10 Anime Supporting Characters That Stole the Show From Main Leads: Levi Ackerman, Makima, Satoru Gojo and Others

Anime often introduces us to a rich array of characters, each with their own unique traits and quirks. While main characters drive the story, sometimes anime supporting characters become fan favourites due to their engaging personalities, captivating backstories, and relatable traits. Despite not being the main protagonists, some anime supporting characters more popular than the main characters demonstrates the power of well-crafted side roles in the world of anime.

These anime characters, with their compelling personalities, captivating stories, and distinctive traits, have managed to capture the hearts of fans around the world. Their popularity often rivals or even surpasses that of the central characters. Here’s a list of 10 supporting anime characters who have managed to steal the spotlight from the main protagonists.

Anime Supporting Characters That Stole the Show From Main Leads

Levi Ackerman

Levi is far away from any conventional, widely-liked anime character. He is short (around 5’3 ft), grumpy and abides by a no-nonsense policy. However, during popularity polls, he always ends up being one of the top contenders. His enigmatic persona, exceptional combat prowess, and complex backstory have captivated fans, often leading to him eclipsing the fame of the main protagonist, Eren Yeager. Known as humanity’s strongest soldier in Attack on Titan, Levi’s ability to steal scenes with his actions, expressions, and depth has solidified his top position. Additionally, his dynamic relationships with other characters, such as Erwin and Mikasa, add layers to his character that go beyond the typical hero archetype.

Osamu Dazai

Fans have been emotionally invested by Dazai’s enigmatic demeanour, complicated past, and a dash of dark humour. He is an intriguing character due to his charismatic but slightly twisted manner, strategic acumen, and history with the renowned Port Mafia. Fans are frequently drawn in by Dazai’s charismatic presence and intricate character development, allowing him to stand out in Bungo Stray Dogs, where Atsushi Nakajima is the star.

Kakashi Hatake

Kakashi Hatake’s popularity surpassing that of Naruto‘s lead character is evidence of the nuance and richness of his persona. Being Naruto’s teacher made it possible for the audience to witness his fierce combat skills. Moreover, his mysterious presence behind his mask made him even more intriguing. Viewers were captivated by his development and emotional journey as he dealt with personal challenges and tackled his history. In addition to becoming an unforgettable aspect of the series, Kakashi’s austere yet compassionate personality and his recognisable sharingan eye drove him into the spotlight, and even outshines the title character.

Nezuko

Because of her sudden popularity boom, Nezuko Kamado has established herself as a character that goes well beyond just being a supporting player. In Demon Slayer, she is transformed into a demon, which not only adds an intriguing narrative aspect but also displays her tenacity and love for her brother Tanjiro. Nezuko’s endearing appearance, along with her unwavering resolve and special skills, connected with viewers and catapulted her to the top of the series’ popularity. She is a shining example of a supporting character that has evolved into more than just a sidekick, displaying incredible abilities that surpass that of the main character of the series.

Satoru Gojo

Lo and behold, the strongest sorcerer of Jujutsu Kaisen, Satoru Gojo who would be considered the main character of the series if one was unfamiliar with the story. His popularity surpasses that of the lead, Yuji Itadori, by miles and rightfully so because of his irresistible charisma, unrivalled strength, and mysterious demeanour. His effortless coolness, boundless power, and unconventional teaching methods have made him an instant favourite among fans. However, beyond his playful personality lies a deep and complex backstory which draws the fans towards him.

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L Lawliet

L, the mysterious and quirky detective from Death Note, has amassed a distinct and enduring following that frequently surpasses that of Light Yagami, the main character. He is an utterly interesting character due to his unconventional tactics, odd conduct, and unmatched intellect. Audiences are emotionally moved by his cat-and-mouse game with Light, as well as by his enigmatic past and sincere commitment to justice. A supporting character can occasionally shine even brighter than the main protagonist due to his aptitude for solving challenging puzzles and his relentless quest for the truth. L has become an iconic figure in anime culture.

Makima

Makima’s mysterious presence and diverse personality have helped her to become more well-known than Chainsaw Man‘s lead character. Her deliberate acts, enigmatic motivations, and event manipulation all add to the atmosphere of suspense that draws the viewer in. She has become the focus of debates and fan theories because of her complicated connection with the main character, Denji, as well as her role in the main plot. She stands regarded as a character whose appeal exceeds the limitations of traditional protagonist roles thanks to her enigmatic charm and ethically dubious choices.

Shoto Todoroki

The side character of the anime series My Hero Academia, Shoto Todoroki, has risen to a level of popularity that often rivals that of the main character, Izuku Midoriya. Fans are captivated by Todoroki’s compelling narrative arc, which is propelled by his internal conflict over his dual-fire and ice Quirk ancestry. His nuanced background, which was characterised by personal growth and familial trauma, has inspired a great deal of empathy. Todoroki is, without a doubt, a fan favourite because of his strong talents and austere yet resolute character. His encounters with his father, Endeavor, add layers of complexity to his persona and help viewers to warm to him even more.

Killua Zoldyck

Killua was a pivotal character in Hunter x Hunter, and fans were greatly moved by his path of self-discovery, his relationship with Gon, and his complex family dynamics. Fans were drawn in by his development into a devoted friend with an unbreakable sense of morality from a brilliant assassin burdened by his upbringing. Although Gon Freecss is the main character, Killua has become a beloved symbol in his own way due to his intriguing character development and sympathetic traits, occasionally even overshadowing the main character.

Mikasa Ackerman

Due to her complex persona and captivating narrative, Mikasa Ackerman has unquestionably become one of the most well-liked characters in Attack on Titan. Fans are captivated by her everlasting allegiance, extraordinary fighting prowess, and unyielding resolve. Mikasa’s nuanced feelings, particularly those she has for Eren, give her character depth and let viewers identify with her. She also inspires pity and adoration due to her history as one of the last of her kind and her protectiveness of Eren. Although Eren is the primary character of the series, Mikasa has risen to a level of popularity that frequently equals, if not surpasses, that of the lead character due to her strong presence, character development, and fascinating past.

Do you agree with the list above? Let us know more characters that stole the spotlight from the protagonist of a series in the comments below!

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