Anime Where Black Characters Held Positions of Real Authority

The landscape of global animation has expanded to feature a wide variety of characters who occupy central positions of power and influence. Within the medium of anime, Black characters are frequently depicted as capable leaders, military commanders, and strategic masterminds who dictate the course of their respective stories. These figures command respect through their professional expertise, tactical brilliance, and the high-stakes responsibilities they manage. From sovereign rulers to elite law enforcement officers, these characters represent a significant and authoritative presence across diverse genres.

‘One Piece’ (1999–)

Daz Bonez, also known by his codename Mr. 1, acts as the primary officer and most powerful subordinate under the antagonist Crocodile. He leads the specialized assassin branch of the Baroque Works criminal organization before the group’s eventual reorganization. His authority is demonstrated through his command over lower-ranked agents and his pivotal role in the Alabasta takeover plan. Later in ‘One Piece’, he maintains a position of respect and strength alongside his captain within the Cross Guild.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Canary is a highly skilled guardian who manages the primary entrance to the Zoldyck Family’s vast estate on Kukuroo Mountain. She possesses the authority to use lethal force against any trespassers attempting to breach the gate without official permission. Her role involves significant responsibility as the first line of defense for the world’s most notorious family of assassins. Despite her young age, she possesses enough combat authority to neutralize dozens of professional hunters simultaneously.

‘Naruto Shippūden’ (2007–2017)

The Fourth Raikage, A, serves as the supreme leader of Kumogakure and the head of all shinobi within the Land of Lightning. He exerts absolute political and military authority over his village and eventually becomes the Supreme Commander of the Allied Shinobi Forces. Under his leadership, the village maintains a position of global power through strict discipline and advanced military research. His decisions directly impact the geopolitical stability of the Five Great Shinobi Nations throughout ‘Naruto: Shippuden’.

‘Berserk’ (1997–1998)

Casca serves as the primary unit commander for the Band of the Falcon and is the second-in-command to the group’s leader. She directs complex military maneuvers and manages the logistics for thousands of mercenary soldiers during the Hundred-Year War. Her leadership is crucial to the unit’s rise from a small band to the personal guard of the Midland royal family. She maintains strict discipline among the troops and earns their unwavering loyalty through her prowess on the battlefield.

‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders’ (2014–2015)

Mohammed Avdol is an Egyptian fortune teller who acts as the primary strategist and guide for the Joestar group. He possesses deep knowledge of Stand abilities and provides essential leadership during their journey toward Cairo. His authority is derived from his years of experience as a Stand user and his role as a mentor to the younger members. He frequently takes command during critical tactical engagements to ensure the team’s survival against powerful enemies.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020–)

Miguel is a powerful sorcerer from Africa who leads a faction of curse users during the events of the prequel story. He commands significant respect from the primary antagonist and is trusted with the mission of stalling the strongest sorcerer in the world. Following the conflict, he takes on a mentorship role for the series protagonist during an international training period. His magical prowess and combat experience place him at the top of the international sorcery hierarchy in ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’.

‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’ (2022)

Maine is the charismatic leader of a group of mercenaries operating in the dangerous underworld of Night City. He oversees the planning and execution of high-stakes corporate espionage missions and illegal heists. His authority is absolute within his crew, as he manages their cybernetic upgrades, mission roles, and payment distributions. He serves as a mentor and father figure to the younger members while navigating the lethal corporate landscape of ‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’.

‘Bleach’ (2004–2012)

Yoruichi Shihoin is the former Captain of the Second Division of the Gotei 13 and the Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukido. She also holds the title of the 22nd Head of the Shihoin Noble Family, one of the four great noble houses in the Soul Society. Her authority allows her to lead covert operations and intelligence-gathering units with absolute autonomy. She remains an influential figure in the military and political landscape of ‘Bleach’ long after leaving her official post.

‘Banana Fish’ (2018)

Cain Blood is the leader of the Black Sabbath gang, which controls the Harlem territory in New York City. He maintains a neutral but powerful position among the city’s warring criminal factions and dictates the terms of local peace. His authority is demonstrated through his ability to mobilize hundreds of members for strategic alliances during the series’ central conflict. He commands respect even from the show’s primary protagonists due to his fair leadership and tactical intelligence.

‘Black Lagoon’ (2006)

Dutch is the founder and captain of the Lagoon Company, a specialized mercenary delivery service based in the lawless city of Roanapur. He makes all executive decisions regarding contracts, combat engagements, and the management of his diverse crew. His leadership is grounded in his extensive military background and his ability to negotiate with powerful crime syndicates. He provides the logistical and tactical oversight necessary for the group’s survival in the violent world of ‘Black Lagoon’.

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

Dexter Culaster is the head of administration and finance for the Tekkadan mercenary company. He manages the organization’s budget, contract negotiations, and legal documentation during their rapid rise to power on Mars. His role is essential for transforming the ragtag group of soldiers into a legitimate and profitable corporate entity. He holds significant authority over the non-combat operations and economic strategy of the group in ‘Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans’.

‘Soul Eater’ (2008–2009)

Kilik Rung is one of the top three students at the Death Weapon Meister Academy and leads his own specialized combat team. He represents the school in high-level international missions and holds authority over lower-ranked students during field operations. His skill with his twin weapons makes him a primary offensive force for the academy’s military branch. He is frequently consulted by the school’s leadership for tactical advice during the global conflict in ‘Soul Eater’.

‘Great Pretender’ (2020)

Abigail Jones is the lead operative and physical enforcer for an international group of elite confidence artists. She manages the high-risk mechanical and athletic aspects of their elaborate heists across the globe. Her authority is recognized within the group as she often makes split-second tactical decisions during dangerous undercover operations. She operates with a high degree of autonomy while executing complex schemes against corrupt billionaires in ‘Great Pretender’.

‘Gungrave’ (2003–2004)

Bear Walken is a legendary assassin and a top-ranking executive in the powerful Millennion crime syndicate. He oversees the organization’s internal discipline and commands the elite soldiers assigned to the “Overman” project. His authority is so great that he remains one of the few individuals respected by both the supreme leader and the common foot soldiers. He acts as a guardian of the syndicate’s traditions and its most powerful military assets throughout ‘Gungrave’.

‘Eureka Seven’ (2005–2006)

Hap is the second-in-command and treasurer of the anti-government revolutionary group known as Gekkostate. He is responsible for the group’s financial stability, supply lines, and internal logistics during their conflict with the military. While other members focus on pilot combat, Hap manages the operational viability of their massive airship base. His authority ensures the crew can continue their mission while remaining undetected by the authorities in ‘Eureka Seven’.

‘Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water’ (1990–1991)

Captain Nemo is the commanding officer of the advanced submarine Nautilus and the leader of the resistance against Neo-Atlantis. He exerts absolute authority over his international crew and makes critical decisions that determine the fate of the planet. His character is depicted as a brilliant scientist and a seasoned military strategist with a mysterious past. He leads a high-stakes technological war to protect the world from ancient, destructive powers in ‘Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water’.

‘Fire Force’ (2019–)

Ogun Montgomery is a high-ranking member of Special Fire Force Company 4 and a descendant of legendary heroes. He often takes the lead on the front lines during dangerous combat operations against the Infernal threat. His leadership is characterized by his calm demeanor and his ability to coordinate complex maneuvers with other fire-fighting units. He holds significant authority within the Tokyo Empire’s specialized military structure in ‘Fire Force’.

‘D.Gray-man’ (2006–2008)

Noise Marie is an elite Exorcist within the Black Order who is eventually promoted to the prestigious rank of General. He leads squads of finders and junior exorcists on critical missions to combat the Millennium Earl’s supernatural forces. His authority is backed by his mastery of Innocence and his strategic experience in the field of battle. He serves as a mentor and commanding officer within the European Branch of the Order in ‘D.Gray-man’.

‘Dragon Ball’ (1986–1989)

Officer Black is the high-ranking adjutant to Commander Red and handles the primary military coordination for the Red Ribbon Army. He manages the organization’s global communications and directs the search for the powerful Dragon Balls. After realizing the Commander’s selfish motives, he executes him and takes full command of the entire paramilitary group. He leads the army’s final defense using advanced robotic technology during the concluding chapters of ‘Dragon Ball’.

‘Afro Samurai’ (2007)

Afro is the holder of the Number Two headband, a position that grants him the exclusive right to challenge the ruler of the world. This rank places him at the top of a violent global hierarchy where every other warrior must fight for the right to face him. His authority is recognized by every swordsman who seeks the ultimate power associated with the Number One headband. He commands the path of the sword through absolute martial dominance and singular focus in ‘Afro Samurai’.

‘Blood+’ (2005–2006)

James Ironside is the leader of the Schiff, a group of artificially created warriors seeking their own freedom. He later becomes the administrator of the Cinq Flèches Group’s American branch, a position of immense corporate and political power. His authority allows him to manipulate global events and direct the movements of high-level biological weapons. He serves as a primary strategist and commander throughout the international conflict in ‘Blood+’.

‘Michiko & Hatchin’ (2008–2009)

Atsuko Jackson is a high-ranking inspector in the national police force who leads the pursuit of the fugitive Michiko Malandro. She commands entire precincts and specialized task forces during her career-long investigation into organized crime. Her authority allows her to requisition military resources and cross jurisdictional boundaries to achieve her objectives. She is depicted as a determined law enforcement leader navigating systemic corruption in the world of ‘Michiko & Hatchin’.

‘Sword Art Online’ (2012–)

Agil, whose real name is Andrew Gilbert Mills, is a veteran player who leads a frontline shop and central information hub. He holds significant social authority among the survivors of the death game and participates in top-tier boss raids with the “Clearing Group”. He manages the logistics and equipment necessary to ensure the safety and progress of the player population. His leadership extends beyond the digital world as a business owner and community mentor in ‘Sword Art Online’.

‘Blue Exorcist’ (2011–)

Igor Neuhaus is a First Class Upper-Rank Exorcist and a professor specializing in demonology at the True Cross Academy. He holds the authority to certify new exorcists and leads dangerous containment missions against high-level threats. His rank within the Vatican’s military arm provides him with access to restricted archives and powerful ancient seals. He acts as a commanding figure in the defense of the human realm in ‘Blue Exorcist’.

‘Akudama Drive’ (2020)

The Master is a legendary executioner who leads the Kanto Execution Division in the pursuit of high-profile cyber-criminals. He commands elite squads and has the legal authority to declare martial law in various urban sectors. His role is to maintain absolute order through the use of advanced weaponry and ruthless strategic combat. He serves as the primary representative of the state’s judicial power throughout the events of ‘Akudama Drive’.

‘Gangsta.’ (2015)

Galahad Woe is a high-ranking member of the Cristiano Family and serves as the manager of the influential Paulklee Guild. He possesses the authority to deploy “Twilights” to maintain the balance of power within the city of Ergastulum. His leadership ensures the protection of marginalized groups within the city’s complex and violent social structure. He is respected as one of the most powerful and influential figures in the criminal underworld of ‘Gangsta.’.

‘Promare’ (2019)

Ignis Ex is the captain of the Burning Rescue team, an elite firefighting unit in the technologically advanced city of Promepolis. He directs emergency operations and manages the deployment of high-tech gear to combat the threat of the Burnish. His authority is recognized by the city’s administration, and he is responsible for the safety of the entire civilian population. He leads his team with a focus on tactical precision and humanitarian aid in ‘Promare’.

‘Tenjho Tenge’ (2004)

Bob Makihara is a founding member of the Juken Club and a dominant force within the hierarchy of Toudou Academy. He holds physical authority over the school’s various martial arts factions and helps lead the club’s defensive strategies. His strength and reputation make him a key figure in the school’s internal power struggles and territorial disputes. He often takes charge during large-scale brawls to protect his teammates and maintain the club’s status in ‘Tenjou Tenge’.

‘Cannon Busters’ (2019)

S.A.M. is a Royal Class Friendship Droid who holds a high position within the hierarchy of the lost kingdom of Botica. She possesses specialized combat protocols that allow her to command powerful defensive systems and lead diplomatic efforts. Her authority is recognized by other robotic units and citizens who remain loyal to the crown. She travels the world to restore order and fulfill her royal mission in ‘Cannon Busters’.

‘Yasuke’ (2021)

Yasuke is a historical figure who served as a high-ranking retainer and samurai under the daimyo Oda Nobunaga in feudal Japan. In the anime, he holds the authority of a seasoned warrior who leads defense missions against supernatural threats to the empire. His position allows him to command respect from other samurai and influence the outcome of major military engagements. He is depicted as a pivotal leader who bridges different cultures while wielding immense military power in ‘Yasuke’.

Tell us which of these powerful leaders is your favorite in the comments.