Anime That Gave Us a Dark-Skinned Black Male Lead Who Wins the Girl

Representation in anime has evolved significantly over the years with more diverse character designs taking center stage. Fans often look for series that feature dark-skinned or Black male leads who find happiness in their romantic lives rather than suffering tragic fates. These characters break the mold by balancing action and heroism with successful relationships or marriages. The following titles feature memorable men of color who successfully wooed their love interests.

‘Turn A Gundam’ (1999–2000)

Loran Cehack acts as the pilot of the titular mobile suit and serves as a distinct deviation from typical protagonists in the franchise. He is a member of the Moonrace who becomes deeply devoted to Queen Dianna Soriel during the conflict with Earth. The series concludes with a peaceful retirement where Loran and Dianna live together in a rustic cabin. His unwavering loyalty and gentle nature ultimately secure him a quiet life with the woman he loves.

‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’ (2022)

Maine serves as the charismatic leader of the mercenary crew and acts as a mentor figure to the younger protagonist David Martinez. He maintains a passionate and committed romantic relationship with Dorio who serves as his right hand in battle. The two characters share an inseparable bond that keeps them grounded amidst the technological chaos of Night City. Their connection stands out as the emotional anchor of the team until the very end of their journey.

‘Tenjho Tenge’ (2004)

Bob Makihara is a central figure in the Juken Club who stands out for his physical strength and distinct dreadlocks. He maintains a steady and committed relationship with Chiaki Kounoike throughout the violent martial arts battles. Their bond remains one of the few stable elements in a series known for its chaotic and often supernatural fighting tournaments. Bob proves that a tough fighter can also be a devoted partner who prioritizes his girlfriend’s safety.

‘Space Runaway Ideon’ (1980–1981)

Jordan Bes leads the crew of the Solo Ship and sports a distinctive afro and dark complexion. He falls in love with Karala Ajiba who is a princess of the alien Buff Clan acting as the enemy force. Their romance defies the intergalactic war and results in the birth of a child named Messiah. This union becomes a central plot point that drives the narrative toward its cosmic conclusion.

‘Sword Art Online’ (2012)

Andrew Gilbert Mills is better known by his username Agil and serves as a reliable merchant and axe wielder in the virtual world. He works hard to support the lead characters while mentioning his real life outside the game. The series reveals that he is happily married to a woman whom he runs a cafe with in the real world. Agil stands as a responsible adult figure who fights to return to his wife.

‘One Piece’ (1999–Present)

Usopp serves as the sniper of the Straw Hat Pirates and maintains a deep emotional connection with Kaya back in his hometown. He set sail to become a brave warrior of the sea with the express intention of returning to her one day with stories of his adventures. Kaya studies to become a doctor so she can heal him when he eventually comes back to Syrup Village. Their mutual devotion remains strong despite the vast distance separating them.

‘My Hero Academia’ (2016–2024)

Ken Takagi operates under the hero name Rock Lock and possesses the ability to lock objects in place. He is one of the few professional heroes shown to have a stable family life outside of his dangerous work. The series depicts him as a loving father and husband who fights to protect the future for his wife and child. His motivation highlights the personal stakes involved in the battle against the League of Villains.

‘Shaman King’ (2001–2002)

Chocolove McDonell joins the main cast as a comedian who wields the spirit of a jaguar. He initially struggles with his past but grows into a powerful shaman who fights to save the world. The manga conclusion and sequel series reveal that he eventually marries and becomes a father after the shaman tournament concludes. His journey shifts from a seeking of redemption to building a legacy with his own family.

‘Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic’ (2012–2013)

Masrur is a Fanalis warrior who serves as an advisor and fighter for Sinbad. He is a man of few words who uses his incredible physical strength to protect his kingdom and allies. Later developments in the story confirm that he marries and has children of his own. This domestic success contrasts sharply with his stoic and intimidating presence on the battlefield.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans’ (2015–2017)

Naze Turbine commands the Turbine faction and acts as a brother figure to the members of Tekkadan. He travels through space with his large family consisting of his wife Amida Arca and multiple other partners. His relationship with Amida is portrayed as a genuine partnership built on deep mutual respect and love. Naze provides a unique example of a dark-skinned male lead successfully managing a large and complex family unit.

‘Carole & Tuesday’ (2019)

Ezekiel serves as a mysterious celebrity and rapper who shares a secret past with one of the titular characters. He grew up in an orphanage with Carole and retains strong romantic feelings for her despite his fame. The narrative explores his struggle to balance his public persona with his desire to reconnect with his childhood love. He ultimately risks his career to express his true feelings to her during a climactic moment.

‘Basquash!’ (2009)

Dan JD acts as the hot-headed protagonist who inadvertently creates a new sport involving giant robots and basketball. He navigates a complex world of social stratification while pursuing his goals and his romantic interest Rouge. The story develops their relationship from rivalry and misunderstanding into a genuine romantic connection. Dan succeeds in revolutionizing the sport and winning the heart of the woman he admires.

‘Fairy Tail’ (2009–2019)

Ren Akatsuki belongs to the Blue Pegasus guild and is characterized by his tanned skin and calmer demeanor compared to his guildmates. He forms a romantic attachment to Sherry Blendy from the Lamia Scale guild during the joint mission against the Oracion Seis. Their relationship progresses from a battlefield flirtation to a confirmed engagement by the end of the series. Ren finds lasting happiness that transcends the boundaries of their respective guilds.

‘Kill la Kill’ (2013–2014)

Ira Gamagori serves as one of the Elite Four and imposes discipline with his massive size and dark complexion. He develops a protective and affectionate relationship with Mako Mankanshoku throughout the chaotic events of the series. Fans and official art heavily support the romantic pairing as Gamagori frequently puts himself in harm’s way to ensure Mako is safe. He effectively wins the affection of the girl who initially stood on the opposing side.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam SEED’ (2002–2003)

Dearka Elsman starts as an antagonist pilot for ZAFT before eventually defecting to help the protagonists. He forms a surprising and tender bond with Miriallia Haw despite initially killing her boyfriend in battle. Their relationship is complex and born out of mutual grief but evolves into a genuine connection by the end of the war. Dearka finds redemption and companionship through his willingness to change his worldview.

‘Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma’ (2015–2020)

Akira Hayama is a master of spices who enters the culinary academy with a distinct advantage due to his sense of smell. His entire motivation for cooking revolves around his devotion to Jun Shiomi who rescued him from poverty. He strives to achieve greatness specifically to prove her genius and secure her legacy in the culinary world. This dedication is framed as a deep and abiding love that defines his character arc.

‘Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works]’ (2014–2015)

Archer serves as a Counter Guardian with tanned skin and white hair who is summoned to fight in the Holy Grail War. The narrative reveals his true identity and his complicated past connection to the heroine Rin Tohsaka. He spends the duration of the war protecting her and challenging her ideals while reaffirming his bond with her. The conclusion of the route solidifies their connection as he entrusts his past self to her care.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam 00’ (2007–2009)

Lichtendahl Tsery pilots a mobile suit for Celestial Being and provides technical support for the team. He maintains a cheerful demeanor and pursues a romance with the bridge operator Tsugumi Liu. The two characters share a tragic but confirmed moment of mutual love during a critical attack on their ship. They face their final moments together in an embrace that solidifies their romantic victory amidst the war.

‘Michiko & Hatchin’ (2008–2009)

Hiroshi Morenos drives the plot as the elusive father figure and former lover of the protagonist Michiko Malandro. Michiko spends the entire series searching for him across a sun-soaked landscape based on their past passionate romance. Flashbacks and the narrative drive confirm that he was indeed the man who won her heart and gave her a child. His presence looms over the story as the ultimate romantic prize for the main character.

‘Afro Samurai’ (2007)

Afro travels a lonely path of vengeance but his history reveals a significant romantic connection that shaped him. He once shared a peaceful and loving life with Jinno and his sister before tragedy struck their dojo. The brief period of happiness shows that the stoic warrior was capable of love and had won the heart of a woman. This past romance serves to humanize the character beneath his cold exterior.

Tell us which of these couples is your favorite in the comments!