Top 10 Anime Supporting Characters of 2025, Ranked (Igris Takes #1)

From the divine grace of Reinhard in Re:ZERO to the silent, lethal loyalty of Igris in Solo Leveling, supporting characters pulled off spectacular upsets in 2025, dominating popularity rankings across the globe. In the traditional world of anime, the main leads usually receive all the spotlight, basking in the glory of their own hero’s journey. However, the most beloved anime supporting characters of the past year proved that side roles can often be the true “kings and queens” of the screen.

The year 2025 belonged to those who commanded overwhelming power, eccentric personalities, or explosive moments that completely outshone the protagonists. These characters transformed every scene they touched into a viral sensation, proving that you don’t need top billing to be the heart of a series. Below are the 10 standout figures who reigned supreme as the most beloved anime supporting characters over the last four seasons.

The Top 10 Scene-Stealers of 2025

10. Gaoshun (The Apothecary Diaries – Season 2)

Though technically a palace guard, Gaoshun has quickly evolved into the muscular “mascot” of the series. His rough, stoic appearance belies a warm-hearted nature that fans find incredibly endearing.

• Role: The reliable right-hand man and emotional anchor.

• Key Features: Perfectly counterbalances Jinshi’s cool demeanor and Maomao’s sharp wit.

• Highlight: Whether he is crushing villains in high-stakes action or providing “brainless” comedy, he offers much-needed relief in a tense political landscape.

9. Kyo Kasahara (Blue Box)

In the gentle atmosphere of Blue Box, Kyo stands out as the ultimate “boy-next-door big brother.” As the badminton team captain, his humility despite his immense natural talent is refreshing.

• Role: The grounded mentor and loyal friend.

• Key Features: Defined by his emotional intelligence and self-sacrificing nature.

• Highlight: The moment he chose to forfeit a match to support a friend in crisis resonated deeply with viewers, cementing his reliability.

8. Benimaru Shinmon (Fire Force – Season 3)

The “Strongest Captain” never fails to live up to his title. In Season 3, beneath the guise of the Moonlight Mask, Benimaru supports Company 8 with an unmatched level of style and lethality.

• Role: The untouchable powerhouse.

• Key Features: A laid-back attitude paired with blunt, philosophical wisdom.

• Highlight: His indifference is his trademark—but once his temper is triggered, enemies have no choice but to log out for good.

7. Shisui “Loulan” (The Apothecary Diaries – Season 2)

Shisui proves that intellect can be just as captivating as brute force. Her calm demeanor and the mystery surrounding her identity within the inner palace added layers of intrigue to the second season.

• Role: The tactical enigma.

• Key Features: Remarkable intelligence and a calculating personality.

• Highlight: Every sharp exchange between her and Maomao delivered pure intellectual satisfaction for the audience.

6. Naito Mudano (Tougen Anki)

Acting as both a mentor and a frontline combat specialist, Mudano captivates fans with his strictly logical mindset. He represents the “cool teacher” archetype taken to its absolute limit.

• Role: The elite Oni instructor.

• Key Features: Known for his no-nonsense approach to combat and training.

• Highlight: His solo defense of Oni allies in Tokyo against the Momotaro forces sparked massive social media hype in 2025.

5. Enjin (Gachiakuta – Season 1)

Enjin is the charismatic force who discovers Rudo and integrates him into the Cleaners. His leadership and combat prowess make him an instant fan favorite.

• Role: The veteran guide and organization leader.

• Key Features: A speed-based combat style that creates visual spectacles.

• Highlight: His natural leadership qualities often make viewers forget—if only for a moment—who the actual protagonist is supposed to be.

4. Reinhard van Astrea (Re:ZERO – Season 3)

Reinhard, the “Sword Saint,” is nothing short of a narrative power monster. Known as the “Knight of All Knights,” his presence alone shifts the gravity of any situation.

• Role: The world’s strongest knight.

• Key Features: Wielder of the Dragon Sword Reid and confirmed by the author as the strongest character in the franchise.

• Highlight: His elegance combined with nation-destroying power means that once Reinhard enters the battlefield, the conflict is effectively over.

3. Cha Hae-in (Solo Leveling – Season 2)

While she had limited screen time initially, Season 2 allowed the “Queen of Hunters” to fully demonstrate why she is an S-Rank icon.

• Role: The premier female hunter and warrior.

• Key Features: Breathtaking sword-dance combat that blends grace with lethality.

• Highlight: She topped popularity polls for female supporting roles in Spring 2025, proving she is far more than just a romantic interest.

2. Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia – Season 8)

Even as the series nears its conclusion, Todoroki remains a master of seizing the spotlight. His journey from a troubled prodigy to a balanced hero reached its zenith this year.

• Role: The prodigal hero of Class 1-A.

• Key Features: Absolute mastery of ice and fire at a scale never seen before.

• Highlight: His final battle in early 2025 showcased a latent power that continues to terrify every opponent he faces.

1. Igris (Solo Leveling – Season 2)

Claiming the top spot as the “Scene-Stealing King” is none other than Igris, the Shadow Knight. From his first appearance, Igris left an indelible mark through his absolute loyalty and the dignified combat style of a legendary knight.

• Role: The silent, royal guardian of Sung Jinwoo.

• Key Features: A regal aura combined with razor-sharp swordplay.

• Highlight: His calm presence and honor-bound actions often excite fans more than the protagonist’s own level-up moments.

The success of these characters highlights a shift in how audiences consume anime; we no longer just follow the hero, we fall in love with the world they inhabit. Whether it is through a logical mindset or a divine dragon sword, these most beloved anime supporting characters have redefined what it means to be a sidekick. They are the shadows that shine brighter than the sun, proving that true charisma knows no rank.