Not every main character wins fans with a perfect image. Some names spark ongoing debates yet still gather a huge fanbase thanks to their emotional stories and convincing character development. Rudeus Greyrat is the prime example right now.
According to the fourth-week character rankings for the Summer 2026 anime season released by Anime Trending, Rudeus climbed to fourth place among the most popular male characters. This achievement is even more remarkable considering the character has been at the center of long-running controversies over his personality and behavior.
The “predator” controversy never ends
Since Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation first aired, Rudeus Greyrat has been the focus of countless debates within the anime community.
The root of the controversy lies in his unique situation. Though reborn as a young boy, Rudeus retains the memories and mindset of his 34-year-old former self. This makes it hard for some viewers to accept certain actions and how he interacts with others.
Especially in the early parts of the story, many argue that Rudeus often escapes consequences simply because of his childlike appearance. His internal monologues also reveal full awareness of his thoughts and deeds, which fuels the heated debates.
However, many fans believe this is exactly what makes Mushoku Tensei special. Rudeus is not portrayed as a flawless hero from the start but as a deeply flawed person. His entire journey focuses on growth, facing mistakes, and gradually changing rather than instantly becoming an ideal hero.
Top 10 spot highlights Mushoku Tensei’s appeal
In the latest Anime Trending rankings, the top spot goes to Rentaro Aijo from The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You Season 3. Following closely are Yuusuke Tani and Shuuji Taira from You and I Are Polar Opposites.
Rudeus Greyrat holds fourth place, surpassing many other standout characters from this summer’s anime lineup. Additionally, Ichigo Kurosaki from Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, The Calamity also marks a notable return in the rankings.
Rudeus’s presence in the Top 10 further confirms Mushoku Tensei’s ongoing success this season. Not long ago, Season 3 of the anime also topped Anime Trending’s weekly anime chart, beating out many sequels and highly anticipated newcomers.
Season 3 maintains impressive momentum
Mushoku Tensei Season 3 officially premiered on July 5, 2026, following an early screening of the first two episodes in Japan.
The opening episodes focus on Eris Boreas Greyrat and her intense training to become stronger after parting ways with Rudeus. Starting from episode 3, the story returns to Rudeus as the anime adapts one of the most beloved arcs from the original light novel by Rifujin na Magonote.
Currently, Rudeus has begun a new life alongside Sylphiette and Roxy. Along with his family responsibilities, he faces dangerous missions and gradually uncovers secrets about Hitogami and the world he inhabits.
Once again, Studio Bind receives praise for consistent animation quality and faithful adaptation of the source material. These factors are key to Season 3’s sustained popularity and high scores on anime rankings.