When it comes to anime, the spotlight is usually reserved for the main character. They are the ones who drive the story forward and are often the focus of attention. However, there are some anime side characters who manage to steal the show with their unique personalities, fascinating backstories, and impressive abilities. In fact, some of these characters are so beloved that they have gained a fan following that far surpasses that of the main character.

They might appear briefly or sporadically throughout the anime, but they leave a lasting impression that can overshadow even the main character. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at ten anime side characters who have become more popular than the main character. From powerful warriors to brilliant strategists, these characters have captured the hearts and minds of fans around the world.

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10/10 Osamu Dazai - Bungo Stray Dogs

Osamu Dazai, a crucial character in the show, is a prime example of a side character who steals the spotlight with his looks. From his stylish black coat to his perfectly coiffed hair, Dazai exudes an air of elegance and sophistication that is hard to ignore. He is often seen smoking a cigarette with a nonchalant expression on his face, further adding to his alluring charm.

But Dazai's is not just about looks. He is a skilled detective and member of the Armed Detective Agency, with a sharp mind and an even sharper ability to manipulate others. His character is complex and intriguing, making him one of the most popular characters in the series. Fans can't get enough of Dazai's suave demeanor and captivating personality, and it's not hard to see why he has become more popular than even the main character.

9/10 Shoto Todoroki - My Heron Academia

It's no wonder that Todoroki has become more popular than even the main character of the series. With his striking two-toned hair and icy demeanor, Todoroki is undoubtedly one of the most visually stunning characters in the series. But his good looks are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what makes him so captivating.

As the son of a famous hero, Todoroki has a complex backstory that adds depth to his character. His ability to manipulate both fire and ice makes him a formidable opponent, and his intense focus and determination make him a force to be reckoned with. Todoroki's character development throughout the series is also a major draw for fans, as he learns to overcome his traumatic past and forge his own path as a hero.

8/10 Whitebeard - One Piece

As a side character, Whitebeard manages to steal the spotlight with his immense strength and charismatic personality. His towering stature and massive build, combined with his iconic facial hair and glowing eyes, make him an unforgettable figure in the series.

But Whitebeard's power and appearance are not the only things that make him so captivating. He is also known for his strong sense of loyalty and his willingness to protect his crew and friends at all costs. Despite his fearsome reputation as a pirate, Whitebeard is shown to have a softer side, especially when it comes to his sons - the members of his crew. His character is complex and multi-dimensional, making him a fan favorite and one of the most beloved characters in the series.

7/10 Hisoka - Hunter X Hunter

Hisoka's fighting style is both brutal and graceful, and his ability to manipulate his aura gives him an edge in battle. His unpredictable nature and lack of morals make him a wild card, and fans never know what he will do next. But it's not just his fighting abilities that make him so captivating - it's also his mysterious past and motivations. Hisoka's backstory is slowly revealed throughout the series, and fans are always eager to learn more about the enigmatic character.

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With his brutal style and magician-like aura, Hisoka Morrow is a side character who outshines the main character. His complex personality, incredible abilities, and mysterious past make him a fan favorite and one of the most interesting characters in the Hunter x Hunter universe.

6/10 Kakashi Hatake - Naruto

Kakashi is known for his intelligence, skill, and quiet intensity. He is one of the most skilled ninjas in the series, with a range of powerful abilities at his disposal. His enigmatic personality and mysterious past only add to his intrigue, and his dry sense of humor and love of reading make him a relatable character keeping aside his many other talents.

With his iconic mask covering the lower half of his face and his piercing eye, Kakashi's appearance alone is enough to capture the attention of fans. It's no wonder that fans have fallen in love with Kakashi and continue to sing his praises, even years after the series has ended.

5/10 Vegeta - Dragon Ball

Vegeta, the Saiyan prince from the Dragon Ball Series, is a side character who's so popular he could give Goku a run for his money. With bulging biceps and spiky hair that defies gravity, he's a sight to behold. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good rivalry? Vegeta's intense beef with Goku is the stuff of legends and makes for some of the most epic battles in anime history.

But it's not just Vegeta's muscles that make him a fan favorite. He's got a personality as complex as his workout routine. From villain to anti-hero, Vegeta's character development is almost as impressive as his power level. He's got issues with his past, his family, and his Saiyan pride, but he's also got a soft spot for his family and friends. And let's not forget his sharp wit and snarky comebacks - he's got more burns than a campfire.

4/10 Majiro Sano - Tokyo Revengers

Being Tokyo Manji Gang's First Generation Leader, Mikey commands respect from his followers and strikes fear into his enemies with his formidable strength. But despite his power, Mikey remains down-to-earth and approachable, making him a beloved character in the series.

Mikey's humility is a major factor in his popularity. Despite being a feared gang leader, he's always willing to listen to his friends and teammates and values their opinions. He's not afraid to admit his mistakes and seeks to learn from them, showing a level of self-awareness and growth that's rare in a character of his stature. His kindness and compassion towards others make him a relatable character, and fans can't help but root for him in his battles.

3/10 Levi Ackerman - Attack on Titan

Standing at a mere 5'3", Levi may be short, but he more than makes up for it with his chiseled physique, sharp features, and piercing gaze. His aloof personality and detached demeanor only add to his allure, making him a favorite among fans of the series.

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His skills as a soldier and leader are second to none, and his uncompromising attitude toward his enemies has earned him a reputation as a juggernaut. But despite his tough exterior, Levi has a softer side that he reveals only to those closest to him, making him a complex and intriguing character.

2/10 Gojo Satoru - Jujutsu Kaisen

Gojo is a character that fans can't help but drool over. But it's not just his looks that make him popular - his sharp wit and irreverent humor make him a fan favorite as well. Thanks to his good looks and cracking sense of humor, Gojo is a side character who's become more popular than Yuji Itadori.

Gojo's quick wit and sarcastic comebacks are a major part of his appeal. He's not afraid to speak his mind, even if it means ruffling a few feathers, and his devilish grin only adds to his charm. He's a character that fans can't help but root for, even if he's not always on the side of the angels.

1/10 L - Death Note

Let's admit it; there was no one else we were expecting to make it to the top of the list rather than L. As a world-renowned detective tasked with tracking down the elusive Kira, L's eccentricity and genius-level intellect set him apart from other characters in the series.

His unconventional approach to detective work and his eccentric habits make him an intriguing and unforgettable character, and his interactions with the main character, Light Yagami, are some of the most memorable moments in the series. Despite not being the main character, L's presence looms large throughout the story, cementing his place as one of the most popular side characters in anime history.

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