In anime, the strange, the bizarre, and the gloriously unexpected are simply the norm of everyday life. Some of the most memorable characters aren’t necessarily the toughest, brightest, or even the protagonists — they’re the ones who refuse to fit the mold. Whether they’re an unassuming hero, an unconvincing villain who challenges us to redefine what “bad” is, or a supporting character who steals every scene without us even realizing it, these unconventional anime characters have earned themselves a special spot in our hearts as well as in pop culture. Here’s a list in countdown form of some of the most iconic, most unexpected personalities anime has ever created.
10. Fatgum (My Hero Academia)
In a universe that’s just filled with tattered-up superheroes and flashy tics, Fatgum’s a standout — and it’s not solely due to his physique. His power, Fat Absorption, makes his body a force field, taking damage on behalf of others. He’s not your typical hero, but for just this reason, people adore him. Fatgum shows you don’t need to conform to make an impact.
9. Pig God (One Punch Man)
He’s silent, humble. And downright frightening. Pig God doesn’t appear intimidating at first sight, but he’s a force to be reckoned with as he gobbles up monsters like they’re going out of style. His unconventional method of heroism (and diet) makes him one of the oddest — but highly effective — S-Class heroes in One Punch Man. He’s a testament to the fact that power comes in all manner, even the unlikeliest.
8. Choji Akimichi (Naruto)
Choji’s always been the guy people underestimate. But throughout Naruto, he shows again and again that his heart, loyalty, and strength run deep. His signature Expansion Jutsu might seem comedic at first, but behind it lies real courage. Choji’s evolution from insecure teen to confident shinobi is one of the most rewarding arcs in the series — and a favorite among fans who love an underdog.
7. Garou (One Punch Man)
Garou is not your typical bad guy. He doesn’t care about ruling or destruction — he wants to bring to light the shortcomings of the hero system. What makes him so interesting is his own moral code and aversion to killing, even when fighting as a beast. Garou exists on the thin line between villain and anti-hero, and that fuzzy moral gray area is what makes him special in the chaotic One Punch Man universe.
6. Stain (My Hero Academia)
Stain doesn’t perceive himself as evil — he thinks he’s the only one holding phony heroes accountable. His is an inflexible and violent belief system, but also in some way predictable. That’s the thing that makes him such an interesting villain. He compels both the characters and the viewers to ask tough questions regarding what it means to be a “true” hero.
5. Reiner Braun (Attack on Titan)
Few characters are so filled with inner struggle as Reiner. He is an ally turned into one of the most heartbreaking characters in Attack on Titan. His life as the Armored Titan is torn apart by guilt, duty, and the horrors of war. Reiner doesn’t neatly fall into hero or villain — and that’s precisely why his tale strikes so forcefully.
4. Askeladd (Vinland Saga)
Askeladd is the sort of character who will always leave you wondering. One minute he’s a hard-nosed mercenary, the next he’s showing us a disturbingly honourable motivation. He’s intelligent, cunning, and full of contradictions — and it’s that which makes him so memorable. His tale is a rollercoaster ride of duty, treachery, and forgiveness which leaves you questioning long after the credits have finished.
3. Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)
Itachi went from one of the most hated characters in Naruto to one of the most beloved — and it’s all thanks to the slow reveal of his true motives. He sacrificed everything for peace, choosing to be a villain in the eyes of the world to protect his younger brother. Itachi’s quiet tragedy and layered morality have made him a permanent fixture in anime legend.
2. Agumon (Digimon)
He might be small, but Agumon’s legacy is massive. As Tai’s loyal partner, he’s been a part of the Digimon franchise since the beginning — and he’s evolved (literally and figuratively) with every generation. Agumon’s charm, bravery, and connection with fans have helped him remain a core part of the series for decades. He’s more than just a mascot — he’s a symbol of the franchise’s heart.
1. Son Goku (Dragon Ball)
Goku is likely the first character to spring to mind when you hear “anime heroes.” His limitless energy, desire for a good battle (and just a general hunger), and unshakeable optimism have cemented his status as an icon. He’s not typical; he’s not necessarily always smart, but he’s always authentic. Goku’s influence on anime cannot be doubted — he’s raised the bar for what it is to be a shonen hero.
These characters subvert expectations, redefine roles, and challenge everything we think we know about sidekicks, villains, and heroes. They’re strange, multifaceted, and sometimes disappointingly relatable — and that’s what makes them so unforgettable in the world of anime.