Anime protagonists stand tall as the face of their franchise. In the old generation of anime, the likes of Goku from Dragon Ball and Yusuke from Yu Yu Hakusho stand out Then, the likes of Luffy from One Piece and Naruto from Naruto made their entrance and started a new era. The 2010's also had many highlights, like Eren from Attack on Titan or from Deku My Hero Academia. But now, the new generation of anime is making their presence known. From the 2020s, they have left a strong impression, and quite a few have already become iconic.
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8
Ichi
Ichi the Witch remains without an anime adaptation, for now. Despite that, the manga series has proven to be a phenomenon and is one of the best-selling series for Weekly Shonen Jump that continues to grow in popularity by the week.
The main character of Ichi the Witch is, of course, Ichi. At the very beginning of the story, Ichi miraculously becomes the first male witch ever. He unlocks the power of a Magik, and his story with Desscaras, as well as other recruits, is only getting more exciting. Being directly connected to the mysteries of the world and the fact that he stands out as a different kind of shonen protagonist make him a highlight that fans can't wait to be brought to life in anime. With Ichi the Witch's manga popularity, it's only a matter of time before an anime is announced.
7
Chihiro Rokuhira
Technically, Kagurabachi still doesn't have an anime. The anime is currently in production via CyPic and is scheduled for a 2027 release instead. Despite that, Chihiro Rokuhira, the MC of Kagurabachi, is already a fan favorite.
Fans have been able to get a hint of him through the Kagurabachi anime teaser, but he shines greatly in the manga. Chihro's journey is kick-started by tragedy, with his father's death at the hands of sorcerers. Chihiro's unquenchable thirst for revenge, as well as the will to continue on his father's legacy, make him a compelling main character that fans will only grow to love further when he is finally brought to life through the anime.
6
Rudo
In 2025, fans witnessed one of the biggest anime debuts thanks to Gachiakutaa phenomenal anime by Studio Bones that adapted the manga by Kei Urana. The story of Gachiakuta explores interesting themes of equality between rich and poor, and through it all, the one driving this story forward is none other than Rudo.
Rudo was born in the slums as a tribesfolk, but ended up being thrown down the pit after being unjustly accused of a crime he didn't commit. Throughout this story, Rudo goes on to become a Giver and unlocks special powers through his vital instrument. Rudo is definitely not the usual shonen protagonist, so he stands out greatly. Gachiakuta Season 2 has already been confirmed, although a release date remains to be confirmed.
5
Coco
Coco is the main character of Witch Hat Atelierwhich just began its anime adaptation in 2026 after years of waiting due to production delays and quality improvement. In the very first episode, Coco is presented as quite a captivating character with a beautiful story to tell.
Coco longs to learn magic. When she meets Qifrey, she is dazzled by his abilities. By taking a sneak peek at Qifrey, she realizes that magic is created through the drawings of runes, and by copying a page of a mysterious book she was given years ago, she accidentally sets off a spell that would seal the fate of her mother. Following the catastrophe she accidentally unleashed, she becomes Qifrey's apprentice and vows to turn into a great witch to undo the spell she cast. Witch Hat Atelier is still ongoing, and she has been its greatest highlight so far.
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4
Momo and Okarun
Dandadan quickly became one of the most popular new-gen series for Weekly Shonen Jump and received a significant boost in 2024, when its first season aired. With just 12 episodes, the two main characters of the series, Momo and Okarun, were able to get the attention of millions.
While Momo is captivated by the occult, Okarun is more interested in aliens. It turns out that both are real in this world. The two go on to unlock unique abilities that make for exciting battles and confrontations, as seen early on against Turbo Granny. Okarun and Momo form an incredible duo and have been highlighted as some of the best new-gen protagonists of recent times.
Who's That Character?
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3
Maomao
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Anime: The Apothecary Diaries
The Apothecary Diaries began its brilliant journey in 2023. This brilliant story is different from other anime series that have blown up over the last few years. It's entirely focused on the day-to-day life of its characters, and any kind of action is secondary. Through this story, fans witnessed the rise of Maomao in popularity.
Maomao is the main character of the series, and she has captivated fans through her wits and personality alone. As an Apothecary, Maomao possesses incredible medical knowledge, and she's always up to solving mysteries plaguing the imperial castle. She stands out in the new cast of main characters and will be returning in 2026 with The Apothecary Diaries Season 3 and a new movie.
2
Sung Jinwoo
Sung Jinwoo is the protagonist of the Solo Leveling series. Animated by A-1 Pictures and Aniplex, Solo Leveling made its debut in 2024 with its Season 1 marking Jinwoo's first anime appearance. Immediately, Jinwoo grabbed the attention of the fans.
While Jinwoo doesn't have the best writing in anime, his journey from the bottom to the top through the power of the system has already become iconic. Jinwoo's fights against the likes of Baran, Barca, and the Ant King garnered incredible hype, and that, coupled with his cool personality, has made him one of the most memorable new-gen protagonists. Jinwoo will make his return in Solo Leveling's next animated project in the near future.
1
Frieren
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Anime: Frieren Beyond Journey's End
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End blew up in 2023 with its grand Season 1 debut. In large part, this sudden rise in popularity is all due to its captivating and fan favorite protagonist — Frieren, after whom the series is named.
Frieren's story sees her end her journey with her original group, and undertake a new one decades later. The story is melancholic and slow-paced, but sometimes, things heat up, and Frieren is involved in some eye-catching and stunning battles. Frieren overcoming her lack of emotions as an elf and seeing her relationships grow with her former and current teammates have made her an endearing character, and definitely a highly recognizable protagonist among the new gen. She will return in Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 3, scheduled for 2027.
