Here Are The Top 10 Best Black Anime Characters: From Hibana To Killer Bee

Anime's evolving diversity has enriched its narratives with many Black protagonists and supporting characters recently. Here are the top 10 black anime characters from various iconic anime of today.

By Sneha Sam

Published on Mar 05, 2024 | 08:16 PM IST | 217.7K

Blood Blockade Battlefront, Hunter x Hunter, Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion, Carole & Tuesday, Black Lagoon [Crunchyroll, Netflix]

In this Article

Top 10 Black Anime Characters
10. Carole Stanley ǀ Carole & Tuesday
9. Zapp Renfro ǀ Blood Blockade Battlefront
8. Kilik Rung ǀ Soul Eater
7. Yoruichi Shihouin ǀ Bleach
6. Dutch ǀ Black Lagoon

In the ever-evolving landscape of anime, diversity and inclusion have become pivotal, marking a significant departure from its non-diverse, almost homogeneous origin. The emergence of prominent Black characters stands as proof to this evolution. Visionary creators like LeSean Thomas and Shinichirō Watanabe, among others, have helped anime to now boast a rich tapestry of Black protagonists and supporting figures.

This cultural fusion, where Japanese animation meets the influence of Black culture, is reshaping narratives and captivating audiences worldwide. From the fiery Hibana to the enigmatic Killer Bee, these characters redefine stereotypes and exemplify the depth and vitality of Black representation in anime. As the medium continues to embrace diversity, these ten remarkable characters stand as beacons of progress, paving the way for more inclusive storytelling in the future. Please note that the racial identity of some anime characters may not be explicitly stated, but they are often interpreted as black or having black heritage based on their appearance and cultural references within the series.

Top 10 Black Anime Characters

10. Carole Stanley ǀ Carole & Tuesday

Carole & Tuesday [ Shinichirō Watanabe, Morito Yamataka, BONES, Netflix]

Carole & Tuesday features the spirited Carole Stanley, a musician determined to chase her dreams. Despite her outspoken nature leading to frequent dismissals, it perfectly complements her music partner Tuesday. This anime beautifully illustrates Carole's resilience and unwavering drive to achieve her aspirations.

9. Zapp Renfro ǀ Blood Blockade Battlefront

Blood Blockade Battlefront [Yasuhiro Nightow, BONES, Crunchyroll]

Zapp Renfro, a Libra member, wields the Big Dipper blood-fighting style. Known for his volatile nature and amorous exploits, he's tasked with mentoring newcomers like Leo. Despite his recklessness, he boasts formidable abilities, including manipulating blood into lethal weapons like swords and whips.

8. Kilik Rung ǀ Soul Eater

Soul Eater [Atsushi Ohkubo, BONES, Aniplex, Dentsu, Media Factory, TV Tokyo, Crunchyroll]

Kilik Rung, an EAT Class Meister partnered with twin weapons Fire and Thunder, ranks among the top three student fighters at Death Weapon Meister Academy. Created by Atsushi Ohkubo, Kilik fills a void of African representation in manga and anime, drawing inspiration from Western African folklore and displaying fiery determination and compassion.

7. Yoruichi Shihouin ǀ Bleach

Bleach [Tite Kubo, Studio Pierrot, Crunchyroll, Disney+]

Yoruichi Shihouin is the former captain of the 2nd Division of Gotei 13 and commander of the Onmitsukidou who now works with Kisuke Urahara in the Human World. Intelligent and witty, she's known for her unconventional noble behavior. Although she is of ‘noble’ birth, Yoruichi enjoys teasing others, especially by transforming into her cat form and surprising them.

6. Dutch ǀ Black Lagoon

Black Lagoon [Rei Hiroe, Madhouse, Hulu, Crunchyroll]

Dutch, leader of the Lagoon Company in Black Lagoon, is a former U.S. Vietnam War veteran. Calm and pragmatic, he negotiates contracts and mentors Rock. Despite his combat skills, he avoids unnecessary violence and prioritizes mission completion. His enigmatic past adds depth to his character, revealing layers of intrigue and mystery. His pragmatic approach makes him a respected figure within the group.

5. Canary ǀ Hunter x Hunter

Hunter x Hunter [Yoshihiro Togashi, Madhouse, Netflix, Crunchyroll, Hulu]

Canary, an apprentice butler of the Zoldyck Family, guards their estate fiercely. Despite her initial ruthless demeanor, she harbors a hidden gentleness, especially towards her young master, Killua. Raised in Meteor City, her skills in combat are unparalleled, making her a formidable protector of the Zoldyck household.

4. Hibana ǀ Fire Force

Fire Force [Atsushi Ohkubo, David Production, Crunchyroll]

Hibana, a Third Generation pyrokinetic, wields Clematis, generating flower-shaped flames via hands or fan. Her Cherry Blossom-like flames inflict burns and cuts, easily annihilating Infernal cores. She manipulates temperature to neutralize opponents' powers and induces heat syncope, yet lacks combat finesse due to her focus on research, making her vulnerable in battle.

3. Villetta Nu ǀ Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion [Ichirō Ōkouchi, Sunrise, Netflix Crunchyroll]

Villetta Nu, an elite Knightmare Frame pilot, initially loyal to Britannia, undergoes a transformation after memory loss. Overcoming her elitism against those from the conquered Areas after her time as Chigusa, she develops genuine love for her rescuer Ohgi but struggles with it. Eventually, she attains the title of Baroness after joining the Black Knights post the Black Rebellion.

2. Killer Bee ǀ Naruto Shippuden

Naruto Shippuden [Masashi Kishimoto, Studio Pierrot, Crunchyroll]

Killer B, the vibrant shinobi from Kumogakure, defies convention as the current jinchuriki of the Eight-Tails, Gyuki. A master of both strength and rhythm, he balances village protection with his aspiration to be the world's greatest rapper. Despite his cocky demeanor, his caring nature and maturation shine through, making him a formidable ally on the battlefield.

1. Yasuke ǀ Yasuke

Yasuke [Nick Jones Jr., LeSean Thomas, Takeru Satō, MAPPA, Netflix]

Yasuke, a Netflix Original anime by MAPPA, depicts the story of Yasuke, a historical African samurai who served Nobunaga Oda in feudal Japan. However, unlike the original Yasuke, this hero’s story is set in a war-torn feudal Japan blending mechs and magic. Yasuke seeks peace here until he's drawn into a conflict with dark forces and warlords whilst trying to protect a mysterious child.

Yasuke [Nick Jones Jr., LeSean Thomas, Takeru Satō, MAPPA, Netflix]

As we celebrate these vibrant characters and their rich backgrounds, we should also acknowledge the profound impact they've had on audiences worldwide as they transcend the boundaries of race and foster a deeper appreciation for diversity from the anime world.

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Credits: BuzzFeed, GameRant, ScreenRant, Wikipedia, Fire Force Wiki, Blood Blockade Battlefront - Kekkai Sensen Wiki, Yasuke Wiki, Soul Eater Wiki, Bleach Wiki, Black Lagoon Wiki, Hunterpedia, Code Geass Wiki, Narutopedia, Carole & Tuesday Wiki