Bleach: Biggest Betrayals In The Series, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Betrayals in Bleach are shocking and emotional, showcasing unexpected turns in character dynamics.
Characters like Giselle, Barragan, and Renji show complex motives and loyalties through unexpected betrayals.
Betrayals add depth to the storyline, leading to character growth and shifting alliances within the world of Bleach.

As a long-time fan of Bleach, I must say that the series has always been filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept us on our toes. But one thing is for certain – Aizen’s betrayal of the Soul Society was undoubtedly the most shocking moment in the entire series.

In the sprawling storyline of Bleach, there are numerous shocking developments, but among the most striking are instances of sudden treachery. Although the world of Bleach is populated by diverse factions such as Soul Reapers, Espada, and Fullbringers, it doesn’t guarantee that all members share friendship or even objectives.

These events led to several startling acts of treachery that left viewers stunned when they initially saw them. Since author Tite Kubo is skilled at hinting at future events, it makes people wonder if they should have foreseen it all along. However, when considering emotional impact and surprise factor, these betrayals are undoubtedly the most striking moments in the series.

7 Giselle Betrays Bambietta

Seeing How Giselle Treats Her ‘Friends’ Makes Her All The More Creepy

Episode: TYBW 22

It’s possible to debate whether Giselle turning Bambietta into a zombie should be seen as a betrayal or not, given their complicated friendship. Among the Sternritter, the Bambies appeared to have the strongest bond, filled with frequent squabbles but also shared camaraderie. However, when Bambiettea met her end, instead of allowing her to rest peacefully, Giselle chose to bring her back as a zombie.

Beyond just being harsh, Giselle seems to have no compassion for her new puppet. She repeatedly knocks it down and, astonishingly, even consumes its flesh. To put it mildly, Giselle’s behavior is quite unsettling. However, the fact that she would betray her own friends so easily adds an extra layer of disturbance to this situation.

6 Barragan Betrays Aizen

Barragan Reminds Aizen Of His Royal Prestige In One Final Act Of Defiance

Episode: 276

To be recognized as an Espada, one must pledge allegiance to Aizen. This was relatively straightforward for most Arrancar, but not for Barragan, the previous ruler of Hueco Mundo. Despite obeying his new commander, it was evident that Barragan never felt at ease in relinquishing his authority and stature to be just a foot soldier under Aizen’s command.

Consequently, much like someone losing strength after a hard-fought struggle, Barragan hurls his axe at Aizen in a bold act of rebellion. Regrettably for the Soul Reapers, Barragan’s desperate attempt to thwart Aizen falls short, and while brief, it reveals a traitorous streak that speaks volumes about Barragan’s personality, suggesting that not all Espada may be as loyal as they seem at first glance.

5 Renji Betrays Byakuya

Renji Decides To Stand Up For His Beliefs By Facing His Captain Head On

Episode: 52

Deep inside, Renji felt strongly against Rukia’s execution, but the commands from his captain, Byakuya, left him unable to defy them. However, this perspective shifted dramatically when Renji encountered Ichigo, who stirred him out of his stupor and helped him understand that if he wanted to bring about change, he had to take a firm stand for what he truly believed in.

In response to the advice given, Renji acted decisively, challenging his captain not much time after their duel. He went as far as using his Bankai in an effort to halt him. Although they made peace later on in the narrative, this incident suggested that the Soul Society might be teetering towards internal conflict. Moreover, it showed that Byakuya, despite being a character who later redeemed himself, was initially portrayed as a ruthless antagonist who needed to be stopped, even if that meant his own lieutenant had to take him down.

4 Ginjo Betrays Ichigo

Ginjo Was The Last Person Ichigo Could Rely On, And The Last Person He Thought Would Betray Him

Episode: 361

At first glance, viewers might assume that Tsukishima is the primary antagonist in the Fullbring storyline, but there’s another character, Ginjo, who operates behind the scenes and collaborates with Tsukishima. As Tsukishima manipulates Ichigo’s friends and family, it appears that Ginjo is the only one supporting him. Given that Ichigo had lost his Soul Reaper abilities by then, Ginjo was essentially his last resort for defeating Tsukishima permanently.

It’s deeply sad when Ginjo eventually admits that he was only teaching Ichigo to take his Soul Reaper powers, a betrayal that leaves Ichigo weeping in an unusual display of vulnerability. However, fortunately for Ichigo, Rukia and the other Soul Reapers arrive precisely when needed to help him regain his footing once more.

3 Gin Betrays Aizen

Gin Had Been Biding His Time Until He Was Able To Confront Aizen

Episode: 307

Throughout most of the narrative in Bleach, Gin, who initially held the rank of Captain within the Gotei 13, often appears as merely one of Aizen’s subordinates. However, his shady demeanor suggested that he might have been keeping some information to himself. This suspicion was proven correct when an unexpected twist in the series occurred – Gin ultimately stabs Aizen with his dagger.

Despite Aizen having near-divine power and intelligence at that point, even he didn’t anticipate Gin’s surprising move. Yet, what makes this instance stand out is that Gin, though unsuccessful in acquiring the Hogyoku to weaken Aizen, demonstrated his strategic acumen by patiently waiting for the opportune moment to attack. Regrettably, this audacious act ultimately led to Gin’s demise. However, many fans have come to appreciate just how astute Gin was, as he skillfully played the long game for so long before finally making his move.

2 Uryu Betrays Ichigo

Uryu’s Dedication To The Quincy’s Cause Puts Him At Odds With Ichigo

Episode: TYBW 30

There was a fair amount of doubt among the group about whether Uryu would align himself with their new adversaries, the Quincies, in the final story arc. Given that he initially opposed the Soul Reapers strongly, it seemed uncertain if his alliance with Ichigo and repeated life-saving acts towards him would lead to a change of heart. However, Uryu eventually set aside his grudges, at least until Yhwach made an appearance.

Following a deeper exploration into the backgrounds of the two factions, Uryu eventually aligns with the Sternritter and, surprisingly, assaults his former ally Ichigo in the anime. This act extends to creating a gaping wound in Ichigo’s chest. However, Uryu’s motivations are more intricate than they initially seem; this becomes clearer as the narrative unfolds. At this point in the storyline, it was particularly distressing to witness such a close friend seemingly betray his companions, all due to his personal beliefs.

1 Aizen Betrays The Soul Society

A Shocking Betrayal That Sets Up Aizen As The Main Villain Of The Series

Episode: 62

Initially, anyone new to Bleach wouldn’t guess that Aizen would become the primary antagonist of the series. During the Soul Society arc, he appears as a composed and thoughtful captain who seems more interested in research than combat. However, this demeanor was a façade, and unbeknownst to many, Aizen was manipulating events from behind the curtain, aiming to seize control of the powerful Hogyoku.

As the arc nears its conclusion, Aizen effortlessly blocks Ichigo’s sword with just one finger, smooths his hair back, and ascends towards the heavens in a startling act of treachery that cements his role as the main antagonist throughout the series. Kubo masterfully diverted attention from Aizen, making him the least likely captain to be unmasked as a secret villain.

2024-11-25 08:04