In 2022, One Piece became the best-selling manga of all time. So it's no surprise that the lead character of such an influential title and its massively successful anime adaptation tops our list.
9
Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Drama
Wildly ambitious, wickedly smart, and wise beyond his years, the precocious Edward Elric entered the stage with a fresh take on the modern shonen anime hero.
8
Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)
Drama
the story of the titular young ninja desperate to gain the acceptance and support of his community has been a fan fave for years.
7
Johan (Monster)
Drama
Often called the greatest villain in anime history, Johan was a serial killer who would fit in well in any blockbuster thriller.
6
Goku (Dragon Ball)
Drama
Arguably the archetype of modern shonen anime lead characters, Goku was somewhat of an innovative creation back in his day.
5
Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)
Drama
Spike was an amalgamation of influences, and the result was a creation greater than the sum of its parts.
4
Vegeta (Dragon Ball Z)
Drama
Prince of the Saiyans, but forced to play second fiddle to Goku ever since his Google Glass told him that Goku's power level was Over 9,000!, Vegeta was often the true outlet for creator Akira Toriyama's creativity.
3
Sailor Moon (Usagi)
Drama
For many American kids, Sailor Moon was one of the first anime characters they met, and her impact has never lessened.
3
Shinji Ikari (Evangelion)
Drama
Shinji was different; he wasn't who we wanted to be. Instead, he provided an uncensored look at who we are.
2
Himura Kenshin (Rurouni Kenshin)
Drama
He was a killer who wouldn't kill anymore. After years of being a hired sword and killing countless foes, he makes a vow to never deal in death again.
1
L (Death Note)
Drama
L is an oddball, for sure, with unkempt hair, a disdain for shoes, and a penchant for crouching on chairs and eating junk food.