Top 50 Most Popular Anime Characters Of All Time Ranked

Anime is a genre of Japanese animation that has become popular all over the world. While it is often associated with great animation and interesting stories, characters are also an important part of what makes anime so great.

This list ranks the 50 most iconic, famous, and popular anime characters. The ranking is based on various factors, including popularity, writing, and impact on the anime industry.

From classic animations such as Astro Boy to more recent hits like Attack on Titan, this list contains some of the finest individuals in the industry. Who will make it to the top 10? Only time will tell.

50 Most Iconic, Famous, and Popular Anime Characters of All Time Ranked

1. Levi Ackerman (Attack On Titan)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Attack on Titan
Premiered	2013

Levi Ackerman is the number one most iconic, famous, and popular anime character. He comes from the Attack on Titan franchise, one of the most popular anime series in recent years.

Levi is one of the main characters in the series and has contributed a great deal to its storyline with his unique personality and attitude.

2. L Lawliet (Death Note)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Death Note
Premiered	2006

L Lawliet is one of the most popular and iconic characters in fiction. He is the antagonist in Death Note‘s manga series, opposite Light Yagami. L Lawliet is a genius detective who uses his intellect to solve complex cases. He is very famous for his eccentric personality and love of candy.

3. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter X Hunter)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Hunter X Hunter
Premiered	2011

Killua Zoldyck is the most iconic anime main character in Hunter x Hunter. He is an assassin trained from a young age by his father to become a killer. Killua is one of the most beloved characters in the anime community.

His contribution to the overall narrative and his presence on screen is nothing less than fabulous. He is at the 3rd spot on this list.

4. Lelouch Lamperouge (Code Geass)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Code Geass
Premiered	2006

Lelouch Lamperouge is the famous and iconic protagonist of the anime Code Geass. The show aired in 2006, and he made his appearance on TV screens that year. He is still intelligent and nostalgic to this day, making him a god of strategy.

5. Monkey D Luffy (One Piece)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	One Piece
Premiered	1997

Monkey D Luffy is the most iconic and popular and iconic anime character. He is the main protagonist of One Piece, one of history's longest-running and most successful anime franchises.

He is a lovable character who inspires feelings of excitement and anticipation before every fight. He has also remained popular for many years without changing significantly, which is a testament to his enduring appeal.

6. Okabe Rintaro (Steins;Gate)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Steins; Gate
Premiered	2011

Okabe Rintaro is the famous protagonist of Steins Gate, one of the most popular and well-known anime of all time. He is a brilliant scientist, and his mind is always on complex theories and experiments.

However, he is also very eccentric, with a sharp tongue and quick wit. His relationships with the other characters in the show are some of the most interesting aspects of the series. The situation changes to a different degree after episode 12.

7. Eren Yeager (Attack On Titan)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Attack on Titan
Premiered	2013

Eren Yeager is the most iconic character from the anime series Attack on Titan. He is one of the main protagonists and has gained much attention from fans and critics alike.

His actions are often seen as dumb or reckless, but when viewed through his backstory and motivations, they become much more understandable. Eren is an incredibly complex character who challenges the definition of what a protagonist is.

8. Light Yagami (Death Note)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Death Note
premiered	2006

Light Yagami is the protagonist of Death Note, a manga and anime series. After finding a paranormal notebook that gives him the power to murder anybody by writing their name in it, Light engages in a wits-based contest with L to try to become the God of the new world.

Throughout his journey, Light questions what a protagonist is and what it means to be one. He deals with criminals throughout society but eventually changes to another state of mind after he becomes Kira.

9. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
Premiered	2009

Edward Elric is a character from the anime Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood. He is known for being a short yet mature and powerful protagonist.

He often lets other characters have their share of the screen time and only appears when he is needed. I believe that Edward Elric is one of the most iconic and popular anime characters because of his relatability, power, and maturity.

10. Sakata Gintoki (Gintama)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Gintama
Premiered	2011

Sakata Gintoki is one of the most iconic and famous anime characters. He is known for being a part of the best anime series, Gintama, which has millions of fans worldwide.

His character is realistic and amazing, without being exaggerated. The narrative of Gintama is episodic, but the characters are what keep fans coming back for more.

11. Roronoa Zoro (One Piece)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	One Piece
Premiered	1997

One Piece is a long-running anime that has spawned over 20 million episodes. Roronoa Zoro is the main character in the series and is widely recognized as the best partner character of all time.

His badass attitude and his inspiring and motivating lifestyle make the viewers love him as a person. He can say some great things that often leave an impression on people.

12. Makise Kurisu (Steins;Gate)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Steins; Gate
Premiered	2011

Makise Kurisu is one of the most popular and well-loved anime characters. She is a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to speak her mind. Her contributions to the narrative make her an amazing character, and Steins Gate would not be the same without her.

13. Sakurajima Mai (Bunny Girl Senpai)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Bunny Girl Senpai
Premiered	2018

Mai San, more commonly known as Bunny Girl Senpai, is one of the most iconic and popular anime characters.

She is beloved by millions for her adorable design, lovable personality, and amazing Waifu skills. Mai has won the hearts of many anime fans and continues to be a work of art herself.

14. Mikasa Ackerman (Attack On Titan)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Attack on Titan
Premiered	2013

Mikasa Ackerman is a character from the anime Attack on Titan. The anime was extremely popular and well-received, and Mikasa was one of its most iconic and popular characters. She is a strong and determined young woman fiercely protective of her friends and loved ones.

15. Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Naruto
Premiered	2002

Naruto Uzumaki is the protagonist of the popular anime and manga series Naruto. He is a powerful ninja who has endured many challenges throughout his life.

He distinguishes himself as an iconic character due to his tenacity and fortitude in the face of hardship. He is a role model for many viewers, especially young boys, and is one of the most popular anime characters.

16. Guts (Berserk)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Berserk
Premiered	2016

Guts is the protagonist of Berserk, a manga series written by legendary manga author Miura Kentarou. The most popular series has been adapted into an anime, and Guts is one of its most popular characters.

His popularity originates primarily from manga, but he has also appeared in various video games and merchandising.

The gut is a guy who faced murder, death, and much more horrible stuff. He is known for his strength, determination, and dark past.

17. Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Naruto
Premiered	2002

Itachi Uchiha is the very most popular and iconic anime character. He is loved by fans for his character development and actions, which are often surprising. Though he is loved by many, he is also hated by none.

Near the end of Naruto, pay attention to Itachi's story arc. Though this iconic character only appears in a few episodes, his character is well developed and strongly impacts the story. If you have watched anime, you would know what I am talking about.

18. Kaneki Ken (Tokyo Ghoul)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Tokyo Ghoul
Premiered	2017

Tokyo Ghoul was an anime that aired in 2014 and gained much traction quickly. The manga is incredible, and the story is told through the eyes of Kaneki Ken.

When Tokyo Ghoul first hit the anime and manga, fans went insane because of how gory and edgy the narrative was.

People began to adore Kaneki more than they ever had. He was a kind youngster who desired to lead a regular life, but he was drawn into the ghouls' sinister realm.

19. Rem (Re: Zero)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Re: Zero
Premiered	2016

Rem is one of the most popular Waifu of all time. If you don't believe me, go on Google and search “anime girls.” She will be one of the top results.

She is known within the community as a staple girl for rejection. Rem is a kind and gentle character who is well-loved by anime Re: Zero fans.

She has an interesting backstory that makes her an intriguing character. If you want to know more about her, you must watch the anime!

20. Saitama (One Punch Man)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	One Punch Man
Premiered	2015

Saitama is the protagonist of One Punch Man, an anime series written by ONE, the author of several famous manga series.

The show tells the story of Saitama, a superhero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch. The anime is hilarious and action-packed and has become extremely popular since its release.

21. Kakashi Hatake (Naruto)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Naruto
premiered	2002

Kakashi Hatake is a character in the anime and manga series Naruto. He is a legendary Jonin and Copy Ninja. Kakashi is one of the most popular characters in the series and is known for being an incredible fighter and kind, gentle yet rough and strong.

22. Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Cowboy Bebop
Premiered	1998

Spike Spiegel is the protagonist of Cowboy Bebop, a critically acclaimed anime series that helped popularize anime in the West.

He is known for his cool attitude and fighting skills and has been voted one of the coolest characters in anime history by fans. Spike's contribution to the anime industry was crucial, helping to bring about the current popularity of anime worldwide.

23. Emilia (Re: Zero)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Re: Zero
Premiered	2016

Emilia is Re: Zero‘s leading female character and quickly won fans' hearts with her simple but complex personality.

Some people might only see her beauty on the surface, but those who take the time to look deeper will find that she has a great deal of greatness about her. Part 1 covers her physical beauty, while part 2 reveals why she is such an important and beloved character.

24. Senjougahara Hitagi (Monogatari)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Monogatari Series
Premiered	2009

Senjougahara Hitagi is a character from the popular anime series Monogatari. She is among the most recognizable and well-known anime characters.

Hitagi's feelings make her feel weightless. She puts on weight once again after Araragi helps her with her past. The bond that begins to develop between her and Araragi is interesting as they become closer.

25. Yato (Noragami)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Noragami
Premiered	2014

Noragami tells the story of Yato, a minor god who aspires to be famous and revered by humans. Yato is a God who was born from nothingness.

He doesn't have a shrine, nor does he have any worshippers. To become well-known and respected as a God, Yato relies on other methods, such as performing odd jobs for people in exchange for money or goods.

He is calm, collected, and somewhat of an idiot. His most defining feature, however, is his love for homemade pie crusts – he makes two crusts: one for the bottom and one to be used as decoration.

26. Megumin (KonoSuba)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	KonoSuba
Premiered	2016

Megumin is one of the many fun and quirky characters in KonoSuba, an anime about a group of people sent to a different world after death.

The characters in this anime don't always act logically or sensibly, which makes for some hilarious moments. Megumin is a girl who loves the explosion magic more than anything, and she is not afraid to show it.

27. Gojo Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Jujutsu Kaisen
Premiered	2020

Gojo Satoru is the leading character in the manga and anime series Jujutsu Kaisen. He is a self-confident and strong young man who has quickly become popular with fans since the series was released in 2020.

Out of 100 people surveyed, 95 replied that Gojo Satoru was their favorite character in the series. He is a major contributing factor to the success of Jujutsu Kaisen.

28. Joseph Joestar (JoJo's Bizarre Adventures)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Premiered	2012

Joseph Joestar is one of the most iconic and popular characters in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure series. He is a well-developed character with many personalities and contributes to the overall series and entertainment with his presence on screen.

29. Roy Mustang (Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
Premiered	2003

Roy Mustang is one of the most popular characters in the Fullmetal Alchemist series. He is a man with strong convictions and beliefs and an incredibly powerful alchemist. He can incinerate his opponents in seconds, making him a formidable opponent.

30. Hisoka (Hunter X Hunter)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Hunter X Hunter
Premiered	2011

Hisoka is a character from the anime Hunter X Hunter. He is a criminal and often portrayed as the story's villain, but he has also gained a large following among fans. His unique personality and enigmatic nature make him one of the most popular and iconic characters in anime.

31. Zero Two (Darling In The FranXX)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Darling In The FranXX
Premiered	2018

Zero Two is a character in the popular Mecha series Darling In The FranXX. She is the leading female character known for her fierce and determined personality. This series dives into the depths of reality and the fact of being a human, making it a fan favorite.

32. Hikigaya Hachiman (OreGairu)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Oregairu
Premiered	2013

Hikigaya Hachiman, the protagonist of Oregairu, is one of the most iconic and popular anime characters. A typical high school student with a distinctive social outlook is Hikigaya Hachiman.

He claims that the idea of a “butterfly youth” is only that—a dream—and that the reality of life is considerably more austere and terrible.

Your love for him will skyrocket when you see him experience the actual truth of life and witness him contradict his ideologies created by his past experiences.

33. Shinobu Oshino (Monogatari)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Monogatari Series
Premiered	2009

Shinobu Oshino is a character from the Monogatari series. She is an immortal vampire who was once a human girl. She has been affected by a supernatural disease that made her something never seen before.

This experience gives her a unique perspective on the world and life. Shinobu is an interesting character of various ages. You can view her as ten or 100 years old, depending on what you want from the character.

The Monogatari series has characters such as Shinobu Oshino, who can be ten or 100 years old, whatever you desire.

34. Kaguya Shinomiya (Kaguya Sama: Love Is War)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Kaguya Sama Love Is War
Premiered	2019

Kaguya Shinomiya, the protagonist of Kaguya Sama: Love is War, is a strong female character. She is defined by her greatness, not her physical strength.

Her interactions with other characters and handling difficult situations can be seen. Kaguya is a fun and deep girl that anime fans will enjoy watching.

35. Aisaka Taiga (Toradora)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Toradora
Premiered	2008

Aisaka Taiga, more commonly known as the Palmtop Tiger, is a character from the Japanese romance anime Toradora.

She is known for her rough and tough exterior, which often fools people into thinking she is unapproachable or means. But as you know her, you see she's kind and compassionate. Toradora's characters are amazing, who all stand out in terms of personality and appearance.

36. Saber (Fate)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Fate Series
Premiered	2006

Saber is one of the main characters in the Fate series. She is an incredibly strong and determined character with many fans. Her actions have resulted in some of the wildest changes in the narrative, and her contribution is remarkable.

37. Kurapika (Hunter X Hunter)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Hunter X Hunter
Premiered	2011

Kurapika is a character from the anime Hunter X Hunter. He gained much traction and appreciation right after his character arc, which showed how mind-blowing he is. The spike in his appreciation came when an entire arc was devoted to him and showcased his abilities.

38. Onizuka Eikichi (Great Teacher Onizuka)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Great Teacher Onizuka
Premiered	1999

Onizuka Eikichi is a protagonist of the show called Great Teacher Onizuka. He is known for being a very unconventional teacher and for his motorcycle stunts.

His dedication to helping students and his no-nonsense attitude make him iconic. He realized that students had a hard time with life and decided to become a teacher to help them.

39. Shigeo Kageyama (Mob Psycho 100)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Mob Psycho 100
Premiered	2016

Shigeo Kageyama, more commonly known as Mob, is the protagonist of the anime series Mob Psycho 100. He is a young esper with powerful psychic abilities.

The mob was not related to Haikyuu, and many fans were unsure about his character when he was first introduced. However, Season 2 had dedicated character arcs for Mob, so fans understood his mindset better, and he quickly became one of the most popular characters in the anime community.

40. Dazai Osamu (Bungou Stray Dogs)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Bungou Stray Dogs
Premiered	2016

One of the main characters in Bungou Stray Dogs is Dazai Osamu. He is known for his crazy and unreal nature, which makes him so different from other characters in the anime.

Dazai Osamu also enjoys suicide attempts, adding to his unique personality. He is one of the most popular anime characters in the community and continues to be a fan favorite.

41. Koyomi Araragi (Monogatari)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Monogatari Series
Premiered	2009

Koyomi Araragi is a protagonist of the Monogatari series. He is a very powerful vampire and has saved 100s of people by risking his life.

Despite this, he doesn't feel particularly bad about it and can sometimes be questionable in his behavior. Nonetheless, he is an interesting and compelling character worth your time.

42. Tobio Kageyama (Haikyuu)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Haikyuu
Premiered	2014

Tobio Kageyama is one of the leading characters in the popular sports anime and manga, Haikyuu.

He is a person who might seem rude and unfriendly at first, but once you get to know him, you see how amazing he is with his sheer amount of dedication and willpower. Because of his grit and tenacity, he is one of the most well-liked characters in Haikyuu.

43. Bakugo Katsuki (My Hero Academia)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	My Hero Academia
Premiered	2016

Bakugo Katsuki is one of the three leading characters in MHA. He is a classmate of Izuku Midoriya, and they quickly become rivals.

Bakugo has a very explosive personality and always competes with others to be the best. He is fiercely loyal to his friends and will do anything to protect them. The true nature of those around him is what defines his character.

44. Violet Evergarden (Violet Evergarden)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Violet Evergarden
Premiered	2018

Violet Evergarden is a series about Violet, who doesn't seem to understand human emotions due to her tough upbringing. She was always looked upon and treated as a war weapon while she was a kid.

When the only man who ever cared about her died, Violet decided to understand his last words.

The anime follows her journey as she starts working at an Auto Memory Doll company and tries to come to terms with the idea of understanding people's feelings. It is a gripping anime that keeps you hooked until the end.

45. Reigen Arataka (Mob Psycho 100)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Mob Psycho 100
Premiered	2016

Reigen Arataka is one of the leading cast in Mob Psycho 100. He is a con artist who runs a fraudulent psychic business. However, it turns out he has more depth than meets the eyes. Season 2 showed his character arc and how he impacted the series.

46. Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	My Hero Academia
Premiered	2016

One of the major characters in the well-known anime My Hero Academia is Shoto Todoroki. He is known for being one of the most handsome characters in the show and for his amazing combat prowess. His charming personality is what speaks for him and has won him a large number of fans.

47. Sasuke Uchiha (Naruto)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Naruto
Premiered	2002

One of the main very iconic and famous characters in the Naruto anime series is Sasuke Uchiha. He is known for his good looks and aspirant nature.

Sasuke is also a beast in combat and is considered one of the strongest characters in the series. He is a great character overall and has many fans.

48. Kurosaki Ichigo (Bleach)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Bleach
Premiered	2022

Ichigo Kurosaki is the protagonist of the popular manga and anime series Bleach. He possesses a unique power called “Hollowification,” which allows him to transform into a Hollow, a powerful monster that feeds on souls.

Ichigo is also highly respected by other characters in the series for his strength, courage, and determination.

49. Izuku Midoriya (My Hero Academia)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	My Hero Academia
Premiered	2016

Izuku Midoriya is one of the most popular protagonists in anime. He is the main character of the show My Hero Academia and is trying to become the next All Might. What makes Izuku so inspiring to many is that even though his life often takes some of the worst turns, he never gives up on his dreams.

50. Chika Fujiwara (Kaguya Sama: Love Is War)

Things to Know	Details
Anime Name	Kaguya Sama Love Is War
Premiered	2019

Chika Fujiwara is one of the most popular characters in the anime Kaguya Sama Love is War. She is skilled and well-loved by many, contributing to her high popularity.

Chika rose to fame after the release of Kaguya Sama and quickly became one of the four most popular characters in the series with screen time.

Conclusion

So that's it, anime fans! We've looked at the 50 most iconic and famous anime characters.

These are some of the most popular and well-loved characters in the anime world, so be sure to check them out if you're looking for some good entertainment. Thanks for reading!

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