Anime That Portrayed Black Characters as Sidekicks Only

The medium of Japanese animation has featured a diverse array of supporting characters who provide essential aid to the central protagonists. Many of these figures possess incredible skills and unique personalities that enrich the narrative world while they remain in secondary roles. These characters often act as mentors or loyal comrades who help the main heroes overcome various obstacles throughout their journeys. While they are indispensable to the plots of their respective shows they do not occupy the primary spotlight. This list explores several anime series where the notable black characters serve exclusively in supporting or sidekick capacities.

‘Dragon Ball Z’ (1989–1996)

Mr. Popo is a long time resident of the Lookout who serves as the assistant to the Earth deity Kami. He spends his time maintaining the temple grounds and guarding the sacred areas from intruders. During various sagas he provides essential training to the heroes so they can defend the planet from powerful invaders. His knowledge of the sacred grounds and the dragon balls makes him a vital resource for the protagonists. His character remains a background figure who offers guidance and support without ever becoming the primary focus of the series.

‘Bleach’ (2004–2012)

Kaname Tosen serves as the captain of the ninth division in the Gotei 13 before revealing his true allegiance. He follows the villainous Sosuke Aizen because he believes it is the path toward true justice and peace. His role in the story is defined by his loyalty to his master and his personal philosophy regarding the cost of war. He acts as a secondary antagonist and a supporting figure who challenges the beliefs of the main heroes. His journey is defined by his interactions with the main cast rather than his own independent narrative.

‘Cowboy Bebop’ (1998–1999)

Bob is a police officer who maintains a working relationship with the bounty hunter Jet Black. He provides the crew of the Bebop with sensitive information and leads regarding dangerous criminals across the solar system. His interactions with Jet reveal more about the past life of the crew member and help flesh out the gritty setting. Bob is a recurring contact who never joins the main adventures but remains a helpful resource from the sidelines. He provides a grounded perspective on the legal system within the futuristic world of the show.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Canary is a loyal servant who guards the entrance to the Zoldyck family estate with immense skill. She shows great dedication to Killua and helps the main group of friends when they come to rescue him. Her strength is evident in her combat abilities but she remains bound by her duties as a secondary staff member. She provides a glimpse into the internal dynamics of the powerful assassin family without taking a central role. Her character serves as a bridge between the protagonists and the mysterious Zoldyck household.

‘Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters’ (2000–2004)

Odion Ishtar acts as the devoted servant and guardian to Marik Ishtar throughout the Battle City arc. He is a skilled duelist who follows the orders of his master with unwavering loyalty even when he disagrees with the methods. His presence serves to protect Marik and maintain the secrecy of the tomb keepers organization. While he plays a significant role in the plot he remains a subordinate who operates in the shadow of the main villain. His character emphasizes themes of loyalty and duty within the high stakes world of the card game.

‘My Hero Academia’ (2016–2024)

Rock Lock is a professional hero who participates in the raid against the Shie Hassaikai organization. He possesses the ability to lock objects in place in space which provides tactical advantages during intense battles. His role is to support the lead heroes and protect the younger students during the dangerous mission. He offers a veteran perspective on the dangers of hero work and the importance of precision. Despite his unique powers he remains a supporting character who contributes to the success of the main cast.

‘Soul Eater’ (2008–2009)

Kiliko Rung is a powerful meister who partners with the dual pots of fire and thunder to fight evil spirits. He demonstrates remarkable speed and technical skill during the various missions assigned by the Death Weapon Meister Academy. His role is to provide backup and specialized combat support to the central trio of students. While he is a capable warrior he remains a peripheral character who assists the primary protagonists. His presence adds diversity to the roster of fighters who defend the world from madness.

‘One Piece’ (1999–Present)

Mr. 5 is a member of the Baroque Works criminal organization who possesses the power to create explosions with his body. He serves as an early antagonist who challenges the Straw Hat crew during their journey to Alabasta. His role is to provide a physical obstacle that forces the main heroes to improve their combat skills. He operates as a secondary agent under the command of Crocodile and never develops into a lead character. His abilities showcase the creative power system of the series while he remains a minor supporting figure.

‘Black Lagoon’ (2006)

Dutch is the leader of the Lagoon Company and the captain of the torpedo boat used for smuggling operations. He provides the logistical support and leadership necessary for the crew to survive in the dangerous city of Roanapur. While he is the head of the group the story primarily focuses on the experiences of the protagonist Rock and the fighter Revy. Dutch acts as a steady hand and a source of wisdom for his younger teammates during their missions. He remains a supporting figure who facilitates the adventures of the central characters.

‘Sword Art Online’ (2012)

Agil is a veteran player who operates a shop within the virtual reality game and helps the protagonist Kirito. He provides equipment and information and tactical support during the dangerous floor raids. His character is known for his reliability and his willingness to help lower level players survive the death game. He remains a steady supporting figure who offers a safe haven for the main heroes between their adventures. His role emphasizes the importance of community and support systems in a high pressure environment.

‘Durarara!!’ (2010)

Simon Brezhnev is a tall and strong man who works as a promoter for a Russian sushi restaurant in Ikebukuro. He acts as a peacemaker who uses his immense physical power to stop fights between the various factions in the city. His calm demeanor and philosophical outlook provide a contrast to the chaotic events occurring around him. He is a recurring side character who influences the plot from the background without becoming a lead. His presence adds a unique cultural and physical element to the urban setting of the show.

‘Fire Force’ (2019–2020)

Ogun Montgomery is a talented fire soldier who belongs to Company 4 and possesses the ability to create flame spears. He is a close friend of the protagonist Shinra Kusakabe and often helps him during intense battles against the Infernals. His combat skills are impressive but he primarily serves as a supportive ally within the larger organization. He contributes to the team efforts without ever leading the narrative as the main hero. His character highlights the camaraderie and teamwork required within the special fire force.

‘Blue Lock’ (2022–2023)

Agi is a talented soccer player who participates in the rigorous training program designed to create the world’s greatest striker. He serves as a rival and a teammate to the main characters while showcasing his unique physical attributes and skills on the field. His presence provides a challenge that pushes the protagonist to evolve his playing style. While he is a formidable athlete he remains one of many supporting figures in the competitive environment. His role is to enhance the intensity of the matches rather than to lead the story.

‘Baki’ (2018–2020)

Biscuit Oliva is an incredibly muscular man who is considered the strongest person in the United States. He acts as a rival and a measuring stick for the protagonist Baki Hanma during his training and battles. His role is to demonstrate the heights of physical power and provide a unique challenge for the main cast. While he has his own subplots he remains a secondary figure in the broader narrative of the Hanma family. He serves as a powerful sidekick and antagonist who enriches the martial arts world of the show.

‘Hellsing Ultimate’ (2006–2012)

Abramson is a member of the Wild Geese mercenary group that is hired to protect the Hellsing Organization. He works under the command of Pip Bernadotte and provides essential combat support during the vampire attacks on London. His role is to act as a skilled soldier who assists the main supernatural protagonists in their mission. He remains a background figure who represents the human element in a story dominated by monsters. His character contributes to the gritty atmosphere of the series without taking a lead role.

‘Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex’ (2002–2003)

Borma is a member of Section 9 who specializes in cyber warfare and explosive ordinance disposal. He often works behind the scenes to provide technical support and security during high stakes operations. His role is to assist Major Motoko Kusanagi and the rest of the team as they investigate complex cybercrimes. He is a consistent supporting character who ensures the success of the unit through his specialized expertise. His presence is vital to the team dynamic even though he rarely takes center stage.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2007)

Villetta Nu is a talented pilot and officer within the Britannian military who becomes entangled in the plans of the protagonist Lelouch. She serves as a persistent antagonist and later an ally whose actions influence the political landscape of the series. Her character explores the complexities of identity and loyalty during a time of global revolution. While she has a significant character arc she remains a supporting figure in the shadow of the main royal conflict. She provides a perspective from within the military structure that the leads are trying to dismantle.

‘Shaman King’ (2001–2002)

Chocolove is a shaman from the United States who joins the main group of heroes in their quest to become the Shaman King. He uses his spirit partner to engage in combat and provides comic relief through his various jokes and puns. His role is to support the protagonist Yoh Asakura and contribute his unique skills to the team. While he is a capable shaman he remains a secondary member of the ensemble cast. He provides a different cultural perspective and adds variety to the group of supernatural warriors.

‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’ (2022)

Maine is the leader of a mercenary crew who takes the young protagonist David Martinez under his wing. He provides equipment and guidance and fatherly support to David as the boy enters the dangerous world of Night City. His physical strength and experience make him a formidable mentor during the early missions. His character arc serves to motivate David and push the main story toward its conclusion. While he is the head of the crew he functions as a supporting figure whose legacy shapes the hero.

‘Death Note’ (2006–2007)

Anthony Rester serves as the second in command for the Special Provision for Kira under the leadership of Near. He provides strategic analysis and logistical support to help the investigation team track down the supernatural killer. His professionalism and loyalty make him an indispensable asset to the main detective characters. He remains a peripheral figure who facilitates the intellectual battle between the primary protagonists and antagonists. His role highlights the importance of teamwork in the pursuit of justice.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020–2021)

Miguel is a powerful sorcerer who initially appears as an antagonist working alongside the villainous Suguru Geto. He later becomes a supporting figure who helps train the younger generation of sorcerers and provides assistance during major battles. His unique cursed tools and combat experience make him a valuable ally in the fight against cursed spirits. He functions as a recurring side character whose actions support the development of the main heroes. His presence adds depth to the international community of sorcerers within the series.

‘Great Pretender’ (2020)

Abigail Jones is a highly skilled athlete and thief who works with the international con artist Laurent Thierry. She uses her physical agility and combat training to execute complex heists and escape dangerous situations. Her character explores themes of trauma and recovery as she navigates the world of high stakes deception. While she is a core member of the heist team she remains a supporting figure to the lead protagonist Edamura. She provides the necessary muscle and technical skill to ensure the success of their elaborate schemes.

‘Gangsta.’ (2015)

Marco Adriano is a skilled fighter who works for the Paulklee Guild as a high ranking mercenary. He possesses incredible physical abilities due to his nature as a Twilight and he often assists the main characters during violent encounters. His character is defined by his loyalty to his comrades and his struggle with his past actions. He remains a supporting figure who adds depth to the underground world of the city of Ergastulum. His role showcases the harsh realities faced by those living on the fringes of society.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam’ (1979–1980)

Lalah Sune is a powerful Newtype who serves as a pilot and a spiritual guide for the antagonist Char Aznable. She possesses a deep connection to the protagonist Amuro Ray which creates a complex emotional dynamic during the war. Her role is to explore the potential of human evolution and the tragedy of conflict through her psychic abilities. While she is a pivotal character in the lore she remains a supporting figure who exists primarily in relation to the main pilots. Her presence influences the development of the lead characters long after her direct involvement ends.

‘Trigun’ (1998)

Raider is a member of the Gung-Ho Guns who serves the primary antagonist Knives Millions. He uses his unique weapons and combat skills to challenge the protagonist Vash the Stampede during his journey. His role is to act as a secondary obstacle that reflects the dark themes of the series. He remains a minor supporting figure who appears briefly to advance the plot and test the skills of the hero. His character contributes to the western inspired aesthetic and the dangerous atmosphere of the world.

‘Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead’ (2023)

Bea is a German woman who joins the main group of survivors during the zombie apocalypse in Japan. she is an enthusiast of Japanese culture and uses her physical strength and knowledge to help the team navigate dangerous areas. Her role is to provide a positive and energetic presence that balances the grim nature of their situation. While she is a valuable member of the group she remains a supporting character who assists the lead protagonist in his quest. Her interactions with the other survivors help build a sense of community and hope.

‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ (2009–2010)

General Miles is a high ranking officer in the Amestrian military who serves as the adjutant to General Olivier Mira Armstrong. He possesses a unique cultural heritage from Ishval and uses his position to bridge the gap between different factions. His role is to provide strategic support and help maintain order at the northern fortress of Briggs. He acts as a loyal sidekick to General Armstrong and assists the Elric brothers during their mission. His character explores themes of identity and reform within a militaristic society.

‘Akame ga Kill!’ (2014)

Bulat is a veteran warrior and a member of the elite assassin group Night Raid. He serves as a mentor to the protagonist Tatsumi and teaches him the importance of discipline and strength in battle. His incredible power and armor based weapon make him one of the most formidable members of the team. While he is a central figure in the early part of the series he remains a supporting character who guides the hero. His influence is felt throughout the story as Tatsumi carries on his legacy.

‘D.Gray-man’ (2006–2008)

Noise Marie is an exorcist who uses a sound based weapon to fight against the demonic Akuma. He possesses a calm and steady personality that provides stability to his teammates during dangerous missions. His role is to act as a supporting combatant and a source of wisdom for the younger exorcists in the Black Order. While he is a capable fighter he remains a secondary figure who assists the primary protagonists. His unique abilities add diversity to the supernatural combat systems of the show.

‘One-Punch Man’ (2015)

Superalloy Darkshine is a high ranking hero known for his incredible physical durability and muscular physique. He participates in various missions to defend cities from monster attacks and provides heavy support to other heroes. His role is to showcase the heights of physical training while serving as a secondary member of the Hero Association. Despite his immense strength he often finds himself in supportive roles during the major conflicts of the series. He remains a notable side character who contributes to the world building of the hero society.

‘Tiger & Bunny’ (2011)

Nathan Seymour is a professional hero known as Fire Emblem who possesses the ability to manipulate flames. He operates as a member of a corporate sponsored hero team and participates in a reality television show about crime fighting. His role is to provide support and technical skill during the various public emergencies and battles. He is a consistent secondary character who offers a unique personality and perspective within the hero community. While he is a skilled warrior he remains a supporting figure to the main duo of the series.

‘Deadman Wonderland’ (2011)

Mizlin is a prisoner who resides within the private prison and amusement park known as Deadman Wonderland. She possesses the ability to manipulate her blood for combat and participates in the brutal games held for entertainment. Her role is to act as a secondary participant in the internal conflicts and provide a challenge for the main characters. She remains a peripheral figure who adds to the dangerous and unpredictable nature of the prison environment. Her character highlights the diverse range of abilities possessed by the inmates.

‘Michiko & Hatchin’ (2008–2009)

Atsuko Jackson is a police officer who is constantly chasing the main character Michiko Malandro across the country. She grew up in the same orphanage as the protagonist and shares a complicated history of friendship and rivalry with her. While she is a persistent force in the narrative she acts primarily as a foil to the main duo of travelers. Her character explores themes of duty and personal connection while remaining a secondary figure in the plot. She provides a grounded perspective on the lawless world inhabited by the heroes.

‘Eureka Seven’ (2005–2006)

Adroc Thurston is a legendary scientist and military hero whose research on the planet shapes the entire history of the world. Although he appears primarily in flashbacks he acts as a distant mentor and inspiration for the protagonist Renton. His past actions and discoveries drive the main conflict and provide the foundation for the narrative. He is a supporting figure whose legacy is vital to the development of the lead characters and the resolution of the story. His role emphasizes the impact of the previous generation on the current heroes.

‘Fairy Tail’ (2009–2019)

Ren Akatsuki is a member of the Blue Pegasus guild who uses air magic to engage in combat and support his teammates. He often appears during the major crossover events and tournaments where the various guilds cooperate or compete. His role is to provide a specialized set of skills that contribute to the collective efforts of the hero alliance. While he is a competent wizard he remains a supporting character who exists in the background of the main Fairy Tail adventures. He adds to the diverse roster of magic users in the series.

‘Darker than Black’ (2007)

April is a contractor with the ability to create localized rainstorms and navigate through electrical currents. She works as part of a specialized team that provides intelligence and tactical support during clandestine operations. Her role is to assist the main agents in their missions while dealing with the emotional consequences of being a contractor. She is a recurring side character who adds to the atmospheric and mysterious tone of the urban fantasy setting. Her unique powers are used primarily for support rather than direct narrative leadership.

Share your thoughts on which supporting characters you find most memorable in the comments.