When it comes to popular new shonen series, Jujutsu Kaisen (JJK) is undoubtedly the biggest name right now. Since its first season premiered in 2021, the series has been a massive hit, and things are set to get even more intense with season three featuring the brutal Culling Game arc. Unfortunately, Gojo Satoru, JJK’s most iconic character, is currently sealed away. This means fans might not see Gojo in the present timeline during season three.
However, fans can look forward to another character making a big debut the same year as JJK season three: Qifrey from Witch Hat Atelier. Comparisons between Qifrey and Gojo have been widespread, and while they share similarities, both are unique characters with distinct traits that fans love.
Both characters are fan favorites in their respective series, which is easy to understand. Fans got a clearer look at Qifrey through the new Witch Hat Atelier trailer, and excitement is building to see him in action on screen.
Qifrey: The White-Haired Gojo Alternative Arriving in 2026
Witch Hat Atelier is one of the most anticipated anime adaptations set to release in 2026, and fans have waited years to see it come to life. The seinen manga began serialization in 2016, nearly a decade ago, making the anime adaptation long overdue.
The story follows Coco, a young girl on a journey to become a witch and undo the magic she accidentally cast on her mother.
Although Coco is the main character and focus, she’s not the only interesting figure in the series. Qifrey is another beloved character. He is a male witch who takes Coco and other girls as his apprentices. Known as the main mentor and protector, Qifrey’s role closely mirrors Gojo’s in Jujutsu Kaisen.
He not only helps his students develop their abilities but is always there to shield them from danger, much like Gojo. Qifrey will be one of the first characters fans meet in the anime, and his popularity is expected to soar once the show airs.
Qifrey and Gojo: Similar Yet Distinct Characters
Witch Hat Atelier has always been a popular manga, but the recent anime announcement opens the door for it to reach a much wider audience than ever before. While it’s too early to judge much from just a trailer, it’s clear that Qifrey strongly resembles Gojo Satoru from Jujutsu Kaisen.
Much of this comes from Qifrey’s appearance. Like Gojo, Qifrey is a tall man with striking white hair and captivating blue eyes. Both are among the most powerful figures in their worlds and serve as mentors and protectors to the younger characters they guide.
Despite these similarities, the two characters are independent and have different personalities. In fact, Qifrey may have even inspired Gojo, since he appeared first. Qifrey debuted in the Witch Hat Atelier manga in 2016, while Gojo first appeared in JJK in 2018. This confirms Qifrey is not a copy of Gojo.
When Are Witch Hat Atelier Season 1 and Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Coming?
Fans are thrilled that Witch Hat Atelier is finally getting an anime adaptation. Originally slated for 2025, production issues led the studio to delay the release to improve quality. The wait will end with Witch Hat Atelier premiering in April 2026.
Meanwhile, Jujutsu Kaisen also has a major release lined up for 2026. Season three is just months away and could be the most anticipated anime of the year. Jujutsu Kaisen season three is scheduled to premiere on January 8, 2026, a few months before Witch Hat Atelier.