One of the most captivating aspects of Jujutsu Kaisen is how it shifts the spotlight away from the main character Itadori Yuji, allowing other characters to shine and adding variety to the story’s progression. So it’s no surprise that Gojo Satoru tops the popularity polls instead of Yuji (according to a recent Jujutsu Kaisen manga popularity survey in Japan).
However, the shocking part of this poll is that fifth place goes to Naoya Zenin, one of the series’ most ruthless villains with irredeemable traits. Even Naoya’s voice actor, Koji Yusa, expressed confusion over the fandom’s choice given the character’s repulsive nature.
Naoya Zenin is one of Jujutsu Kaisen’s worst characters
Naoya Zenin, son of Naobito Zenin and the 26th head of the Zenin Clan, is a major antagonist set to appear in the upcoming season of Jujutsu Kaisen. Despite his notorious reputation, Naoya remains one of the most popular characters, ranking fifth in a poll of the series’ most iconic figures.
This ranking places him above Yuta Okkotsu, Choso, and even the manga’s main villain, Ryomen Sukuna.
The poll results are surprising considering Naoya’s despicable nature and some of the worst actions in the series. Koji Yusa, who voices Naoya, shared his concerns about the character’s popularity:
“I’ve seen the popularity polls in the manga chapters and I don’t understand how he’s near the top. With that personality? He casually says the most horrible things… I get the feeling of ‘Wow, it must be satisfying to just say everything you want,’ so maybe that’s why. He has high self-esteem and skill, so he just says whatever. But the content of what he says still shocks me. It’s hard to understand how a character like him is so loved.”, Koji Yusa
Naoya is literally rude and possesses the unique ability of a Grade 1 sorcerer. As the leader of Hei, one of the strongest sorcerer groups within the Zenin Clan, his power is formidable.
His Projection Sorcery transforms one second into 24 frames, letting him predict and counter opponents’ moves.
However, Naoya’s disdainful attitude toward women like Maki and Mai only highlights his arrogance and cruelty. Driven by a desire to become the sole heir of the Zenin Clan, he commits vile acts. He embodies the clan’s harsh mentality, hunting down the weak and incompetent, which explains his obvious hatred for his female cousins.
Ultimately, Naoya doesn’t deserve the attention he gets, as his popularity stems from his misogynistic views and brutal behavior.
Many other Jujutsu Kaisen characters deserve more recognition
The poll correctly placed the top three characters, with Gojo Satoru, Itadori Yuji, and Megumi Fushiguro earning first, second, and third.
Yet Naoya’s fifth-place spot raises questions. Characters like Yuta Okkotsu or the iconic antihero Toji Zenin have a more positive impact on the story and could easily replace Naoya’s ranking. Even Nobara’s 14th place seems surprising compared to his position.
Overall, this poll highlights a persistent issue with the choices of a certain segment of extreme fans.