Anyone who watches anime will tell you that when it comes to protagonists, Shonen has some of the very best. The driving force behind the shows is their struggles and triumphs that bring fans back for more. Whether they are natural-born heroes or simply possess an otherworldly determination, both their supporting cast and their fans can’t help but cheer them on. In a genre known for their star leads, with a wide variety of mantras and origin stories, what brings them from a standard of their genre to the best of the best?
Below is a list of the very best protagonists of the Shonen anime, as well as the reasons they were selected for this list. These are characters that have heartfelt backstories, true determination, and a heroic spirit that never dies. They lead their companions on a journey of self-discovery, face off against the worst evil that their world has to offer, and come out the other side as stronger, more mature versions of themselves. They show that no matter your origin or how much skill you possess, there is always room to keep improving and growing. They inspire and entertain their audiences in ways that bring in fans worldwide, even long after their stories have come to a close.
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8 Izuku Midoriya - My Hero Academia
Viz Media
With the My Hero Academia live-action movie currently in the making, fans are excited to see this hero make his debut in the living flesh. Born an ordinary boy with dreams of heroism and bravery, he struggles from day one in a world where he is bullied and told his dreams are beyond his reach. Even after being gifted his power, he still has to struggle and train, more than any of his peers, as he learns to harness and control the immense power inside.
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7 Gintoki Sakata - Gintama
TXN (TV Tokyo)
Fans of Gintama know that this character has been through a lot, and has quite a history of trauma. However, his parody-like manners and anti-hero antics bring a source of humor to the dark tale. He is a powerful; even sadistic character, but he is self-aware, often going out of his way to avoid drawing his sword if it can be helped. In situations where that isn’t possible, he quickly shows why he is a big bad that is better left to his more peaceful endeavors.
6 Gon Freecs - Hunter X Hunter
FNS (Fuji TV)
This kid is perhaps one of the best representations of never letting go of your joy and passion. Even though he is one of the youngest protagonists on this list, he is by no means less of a powerhouse. He works hard and trains harder, all while keeping a mostly positive attitude and helping his friends as he searches for his absent father. He faces off against some truly twisted foes, and he goes through several dark moments, but he always comes back a stronger, more mature person on the other side.
5 Ichigo Kurosaki - Bleach
An intensely complicated character that seems to become even more so as each arc is revealed, Ichigo from Bleach truly lives an interesting life. Starting as a simple, kind-hearted teenager with a rough exterior, who can see ghosts, he soon plummets headfirst into the supernatural, uncovering his secret heritage and powers along the way. He is intelligent, caring, and loyal to his family and friends. He has to work hard to succeed, and he isn’t afraid to sacrifice himself if it will save someone else.
4 Edward Elric - Fullmetal Alchemist
JNN (MBS, TBS)
The Fullmetal Alchemist movie came to Netflix with mixed reviews for its live-action adaptation. Regardless, few protagonists have been able to compare to the complex characterization of Edward Elric. From his traumatic backstory to his tenacity and intelligence, this boy-genius could have easily been another Mary Sue protagonist. However, he not only gives fans incredible fight scenes and humorous outbursts; he genuinely cares about those around him and works hard to improve himself throughout the story. He may not be tall, but his bravery and selflessness put him high on this list.
3 Naruto Uzumaki - Naruto
The Naruto live-action movie is moving forward, and fans are excited to finally see one of the world’s most famous ninjas in the flesh. Underestimated and rejected his entire life, he still works hard to overcome all obstacles that stand in his way and to protect his friends and village. From the village pariah to the most beloved and respected figurehead, Naruto never stops working towards his goals and protecting others, even those that treated him harshly, encompassing all that makes a great leader.
2 Monkey D Luffy - One Piece
Fuji TV
When it comes to famous Shonen protagonists, One-Piece’s Luffy is usually one of the first on everyone’s list. He is strong, yet compassionate, and he works hard for his goals while also taking the time to help his crew and friends achieve theirs. He has a sunny disposition and charming personality, which make even his enemies cheer him on. He is truly a spectacular protagonist, and his mischievous grin always means that there are fun times ahead, just as soon as he deals with the arc’s big bad.
1 Yusuke Urameshi - Yu Yu Hakusho
Yusuke makes the top of this list for many reasons, namely for carrying the show to success and popularity long after it ended. He checks off every box for a Shonen protagonist: influential leadership, amazing skills, hard-working and determined, and always putting others first. Not only that, but he has a backstory that has never been recreated, getting killed in the very first episode and having to earn back his life. He makes friends with his enemies, and he never forgets that power is never more important than being a good person and friend.
