Posted by Contents
- 1. Levi Ackerman – Attack on Titan
- 2. Killua Zoldyck – Hunter x Hunter
- 3. Itachi Uchiha – Naruto Shippuden
- 4. Gojo Satoru – Jujutsu Kaisen
- 5. Roy Mustang – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- 6. Reigen Arataka – Mob Psycho 100
- 7. Erwin Smith – Attack on Titan
- 8. Ban – The Seven Deadly Sins
- 9. Kakashi Hatake – Naruto
- 10. Askeladd – Vinland Saga
- Final Thoughts
Every anime has a main character, but let’s be honest—sometimes they’re not the reason we keep watching. In many series, it’s a side character who ends up stealing every scene, delivering the best moments, and becoming the fan favorite everyone talks about.
These characters may not be the protagonists, but they often feel like the heart, soul, or driving force of their shows.
Here are 10 anime where a side character completely steals the spotlight.
1. Levi Ackerman – Attack on Titan
Levi doesn’t need long speeches or flashy introductions. The moment he enters a fight, you know something unforgettable is about to happen. His cold personality, brutal efficiency, and iconic action scenes make him impossible to ignore.
Why he steals the show: Every Levi scene feels like an event.
2. Killua Zoldyck – Hunter x Hunter
Killua’s journey hits hard because it feels real. Watching him break free from his dark upbringing and learn how to care about others is one of the most rewarding arcs in anime.
Why he steals the show: His emotional growth often feels deeper than the main storyline itself.
3. Itachi Uchiha – Naruto Shippuden
Few anime characters are re-evaluated the way Itachi is. What starts as hatred slowly turns into respect, then heartbreak. His story adds layers of tragedy and meaning to the entire Naruto world.
Why he steals the show: His sacrifice changes how you see the entire series.
4. Gojo Satoru – Jujutsu Kaisen
Gojo is the definition of a scene-stealer. He’s absurdly powerful, effortlessly cool, and fully aware of it. Whenever he shows up, the tone of the episode instantly shifts.
Why he steals the show: He makes every fight feel unfair—and fun to watch.
5. Roy Mustang – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Roy isn’t just stylish and powerful; he’s deeply human. His calm exterior hides regret, anger, and a strong desire to make the world better—even if it costs him.
Why he steals the show: His emotional moments hit just as hard as his explosive ones.
6. Reigen Arataka – Mob Psycho 100
Reigen shouldn’t work as a character, yet he absolutely does. He’s a con artist, a mentor, and somehow the most grounded person in a show full of psychic chaos.
Why he steals the show: He proves that heart and personality matter more than power.
7. Erwin Smith – Attack on Titan
Erwin isn’t the strongest or fastest, but his words move armies. His leadership, conviction, and willingness to sacrifice everything make him unforgettable.
Why he steals the show: His speeches alone define entire seasons.
8. Ban – The Seven Deadly Sins
Ban’s laid-back attitude hides a painful past. His loyalty, humor, and emotional depth make him one of the most memorable characters in the series.
Why he steals the show: He makes you laugh, then hits you with heartbreak.
9. Kakashi Hatake – Naruto
Kakashi is the kind of character you appreciate more as you get older. Calm, sarcastic, and deeply scarred by loss, he feels like a real person in an unreal world.
Why he steals the show: He’s the mentor fans never stop loving.
10. Askeladd – Vinland Saga
Askeladd is unpredictable, manipulative, and strangely honorable. He’s not just a villain or ally—he’s the engine that drives the story forward.
Why he steals the show: He’s far more interesting than a traditional hero.
Final Thoughts
Anime side characters often get more freedom to be complex, flawed, and emotionally rich—and that’s why they stand out. These characters remind us that you don’t need to be the main protagonist to leave the biggest impact.
Sometimes, the best characters are standing just outside the spotlight.
Which side character stole the show for you?