If you’re anything like me, you’re always hyped to see who’s stealing the spotlight in the anime world. Well, 2024 delivered some absolute legends, and I’m here to break down the most popular anime characters 2024 based on a killer survey by Joysound, Japan’s go-to karaoke provider. From shonen badasses to idol superstars, these characters are lighting up screens and hearts worldwide. Whether you’re screaming over epic fights or vibing to idol beats, this list has it all. So, grab some Pocky, kick back, and let’s dive into the top 10 characters of 2024, complete with their stories, roles, powers, and why we can’t get enough of them!
Why These Characters Rule
Anime characters aren’t just pixels, they’re our heroes, our heartbreakers, and sometimes our life coaches. They inspire cosplays, fan art, and endless X debates about who’s the GOAT. The Joysound survey, conducted from September 20 to October 6, 2024, with 2,920 fans, gives us a snapshot of who’s dominating the anime scene. This list isn’t just Japan’s vibe, it’s a global phenomenon, with characters resonating from Asia to the Americas. From action-packed shonen to rhythm game idols, these 10 characters show why anime’s so universal. Let’s meet the icons!
The Top 10 Most Popular Anime Characters 2024
|
Rank |
Character Name |
Anime Series |
Gender |
|
1 |
Satoru Gojo |
Jujutsu Kaisen |
Male |
|
2 |
Sakata Gintoki |
Gintama |
Male |
|
3 |
Katsuki Bakugo |
My Hero Academia |
Male |
|
4 |
Tsukasa Tenma |
Project SEKAI: Colorful Stage! |
Male |
|
5 |
Osamu Dazai |
Bungo Stray Dogs |
Male |
|
6 |
Tokiya Ichinose |
Uta no Prince-sama |
Male |
|
7 |
Kashuu Kiyomitsu |
Touken Ranbu ONLINE |
Male |
|
8 |
Kana Arima |
Oshi no Ko |
Female |
|
9 |
Rei Sakuma |
Ensemble Stars!! |
Male |
|
10 |
Samatoki Aohitsugi |
Hypnosis Mic |
Male |
1. Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Alright, let’s start with the king himself, Satoru Gojo from Jujutsu Kaisen. This guy’s the definition of cool, rocking white hair, shades, and a smirk that screams confidence. He’s a special-grade sorcerer and teacher at Tokyo Jujutsu High, mentoring Yuji Itadori and crew while shaking up the jujutsu world’s corrupt system. His past, marked by loss and betrayal, adds layers to his laid-back vibe.
Gojo’s Limitless technique bends space, creating untouchable barriers, and his Six Eyes give him insane perception. He’s basically a cheat code in human form, wiping out curses like Sukuna with ease. Fans adore his mix of strength, humor, and heart, his banter with students is pure gold, and his tragic backstory hits hard. His blindfold and sleek design make him a cosplay staple, and X posts can’t stop hyping his style. Compared to Kakashi Hatake from Naruto, Gojo’s got a similar mentor vibe but with a flashier, modern edge. Topping the Joysound survey, he’s the undisputed champ of 2024.
2. Sakata Gintoki (Gintama)
Next up, my personal fave, Sakata Gintoki from Gintama. This silver-haired samurai is the ultimate slacker, running Yorozuya in an alien-invaded Edo Japan, taking on odd jobs while munching snacks. But don’t let his lazy vibe fool you – he’s a Joui War veteran with a heart of gold. His wooden sword skills are unreal, taking down foes like Utsuro with sheer grit and wit.
Gintoki’s the soul of Gintama, balancing gut-busting comedy with emotional arcs like the Shogun Assassination. Fans love his relatable quirks – think chocolate parfaits and Jump obsession, and his loyalty to Shinpachi and Kagura. His white yukata is a cosplay classic, and X fans go wild for his fourth-wall-breaking humor. He’s like Luffy from One Piece with his carefree leadership, but Gintoki’s historical setting and sarcasm give him a unique edge. Landing at #2, he proves classics like him are most popular anime characters of all time.
3. Katsuki Bakugo (My Hero Academia)
Katsuki Bakugo, aka Kacchan, from My Hero Academia is the explosive rival we love to love. This U.A. High student dreams of surpassing All Might, and his Quirk, Explosion, lets him blast foes with nitroglycerin-like sweat. Starting as a bully to Deku, his redemption arc into a loyal hero is pure fire. His battles, like against All For One, show his tactical genius and raw power.
Fans are obsessed with his growth, fiery attitude, and iconic gauntlet design, making him a top pick for cosplay. X buzzes with his quotes like “I’ll win, no matter what!” Compared to Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan, Bakugo’s got similar intensity but focuses on self-improvement over rebellion. At #3, he’s a standout among male top 10 most popular anime characters, proving flawed heroes can steal the show.
4. Tsukasa Tenma (Project SEKAI: Colorful Stage! feat. Hatsune Miku)
Tsukasa Tenma from Project SEKAI is the sunshine of Wonderlands x Showtime, leading with boundless energy and a dream to be the world’s greatest star. Inspired by his sickly sister Saki, this high schooler pours his heart into performances with Hatsune Miku. His “powers” are his killer stage presence and vocal talent, shining in songs like “88☆彡.” Fans love his positivity and vulnerability, especially his bond with Saki, and his blonde hair and bright smile are cosplay gold.
He’s like Haruhi Suzumiya from The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya with his enthusiasm, but Tsukasa’s music focus sets him apart. Ranking #4, he shows the idol genre’s growing pull in 2024’s list of popular anime characters.
5. Osamu Dazai (Bungo Stray Dogs)
Osamu Dazai from Bungo Stray Dogs is the bandaged detective with a dark past and a knack for dark humor. Once a Port Mafia exec, he now mentors Atsushi Nakajima in the Armed Detective Agency, using his “No Longer Human” ability to nullify others’ powers. His strategic mind outsmarts foes like Fyodor, and his tragic backstory with Chuuya Nakahara adds depth.
Fans are hooked on his witty banter, complex personality, and bandaged aesthetic, making him a cosplay fave. X loves his bromance with Chuuya. Compared to L from Death Note, Dazai’s got similar smarts but a more playful, morally gray vibe. At #5, he’s a gem among cool popular anime characters.
6. Tokiya Ichinose (Uta no Prince-sama)
Tokiya Ichinose from Uta no Prince-sama is the cool-headed idol of ST☆RISH, with a voice that slays and a past that tugs at heartstrings. He performed as Hayato to support his family’s struggles, showing his selfless side. His perfectionism drives his music, with solos like “BELIEVE☆MY VOICE” stealing the show.
Fans adore his tsundere charm, cold yet caring, and his sleek design (dark blue hair, sharp eyes) is a cosplay hit. Compared to Rei Sakuma from Ensemble Stars!!, Tokiya’s vocal focus gives him a unique edge. Ranking #6, he proves idol anime’s staying power in the top 10 most popular anime characters in the world.
7. Kashuu Kiyomitsu (Touken Ranbu ONLINE)
Kashuu Kiyomitsu from Touken Ranbu ONLINE is a personified sword with elegance to spare. Forged in 1684 and once wielded by Okita Souji, he fights to protect history from the Retrograde Army. His graceful combat style and high attack power make him a game standout.
Fans love his refined look, long hair, traditional attire, and his bond with Yamatonokami Yasusada. His cosplay appeal is huge, and his historical roots draw in sword fans. Compared to Kenshin Himura from Rurouni Kenshin, Kashuu’s focus on grace sets him apart. At #7, he’s a niche but beloved pick.
8. Kana Arima (Oshi no Ko)
Kana Arima from Oshi no Ko is the only female in this top 10, and she’s a star. A former child actress known for crying on cue, she joins B-Komachi to reclaim her shine. Her journey through the cutthroat idol world is raw and relatable, with her acting and singing skills stealing scenes. Fans connect with her struggles and cheer her growth, especially her dynamic with Aqua Hoshino.
Her cute design, hat, expressive eyes, is perfect for cosplay. Compared to Ruby Hoshino from the same series, Kana’s child actress background gives her a unique edge. At #8, she’s a standout among top 10 most popular anime characters female.
9. Rei Sakuma (Ensemble Stars!!)
Rei Sakuma from Ensemble Stars!! is the vampire-like leader of UNDEAD, with a calm demeanor and a protective streak for his brother Ritsu. His enchanting voice and dark-themed performances captivate fans.
His sunlight sensitivity adds a supernatural flair, and his leadership shines in Yumenosaki Academy. Fans love his mysterious aura and gothic design, making him a cosplay fave. Compared to Tsukasa Tenma, Rei’s supernatural vibe sets him apart. Ranking #9, he’s a testament to idol anime’s appeal.
10. Samatoki Aohitsugi (Hypnosis Mic)
Rounding out the list is Samatoki Aohitsugi from Hypnosis Mic, the fierce leader of MAD TRIGGER CREW. A former Yakuza, he protects Yokohama with his “Counter Blow” rap ability, redirecting attacks in battles.
His intense rapping and loyalty to his crew, plus a tragic past with his sister Nemu, make him compelling. His tattooed, pierced look is cosplay-ready, and X fans love his crew dynamics. Compared to Gintoki Sakata, Samatoki’s rap focus gives him a fresh spin. At #10, he shows even niche genres can produce hot popular anime characters.
Why They’re Icons
This top 10 most popular anime characters 2024 list is a wild mix of shonen heroes, idol stars, and unique figures like personified swords. Gojo and Bakugo bring the action, while Tsukasa and Kana shine in performance-driven stories. The male-heavy list (sorry, Kana’s the lone female!) might spark debate, but it reflects anime’s diverse appeal. These characters aren’t just fan faves, they’re global icons, from Japan to places like India, where classics like Naruto still reign.
Want more anime hype? Check out Shinime.blog for the latest news and rankings. Keep the anime love alive, fam!