Intense storylines, intricate characters, and unexpected plot twists; that is the world of anime. The death of an important character can be one of the most shocking twists, and the death of the protagonist can be the most horrifying one. While it’s rare for the hero of the story to meet their end, it’s not unheard of. In fact, there are several anime series where the main character’s death is a central part of the story.
RELATED:Saddest Deaths In Anime, Ranked
Whether it’s a sacrifice to save others, a tragic accident, or a long-awaited moment that brings closure to the story, the death of the main character can leave a lasting impact on viewers. From classics to newer titles, anime has explored the theme of mortality in various ways.
SPOILERS!!!! This article contains spoilers on major deaths in anime series!
10Akame Ga Kill
Akame Ga Kill is a dark fantasy with hints ofmecha animeabout a group of rebels who fight against the corrupt government in a fictional world. The male protagonist, Tatsumi, sets off on an adventure to the capital in order to earn money for his impoverished village.
After getting swindled of his money, he is taken in by a wealthy girl named Aria. Their peaceful days together don’t last long, as Tatsumi gets involved in the rebellion. While he fights alongside his comrades, he ends up sacrificing himself to stop a mass destruction initiated by the Emperor.
9Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack
Amuro Ray wasan underrated side characterin Mobile Suit Gundam who became the main protagonist of his own series, sadly leading to his death. The movies focus on his rivalry with Char, which reaches a boiling point, as neither wants to see eye-to-eye on their differing philosophies.
Char believes that Earth must be destroyed by an asteroid in order to create a new world, while Amuro fights to preserve it. Despite their attempts to convince each other of their respective viewpoints, the two engage in a final battle that results in Amuno’s victory. Instead of leaving his enemy to die alone, Amuro stays with him and sacrifices his own life to prevent the Axis asteroid from colliding with Earth.
8Devilman Crybaby
Devilman Crybaby focuses on the story of Akira Fudo, a high school student who becomes a devil man after merging with a demon named Amon. When he learns about his ex-friend’s Satan’s plan to wipe out humanity, he refuses to join in and instead gathers other Devilmen to fight.
RELATED:Best Anime Heroes Who Turned Evil
Despite the valiant efforts of Akira and his allies, they are all ultimately defeated. As humanity, the demons, and the Devilmen are all obliterated, and the Earth is left as a devastated ruin, Satan reminisces with Akira about their past together. However, Satan soon realizes that his friend has already died. The series ends with Satan’s laughter echoing throughout the destroyed world.
7Chrono Crusade
Chrono Crusade is a supernatural anime where the heroine named Rosette Christopher, battles demons while searching for her younger brother, who was taken by them.The story is full of action, adventure, and heart-wrenching moments.
Rosette signs a contract with a hornless demon named Chrono, but whenever she uses his powers, her life is shortened. In the end, she fails to save her brother and dies with Chrono.
6Banana Fish
The death of Ash Lynx in Banana Fish is a tragic and heartbreaking moment that leaves a lasting impact. After all the trials and tribulations he has endured, Ash finally achieves his goal of ending the Banana Fish conspiracy and securing his freedom. He is on his way to reunite with his dear friend Eiji and start a new life.
However, this moment of hope is abruptly cut short when Ash is fatally stabbed by a gang member. The irony is not lost, as Ash had survived numerous life-threatening situations throughout the series only to meet his end in a seemingly ordinary street fight.
5Death Note
Death Note’s protagonist, Light, is one of the smartest heroes-turned-villains in anime. After discovering a supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it, he sets out to create a perfect world by using its powers. As the story progresses, Light’s obsession with becoming a god-like figure and creating a utopia leads him down a dark and dangerous path.
RELATED:Best Anime Villains Of All Time
In the series finale, Light’s past misdeeds catch up with him, and he faces his ultimate downfall. His attempts to outsmart L’s allies ultimately fail, and he meets his demise when his reign of terror comes to an end.
4Code Geass
Code Geass’sgreat opening song, as well as an engaging story, stays with you even after the ending. The series follows the story of Lelouch vi Britannia, a young man who is a former prince of the Holy Britannian Empire. He gains the power of Geass and uses it to overthrow his father and destroy the oppressive Britannian regime.
The series culminates in a controversial finale that sees Lelouch making a bold decision that changes the course of history. Despite being a fan favorite, the ending is open to interpretation and has been widely debated among fans. If Lelouch really died at the end, it would bring the perfect closure to his story.
3Grave Of The Fireflies
Grave of the Fireflies is one ofthe best Ghibli movies, but also one of the most emotional and tragic ones. It tells the story of siblings Seita and Setsuko, who struggle to survive in Japan during the final months of World War II. After their mother is killed in an air raid, the siblings are forced to fend for themselves in a war-torn country where food and shelter are scarce.
Despite Seita’s best efforts to provide for his little sister, they both succumb to starvation and illness, leading to their tragic deaths. The film depicts the harsh realities of war and its toll on innocent lives, as well as the consequences of pride and stubbornness.
2Cowboy Bepop
The protagonist ofCowboy Bebop, Spike Spiegel, dies at the end of the series in a climactic final battle. Throughout the series, Spike is a bounty hunter and a former member of a criminal organization. He is haunted by his past and seeks redemption through his actions, which often put him in danger.
RELATED:Best Cyberpunk Anime, Ranked
In the final episodes, Spike sets out to confront his former partner, Vicious, who has taken over the criminal organization they both used to belong to. Spike’s past catches up with him as he faces off against Vicious and his men. Despite being badly injured, he emerges victorious in the final battle but is mortally wounded. As he walks away from the fight scene, climbing downstairs, he aims with his fingers at the audience letting out one final Bam and collapses.
1Attack On Titan
Attack On Titanoffered plenty ofsad and heart-wrenching deaths, but none is as heartbreaking as the death of the main protagonist. Eren’s death had already been set in the manga, with Mikasa being the one to end his life. Eren decided the only way to save Eldians from the rest of the world would be to destroy 80% of it, as well as sacrifice himself.
The only thing Eren really wanted, in the end, was freedom. Whether his friends will manage the new world properly and be able to survive is now up to them.
