The world of anime is vast and diverse, but it’s hard to ignore the lack of racial diversity, especially black anime characters within it. For years, anime consisted of characters with light skin tones, and while characters from different racial backgrounds are still uncommon, some franchises are taking steps toward greater inclusivity.
For example, mangaka like Eiichiro Oda (One Piece), Tite Kubo (Bleach) and Masashi Kishimoto (Naruto) were ahead of their time, incorporating Black characters in their work and setting the stage for the anime adaptation to adopt more black anime characters.
With the leadership of the Big Three, anime has started to evolve, and the trend toward more respectful portrayals of black anime characters is on the rise with depth, strength, and unique personalities. Today, we celebrate some of the most iconic black anime characters, highlighting their unique traits and their impact on their respective stories.
Best 10 Black Anime Characters Ever
1) Yoruichi Shihouin (Bleach)
Yoruichi Shihouin, one of the most beloved characters in Bleach, is a former captain of the Gotei 13 and leader of the Stealth Force. What makes Yoruichi iconic is not just her strength and combat skills but her laid-back, humble demeanour despite her noble status. She shocked fans when she first revealed her human form, as she often spends time disguised as a black cat.
Yoruichi, also known as the “Flash Goddess,” is a master of Shunpo (Flash Steps), allowing her to defeat enemies with lightning-fast speed. Her crucial role in the Thousand-Year Blood War arc and her mentorship of characters like Ichigo, Orihime and Chad cements her status as a core member of the Bleach universe. She is one of the few female black anime characters who are consistently strong, witty, and admired by fans.
2) Killer Bee (Naruto)
In Naruto: Shippuden, Killer Bee stands out as the Jinchuriki of the Eight-Tails and one of the most powerful shinobi in the series. Known for his unique rapping style and swordsmanship, Killer Bee teaches Naruto how to control the Nine-Tails, which was crucial in the series’ progression in the Fourth Shinobi World War.
Killer Bee’s comedic personality often lightens the mood, but when he’s in battle, he’s a force others cannot trifle with. His unorthodox seven-sword style, where he uses his body in ways that resemble breakdancing, makes him unpredictable and dangerous. His nearly fatal battle with Sasuke is one of the most memorable encounters in the series.
3) Casca (Berserk)
Casca, from Berserk, is a crucial character in one of the darkest, most influential anime and manga ever. As a warrior in the Band of the Hawk and second-in-command to Griffith, Casca is both a capable leader and a tragic figure. Her bravery and loyalty to her comrades make her one of the strongest female characters in anime history, while her vulnerabilities add emotional depth to her story.
Casca’s relationship with Guts, the protagonist, was one of the main spotlights in Berserk. Their bond, which oscillates between love and tragedy, has captivated fans for decades. Despite enduring hardships, Casca remains one of the most iconic black anime characters for her strength, resilience, and emotional depth.
4) Afro (Afro Samurai)
Few black anime characters are as recognisable as Afro Samurai, the titular character of the anime Afro Samurai. Voiced by Samuel L. Jackson in the English version, Afro is a stoic, ruthless swordsman on a quest for revenge after witnessing his father’s murder. His journey pits him against countless enemies as he seeks to claim the Number One headband, symbolising the strongest warrior in the world.
With a blend of futuristic technology and feudal Japanese aesthetics, Afro Samurai became a cult classic. Afro’s quiet intensity and unmatched skill with the sword make him one of the most iconic black anime characters ever created.
5) Michiko Malandro (Michiko & Hatchin)
Michiko Malandro, the bold and brash protagonist of Michiko & Hatchin, is a resilient Black female lead defying stereotypes. Escaping from prison to reunite with her former lover and protect her adopted daughter, Michiko’s love for Hatchin becomes a central element of the series.
While Michiko can be loud and impulsive, she is fiercely loyal and protective. Her relationship with Hatchin is touching as the two grow closer on their journey. Michiko’s complexity as a character, combined with her striking design, has made her an unforgettable figure in anime.
6) Dutch (Black Lagoon)
Dutch, the leader of the Lagoon Company in Black Lagoon, is a pragmatic and level-headed former soldier turned mercenary. With a calm demeanour and imposing presence, Dutch manages the Lagoon Company’s dangerous operations with precision, avoiding unnecessary risks while ensuring the safety of his crew.
Though he avoids conflict when possible, Dutch is more than capable in a fight, offering strength and strategy. His cool-headed approach to chaos and the mentorship of his crewmates make him a crucial character in the gritty world of Black Lagoon.
7) Usopp (One Piece)
Usopp, the Straw Hat Pirates’ sniper in One Piece, has grown from a timid, self-doubting liar into a brave and reliable crew member. While not as physically powerful as some of his companions, Usopp’s intelligence, marksmanship, and heart have made him a fan favourite of many other black anime characters.
Usopp’s journey from cowardice to courage is one of the most relatable arcs in the series, and his moments of bravery, despite overwhelming fear, endear him to fans. As One Piece continues its epic story, Usopp remains a crucial crew member beloved for his humour, creativity, and resilience.
8) Canary (Hunter X Hunter)
Canary is a young apprentice butler for the notorious Zoldyck family in Hunter x Hunter. While her screen time is limited, she quickly became a fan favourite due to her loyalty to Killua and strong moral compass. Canary’s toughness and skill in combat are evident, but her willingness to help Gon and his friends display her compassion.
Though she’s tasked with guarding the Zoldyck estate, Canary’s deep care for Killua pushes her to defy orders, making her a powerful and emotional character despite her limited role in the series.
9) Muhammad Avdol (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)
Muhammad Avdol, a key ally in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders, is an Egyptian Stand user who fights alongside Jotaro Kujo to defeat the villain Dio. His Stand, Magician’s Red, controls fire and is one of the strongest in the series.
Avdol’s wisdom and sense of responsibility make him a valuable mentor and friend to the Joestar group. Though his personality is stoic, his occasional comedic interactions with other characters balance his character. His strategic mind and unwavering loyalty cement Avdol as one of the most iconic black anime characters in the JoJo franchise.
10) Agil (Sword Art Online)
Last on our black anime characters list is Agil, also known as Andrew Gilbert Mills. Agil plays a crucial supporting role in the SAO series, where he joins the 10,000 players trapped in the virtual reality MMORPG Sword Art Online and becomes a pivotal ally to the protagonist, Kirito.
In the game, Agil, as a merchant, initially seems focused on making a profit, but Kirito soon discovers that he uses his earnings to help struggling players level up and survive. Moreover, Agil also runs a café in the real world, which serves as a gathering point for characters in the series, where he often provides advice, shelter, and emotional support to his friend. This selflessness and desire to help others in a deadly environment make him beloved by his fellow players and fans of the series.
Closing Notes
Though black anime characters are still relatively rare, those on or off our list have made significant breakthroughs in the anime community. Through their strength, wisdom, humour, and loyalty, these characters have earned their place as iconic figures.
As the anime industry continues to grow and diversify, fans are hopeful that even more black anime characters will take centre stage, offering more representation and storytelling depth in the years to come.
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