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Who Is the Best Side Character in Anime?

Main characters used to get all the glory, but these days, some of the best moments in anime come from the side characters. These are the unsung heroes, the scene-stealers, the ones who sometimes outshine the protagonists without even trying. So, the real question is: Who is the best side character in anime?

What Makes a Great Side Character?

Before we start throwing names around, let’s break down what makes a side character truly stand out. A great side character should:

  • Have a strong presence without overshadowing the main cast right (well, not too much).
  • Bring depth, humor, or emotional weight to the story.
  • Make you wish the anime had a spin-off just about them.

With that in mind, let’s look at some top contenders.

1. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter)

Killua is that rare side character who feels just as important as the protagonist. He starts off as a deadly assassin, but his friendship with Gon brings out his humanity. His character arc? Phenomenal. His fights? Insanely cool. And let’s not forget that he’s probably the best example of “ride or die” in anime history.

2. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

If anime had a Hall of Fame for badasses, Levi would definitely be in it hands down. He’s got the skills, he’s got the style, and he’s got zero patience for nonsense. And I mean come on who doesn’t like a guy who is introverted, serious, a power house with amazing scenes and let’s not forget he values his comrades.

3. Rengoku Kyojuro (Demon Slayer)

Rengoku showed up, smiled, gave us one of the best fight scenes in anime, and left us emotionally devastated. His short time on screen was enough to make him unforgettable. He embodies pure heroism, and let’s be real, who didn’t cry during Mugen Train?

4. Vegeta (Dragon Ball Z)

Vegeta may have started as a villain, but he evolved into one of the most compelling characters in Dragon Ball. His endless rivalry with Goku, his pride, and his journey from ruthless warrior to dedicated father make him one of the greatest side characters in anime. I mean who doesn’t love an iconic speech about saiyan pride.

5. Gojo Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen)

He’s the strongest sorcerer in the world, but he also acts like an overgrown teenager. Gojo is the perfect mix of unbeatable power and meme-worthy charisma. He makes every scene he’s in at least ten times better, and let’s be honest, half the time, the reason people watch Jujutsu Kaisen is just to see what he’ll do next.

6. Kamina (Gurren Lagann)

Kamina is pure energy. He’s loud, reckless, and a little crazy, but he inspires everyone around him. His influence on Simon, even after his death, drives the entire story. "Believe in the me that believes in you!" is still one of the most hype quotes in anime.

7. Roy Mustang (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

A military officer who causes explosions just by snapping his fingers? Yes, please. But beyond that, Roy Mustang has some of the most emotionally intense moments in FMA: Brotherhood. His quest for justice against the people responsible for Maes Hughes’ death is one of the most satisfying revenge arcs in anime.

8. Megumin (Konosuba)

She’s got one spell, and she will use it. Every. Single. Time. Megumin is an explosion-loving, over-the-top chaos gremlin who somehow manages to be one of the best comic relief characters in anime. And honestly? She deserves it.

So, Who’s the Best?

That’s the real debate, isn’t it? Some side characters are the heart of their series, while others steal the show entirely. Whether it’s Killua’s character growth, Levi’s sheer dominance, or Gojo’s meme-worthy antics, anime wouldn’t be the same without them.

But let’s hear it, who do you think is the best side character in anime?

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