9 Best Anime Characters Who Deserved the Spotlight

Every fan has a favorite anime character, but sometimes, those characters aren’t the main protagonists. Whether they’re the quiet, brooding rival, the quirky best friend, or the surprisingly complex villain, certain characters just shine brighter than the supposed lead. They might have a more compelling backstory, a more dynamic personality, or simply a more interesting journey. This list dives into those unforgettable individuals, exploring 9 anime characters who definitely should have been the main star all along.

1. Isaac Netero (Hunter x Hunter)

Isaac Netero, the venerable Chairman of the Hunter Association, stands as one of the most formidable characters in Hunter x Hunter. Before assuming his leadership role, he was a martial artist who surpassed all peers by a significant margin. His strength grew so immense that he reached the pinnacle of power, subsequently guiding the Association with remarkable grace and poise.

For much of Hunter x Hunter, Netero appeared to be little more than a wise, albeit powerful, old man. While he was a fantastic addition to the series, he didn’t initially strike viewers as a compelling lead. That perception dramatically shifted during his climactic battle with Meruem, the Chimera Ant King, where Netero revealed a much darker, more complex side. He faced the series’ most powerful antagonist knowing he was destined to lose, yet he laughed in the face of the King of the Ants before sacrificing himself to ensure Meruem’s demise in an truly unforgettable moment.

2. Yū Nishinoya

Haikyu!! stands tall as one of the greatest sports anime series for many reasons: its incredible main duo, a complete lack of filler, and perhaps most notably, its exceptional side characters. And among those excellent supporting roles in Haikyu!!, none steal the scene quite like Yu Nishinoya.

The “Guardian Deity” of Karasuno High, Nishinoya is one of Japan’s premier defensive players. He can contend with the toughest opponents on the court with incredible grace and power. Off the court, Nishinoya is just as compelling, showcasing a heart of gold and an almost incomparable level of determination.

3. Go Gunhee (Solo Leveling)

Go Gunhee isn’t merely the Chairman of the Korean Hunters Association; he’s also one of the strongest Korean Hunters in Solo Leveling. Before becoming Chairman, he was among the country’s first S-Rank Hunters, battling directly on the front lines. While he’s since transitioned to a more administrative role due to his age, this in no way diminishes his immense power.

Chairman Go is arguably the calmest character in Solo Leveling, which is saying a lot considering the perilous nature of their world. With an increasing number of Gates appearing, the situation only seems to worsen. Yet, Chairman Go remains a reassuring presence in the series, consistently aiding Jinwoo whenever possible. He’s also not one to conceal his genuine excitement, like when he famously shattered his desk chair after witnessing Jinwoo’s arrival on Jeju Island.

4. Kyojuro Rengoku & Tengen Uzui (Demon Slayer)

Demon Slayer is rapidly solidifying its place as one of the greatest shōnen series of all time. Its films are box office giants, with Demon Slayer: Mugen Train holding the title of the highest-grossing anime film ever. Within the series, the Hashira are the elite Demon Slayers, and while each brings something unique to the table, two in particular stand out: the Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku, and the Sound Hashira, Tengen Uzui.

Kyojuro Rengoku bravely confronted one of the strongest Demons in Demon Slayer, an Upper Rank, fully aware he was likely to lose. Yet, he fought without hesitation for his convictions, profoundly inspiring Tanjiro in the process. Tengen Uzui is arguably one of the flashiest characters ever created. Even after losing an eye and an arm, he defiantly charged back into battle against another Upper Rank Demon, ultimately beheading it alongside Tanjiro with unparalleled flair and style.

5. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

Levi Ackerman is easily one of the coolest characters in anime. His unwavering composure, even in the face of immense pressure, makes him an exceptional leader and humanity’s strongest soldier in Attack on Titan. While the series undeniably centers on Eren Yeager, a spin-off starring Levi isn’t out of the question. He’s such an enigmatic figure that his presence elevates every scene he’s in.

Levi’s blend of passion, fierce loyalty, and keen intelligence are outstanding traits for a supporting character, yet they also make him perfectly suited to lead his own series. Attack on Titan still leaves much of Levi’s past shrouded in mystery, but if the creators ever decided to explore it further, fans would undoubtedly jump at the chance to learn more about the enigmatic Scout.

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6. Vegeta (Dragon Ball)

Dragon Ball has always centered on Goku’s journey, chronicling his transformation from a wild child to a dedicated young man, and eventually, one of the most powerful beings in the universe. While he’s been an excellent protagonist, any true fan would likely agree that Vegeta could easily carry the series as its star.

Vegeta’s character arc is undeniably one of the best in all of anime. He began as one of the series’ most formidable villains before undergoing a profound change of heart, evolving into a powerful ally of the Z Fighters. He’s confident, fiercely determined, and incredibly protective—qualities that would make him an excellent lead. With his recently revealed, astonishingly powerful new forms, who knows what’s next for the Prince of all Saiyans.

7. Benimaru Shinmon (Fire Force)

Benimaru Shinmon possesses unique powers in Fire Force that set him apart from even the strongest Fire Soldiers. He’s a character who shies away from the spotlight, but his overwhelming strength makes it impossible for people to ignore “Asakusa’s King of Destruction” when he’s in action.

Benimaru is widely recognized as the single strongest officer in the Special Fire Force. Beyond his raw power, he’s also an exceptional mentor, having helped both Arthur and Shinra achieve significant new feats on their journeys to becoming stronger. He’s been in a league of his own for most of the series, and an anime dedicated to his rise and adventures would undoubtedly be amazing.

8. Toji Fushiguro (Jujutsu Kaisen)

Toji Fushiguro is, unequivocally, a beast. He possesses not a single ounce of Cursed Energy in Jujutsu Kaisen due to his Heavenly Restriction, which in turn grants him physical abilities superior to anyone else in the entire series. His combination of this unique restriction and a brutal mentality makes him one of the strongest characters in Jujutsu Kaisen; he’s willing to do whatever it takes to complete a job.

While Toji doesn’t get extensive screen time in Jujutsu Kaisen, his presence on screen commands more aura than even Gojo Satoru. There’s an undeniable intrigue about Toji that’s hard to articulate. He feels less like a human and more like a force of nature. A spin-off story centered on Toji could very well surpass anything focusing on Yuji Itadori.

9. Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)

Itachi Uchiha is undeniably deserving of his own spin-off series, at the very least. He stands out as one of the best “villains” in anime precisely because he isn’t truly a villain at all. Every action he takes is for the sake of his beloved village and his younger brother, Sasuke. While Sasuke is certainly an intriguing character who could benefit from more screen time, he simply can’t compare to his older brother.

Itachi consistently appears to be at least five steps ahead of everyone else. From a young age, he was one of the strongest ninja in his village, possessing a profound wisdom that allowed him to discern the truth behind any situation. He has fought for his village, against his village, and even allied himself with dangerous criminals—all in pursuit of his own unique brand of justice.

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