In most shonen anime, villains are created as obstacles for the protagonist to overcome. They often pursue power, world domination, or destruction, driving intense conflicts throughout the story.
However, not every villain is simply “evil.” Many have tragic pasts, thought-provoking ideals, or qualities that make audiences feel they could have been heroes if life had taken a different path.
5. Uchiha Obito (Naruto)
Uchiha Obito is one of the most tragic characters in Naruto. Before becoming a villain, he was an optimistic boy who dreamed of becoming Hokage and was willing to sacrifice himself to protect his friends.
After Rin’s death and manipulation by Uchiha Madara, Obito lost faith in the world and became the instigator of the Fourth Great Ninja War. What makes his story heartbreaking is that Obito was designed as Naruto’s opposite, showing the path Naruto might have taken if he had succumbed to despair.
In the story’s final arc, Obito regains his conscience and sacrifices himself to save Naruto and Kakashi. Still, many fans wish he had redeemed himself earlier, even becoming Hokage as he once dreamed.
4. Askeladd (Vinland Saga)
In Vinland Saga, Askeladd appears as the enemy who killed Thors, fueling Thorfinn’s lifelong hatred. But as the story unfolds, viewers realize Askeladd is more than just a villain. He is a brilliant strategist and leader who acts for a greater purpose beyond personal gain.
Askeladd often shows respect for Thors and gradually becomes an unlikely mentor to Thorfinn. The climax of season one endears him further when he sacrifices himself to remove an incompetent king, paving the way for Canute’s reign and a better future for the country.
With his talent and vision, many fans believe Askeladd deserved to be remembered as a king or hero rather than a villain.
3. Sukuna (Jujutsu Kaisen)
From his first appearance, Ryomen Sukuna is portrayed as the embodiment of evil in Jujutsu Kaisen. Unlike Yuji Itadori, Sukuna cares only for himself and is willing to slaughter anyone who stands in his way.
Early on, many hoped the relationship between Yuji and Sukuna would develop like Naruto and Kurama’s, with cooperation growing over time.
However, the story takes a different turn. Sukuna becomes increasingly ruthless, committing acts that firmly establish him as the series’ top villain.
It’s a shame the series hints at Sukuna’s mysterious past and the Heian era but never fully explores it. A deeper dive into the Cursed King’s origins could have made him one of modern anime’s most complex villains.
2. Akaza (Demon Slayer)
Few villains change the audience’s perspective as much as Akaza. When he first appears, the Upper Rank Three demon quickly terrifies viewers by killing Flame Hashira Rengoku, one of Demon Slayer’s most beloved characters.
But the battle with Tanjiro and Giyu at Infinity Castle reveals Akaza’s tragic past. Before becoming a demon, he was a kind young man who lost many loved ones. Overwhelmed by grief, he fell into despair before Muzan turned him into a demon.
What makes Akaza’s story so sad is that he never really had a chance to choose his fate. Without Muzan’s interference, he could have become a righteous martial artist or protector of the weak. For this reason, Akaza is seen as one of the most pitiable villains.
1. Uchiha Itachi (Naruto)
Topping the list is Uchiha Itachi, a character many believe deserves to be celebrated as a true hero.
Early in Naruto, Itachi is seen as a ruthless traitor who massacred his entire clan, sparing only his younger brother Sasuke. But later revelations completely change fans’ views.
Itachi carried out the massacre under orders to prevent a civil war that could have destroyed the Hidden Leaf Village. He accepted the label of traitor, lived in isolation for years, and sacrificed his honor to protect the village and his brother. Even after death, Itachi played a crucial role in the Fourth Great Ninja War by helping seal Kabuto and enabling the heroes’ victory.
Sadly, very few in Naruto knew the full extent of Itachi’s sacrifice. For fans, he is not only one of the greatest shinobi but also a villain who truly deserves recognition as a hero.