Best supporting characters in anime

Discover the most memorable anime supporting characters who often steal the spotlight. This list explores the sidekicks, rivals, and mentors who enrich stories and win over fans. From endearing animal companions to powerful allies, these supporting characters prove you don't always have to be the main protagonist to be legendary. Explore who the best anime supporting characters are that leave a lasting impression. Find your favourites and perhaps discover new anime secondary heroes.

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  1. 1

    Arthur Boyle (Fire Force)

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    • Exceptionally strong Fire Soldier

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    Arthur Boyle is highlighted as the best supporting character in the Winter 2026 season, with his unique strength rooted in imagination and his unwavering perception of himself as a knight. His recent fight scenes have been visually striking and showcased his distinct characterization.

  2. 2

    Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)

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    • Possesses two of the strongest Cursed Techniques

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    Satoru Gojo consistently steals the spotlight in 'Jujutsu Kaisen' and is often considered more popular than the main character. His overwhelming power, charismatic presence, and playful arrogance make him a fan favorite, dominating scenes with his unique abilities.

  3. 3

    Reinhard van Astrea (Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World-)

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    • Strongest being in the Kingdom of Lugunica

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    Reinhard van Astrea was ranked as the #1 best male supporting character in the Winter 2025 anime season polls for 'Re:ZERO'. His immense power as the 'Sword Saint' and his honorable nature make him a formidable and beloved ally.

  4. 4

    Gaoshun (The Apothecary Diaries)

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    • Appears calm, aloof, and capable

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    Gaoshun was ranked as the #2 best male supporting character in the Winter 2025 anime season polls. His calm demeanor, loyalty, and observational skills make him an indispensable attendant to Jinshi.

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    Cha Hae-in (Solo Leveling)

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    • S-rank hunter

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    Cha Hae-in took the #1 spot for best female supporting characters in the Winter 2025 anime season. As an S-Rank Hunter, her skilled fighting and quiet, observant personality make her a compelling presence.

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  7. 6

    Gyokuyo (The Apothecary Diaries)

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    • Kind and witty personality

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    Gyokuyo was ranked as the #2 best female supporting character in the Winter 2025 anime season. As a consort of the Emperor, her intelligence and kindness, coupled with her reliance on Maomao, make her a captivating figure.

  8. 7

    Beatrice (Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World-)

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    • Sweet and tragic character

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    Beatrice was ranked as the #3 best female supporting character in the Winter 2025 anime season. Her powerful magic and initial aloofness, which evolves into deep caring, make her a complex and beloved spirit.

  9. 8

    Seishiro Nagi

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    • Outstanding aptitude for football

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    Seishiro Nagi led the best supporting male characters in the Fall 2024 anime awards. His prodigal soccer talent, unique trapping ability, and lazy yet brilliant demeanor make him a standout.

  10. 9

    Nemu Kurotsuchi (BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War)

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    • First and only artificial being to grow into adulthood

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    Nemu Kurotsuchi won the best Fall 2024 female supporting character poll. As Mayuri's artificial daughter and lieutenant, her quiet strength and loyalty are highly regarded.

  11. 10

    Tanaka (The Summer Hikaru Died)

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    • Carefree and aloof demeanor

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    Tanaka was ranked as the #1 best male supporting character in the Summer 2025 anime awards. He is central to the plot's mystery and emotional core, making him a pivotal and memorable figure.

  12. 11

    Asako Yamagishi (The Summer Hikaru Died)

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    • Kind and considerate

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    Asako Yamagishi took first place for female supporting characters in the Summer 2025 anime awards. She is an important female supporting character, contributing significantly to the series' narrative and emotional landscape.

  13. 12

    Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

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    • Has a strong sense of morality and empathy

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    Despite 'Attack on Titan' concluding, Levi Ackerman consistently ranks among the best supporting characters due to his iconic status, exceptional combat skills, and profound impact on the narrative. He remains a fan favorite for his unwavering resolve and leadership.

  14. 13

    Osamu Dazai (Bungo Stray Dogs)

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    • Clever member of the Armed Detective Agency

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    Osamu Dazai is known for stealing the spotlight in 'Bungo Stray Dogs' with his complex personality, dark humor, and intriguing backstory. His charisma and sharp wit often make him more popular than the protagonist.

  15. 14

    Reigen Arataka (Mob Psycho 100)

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    • Supportive mentor and boss to Mob

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    Reigen Arataka is a beloved character in 'Mob Psycho 100' for his comedic timing, unexpected wisdom, and complex relationship with Mob. He serves as a charismatic mentor, making him a standout supporting character.

  16. 15

    Vegeta (Dragon Ball Super)

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    • Serious and intelligent

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    Vegeta remains one of the most enduring and popular supporting characters in anime, constantly pushing Goku to surpass his limits. His evolution from a villain to a complex anti-hero, coupled with his immense power, solidifies his place.

  17. 16

    Roronoa Zoro

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    • Very loyal to Luffy

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    Roronoa Zoro is a fan-favorite for his unwavering loyalty, immense strength, and cool demeanor in 'One Piece'. As the swordsman of the Straw Hat Pirates, his ambition and dedication make him a consistently popular supporting character.

  18. 17

    Killua Zoldyck

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    • Loyal and devoted to his friends

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    Killua Zoldyck is highly praised for his complex character development, his deep bond with Gon, and his impressive combat skills in 'Hunter x Hunter'. As an assassin, his journey from darkness to friendship makes him a standout supporting character.

  19. 18

    Power (Chainsaw Man)

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    • Flowing with rich flavors

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    Power's unique personality, chaotic nature, and surprising emotional depth have made her a very popular and memorable supporting character from the recent hit anime 'Chainsaw Man'. She provides both comedic moments and genuine bonds.

  20. 19

    Fern (Frieren: Beyond Journey's End)

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    • Extremely accomplished yet prideless

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    Fern is a highly acclaimed supporting character from the critically successful recent anime 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End'. She is praised for her growth, magical prowess, and her grounded dynamic with Frieren.