Black Anime Brilliance: Celebrating Iconic Characters in Animation

Kaito_2
Feb 11
5 min read

Hey everyone! I hope you've been doing well since we last connected!

It’s February—crazy, right? It feels like January was just yesterday! While this month is known for celebrating love (and maybe dodging Cupid’s arrows), it’s also a time to honor Black History and Black Excellence.

Black History and Black Excellence are everywhere—even in the world of anime! With that being said, here are 10 Black anime characters that you should know about!

1: Yoruichi Shihouin (BLEACH)

Yoruichi is a former princess of the Shihoin Clan, one of the Four Great Noble Families of the Soul Society. She served as the formidable captain of the 2nd Division of the Gotei 13 and as the commander of the elite Stealth Force. Breaking barriers, she also became the 22nd head of the Shihoin Clan, the first woman ever to hold that honor. Renowned for her lightning-fast speed, exceptional combat skills, and strategic brilliance, Yoruichi is much more than just her titles. A master of hand-to-hand combat and transformation, she’s known for her ability to shift into a sleek black cat, showcasing her resourcefulness and agility in even the most dire situations. With a playful yet authoritative demeanor, Yoruichi has mentored countless warriors and left an indelible mark on the Soul Society. Her trailblazing achievements and unwavering determination continue to inspire generations, proving that true strength comes in many forms.

2: Ogun Montgomery (Fire Force)

Ogun Montgomery is a dedicated firefighter in the Fire Force universe, renowned for his tactical brilliance and unwavering resolve. Drawing strength from his rich heritage, he channels his unique pyrokinetic abilities to combat the infernos that threaten innocent lives. As a respected member of his unit, Ogun’s calm demeanor under pressure and commitment to protecting others set him apart as a symbol of resilience and Black excellence. His presence on the front lines inspires his comrades to face even the most daunting challenges.

3: Annette (Castlevania)

Annette is a mysterious and resilient figure in the dark world of Castlevania. With a deep connection to ancient lore and a fierce determination to confront the forces of evil, she navigates the cursed corridors with both grace and grit. Born of tragedy yet fueled by hope, Annette uses her intelligence and skill to uncover secrets and challenge the darkness that threatens to consume all. Her journey reminds us that even in the deepest night, a spark of hope can light the way.

4: Killer B (Naruto)

Killer B is one of Naruto's most electrifying characters—a flamboyant and confident shinobi who carries the formidable Eight-Tails within him. Known for his love of rap and his unapologetic, lively personality, Killer B stands out not just as a powerful warrior but also as an entertainer who defies expectations. His rhythmic flow and fearless attitude inspire both allies and fans alike, proving that strength and style can go hand in hand.

5: Afro Samurai (Afro Samurai)

Afro Samurai is the protagonist of the Afro Samurai series, a skilled swordsman on a quest to avenge his father's death. As a child, he witnessed his father, Rokutaro, the owner of the Number One headband, being killed by Justice, the holder of the Number Two headband. This traumatic event set Afro on a path of vengeance, leading him to become the Number Two and seek retribution against Justice. Throughout his journey, Afro is accompanied by Ninja Ninja, an imaginary companion who provides commentary and serves as a manifestation of Afro's inner thoughts. Afro's relentless pursuit of revenge and his exceptional swordsmanship define his character, making him a central figure in the narrative's exploration of themes like vengeance, identity, and the cyclical nature of violence.

6: Muhammad Avdol (JOJO)

In JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders, Muhammad Avdol stands as a steadfast ally to the Joestar family. An Egyptian fortune teller and an old friend of Joseph Joestar, Avdol brings a wealth of knowledge about Stands and the diverse cultures they encounter on their quest to defeat DIO. His Stand, Magician's Red, grants him the power to generate and control fire, a skill he wields with precision and strength. Avdol's unwavering loyalty and profound sense of duty make him an indispensable member of the team, guiding them through the myriad challenges they face.

7: Rock Lock/Ken Takagi (My Hero Academia)

In the dynamic world of My Hero Academia, Ken Takagi, known as the Lock Hero: Rock Lock, stands as a testament to experience and pragmatism. With his Quirk, "Lock Down," he can immobilize non-living objects upon touch, effectively locking them in place—a skill that proves invaluable during complex hero operations. Beyond his hero duties, Ken is a devoted family man, married with a young son whom he cherishes deeply. His protective nature extends from his family to his role as a hero, where he often exhibits a sharp tongue and a no-nonsense attitude. However, beneath this exterior lies a compassionate individual committed to justice and the safety of others.

8: Piccolo (Dragonball Z)

In the expansive universe of Dragon Ball Z, Piccolo emerges as a complex and evolving character. Originally introduced as the reincarnation of the malevolent King Piccolo, he begins his journey as a formidable adversary to Goku. However, as threats to Earth intensify, Piccolo's character undergoes a profound transformation. Recognizing the greater good, he allies with the Z Fighters, showcasing his strategic brilliance and combat prowess. A pivotal moment in his evolution is his mentorship of Goku's son, Gohan. Through this bond, Piccolo reveals a compassionate and protective side, ultimately sacrificing himself to save Gohan during the Saiyan invasion. This act of selflessness cements his role not just as a warrior, but as a guardian and friend, highlighting the depth and growth of his character throughout the series. While though “green” in complexion, it is widely understood in the anime community, that Piccolo would indeed be “black”, based off his mannerism and characteristics.

9: Kaz Kaan (Neo Yokio)

In the vibrant cityscape of Neo Yokio, Kaz Kaan stands as a unique blend of aristocratic charm and supernatural prowess. As a "magistocrat"—a portmanteau of magician and aristocrat—Kaz hails from a lineage renowned for protecting the city from demonic threats. Despite his heritage as a demon slayer, Kaz often finds himself more engrossed in the luxuries of high society, fashion, and personal indulgence. Voiced by Jaden Smith, Kaz's character navigates the delicate balance between upholding family traditions and pursuing his own desires, all while contending with the eccentricities of Neo Yokio's elite.

10: Brock (Pokemon)

Brock stands as a pillar of wisdom and maturity among the main characters. Originally serving as the Pewter City Gym Leader, he specializes in Rock-type Pokémon and is renowned for his "rock-hard willpower." After a pivotal battle with Ash Ketchum, Brock chooses to leave his Gym Leader duties to pursue his dream of becoming the world's greatest Pokémon Breeder. He accompanies Ash on numerous adventures across various regions, providing guidance and support. Beyond his aspirations as a breeder, Brock later sets his sights on becoming a Pokémon Doctor, showcasing his deep compassion and commitment to Pokémon care. His character is defined by his nurturing demeanor, often acting as a caretaker and voice of reason within the group. Despite his occasional flirtations, Brock's dedication to his friends and Pokémon remains unwavering, solidifying his role as a beloved and integral part of the Pokémon series.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through the vibrant world of Black anime characters. Their powerful stories and diverse perspectives not only inspire us but also add incredible depth to the anime universe. Each character we’ve explored highlights the importance of representation and the beauty of diversity in storytelling. Stay tuned for more insights as we continue to celebrate the voices that shape this dynamic world!