8 Anime Side Characters That Stole The Show

Main characters are typically the focus of the story, the ones we root for and identify with. Yet, there are instances when secondary characters unexpectedly take center stage and captivate us in ways not anticipated. With minimal appearances and often complex histories, these supporting actors make such a lasting impact that they can equal or even outshine the primary heroes.

These secondary characters, from enigmatic strategists to captivating role models, have made a name for themselves beyond their roles. Scenes with them remain etched in memory, their personas irresistible, and at times, their narratives more gripping than the main plot itself. Here are eight side characters who didn’t just bolster the story, they shaped it.

8. Yuno

Black Clover

In Black Clover, Yuno was positioned as Asta’s long-term rival, but unlike typical shonen series antagonists, Yuno wasn’t just a passive figure lurking in the shadows. Instead, he exhibited tremendous power and at times seemed to eclipse Asta as the central character.

His ascent through the hierarchy was swift and spectacular, and each fight he engaged in demonstrated why he deserved the title of future Wizard King. The battle against Zenon served as a notable instance, as Yuno, despite not yet fully mastering his powers, was already stretching his abilities to their utmost limits, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with one of the strongest adversaries featured in the series.

Despite the fact that Black Clover primarily revolves around Asta, Yuno never seemed to be overshadowed. Rather, he fought alongside Asta on equal terms, making each confrontation between them resemble a collision of two monarchs fated for greatness.

7. Mikey

Tokyo Revengers

In Tokyo Revengers, while Takemichi serves as the main character, it sometimes seems like the narrative is more centered around Mikey. Mikey, with his magnetic charm and unforeseeable nature, is not merely a gang leader to the fans. Whether it’s breaking skulls effortlessly or holding together his friends with sheer force of will, he commands every moment he appears on screen.

In a fascinating twist, the juxtaposition of Mikey’s lighthearted, almost juvenile persona against his formidable power made him an unforgettable figure in the series. However, it was his heart-wrenching spiral into darkness that truly captivated audiences. With each attempt Takemichi made to save him, it felt as if fate was pushing Mikey towards the void even further. The battle against his inner turmoil proved far more gripping than the time-travel narrative, solidifying Mikey as the undeniable soul of the series.

6. Askeladd

Vinland Saga

In the series Vinland Saga, the primary character is Thorfinn, who predominantly pursued revenge throughout the first season. However, it was Askeladd who largely held the spotlight. He wasn’t just an ordinary Viking warrior; he was a skilled manipulator and tactician, capable of outsmarting and overpowering almost anyone else.

Different from many warriors portrayed in the series, Askeladd didn’t solely rely on raw power. Instead, he played a strategic game, consistently outsmarting both his adversaries and his own followers. The instant he disclosed his loyalty to his motherland, Wales, was the moment he emerged as one of the most memorable secondary characters in anime.

His demise wasn’t merely a conclusion; it was a brilliant stroke that captivated everyone. In his last act, he seized the limelight, altering the entire narrative and leaving Thorfinn utterly devastated. Without Askeladd, the Vinland Saga lost its familiar shape.

5. Dazai

Bungo Stray Dogs

In Bungo Stray Dogs, it’s true that Atsushi is the main character, but let’s face it, Dazai is the one fans are most intrigued by. Initially, his quirky demeanor and penchant for dark humor made him appear as mere comic relief. However, beneath his laid-back exterior lies a man who has experienced some of the series’ grimmest moments.

Instead of merely being intelligent, Dazai exhibited an awe-inspiring level of brilliance that left people unsettled. A past member of the Port Mafia, his history left him with indelible scars which he wielded along with his sharp intellect and tactical acumen to outmaneuver every adversary. Whenever he made an appearance in the series, the atmosphere would change noticeably. It was always unclear whether he was jesting or devising a complex strategy several moves ahead.

The complex relationships he shared with Mori and Chuuya significantly enriched his character, transforming him from mere comic relief. In instances when Atsushi or Akutagawa were meant to be the focus, Dazai would seamlessly take the limelight without even trying.

4. Gojo Satoru

Jujutsu Kaisen

In a fresh and conversational style, Jujutsu Kaisen narrates Yuji Itadori’s adventures after taking on Sukuna as his spirit. However, it is none other than Yuji’s teacher, Gojo Satoru, who has left the global audience spellbound. With his enigmatic blindfolded look, laid-back demeanor, and colossal power, Gojo swiftly emerged as the most captivating character in the series.

Gojo’s fame skyrocketed to unprecedented levels, exceeding even what the creator anticipated. His initial demonstration of power, elucidating the limitless technique and effortlessly annihilating a special grade curse, made it abundantly clear to fans why he is renowned as the most powerful jujutsu sorcerer. The scene where he discarded his blindfold to employ Purple against Jogo instantly became a memorable, iconic moment.

Even with a relatively small amount of screen time, Gojo significantly influences the narrative. The fact that his absence during the Shibuya Incident was felt so strongly underscores the crucial role he plays in the story. Notably, the villains’ strategy hinged upon eliminating him from the battlefield first.

3. Kyojuro Rengoku

Demon Slayer

Among the powerful characters in Demon Slayer, none seem to resonate as deeply as Rengoku. Making his debut in the Mugen Train storyline, he may not have been present for long, but he has undeniably left a lasting impression and gained immense popularity within the series.

Different from other Hashira who started off indifferent towards Tanjiro, Rengoku warmly received him. His relentless positivity and iron will instantly endeared him to others. However, it was during his epic clash with Akaza that he truly shone as a standout character.

Regardless of his disadvantage, he wouldn’t retreat; instead, he stood proudly till his very end. The entire spectacle – from his valiant fights to his poignant last words – moved everyone present, including the characters and viewers, to tears. His short-lived existence radiated a brilliance that outshone many others.

2. Urahara

Bleach

ichigo, the main character from Bleach, embarked on a lengthy voyage, but whenever Urahara made an appearance, things became significantly intriguing. Urahara wasn’t simply a peculiar shopkeeper; he was one of the most intelligent and unforeseeable figures within the series.

Regardless of how grim the circumstances, Urahara always had a strategy in place. Be it assisting Ichigo to reach his maximum power or orchestrating Aizen’s downfall, he consistently outsmarted others by being three steps ahead. His relaxed and unassuming demeanor concealed the fact that he was once a captain and one of Soul Society’s sharpest tactical minds.

In a surprising turn of events, it wasn’t Ichigo who dealt the decisive blow to Aizen, the notoriously powerful villain in anime; instead, it was Urahara who stepped up to the plate, underscoring yet again his reputation as the ultimate unpredictable factor.

1. Itachi

Naruto

In Naruto, Itachi Uchiha initially appeared as a villain, a heartless traitor who massacred his own kin. However, as the narrative unfolded, so did the revelation of his true nature. He wasn’t simply a renegade ninja; he was a man who bore the heavy burden of making unthinkable sacrifices, shouldering the sins of the Uchiha clan.

Regardless of Naruto’s storyline being the focus, Itachi consistently captivated audiences whenever he made an appearance. The fight between Itachi and Sasuke, where Itachi appeared to be trying to kill his own brother, only to later reveal that every move was strategically planned for Sasuke’s protection, solidified his status as one of the most remarkable supporting characters in anime lore. His death wasn’t merely a poignant scene; it served as an acknowledgment of Itachi’s true nature as a tragic hero.

(I couldn’t help but shed a tear or two when my beloved game character met their end, grinning wider than ever… Absolutely not me, I was stone-cold.)

During the Fourth Great Ninja War, Itachi’s return from the dead made such a powerful impression that it outshone virtually all other events taking place at that time. Although Naruto and Sasuke were meant to be the main attractions, Itachi alone dismantled the Edo Tensei, demonstrating yet again his uncanny ability to stay one step ahead of everyone else.

2025-03-12 01:40