Most popular anime characters

Explore the most beloved protagonists, heroes, and villains who have captivated fans worldwide. From iconic shonen characters to endearing slice-of-life figures, this list encompasses the cultural impact and emotional resonance of anime creations. Discover who the most influential and memorable figures are that have shaped the landscape of Japanese animation. Delve into the universe of characters that define genres and transcend borders.

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  1. 1

    Katsuki Bakugo (My Hero Academia)

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    • Voted "World Best Hero"

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    Katsuki Bakugo was crowned the 'World's Best Hero' in a global popularity poll in October 2025, surpassing Izuku Midoriya. His evolution and his role in the final season of 'My Hero Academia' maintain his high popularity.

  2. 2

    Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)

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    • Extremely popular character

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    Satoru Gojo remains the 'favorite' character for many fans due to his power and impact on the plot of 'Jujutsu Kaisen'. The anime's third season, airing in 2026, is one of the most anticipated anime of the year, maintaining his relevance.

  3. 3

    Yuji Itadori (Jujutsu Kaisen)

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    • Ranked No. 1 most beloved character

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    Yuji Itadori is the favorite character for most in a Japanese ranking from March 2026. He stands out in the anime's third season for his crucial role in the 'Culling Game', which ensures his high popularity.

  4. 4

    Monkey D. Luffy

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    • Most popular character globally outside of Japan

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    'One Piece' continues to be one of the most dominant and talked-about series in 2026, with decades-old mysteries closing and new ones opening. Luffy is consistently the most popular character in the series and a global anime icon.

  5. 5

    Roronoa Zoro

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    • Master swordsman and combatant

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    Roronoa Zoro maintains consistent high popularity in 'One Piece' polls, being one of the most beloved characters by fans worldwide in March 2026. His loyalty and skills make him stand out.

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  7. 6

    Sung Jinwoo (Solo Leveling)

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    • Looks cool

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    'Solo Leveling' is a recent global phenomenon that continues to generate a lot of interest, with new illustrations of its characters in March 2026. Sung Jinwoo was nominated for 'Best Main Character' at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2026.

  8. 7

    Genau (Frieren: Beyond Journey's End)

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    • Won the official Frieren popularity poll

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    In April 2026, Genau surprisingly took first place in the third official 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' character popularity poll, surpassing Himmel and demonstrating his growing relevance.

  9. 8

    Himmel (Frieren: Beyond Journey's End)

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    • Incredible speed and keen senses

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    Although he was dethroned by Genau in the April 2026 poll, Himmel had been the most popular character in 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' in the two previous polls, maintaining a very solid fanbase and his legacy as a hero.

  10. 9

    Flamme (Frieren: Beyond Journey's End)

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    • Most powerful human mage who ever lived

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    The series 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' is very popular and Frieren has gained recognition, being chosen as the 'best girl with pigtails' in a February 2026 poll and placing fourth in the series' third popularity poll.

  11. 10

    Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

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    • Most popular Attack on Titan character

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    Despite the conclusion of the 'Attack on Titan' series, Levi Ackerman remains one of the most beloved and admired characters, consistently ranking high in popularity for his skill and charisma.

  12. 11

    Eren Yeager

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    • Masterful writing shows human mindset fragility

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    His central role and controversial evolution in one of the most influential series of the 21st century ensure his continued relevance and debate among 'Attack on Titan' fans.

  13. 12

    Goku (Dragon Ball Daima)

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    • Consistent quality

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    Goku is a legendary and timeless character in anime. With the premiere of 'Dragon Ball Daima' in 2026, his relevance remains very high, introducing him to new generations and reaffirming his iconic status.

  14. 13

    Tanjiro Kamado (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba)

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    • Kind to his friends

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    'Demon Slayer' continues to be one of the series that is 'sweeping' in 2026, and Tanjiro is a much-loved character for his nobility and emotional journey. His compassion and determination make him stand out.

  15. 14

    Maomao (The Apothecary Diaries)

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    • Dominates popularity charts

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    Maomao's popularity has grown with the success of 'The Apothecary Diaries' anime, and she is nominated for 'Best Main Character' at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2026, demonstrating her current relevance.

  16. 15

    Momo (Dandadan)

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    • Fun and resourceful

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    'Dandadan' is one of the standout series of 2025-2026, and Momo is nominated for 'Best Main Character' at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2026, which highlights her current impact and popularity.

  17. 16

    Saitama (One-Punch Man)

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    • Ranked #1 in character popularity polls

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    Saitama's unique concept and humor keep him a very popular character, standing out in lists of popular protagonists from 2025. His unparalleled strength remains a main draw.

  18. 17

    Yuta Okkotsu (Jujutsu Kaisen)

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    • Ranked 8th in the second Popularity Poll

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    Yuta Okkotsu has gained popularity in 'Jujutsu Kaisen' polls, appearing in the top of season 3 in March 2026. His immense power and development make him a key character.

  19. 18

    Megumi Fushiguro (Jujutsu Kaisen)

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    • Consistently ranks in top 3 in popularity polls

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    Megumi Fushiguro maintains high popularity in 'Jujutsu Kaisen' polls, being a prominent character in the third season. His seriousness and strategy make him a favorite.

  20. 19

    Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)

    0 Global Votes
    • Ranked second in popularity poll

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    Shoto Todoroki remains one of 'My Hero Academia's' most popular characters, taking third place in the global 'WORLD BEST HERO' poll in October 2025. His dual Quirk and personal story resonate with fans.