Ranked: The 8 My Hero Academia Characters Fans Love Most (And Why)

Summary

Ochaco Uraraka is the most popular female character in My Hero Academia, thanks to her versatile quirk and her endearing story.
Shota Aizawa, also known as Eraser Head, is a strict but caring teacher with a crucial role in multiple key story arcs.
Despite being controversial among many fans, both Bakugo and Deku are some of the most beloved and popular figures in the entire series.

Ever since 2014, Kohei Horikoshi’s “My Hero Academia” has spellbound people worldwide with its vast array of super-powered characters. Many of these characters have eventually risen to iconic status in the anime and manga realms. Notably, some are more favored than others, garnering them substantial fan followings.

Actually, the main point here is: Which My Hero Academia characters are most cherished by fans worldwide? While Shueisha’s global popularity poll served as a guide in compiling this list, it’s essential to note that the results aren’t solely dependent on it. This is because some data from the poll might be outdated, and there are also debatable characters who received votes despite their controversial nature.

8. Ochaco Uraraka (Uravity)

An Adorable Love Interest With An Engaging Story Of Her Own

First Appearance: Chapter 3 (Manga), Episode 3 (Anime)

In the same vein as many well-known shonen action series, such as My Hero Academia, there are more male characters than female ones. Generally speaking, the male characters have garnered the majority of popularity across various polls. Nevertheless, there’s a notable exception to this trend – her name is Ochaco Uraraka. She enjoys widespread adoration and can undoubtedly be regarded as the most popular female character within the My Hero Academia universe.

From the get-go, I’m smitten with Ochaco! Her charming design, lively demeanor, and the remarkable quirk of Zero Gravity make her an instant favorite among many. Yet, what truly sets her apart is her heartwarming bond with Izuku Midoriya, culminating in their romantic connection (which undeniably made Chapter 431 a fan-favorite moment). However, it’s essential to remember that Ochaco Uraraka is far more than just Deku’s love interest. She’s a multidimensional female character who exerts her own authority. This complexity unfolds in an engaging subplot focusing on her unique relationship with Himiko Toga and her evolving viewpoint towards society’s mistreated villains, adding depth to her character that keeps me hooked!

7. Keigo Takami (Hawks)

The Long Wait For The Reveal Of Japan’s #3 Pro Hero Was Definitely Worth It

First Appearance: Chapter 184 (Manga), Episode 87 (Anime)

In the context of “My Hero Academia”, Hawks joined the cast somewhat later compared to other well-known characters. There had been much anticipation about who the third-ranked Pro Hero in Japan’s Hero Ranking Chart was. His debut took place during the Pro Hero Arc, following All Might’s retirement which moved him up to the #2 spot. Interestingly, he quickly captured the hearts of many fans due to his unquestionable charisma and cool demeanor.

Hawk boasts an impressive character design and an endearing, relaxed demeanor. His distinctive trait, known as Fierce Wings, not only grants him wings but also enables him to manipulate each feather telekinetically. This is probably why fans adore him so much. Additionally, he shared a captivating dynamic with Endeavor and played a significant role in shaping his character during a crucial storyline, adding depth to his enduring popularity. Lastly, during the Final War Arc, Hawk was at the center of many thrilling and memorable scenes, such as his intense battle against All For One.

6. Shota Aizawa (Eraser Head)

Class 1-A’s Strict But Caring Homeroom Teacher

First Appearance: Chapter 5 (Manga), Episode 5 (Anime)

In his opening scene, Shota Aizawa appeared stern, seemingly lazy, and downright cruel, particularly when he warned Class 1-A that they would be expelled if they failed his Quirk Apprehension Test. However, it turned out later in the story that this harsh demeanor was just a facade; beneath it all, he truly cared for each student and aimed to guide them towards becoming strong heroes.

In the animated series “My Hero Academia,” Eraser Head stands out as a nighttime vigilante, resembling a Pro Hero, yet preferring to keep a low profile. His unique persona and distinctive appearance have made him quite popular within the universe, even earning approval from the antagonist Tomura Shigaraki twice. Aizawa’s Erasure ability is not only rare but also versatile, landing him significant roles in many pivotal storylines, contributing to his popularity among fans. One of his most memorable moments was when he amputated his own leg to safeguard his quirk from being neutralized by the Quirk-Destroying Drug.

5. Eijiro Kirishima (Red Riot)

A Manly But Friendly Hero Who Is Impossible To Hate

First Appearance: Chapter 3 (Manga), Episode 5 (Anime)

Eijiro Kirishima is a straightforward yet powerful character in the MHA series, which has made him a fan favorite and often the top choice in popularity polls. He’s a friendly and passionate individual who can bond easily with almost anyone, even someone as intimidating as Katsuki Bakugo, who eventually grew to be one of his closest friends.

To top it all off, I’m utterly smitten with Kirishima! On the surface, his Hardening quirk might seem plain, but he’s truly mastered it in remarkable ways, particularly when he unleashed his indomitable Unbreakable form. All things considered, it’s his endearing personality, striking design, and awe-inspiring fight scenes that have earned him a massive following among fans like me.

4. Shoto Todoroki

A Quiet Hero With An Impressive Dual Quirk And A Tragic Family History

First Appearance: Chapter 6 (Manga), Episode 5 (Anime)

In the realm of the anime “My Hero Academia”, Shoto Todoroki is admired as a handsome young man. His unique ability to simultaneously generate and control fire and ice captivates many, contributing significantly to his popularity, particularly among female fans. However, his allure extends beyond his physical appearance, for Shoto boasts one of the most compelling and captivating storylines throughout the entire series.

Throughout his childhood, Shoto Todoroki endured both physical and emotional torment from his father, Endeavor. This traumatic upbringing initially caused him to appear cold and unapproachable in the story’s early stages. However, an encounter with Izuku Midoriya during the Sports Festival significantly shifted his perspective, sparking a remarkable transformation in his character. From that pivotal moment, Shoto’s journey and personal growth (which centered around his intricate family dynamics, particularly his strained relationships with his father and estranged brother Touya) became one of the series’ most captivating sub-plots. This emotional arc resonated deeply with many fans, earning Shoto a level of admiration that rivaled other significant characters such as Deku, Bakugo, and All Might.

3. Katsuki Bakugo (Great Explosion Murder God Dynamight)

A Controversial Figure Who Had An Impressive Change Of Heart

First Appearance: Chapter 1 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)

It can’t be argued that Katsuki Bakugo, within the world of My Hero Academia, is a highly divisive character due to his abusive behavior, strong-willed nature, and mistreatment towards others, particularly Deku. However, it’s important to note that despite these traits, he consistently ranks as one of the series’ most adored characters. This is demonstrated by his first place rankings in 8 out of 9 official popularity polls, including the latest global survey.

Bakugo’s character is more appreciated over time, much like an acquired taste. Initially, viewers found him quite irritating, but as his development unfolded, it turned out to be a rewarding journey. At first glance, Bakugo might come off as obnoxious, yet he proved to have a significant character arc where he acknowledged his shortcomings as a hero and the need for a change in his attitude towards Deku. Interestingly, despite his aggressive demeanor, Bakugo showcases unexpected talents like cooking, cleaning, playing instruments, and using his Quirk, Explosion, effectively. Regrettably, he didn’t have many solo battles compared to other main characters, but his battle against One For All is undeniably one of the most cherished in the series.

2. Izuku Midoriya (Deku)

A Very Kind Boy Who Wants To Become The Greatest Hero And Improve Society

First Appearance: Chapter 1 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)

In a fashion similar to Bakugo, the main character of this tale, Izuku Midoriya, has been a subject of differing opinions among fans. Initially, he was seen as whiny and weak, but upon closer inspection, this was only during the early stages of the narrative. As the story unfolds, Deku transforms into an exceptional superhero who partakes in thrilling battles and displays a cool demeanor while doing so. His origin story, depicting a child who faced bullying due to growing up in a world centered around superheroes without possessing a Quirk, is unexpectedly heartwarming and relatable. The bond he forms with All Might later on becomes even more gratifying because of this backstory.

Though not as physically powerful as his mentor, Deku demonstrated remarkable ingenuity in employing his Quirk, One For All, in various ingenious and imaginative ways. This skillful application ultimately unlocked the hidden six Quirks within One For All, boosting his power and versatility as a Pro Hero. What truly distinguishes Deku from other action shonen protagonists is his exceptional kindness and friendliness, despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life. He forged unbreakable bonds with his friends and allies, showing compassion towards the villains and striving to improve Japan’s society. With such a noble and likable character like Deku, it’s hard not to admire him.

1. Toshinori Yagi (All Might)

The #1 Pro Hero, In Both Japan And In The Hearts Of Countless My Hero Academia Fans

First Appearance: Chapter 1 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)

Fans of “My Hero Academia” frequently engage in debates about which character is the best (with Shoto, Bakugo, and Deku having particularly dedicated fanbases), but it’s generally agreed that All Might is the most universally adored character in the series. This is because it’s rare to find someone who doesn’t admire him. Given his status as Japan’s top Pro Hero and the Symbol of Peace, he holds significant popularity and influence within the storyline itself.

Currently, modern-day portrayals of Superman can sometimes veer towards being overly dark or critical, but Kohei Horikoshi skillfully captured the essence that made this superhero timeless and adored, seamlessly integrating it into his own creation. Consequently, All Might is immensely likable, friendly, kind-hearted, and even a touch humorous. He not only motivates others (within the storyline and beyond) to strive for personal growth and never shy away from helping others, but his battles against One For All are some of the most memorable moments in the series. Despite retiring, Toshinori Yagi’s popularity remained strong: His relationship with Deku was heartwarming, and he ultimately learned to be a better hero from him. Leaving him alive at the end of the series was a wise move by Horikoshi, as his actions during the Final War Arc only served to reinforce All Might as an unparalleled fan favorite in My Hero Academia.

2025-05-08 10:11