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10 Most Loved Anime Villains, Ranked

Writer: Pavas GagnejaPavas Gagneja

Updated: Jun 19, 2023


10 most loved villains of anime

Anime has given us some of the most iconic villains in pop culture history. From power-hungry despots to enigmatic masterminds, these characters have captivated audiences with their charisma, their cunning, and their sheer force of will. Yet, not all anime villains are created equal. Some are hated and reviled by fans, while others are revered and even loved for their complexity, their charm, and their unique perspective on the world.


We will take a look at ten anime villains that are most loved by the fans. These villains have become fan favorites due to their intriguing and multifaceted personalities, as well as their memorable appearances and actions. Whether they are seeking to conquer the world or destroy it, these villains have captured the hearts of viewers and become an integral part of the anime landscape.



10/10 Griffith - Berserk

Griffith Berserk

As the charismatic leader of the mercenary group known as the Band of the Hawk, he possesses a natural charisma and intellect that draws people to him. Despite his villainous actions, Griffith is well-liked by fans due to his complex personality and multifaceted character.


Throughout the series, Griffith proves himself to be a master manipulator, capable of using his natural charm and wit to convince others to follow him. He is ruthless in his pursuit of power, willing to betray anyone who stands in his way. Despite his cruelty, Griffith's charm and intelligence make him an unforgettable character.


9/10 Askeladd - Vinland Saga

Askeladd Vinland Saga

Askeladd is the main antagonist of the historical anime series Vinland Saga. He is the leader of a group of Vikings and is known for his cunning and manipulative behavior. Askeladd is a charismatic character who easily charms and manipulates those around him, making him a captivating presence on-screen.


Despite his villainous nature, Askeladd is a fan favorite due to his unique personality. He is a complex character who is neither completely good nor completely evil. Askeladd's manipulative behavior is a core part of his character, and he often uses his charm and intelligence to complete his shenanigans.


8/10 Dio Brando - Jojo's Bizzare Adventure

Most loved anime villains of all time

Dio Brando is one of the most iconic villains in anime. Dio is known for his ruthless and sadistic nature, as well as his flamboyant personality and over-the-top fashion sense. He is a megalomaniacal character who seeks nothing less than world domination, and he will stop at nothing to achieve his goals.


Despite his villainous actions, Dio is a beloved character among fans. His fascinating personality and larger-than-life persona have made him one of the most memorable villains in anime history. Dio's flamboyant and dramatic behavior, combined with his insatiable thirst for power, make him a captivating presence on-screen.


7/10 Sosuke Aizen - Bleach

Sosuke Aizen Bleach fan favorite anime villains

He is a former captain of the Soul Society's 5th Division and is known for his calm and collected demeanor. Aizen has mastered the art of manipulation, and he is a skilled fighter, capable of taking on multiple opponents at once. He orchestrates a complex plan to overthrow the Soul Society and become its ruler, betraying his comrades in the process.



Despite his betrayal, Aizen has managed to maintain a loyal fanbase. His calm and collected demeanor, combined with his intelligence and strategic thinking, make him a captivating character. Fans are drawn to his calculating personality, and his ability to manipulate those around him is both fascinating and terrifying.


6/10 Madara Uchiha - Naruto

Madara Uchiha Naruto

Madara is a fan-favorite character. His strength and skill as a ninja, combined with his intelligence and strategic thinking, make him a formidable opponent for the protagonists of the series. Fans are drawn to his ruthless and uncompromising personality, and his epic battles with the main characters are some of the most memorable moments in the series.


Additionally, Madara's backstory and motivations are explored in-depth, adding depth and complexity to his character. Despite being a villain, Madara's strength and charisma have made him a beloved and enduring character in the world of anime.


5/10 Hisoka Morrow - Hunter X Hunter

Hisoka Morrow

He is a skilled fighter who uses a unique power system called Nen to enhance his combat abilities. Hisoka is known for his cunning and unpredictable behavior, and his motivations are often shrouded in mystery. He is also known for his flamboyant appearance, often wearing makeup and dressing in colorful outfits.


Fans are drawn to his enigmatic persona and his unique fighting style, which incorporates Nen abilities like Bungee Gum and Texture Surprise. Additionally, Hisoka's rivalry with the main character, Gon, is one of the most fascinating and well-developed relationships in the series. Despite being a villain, Hisoka's personality and abilities have made him a beloved and enduring character in the world of anime.


4/10 Johan Leibert - Monster

Johan Leibert most lovable villains

What makes Johan Liebert such a fascinating character is his ability to manipulate those around him to do his bidding. He is a master of psychological manipulation, able to read people's deepest fears and desires and use them against them. Johan's calm and collected demeanor belie his true nature, and his ability to control those around him is both fascinating and terrifying.


Additionally, Johan's backstory is explored in-depth, revealing the traumatic events that shaped him into the ruthless villain he is today. Despite his heinous actions, Johan's manipulation skills and complex personality have made him an unforgettable villain.


3/10 Vegeta - Dragon Ball Series

Well liked villains of anime

What makes Vegeta a fan-favorite villain-turned-hero is his complex and dynamic character arc. He starts off as a ruthless and evil warrior, but over time, he develops a sense of honor and respect for his enemies. Vegeta's rivalry with Goku is one of the most iconic in the series, and his transformation from a villain to a hero is a major turning point in the story.



Additionally, Vegeta's unique fighting style, which incorporates energy blasts and aerial maneuvers, has got him all the attention he deserves. Despite his prideful and sometimes abrasive personality, Vegeta's growth and development as a character have made him a beloved and enduring figure.


2/10 Eren Yeager - Attack On Titan

Eren Yeager

Eren Jeager is the main character in the anime and manga series Attack on Titan. He starts off as a heroic and determined soldier fighting to protect humanity from the Titans, but over time, his character undergoes a dramatic shift. As the series progresses, Eren becomes increasingly disillusioned with the world around him, and his desire for revenge against his enemies becomes all-consuming.


What makes Eren's transformation from a hero to a villain so intriguing is his desire to protect his loved ones and his need for revenge. His motivations are often ambiguous and unclear. Eren's willingness to go to extreme lengths to achieve his goals, even if it means sacrificing innocent lives, has made him a controversial and divisive character among fans.


1/10 Light Yagami - Death Note

Light Yagami Death Note

What makes Light Yagami such a fascinating and memorable character is his descent into darkness. Light's motivations are complex and multifaceted, and his willingness to sacrifice anyone who stands in his way, including his own family and friends, has made him one of the most controversial and divisive characters in the world of anime.


Additionally, Light's cat-and-mouse game with L is one of the most intense and gripping rivalries in the series. Despite his controversial actions, Light's intelligence, charisma, and cunning have made him one of the most memorable and enduring characters in the anime universe.


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