatake, who, despite not being the main protagonist of their series, have become one of the most anime loved characters. On the other hand, the villain of a series sometimes outranks the fame of the protagonist within the fandom. Suffice to say, the popularity of any given anime character is not just marked by their status in the series but rather it depends on various factors.
Note: The following listicle does not follow the results of famous popularity polls but takes the character’s impact on the fandom into consideration.
From Hinata to Goku: Ten most loved anime characters favored by fans
Shoyo Hinata (Haikyu!!)
It’s hard not to like a character as bright and cheerful as Hinata. This orange ball of energy has shown time and again how empathetic he can be, whether on or off court. His amiable nature is admirable, given that he quickly becomes friends with players from the rival team. Aside from his passion for volleyball and his seriousness for the sport, Hinata has shown tremendous progress over the years. His determination is unwavering, which is one of the reasons why his journey in Haikyu!!, from playing for an undertrained middle school volleyball team to finally becoming part of Japan’s national team, makes his character so fleshed-out and story so enjoyable.
Shigeo Kageyama (Mob Psycho 100)
A boy with a heart of gold, Shigeo Kageyama, aka Mob, is arguably the most compassionate and emotionally intelligent character on this list. Despite having one of the strongest abilities in the series, Mob dislikes using the “???” state to hurt others. As shown in the anime, his peers are busy chasing the rush of battles or adventures, but Shigeo is one of the few characters who just wants to live a normal life as a 14-year-old. Moreover, his need to learn from his mistakes and never repeat them adds more significance to his character.
Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)
Eren may be the most popular Attack on Titan character, but at least Levi’s actions and ideologies didn’t divide the fandom into two. Levi Ackerman can be described in many ways – unapproachable, clean-freak, straightforward, strong sense of morality and justice, empathetic, etc. Called “Humanity’s Strongest Soldier,” Levi’s loyalty towards his comrade and his need to preserve human life is unabashed. However, what makes him such a respectable figure is his belief in personal values, which not only gives a glimpse of his side that is not stoic but also adds nuances to his character.
Saitama (One Punch Man)
While his appearance may scream ‘average’ in bold letters, considering his power and personality, Saitama is anything but that. Due to his absurd strength, the Caped Baldy is often seen part of debates of whether or not he can defeat the ‘Big 3’ protagonists. Whatever might be the result, Saitama’s popularity within the fandom is hardly based on his power alone. Despite his indifferent attitude, Saitama has a good heart who doesn’t bear any selfish intentions even towards his enemies, such as Fubuki. This, apart from various other reasons related to his action and emotional nature, makes him one of the most loved characters within the series.
Yato (Noragami)
Though he harbors an ambition to become a popular god, Yato is majorly known for his immature actions and playful nature. A deeply compassionate character, Yato’s good-hearted nature is not to be mistaken for his power since he was once infamous for being a cruel and heartless God of Calamity. In the present time, Yato is most seen being silly, either with Hiyori, Yukine, or others, but one cannot help but notice the shift in his attitude once his father or Nora enters the scene. Despite the fact that he exists as an easily forgettable god, Yato doesn’t lose his motivation to make his loved ones happy.
Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Like Yato, Gojo also sports a cheery and fun disposition, which can also change to unforgiving and cold towards sorcerers or Cursed Spirits he doesn’t like. Gojo’s status within Jujutsu Kaisen is almost like a legend, but what makes fans like him so much is his attitude towards his students. He likes them so much that he doesn’t mind inactivating his Infinity around them, as he did with Itadori in the beginning of season 1 so that the latter can hug him. However, Gojo’s character is not easy to understand, and perhaps it is this mystery, along with his warmth and compassion, that makes him so popular among fans.
Gintoki Sakata (Gintama)
Gintoki is the most unusual anime protagonist that any weeb can vouch for. Perhaps it’s in his lazy disposition, sarcastic humor, ridiculous expressions, and laid back personality that make him one of the most lovable characters in the entire anime. However, his swordsmanship skills, caring attitude, and an unwavering determination to protect his loved one when the situation calls for it makes him an admirable figure. Whatever might be the case, the various layers of his personality are sure to stay and continue entertaining the viewers for generations to come.
Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)
The journey of a young boy from being a social outcast to becoming the Hokage of Konohagakure may have ended (excluding the events of Boruto), but fans’ love for him didn’t. Over the years, Naruto has become a cultural icon, and his impact on the masses continues to grow. However, it’s not just fans who are enamored by him but also his social peers. From convincing a few of his rivals to join the good side to becoming wise and powerful, Naruto has come a long way. Even though the 700+ episodes were dedicated to his character growth and journey, to see him again in Boruto feels like a piece of childhood that never really changed.
Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)
The captain of the Straw Hats, Luffy fits into the ideal mold of a typical shonen character. Like Naruto, Luffy, who is primarily known for his incredible characterization, has also become a cultural icon over the years. The captain of Straw Hats might seem silly most times, but his seriousness towards fighting for the right cause and loyalty towards his friends has made him one of the beloved characters within the series. Aside from his unique ability that comes from his consumption of the Gomu-Gomu no Mi, Luffy’s approach to life is simple, unlike his adventures that can be classified as grand. As such, his popularity among weebs is justified.
Goku (Dragon Ball)
Yet another ‘Big 3’ protagonist like Naruto and Luffy, Goku’s journey as an anime hero for almost 30 years hasn’t diminished his impact on fans. Despite his origins, Goku developed a personality that was at odds with his initial personality. However, that was a welcoming change as it gave Dragon Ball viewers a compassionate, energetic, and insanely strong protagonist whose influence on his friends, enemies, and fans has been deep. In fact, he made Vegeta switch from being an antagonist to his friend/rival (or frenemy). Aside from his persona, his jokes and dedication towards holding his moral grounds and personal values shows that his popularity is well-deserved.