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As mais tristes mortes de personagens em animes, classificadas: Saddest Anime Character Deaths, Ranked

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Highlights

  • Anime uses character deaths to depict the fragility of life and evoke profound emotions in fans.
  • Unique character arcs in anime explore themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the complexity of choices.
  • Emotional deaths in anime highlight tragic but impactful moments that resonate deeply with viewers.



Anime has always delved deeply into storytelling by creating characters that build strong emotional connections with viewers. This is mainly done by the characters’ backstories or the anime’s plot. It is more than mere goofy or sparkly fictional characters; it is a world that makes the impossible possible. Anime has characters and worlds that seem far-fetched and eccentric, but it is perfect for fans.

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With the intriguing themes, fantasy worlds, romance, comedy, and action portrayed in anime, the characters are the heart of it all. In most cases, there is usually a character to resonate with and connect to, so when this character dies, it leaves a void. Unlike real-life actors and actresses who can be seen again in another show or movie, the anime character is gone forever. The concept of death in anime depicts it as not all sunshine and rainbows in the fictional world.


Updated on March 24, 2024, by Adegbindin Adetutu Fridous: In the vast world of anime, certain character deaths leave an indelible mark on viewers, evoking a profound sense of sadness and loss. These poignant moments transcend the realm of fiction, resonating with fans on a deeply personal level. Whether it’s the sacrifice of a beloved hero, the tragic fate of a misunderstood antagonist, or the heartbreaking demise of an innocent soul, the most emotional deaths in anime capture the fragility of life, the complexities of human emotions, and the profound impact these fictional beings can have on fans’ hearts and minds. There are dozens of these kinds of moments in the anime sphere, and this article has been updated to feature a few more of them.

Spoilers Ahead!


24 Askeladd (Vinland Saga)

Episode 24

Askeladd from Vinland Saga


Vinland Saga

Release Date
July 7, 2019

Studio
Wit Studio, MAPPA

Creator
Makoto Yukimura

Number of Episodes
48
Streaming Service(s)
Amazon Prime Video , Crunchyroll , HIDIVE

Askeladd is a complex and morally ambiguous character who serves as a major antagonist and later becomes a mentor figure to the main protagonist, Thorfinn. As the story progresses, a deeper understanding of his character is revealed, and his complicated relationship with Thorfinn develops. In the battle between Thorfinn and Askeladd, he acknowledges his own selfishness and the pain he caused Thorfinn, and in a final act of redemption, he implores Thorfinn to find a purpose beyond vengeance.

Askeladd’s death is heartbreaking because it represents the conclusion of his complex character arc and the tragic realization of his unfulfilled ambitions. It’s a sobering reminder of the destructive nature of vengeance and the search for meaning in a world rife with conflict. It also profoundly impacts Thorfinn, as he confronts the consequences of his obsession with vengeance.


23 Jonathan Joestar (Jojo Bizarre Adventure: Phantom Blood)

Episode 9

Jonathan Joestar (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure) anime

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Release Date
October 6, 2012

Studio
David Production

Number of Episodes
190

Japanese Title
JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken

Creator
Hirohiko Araki

Jonathan Joestar’s death in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Phantom Blood is a reminder of life’s impermanence and the recurring trope of characters giving up their lives for the greater good. In Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, Jonathan carries the burden of protecting the world from his vampire foster brother, Dio, and embodies Joestar’s family’s relenting spirit of goodness.

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While Jonathan’s heroic act led to his death, his sacrifice to ensure the destruction of his foster brother showcases his courage and selflessness amidst all odds. His sacrifice for a noble cause marks a turning point in the series, an act that is heroic yet heartbreaking.


22 Leone (Akame Ga Kill!)

Episode 24

Leone Akame Ga Kill

Akame ga Kill!

Release Date
July 7, 2014

Studio
White Fox

Creator
Takahiro

Number of Episodes
24

Streaming Service(s)
HIDIVE , Hulu

Leone is a member of the Night Raid, a group of assassins fighting against the corrupt government. She is known for her fierce personality and loyalty. Despite her strength and determination, she is fatally wounded in the battle against the Emperor’s soldiers. Even though many characters die in Akame Ga Kill!, Leone’s death scene is emotionally charged and heart-wrenching as her life slowly fades away. What makes Leone’s death particularly tragic is the connection she has with viewers. Her death is a shock, as viewers will have grown attached to her lively spirit and caring nature.


Leone’s death also sparked a sense of urgency and determination within the remaining characters to overthrow the corrupt government. Her sacrifice and the impact of her death fuel the resolve of the other members of Night Raid. In Akame Ga Kill, her death brings to light the harsh realities and consequences of the world they live in, where even the strongest and most beloved characters are not immune to tragedy.

21 Ash Lynx (Banana Fish)

Episode 24

Banana Fishh-2

Banana Fish

Release Date
July 6, 2018

Studio
MAPPA

Creator
Akimi Yoshida

Number of Episodes
24

Streaming Service(s)
Amazon Prime Video

Ash endured horrific abuse and violence throughout his life, and he feels nothing awaits him beyond pain and suffering, but his new friend, Eiji, offers him kindness and hope. The baggage Ash carries shapes him into a violent person whose only way out of any problem is through violence.


However, Ash sees a light at the end of the dark tunnel he is in his whole life through Eiji. In a cruel twist of fate, Ash meets his end at the hand of a random gang member in a petty altercation. His death extinguishes this hope for a brighter future, denying him a chance to live a life of normalcy.

20 Light Yagami (Death Note)

Episode 37

Light Yagami (Death Note)

Death Note

Release Date
October 4, 2006

Studio
Madhouse

Creator
Tsugumi Ohba

Number of Episodes
37

The story of Light Yagami is that of someone who played with fire and was burnt by it. He was a crazy person who hoped to rid the world of vermin but became one in his battle to outsmart L. His dark fate at the end makes one feel sorry for him and those affected by his actions.


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His pain and desperation to find a light at the end of the dark tunnel he made for himself makes fans wonder how this genius would have turned out if he had never picked up the book. Even though his death in Death Note was expected, his cry for Misa and Takada as he tries to flee his fate shows he realized his wrongdoings, albeit too late.

19 Itachi Uchiha (Naruto: Shippuden)

Season 7, Episode 138

Itachi Uchiha sharingan eyes

Naruto: Shippuden

Release Date
February 15, 2007

Studio
Pierrot

Creator
Masashi Kishimoto

Number of Episodes
500
Streaming Service(s)
Amazon Prime Video , Crunchyroll , Hulu

Itachi was the most controversial character in Naruto. Even though he is seen as a cold murderer, his love for his brother, Sasuke, transcends everything. While he committed genocide, his actions were still for the greater good of Konoha village.


What makes Itachi’s death particularly poignant is the depth of his character and the complexity of his choices. Itachi carries the weight of immense guilt, having sacrificed his happiness and reputation to protect his loved ones and the village he holds dear. His death signifies the culmination of his lifelong struggle and the ultimate sacrifice he made for the greater good. Through it all, Itachi is a broken man who would do anything for his beloved brother and a peaceful Shinobi world.

18 Himeno (Chainsaw Man)

Episode 8

chainsaw-man-ep-12-himeno

Chainsaw Man

Release Date
October 12, 2022

Studio
MAPPA

Creator
Tatsuki Fujimoto

Number of Episodes
12

Chainsaw Man is known for its gore and killing off of its characters. Himeno is a character that has lost her comrades in the line of duty. All the devil hunter wanted was to enjoy life and not lose any more of her friends. A poignant scene in the series was when she was shown at the graveyard of one of her recently killed partners.


She has seen death so many times, and there was a glimpse of hope that Himeno wouldn’t lose any more comrades when she befriended powerful friends like Denji, Aki, and Power. Her relationship with these characters, especially Aki, made her death a heart-wrenching moment in the story. It wasn’t enough that she was killed off in the line of duty, but she died without leaving a body to bury.

17 Isla (Plastic Memories)

Episode 13

plastic memories tsukasa and ilsa

Plastic Memories

Release Date
April 5, 2015

Studio
Doga Kobo

Number of Episodes
13

Plastic Memories follows the relationship between Tsukasa and his partner, Isla. The viewer’s awareness of Isla’s impending death creates a constant sense of sadness, as her relationship with Tsukasa blossoms. Despite their unlimited time together, they make bittersweet memories and develop a deep bond.


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Also, Isla’s acceptance of the fleeting moments with Tsunaka, and their emotional farewell on the Ferris wheel, was heartbreaking. The series is a slow burn towards a preordained ending, strengthening the emotional impact that ending eventually has.

16 Kaori (Your Lie In April)

Episode 22

Your Lie In April anime kosei and kaori

Your Lie in April

Release Date
October 10, 2014

Studio
A-1 Pictures

Japanese Title
Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso

Creator
Naoshi Arakawa

Number of Episodes
22

The story of Your Lie in April revolves around Kosei Arima, a pianist who, after the death of his mother, became unable to hear the sound of his own playing. Kaori, a gifted violinist, enters Kosei’s life and assists him in rediscovering his love of music. Kaori’s vibrant and free-spirited personality captivates Kosei throughout the series, forming a strong bond between them.


However, it is revealed that Kaori has a terminal illness, adding a bittersweet element to their relationship. Kaori’s health deteriorates in the final episode, and she dies, leaving Kosei devastated. Her death feels terrible because it marks the end of their musical journey and possible future together. It’s a poignant reminder of the transience of life and relationships.

Episode 7

Fullmetal Alchemist Nina & Alexander Tuckerr

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Release Date
April 5, 2009

Studio
Bones

Creator
Hiromu Arakawa

Number of Episodes
64

The death of Nina Tucker in Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood is one of the most heartbreaking moments in the series. The horrid transformation of Nina from a young cheerful girl into a chimera by her her father will leave viewers outraged. Her father is responsible for her horrific fate, which makes her death unfortunate, as she was betrayed by someone who ought to protect her.


Nina’s death serves as a strong condemnation of greed and ambition. Her father’s actions highlight the dangers of pursuing knowledge at any cost, especially when it disregards human life and basic morality. The death of Nina leaves an emotional scar on some of the characters in the series, like the Elric brothers, and sets a dark undertone for the rest of the show.

14 Sasha Blouse (Attack On Titan)

Season 4, Episode 8

sasha braus potato attack on titan

Attack On Titan

Release Date
April 7, 2013

Studio
Wit Studio, MAPPA

Japanese Title
Shingeki no Kyojin

Creator
Hajime Isayama

Number of Episodes
94

Attack on Titan is an anime filled with unexpected twists, full-blown action, and many gory deaths. A riveting tale of war and freedom, with memorable songs and characters that are either eaten or decapitated by Titans. Sasha Blouse is one of the many characters in the series who lost their lives in the fight for freedom, but her death is more tragic because of the events surrounding it.


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Sasha is a soldier with impeccable combat skills in battle; more than that, she is kind-hearted and compassionate. That compassion led to her death at the hands of the very human she spared during battle. Her death is a massive blow because it happened after the battle has ended, and she is rejoicing with her comrades. The timing is unexpected and tragic.

13 Kyoko Honda (Fruits Basket)

Episode 8

Fruits Basket Kyoko Honda

Fruits Basket (2019)

Release Date
April 6, 2019

Studio
TMS Entertainment

Creator
Natsuki Takaya

Number of Episodes
63

Kyoko is the mother of the main character, Tohru, and her passing has a significant impact on the story and the characters involved. Kyoko’s death is a crucial event that shapes Tohru’s life and experiences. She dies in a car accident and this loss deeply affects Tohruin. The scene of the car accident was particularly heart-wrenching to watch, as fans get to see the painful emotion of a mother as she grapples with death and the fear of leaving her child alone in the world.


What makes Kyoko’s death particularly poignant is the love and warmth she brought into Tohru’s life. Kyoko Honda’s death in Fruits Basket is widely regarded as one of the saddest deaths in anime due to its significance to the story, the depth of the character’s relationships, and the lasting impact it has on the narrative and fans.

12 Kite (Hunter X Hunter)

Episode 85

kiteee

Hunter x Hunter

Release Date
October 2, 2011

Studio
Madhouse

Creator
Yoshihiro Togashi

Number of Episodes
148

Kite’s death in Hunter X Hunter had a significant emotional impact on both the characters in the story and the fans. Kite is a character who plays a vital role in the Chimera Ants arc of the series. Kite’s death is particularly heart-wrenching because he mentors the main character, Gon Freecss. His demise is both sudden and brutal, and it occurs amid a dangerous battle against the Chimera Ants.


Kite’s death profoundly affects Gon, motivating him to seek revenge and embark on an emotional journey. The weight of Kite’s death and its impact on the characters and the story made it one of the most memorable and saddening moments in the series.

11 Kamina (Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann)

Episode 8

Kamina From Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

Gurren Lagann

Release Date
April 1, 2007

Studio
Gainax

Japanese Title
Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

Number of Episodes
27

Kamina, Team Gurren’s charismatic and fearless leader, is crucial in motivating and inspiring the other characters, particularly the main protagonist, Simon. Kamina sacrifices himself to protect his friends during a battle with a powerful enemy, Viral. Kamina’s character exemplifies bravery, determination, and never giving up, which makes his death all the more tragic. His death forces the remaining characters, notably Simon, to mature and take on the role of leader.


3:54

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Kamina’s death is a watershed moment in the series, propelling the plot forward and pushing the other characters to their breaking point. The emotional impact of Kamina’s death is felt throughout the series, and his memory inspires and motivates the characters even after he dies. His legacy and the lessons he taught live on, making his tragic death one of the series’ most memorable and heartbreaking moments.

10 Erwin Smith (Attack On Titan)

Season 3, Episode 18

Erwin screaming

Attack On Titan

Release Date
April 7, 2013

Studio
Wit Studio, MAPPA

Japanese Title
Shingeki no Kyojin

Creator
Hajime Isayama

Number of Episodes
94

Erwin Smith’s death in Attack on Titan is considered one of the saddest deaths in the series. Erwin was a significant character and played a crucial role as the commander of the Survey Corps. He was known for his strategic brilliance and desire to uncover the truth about the Titans. Erwin’s death occurred during the Battle of Shiganshina, where he led a charge against the Beast Titan.


In a selfless act, he sacrifices himself to give the other soldiers an edge to defeat the Beast Titan and potentially save the people in the Wall. Erwin’s death was emotionally impactful because of the importance of his character and the sacrifices he made for the greater good. The scene highlighted the immense burden he carried as a leader and his dedication to humanity’s survival.

9 Koro-Sensei (Assassination Classroom)

Season 2, Episode 23

Koro-Sensei With Students (2)-1

Assassination Classroom

Release Date
January 10, 2015

Studio
Lerche

Japanese Title
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu

Creator
Yusei Matsui

Number of Episodes
47

Koro-sensei, also known as the “Unkillable Teacher,” is a unique being with a tentacled appearance and the teacher of Class 3-E. Throughout the series, Koro-sensei forms a close bond with his students and helps them with their academics, personal growth, and life lessons. However, the students are tasked with assassinating the teacher after finding his weakness.


In the heartbreaking climax of Assassination Classroom, the students gather to fulfill their mission, and Koro-sensei accepts his fate. Koro-sensei’s tragic death showcases the emotional bond he forged with the students. It reinforces the theme of cherishing and valuing relationships, even in adversity. The scene is filled with sorrow as the characters must come to terms with their loss while remembering the invaluable lessons and memories they shared with their beloved teacher.

8 Obito Uchiha (Naruto Shippuden)

Episode 471

Obito Uchiha from Naruto Shippuden


Naruto

Release Date
October 2, 2002

Studio
Pierrot

Creator
Masashi Kishimoto

Number of Episodes
220

Naruto is a shonen series that tells the emotional and dark tale of the tumultuous world of the Shinobi. It has to be one of the greatest anime ever, with compelling characters and deaths with significant emotional impact. Obito is the mastermind behind the great crisis that led to Naruto’s fourth Great Ninja War. He plans to make a peaceful shinobi world by casting everyone in the infinite Tsukuyomi with the help of Madara Uchiha.

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Obito is an antagonist to sympathize with due to his rocky path to becoming a villain. He was once a great friend and admirer of Kakashi. However, the situation that led to Rin’s death made him choose a different path. His backstory and road to redemption make his death arouse a feeling of sympathy and sadness.

7 Kozuki Oden (One Piece)

Episode 974

One Piece Kozuki Oden Twin Swords


One Piece

Release Date
October 20, 1999

Studio
Toei Animation

Creator
Eiichiro Oda

Number of Episodes
1082+

Kozuki Oden’s death in One Piece is one of the most painful deaths in the series. Unlike most deaths in anime, Oden’s wasn’t swift or sudden. He was sentenced to be boiled alive for an hour, a horrific and agonizing way to die. This extended torture adds a layer of brutality and emotional weight to his demise.

His death was a tragedy, as well as a stage-setter for the war that unfolded in Wano. Also, the fear that he has so much at stake at the point of his death (his wife, children, and country) and unfulfilled dreams (opening the Wano border) adds to the sense of loss.

6 Escanor (Seven Deadly Sins)

Season 4, Episode 20

escanor seven deadly sins anime saddest deaths

The Seven Deadly Sins

Release Date
October 5, 2014

Studio
A-1 Pictures, Studio Deen

Japanese Title
Nanatsu no Taizai

Creator
Nakaba Suzuki

Number of Episodes
100

The lion’s sin of pride, Escanor, was one of the most powerful figures in Seven Deadly Sins. Known to be a proud man who would never run from battle, he instead died saving his friends. Escanor converted his life force into power to keep him more vital in combat.


However, after the deadly sins defeat their enemy, Escanor fades into dust, with Merlin giving him his last kiss. Even though he appeared in the second season of the anime series, looking frail and wimpy, he turned out to be the most fascinating and powerful character in the show. His valiant effort to save his friends, even though he knew his fate, was a testament to the true hero he was during the Holy War.

5 Kyojuro Rengoku (Demon Slayer)

Mughen Train

Kyojuro Rengoku From Demon Slayer Flame Hashira

Demon Slayer

Release Date
April 6, 2019

Studio
ufotable

Japanese Title
Kimetsu no Yaiba

Creator
Koyoharu Gotoge

Number of Episodes
55

The death of the flame Hashira has to be the most tear-jerking moment in Demon Slayer. Even though the job of a demon slayer is a thin line between life and death, fans still hope their favorite characters will come out unscathed. However, Rengoku meets his end in Mugen Train, a fine end to a great warrior.


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While he tries to make the final death blow on Akaza, an upper-rank demon, he meets his death, and his murderer takes to his heel. It isn’t just his death alone that is depressing, but that his killer was not put to justice by his hand. His final moments and a little insight into his strained relationship with his father undoubtedly make his demise more tragic.

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