Dandadan has quickly emerged as one of the most popular anime titles of the fall 2024 season, captivating audiences with its unique premise and engaging characters. At the heart of this hit series is Momo Ayase, the co-protagonist whose multifaceted personality and development have earned her a place among the most well-crafted female leads in recent anime. With comparisons to characters like Frieren from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End and Maomao from The Apothecary Diaries, Momo stands out as a relatable, strong, and genuinely compelling character. Here are eight reasons why Momo Ayase is one of the best characters in Dandadan.
1. She Feels Relatable
Momo embodies the “girl-next-door” trope in a way that feels authentic and grounded. While anime often features beautiful female characters falling for shy, nerdy boys, Momo’s approach is refreshingly realistic. She’s not perfect—she’s brash, vulnerable, and real, making her a character viewers can easily connect with. Her friendship with Okarun, the series’ male lead, develops organically, with both characters’ personalities complementing each other in a believable way.
2. She Isn’t Afraid to Show Her Imperfections
Momo’s flaws make her more human, and she doesn’t shy away from acknowledging them. From her strained relationship with her grandmother to her moments of brashness towards Okarun, Momo’s ability to reflect on her actions and apologize when necessary shows a maturity that adds depth to her character. Her willingness to admit her mistakes makes her not only relatable but also likable.
3. A Fashion Icon in Her Own Right
In many anime, characters are often seen in the same outfits, especially in high school settings. However, Dandadan breaks from this norm with Momo, who is frequently seen in a variety of outfits that reflect her dynamic personality. Whether she’s in casual wear, school uniform, or something more suited to a specific scenario, Momo’s fashion choices add another layer to her character, showing her versatility and style.
4. Her Friendship with Okarun Feels Genuine
One of the most refreshing aspects of Momo’s character is her authentic relationship with Okarun. In a genre that often resorts to forced romantic tropes, their connection feels natural. Momo’s chemistry with Okarun is palpable, and the dialogue between them strikes a perfect balance between playful banter and meaningful moments. Their evolving friendship adds emotional depth to the series, offering a rare glimpse into a bond that’s based on mutual respect and understanding.
5. She Has Supportive Friends
Unlike the typical “mean girl” clique often seen in high school anime, Momo’s friends are supportive and chill. Though they don’t get as much screen time as the main characters, the gyaru girls in Momo’s circle are consistently portrayed as loyal and encouraging. Their interactions with Momo reflect a healthy, positive friendship, with moments like when they scold Momo for treating Okarun poorly showcasing their concern for her well-being and the people she cares about.
6. She Stands Up for Others
Momo is not one to sit idly by when others are being mistreated. Throughout Dandadan, she proves herself to be fiercely protective of her friends. One memorable example is when she defends Okarun from a girl who pretended to be kind but was actually using him. Momo’s swift action in ensuring the girl faces consequences not only highlights her strong sense of justice but also her loyalty to those she cares about.
7. She Accepts Both Herself and Okarun
A common pitfall in many anime relationships is one character changing to fit the mold of their partner. In Dandadan, however, Momo and Okarun remain true to themselves. Momo doesn’t alter her personality or behavior to fit into Okarun’s life, and vice versa. This mutual acceptance strengthens their connection, setting them apart from other anime couples who often suffer from one-sided character development.
8. She’s Strong—Psychically and Emotionally
Momo is a powerhouse, both in terms of physical strength and psychic abilities. Even before she gains her psychic powers, Momo is not afraid to confront any challenge head-on, whether it’s a physical altercation or an emotional confrontation. With her newfound abilities, she takes on formidable opponents, including the likes of Turbo Granny and the Flatwood monster. Her resilience and ability to withstand severe injuries further demonstrate her tenacity and strength.
Conclusion
Momo Ayase is a standout character in Dandadan, bringing a refreshing depth and complexity to the anime’s narrative. From her relatability and strength to her genuine friendships and undeniable charm, Momo is a female lead who resonates with audiences. Her evolution throughout the series reflects the traits of a well-rounded character, making her a welcome addition to the ranks of modern anime protagonists. With her unique combination of vulnerability, strength, and style, Momo Ayase proves that great characters come in many forms—and hers is truly unforgettable.
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