Every great anime has a memorable protagonist, but what truly makes a series unforgettable is its supporting cast.
Some side characters appear only occasionally, yet every time they're on screen, they steal everyone's attention. Whether it's through unmatched charisma, incredible power, emotional depth, or simply an unforgettable personality, these characters often become the true face of their respective series.
Many fans even wish these characters had their own spin-off anime because of how much they elevate the story. From legendary mentors to powerful rivals and fan-favorite antiheroes, here are ten anime side characters who proved that you don't have to be the main character to become the biggest star.
1. Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)
Anime: Naruto Shippuden
Few anime characters have experienced a transformation in fan perception quite like Itachi Uchiha. Initially introduced as the ruthless man who massacred his entire clan, he quickly became one of the most hated characters in Naruto. However, as the truth behind his actions was revealed, fans realized he had sacrificed everything to protect both his younger brother and the Hidden Leaf Village.
Despite having relatively limited screen time compared to Naruto or Sasuke, every appearance by Itachi carried immense emotional weight. His mastery of the Mangekyō Sharingan, Tsukuyomi, Amaterasu, and the legendary Susanoo made him one of the strongest shinobi in the series. More importantly, his intelligence, calm demeanor, and heartbreaking story transformed him into one of anime's most respected and beloved characters.
2. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)
Anime: Attack on Titan
Levi Ackerman quickly established himself as one of anime's greatest soldiers. Known as Humanity's Strongest Soldier, Levi consistently delivered some of the most breathtaking action sequences in Attack on Titan.
His unmatched combat skills, incredible speed, and fearless attitude made every battle memorable. Whether it was his legendary fight against the Female Titan or his unforgettable confrontation with the Beast Titan, Levi repeatedly demonstrated why he earned his reputation.
Beyond his strength, Levi's quiet personality, tragic past, and unwavering dedication to protecting humanity made him one of the emotional pillars of the series.
3. Gojo Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Anime: Jujutsu Kaisen
It's rare for a supporting character to become more recognizable than the protagonist, but Gojo Satoru managed exactly that.
Possessing the Limitless technique and the Six Eyes, Gojo is widely considered the strongest sorcerer in Jujutsu Kaisen. His overwhelming confidence, playful personality, and jaw-dropping abilities instantly made him a fan favorite.
Every time Gojo enters a battle, viewers know they're about to witness something spectacular. His fights against Jogo, Toji Fushiguro, and Sukuna have become some of modern anime's most iconic moments.
4. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter × Hunter)
Anime: Hunter × Hunter (2011)
Although Gon is the protagonist of Hunter × Hunter, many fans believe Killua is the true heart of the series.
Born into the infamous Zoldyck family of assassins, Killua initially struggles to understand friendship and freedom. His relationship with Gon slowly changes him into a compassionate and loyal friend while still retaining his deadly assassin instincts.
His lightning-based Nen abilities, incredible speed, and emotional growth make him one of the best-written characters in shounen anime.
5. Roronoa Zoro (One Piece)
Anime: One Piece
Every pirate crew needs a dependable right-hand man, and no one fills that role better than Roronoa Zoro.
As the Straw Hat Pirates' swordsman, Zoro has consistently delivered some of the greatest moments in One Piece history. His loyalty to Luffy is unmatched, especially during the legendary "Nothing Happened" scene, where he silently endured unbearable pain to protect his captain.
His relentless pursuit of becoming the world's greatest swordsman, combined with his incredible three-sword fighting style, has made him one of the most beloved characters in anime.
6. Kakashi Hatake (Naruto)
Anime: Naruto
Long before Naruto mastered Sage Mode or Sasuke awakened the Rinnegan, Kakashi Hatake had already become one of the coolest characters in the series.
Known as the Copy Ninja, Kakashi's mysterious personality, intelligence, and calm leadership immediately made him stand out. His emotional backstory involving Obito and Rin added incredible depth to his character, while battles against Zabuza, Pain, and Obito cemented his legendary status.
His iconic Sharingan and Lightning Blade remain among Naruto's most recognizable abilities.
7. Roy Mustang (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
Anime: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Roy Mustang is the perfect example of intelligence combined with overwhelming power.
Known as the Flame Alchemist, Roy possesses devastating fire-based alchemy capable of defeating even the strongest Homunculi. However, what truly makes him special is his leadership and unwavering desire to build a better future for Amestris.
His confrontation with Lust and his emotional battle against Envy remain some of the greatest moments in Fullmetal Alchemist.
8. L (Death Note)
Anime: Death Note
Without L, Death Note simply wouldn't be the masterpiece it is today.
L's battle of intelligence against Light Yagami became one of the greatest rivalries in anime history. His unusual habits, awkward posture, and eccentric personality only made him more memorable.
Despite relying solely on his intelligence rather than supernatural abilities, L constantly stayed one step behind or sometimes even ahead of Kira, making every episode incredibly tense.
9. Escanor (The Seven Deadly Sins)
Anime: The Seven Deadly Sins
Every time Escanor appeared, he instantly became the center of attention.
His Sunshine ability transforms him into the strongest Holy Knight during the day, allowing him to overpower opponents with overwhelming confidence. His iconic quotes, fearless personality, and god-like strength made him one of the standout characters in The Seven Deadly Sins.
Whether facing Estarossa or battling Demon King forces, Escanor always delivered unforgettable moments.
10. Reigen Arataka (Mob Psycho 100)
Anime: Mob Psycho 100
At first glance, Reigen appears to be nothing more than a fraudulent psychic who tricks clients into believing he has supernatural powers.
However, as the series progresses, he becomes the emotional backbone of Mob Psycho 100. Despite lacking psychic abilities, Reigen consistently teaches Mob valuable lessons about kindness, confidence, and what it truly means to be a good person.
His humor, wisdom, and incredible character development make him one of the most lovable supporting characters in anime.
Conclusion
Supporting characters often become the soul of an anime. While protagonists drive the story forward, it's these unforgettable personalities that create many of the moments fans remember for years.
Whether it's Itachi's heartbreaking sacrifice, Levi's breathtaking battles, Gojo's unmatched charisma, or Reigen's inspiring life lessons, these characters proved that you don't need to be the main hero to become the face of a series.
This list could easily have been twice as long, as anime is filled with unforgettable supporting characters. Legendary names like Vegeta from Dragon Ball, Kenpachi Zaraki and Urahara Kisuke from Bleach, Seto Kaiba from Yu-Gi-Oh!, Kyojuro Rengoku from Demon Slayer, Yami Sukehiro from Black Clover, Shanks from One Piece, Erwin Smith from Attack on Titan, and Hisoka from Hunter × Hunter all delivered iconic moments that often rivaled or even surpassed those of the main protagonists. While they narrowly missed our top ten, they undoubtedly deserve recognition for becoming fan favorites in their own right.
