In the vast world of anime, certain characters have garnered a notorious reputation, evoking strong feelings of disdain among fans. While some of these individuals may be evil for understandable reasons, others display pure malice, using those around them as mere tools to achieve their own goals. This article explores ten of the most hateable anime characters, detailing their unforgivable actions and the reasons they have earned such animosity.
10. Sakura Haruno (Naruto)
Sakura Haruno initially emerged as one of the most disliked characters in Naruto. As a member of Team Seven, she struggled to keep pace with her exceptionally talented teammates, Naruto and Sasuke. While her development in Naruto: Shippuden allowed her to become a more competent fighter, her earlier portrayal as an incompetent anchor frustrated viewers. Her lack of significant contributions, especially in the beginning, led many to view her unfavorably.
9. Gendo Ikari (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
Gendo Ikari is often cited as one of the worst parental figures in anime. Following the death of his wife, Yui, he coldly distances himself from his son, Shinji, only calling him back when he needs him to pilot a dangerous machine. Gendo’s emotionally distant demeanor leaves Shinji feeling abandoned, and while the series hints at Gendo’s underlying love for his son, Shinji never experiences this affection firsthand.
8. Malty Melromarc (The Rising of the Shield Hero)
Malty Melromarc starts as a seemingly supportive ally to Naofumi in The Rising of the Shield Hero, but her true colors quickly emerge. She betrays Naofumi by stealing his belongings and falsely accusing him of assault, further isolating him in a world where he already struggles. Her lack of remorse for her actions positions her as one of the series’ most irredeemable characters.
7. Zenitsu Agatsuma (Demon Slayer)
Zenitsu Agatsuma elicits frustration from fans not for his inherent character flaws but for his unwillingness to harness his considerable potential. Although he possesses one of the strongest breathing techniques in Demon Slayer, Zenitsu often succumbs to fear, crying and hiding instead of fighting alongside his friends. His self-awareness and desire for change add depth, but many still find his cowardice annoying.
6. Danzo Shimura (Naruto Shippuden)
Danzo Shimura is a character who embodies selfishness and manipulation. As a shadow Hokage, he claims to act for the greater good of Konoha, but his ruthless methods and desire for personal power reveal a more sinister motive. He orchestrates the downfall of the Uchiha clan and kills their members for his gain, making him a figure of hatred until his ultimate defeat.
5. Ging Freecss (Hunter x Hunter)
Another detestable father figure, Ging Freecss abandons his son Gon at a young age, leaving him to navigate life without parental support. Despite Gon’s struggles, Ging fails to show up during critical moments, prioritizing his own pursuits. His neglectful nature solidifies him as one of the more loathsome characters in Hunter x Hunter.
4. Shou Tucker (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
Shou Tucker is a character that stands out for his heinous actions. In a desperate bid for recognition, he sacrifices his own wife to create a chimera capable of human speech. This disturbing act is only eclipsed by his later decision to use his daughter, Nina, and their dog, Alexander, in a similar experiment. Tucker’s lack of remorse and moral justification for his actions cement his status as one of the most detestable characters in anime history.
3. Minoru Mineta (My Hero Academia)
Minoru Mineta is often seen as a comedic relief character, but his overwhelming perversion detracts from his likability. His behavior frequently leads to uncomfortable situations for his peers, as he lacks a clear understanding of boundaries and consent. While his character is intended to provide comic relief, many fans find his antics distasteful.
2. Rachel (Tower of God)
Initially portrayed as a sweet character in Tower of God, Rachel’s true nature is far more sinister. Driven by jealousy and a desire for power, she betrays her closest friend, Baam, at a critical moment. Her willingness to sacrifice Baam for her ambitions reveals a deeply malicious character, making her one of the most hated figures in the series.
1. Yato (Noragami)
Yato may seem like a lovable character, but his actions throughout Noragami paint him in a much darker light. As a god of calamity, he is responsible for numerous deaths and misfortunes, often viewing the world with a sense of detachment. Despite his desire to change, the shadow of his past and his willingness to manipulate others for his gain make it hard for many fans to forgive him.
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