Let’s face it—there are times in anime where the main character simply doesn’t measure up. Either because they’re too good, too formulaic, or simply not as fascinating as they need to be, supporting characters pop up and take the spotlight whole hog. These sidekicks introduce dynamism, history, charm, or plain brute strength that puts the lead character to shame. Sometimes, one single iconic entrance, a mind-blowing battle, or an emotionally shattering character arc is all it takes, and the side character becomes the reason why viewers continue to watch. These are ten unforgettable anime characters who didn’t merely act as supporting cast, they took over.
10. Escanor (Seven Deadly Sins)
Meliodas may be the leader of the group, but Escanor? He’s the sun around which everyone else revolves—both literally and metaphorically. At night, he’s this quiet-spoken, near-invisible guy. But when morning comes, he becomes an arrogant behemoth who exudes confidence and unbridled destruction. His presence is so imposing that even his foes tread carefully before attacking. That he managed to outclass Meliodas himself says a lot. Escanor doesn’t merely battle—he overwhelms, and every moment he’s on screen is akin to a climax.
9. Chuuya Nakahara (Bungou Stray Dogs)
Atsushi can have the protagonist moniker, but when Chuuya appears onscreen, he takes over. Something is compelling about his being there—some of it is those gravitation-based abilities, yes, but also that icy fury seething beneath the surface. He moves like a wrecking ball in a three-piece, and when he deploys “Corruption,” it’s like witnessing a natural disaster in progress. Paired with his complex dynamic with Dazai, Chuuya becomes impossible to ignore-and frankly, more compelling than the main act.
8. Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan)
Eren’s story may drive the plot, but Mikasa is the backbone. Her stoic nature hides a deep well of loyalty, pain, and strength. She doesn’t waste words-she just moves, fights, protects. Seeing her soar through the air with ODM equipment, cutting down Titans with precision, is usually more thrilling than anything done by Eren. And let’s be honest—how many times did she rescue his life before he could even stand? She’s not just a sidekick—she’s the true defender of human beings.
7. Vegeta (Dragon Ball Z)
The victories go to Goku, but the arc belongs to Vegeta. He’s been a bad guy, a foe, a reluctant friend, and ultimately—a dad who adores his family for his own, rough manner. That emotional depth, that pride he wears like armor, makes his transformation land harder. He isn’t the strongest because he’s fated to be—strongest because he earns it. And every time he fails, he stands up again. That’s why supporters rally behind him—not because he’s flawless, but because he’s human amidst all that Saiyan pride.
6. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter)
Yes, Gon’s the hero, but Killua? He’s the pulse. From his background as an assassin family member to his inner struggles of loyalty, fear, and freedom, Killua’s trajectory is filled with tension and development. His lightning powers are neat, but what’s really striking is how much he loves Gon, friendship, and getting out of the violent cycle he was born into. While Gon is barreling forward instinctively, Killua is reflecting, adjusting, and safeguarding. That subtle quickness makes him the hero.
5. Revy (Black Lagoon)
Rock may be the one questioning and trying to maintain his morality, but Revy is the one who gets things done—and does so with a hair-raising air of terror. She’s tough, broken, and brutally real in a world where getting by means never flinching. Whether she’s flipping through gunfire like a human gun or shredding somebody to pieces with words, Revy commands attention and never looks back. You don’t watch Black Lagoon for the storyline—you watch it for her.
4. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)
Another Ackerman, another scene-stealer. Levi doesn’t have to say a word—his movements speak louder than any monologue ever could. When he shows up on the battlefield, it’s like witnessing choreography to violence. Unfazed by pressure, merciless when needed, and always one step ahead, Levi well-deserved his “Humanity’s Strongest Soldier” title tenfold. Eren may possess the Titan powers, but Levi possesses the audience.
3. Gojo Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen)
When Gojo lowers that blindfold and completely unleashes his power, game over—for his foes and for everyone else who wants to upstage him. He tiptoes the line between slapstick humor and godly fighter so effortlessly, it’s not even fair. He is strong enough to redefine the entire architecture of his world, but it is his charm and confidence that make him so indelible. Each time he’s on screen, you’re convinced you’re seeing the final boss before the final boss even appears.
2. L Lawliet (Death Note)
Light Yagami is intelligent, but L is something else. The way he sits, the way he talks, the way he looks at a screen and reads through lies—it’s all iconic. As soon as he starts questioning Kira, he turns the story around. Their intellectual duel becomes the pulse of the series, and even though Light is technically the protagonist, L’s presence is what maintains the tension at a razor’s edge. His downfall. It is one of the most heartbreaking pieces of anime, essentially because his fall represents what it represents. But also because it marks an end to an era in the series.
1. Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)
Deku may be the prospective beacon of peace, but Todoroki? He’s the character whose tale punches you in the stomach. Half cold, half hot—literally and emotionally—Todoroki is all about inner struggle. His abilities are flashy, but he struggles to balance his family tragedy, his anger, and his desire to create his path, which makes him so appealing. From his confrontation with Midoriya in the tournament arc to his more subdued moments of introspection, Todoroki adds depth and gravity that tends to overshadow the main character’s arc.
These side characters did not simply prop up the story—they reimagined it. They strode into frame, added depth, vigor, and indelible moments, and stole the story for themselves without ever having to claim the spotlight thrust their way. So next time you’re far down a series, keep your focus off-center—you might just spot the actual MVP standing just out of focus, quietly pilfering the entire damn show.