The explosive popularity of anime in recent years has led to most famous cartoon characters, like Goku of the Dragon Balls, became household names even outside of Japan. Interesting and likable characters help create a series that is both memorable and profitable, so it’s in the studios’ best interest to create the most compelling characters possible. Of course, not every anime character is up to that level, but the best of the best aren’t just the heroes you might associate them with, they’re characters who are completely fearless. fears, hopes and dreams, just like anyone else.
While it’s impossible to have a completely unbiased list of the most popular characters, one of the first criteria should be that the most popular characters are popular outside of their fandom. Even those who don’t like anime can recognize these characters at a glance, and no anime convention is complete without one or two of them cosplaying.
10 Ichigo Kurosaki–Bleach
Ichigo Kurosaki ranks among the sweetest shounen protagonists, and is definitely one of the most popular anime characters. Although Bleach has been on the market for over 22 years, Ichigo remains a popular figure among anime viewers, with that popularity only bolstered by the recent release of Bleach: Thousand Years of Blood. . He has the powers of Quincy, Hollow, and Soul Reaper, giving him so many abilities that make Ichigo’s battles some of the flashiest out there. However, one of the main reasons for his popularity is his unique appearance and thoughtful personality. While most of the shounen protagonists rely on the main character change towards the end of the series, Ichigo’s personality has remained a consistent part of Bleach from beginning to end, even as he grows older.
9. Saitama–One Punch Man
Saitama is an ordinary, easygoing guy who happens to have amazing powers, a combination that easily makes him one of the most popular anime characters ever. With a carefree and carefree attitude, Saitama is a “one-punch man” capable of defeating any villain with a single blow. The only problem is that this leaves Saitama without any challenges in life, leading to a familiar sense of boredom with everything around him. Even so, Saitama is the type to be a hero for fun, and that automatically makes him stand out. He is the moral core of his series, convincing the characters to his way of thinking by living up to his ideals.
8 Eren Yeager – Attack on Titan
Eren Yeager quickly became one of the most popular anime characters due to his distinctive personality and morals. Although he wasn’t initially a strong character in Attack on Titan, he soon developed into a powerful anti-hero after discovering his Titan teleporting powers. Many of the best quotes from Attack on Titan are attributed to him, as he is famous for his bravery in battle. Eren never backs down from a fight, and is always the first to act and leads his team. Above all, however, he is loyal to his best friends Mikasa and Armin, and their friendship is one of the best in anime. Eren’s character suffers a major makeover towards the end of the series, but that doesn’t seem to have much to do with his popularity.
7 Monkey D. Luffy–One Piece
One Piece has been on the air for over 23 years, making it one of the longest running anime of all time. One Piece’s hero, Monkey D. Luffy, was among the most popular anime characters most of the time. This silly, innocent man is known for his loyalty, goofiness, and signature smile. He will stop at nothing to protect his friends and their ambitions, and dreams of becoming the Pirate King. Luffy’s true desire is indeed to be free, to explore and investigate the hidden corners of the world, a shared fantasy. His honesty and courage don’t make him any less fun to be around, and Luffy is a hero that can always be trusted.
6 Uzumaki Naruto – Naruto
Ranked as the best Shonen Jump anime of all time by Ranker, Naruto always appears whenever the most popular anime characters are discussed. Fans admire the main character of the series, Naruto Uzumaki, for his relentless drive and charisma. Despite having no family and being rejected by everyone as a child, Naruto has grown into a respectable and upright adult, protecting the very people who bullied him. Originally an amateur ninja, three times failing the Academy, Naruto’s early failures made him approachable. He eventually rose to the position of Hokage, the strongest shinobi, through training and pure will. He’s smart, interesting, and a devoted friend, all of which are key to making him a beloved character.
5 Light Yagami–Death Note
Death Note protagonist Light Yagami is one of the greatest anti-heroes ever, in addition to being one of the most popular anime characters. Light’s genius-level intellect makes him fascinating to watch, and even though the series has ended for years, it’s still relevant, even parodied in The Simpsons. Even before the discovery of the Death Note, Light had aspirations and desires to improve the world; The Death Note merely gave him a means to do so. Light becomes Kira, a mysterious character who specializes in executing criminals. Light’s intentions are good, often winning over fans, but his character constantly lingers near the boundary of going too far, leaving him still controversial. Despite that, fans admire Light for his charm and great personality traits.
4 Sakura Kinomoto – Sakura Card Leader
One of the most iconic magical girls of all time, Cardcaptor Sakura’s Sakura Kinomoto is a sweet young lady who accidentally unleashes the Clow Cards, unleashing ancient magic on the world. The task of recapturing them and sealing their magic belongs to her, even though she just wants to continue with her normal life. Sakura has a close sisterly relationship with her brother, the two often teasing each other in a way not usually seen in anime. Unlike many on this list, Sakura is fearless, but it’s her courageous willingness that makes her worthy of being one of the most popular anime characters.
3 Ash & Pikachu–Pokémon
Without a doubt, one of the most recognized and popular anime characters in history, Ash Ketchum has been the main protagonist of Pokémon for 25 years, so generations of children have grown up with Ash. in that time. It’s impossible to talk about Ash without mentioning his best friend Pikachu, a loyal Pokémon that never leaves his side and can often be seen perched on his shoulder. Ash’s determination is unlike any other anime protagonist, as his quest to become the greatest Pokémon Master often exposes him to apocalyptic threats and even the literal god of Pokémon. Besides his determination, Ash is also very brave and is never afraid to stand up for what is right, even willing to ignore his own ambition to ensure a good victory.
2 Usagi Tsukino – Sailor Moon
Sailor Moon is a hugely successful series, largely thanks to Usagi, one of the most popular anime characters ever. Usagi is a girl who cares about boyfriends and fashion and doesn’t do her schoolwork. She is usually a reluctant hero, as her magical fate has been forced upon her without her permission. Usagi is the reincarnation of Queen Serenity, ruler of the ancient Moon Kingdom, and is therefore given the role of Sailor Moon, tasked with protecting Earth from evil forces. Usagi is also a good friend and works well with other Sailor Scouts in times of trouble.
1 Dragon Ball Goku
Goku is definitely the most popular anime character ever. He’s been the main character of the Dragon Ball series for 32 years and has kept the series going with his intelligence, charm, innocence, and strength. During that time, Goku has grown from a slightly stubborn boy to Earth’s greatest protector, having saved the planet multiple times from magical and extraterrestrial threats. One of Goku’s greatest assets is his ability to turn enemies into friends, most notably his friendship with Saiyan Vegeta, who has gone from an unrepentant killer to a family man. family due to Goku’s influence. Goku’s pure heart, selflessness, loyalty, and dedication are his best traits and the key to why he is the most popular anime character of all time.
There are dozens of other iconic characters that could be added to this list, especially if one delves further into anime history, but these ten represent a prime example of the characters. The most famous of anime. They have earned these positions after years of developing trustworthy personalities and by proving themselves in their chosen field. Many of these brands have been around for decades, and with famous cartoon characters like this in the beginning, it’s easy to see why.