Anime Where the Black Character Has Natural Hair and Keeps It

Anime has grown significantly over the decades to include a diverse range of characters from various backgrounds and cultures who bring unique styles to the screen. Representation of Black characters often includes distinct hairstyles that reflect natural textures like afros or braids and locs. These character designs move away from generic straight hair to embrace more authentic looks that stand out in animation history. Fans appreciate seeing these detailed portrayals because they add depth and realism to the world building of each series. This list highlights twenty-five anime productions where Black characters proudly wear natural hairstyles throughout their respective story arcs.

‘Afro Samurai’ (2007)

The protagonist of this series is a wandering swordsman who is instantly recognizable by his voluminous afro that defies gravity during intense battles. Samuel L Jackson provides the voice for this stoic warrior who travels a path of revenge in a futuristic yet feudal Japan. His hair moves dynamically with every strike and serves as a key part of his iconic silhouette against dramatic backdrops. Viewers follow his journey as he faces numerous assassins while maintaining his composure and his signature look.

‘Michiko & Hatchin’ (2008–2009)

Atsuko Jackson serves as a police officer in this series and sports a large blonde afro that dominates the screen whenever she appears. She acts as a foil to the main character Michiko while chasing her across a landscape inspired by South American culture. Her character design includes stylish outfits that complement her bold hairstyle and tough attitude toward law enforcement. The series uses her distinct appearance to emphasize her strong presence and authority within the narrative.

‘Carole & Tuesday’ (2019)

Carole Stanley works various jobs while pursuing her dream of becoming a musician on a terraformed Mars. She wears her hair in thick locs that she often ties back or lets flow freely depending on the situation. The story focuses on her partnership with a runaway rich girl named Tuesday as they write songs together. Her character design reflects a grounded and natural aesthetic that matches her soulful musical style and independent personality.

‘Cannon Busters’ (2019)

Philly the Kid is an outlaw who travels in a transforming Cadillac with a couple of unique robotic companions. He wears his hair in short dreadlocks that stay consistent throughout his chaotic adventures across the land of Gearbolt. The series combines elements of westerns and fantasy while showcasing his cynical yet resilient nature. His character design stands out with bright colors and a rugged appearance that fits the gritty tone of the show.

‘Bleach’ (2004–2012)

Kaname Tosen serves as a captain in the Soul Society and later plays a major antagonist role in the series. He styles his hair in cornrows and wears a visor that covers his eyes since he is blind. His appearance remains tidy and disciplined which mirrors his philosophy on justice and order. The character utilizes sonic abilities in combat while maintaining his stoic and structured look throughout the arcs.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Canary is an apprentice butler who guards the Zoldyck family estate with incredible strength and precision. She features thick textured hair that is pulled into bunches which frame her determined face. Her introduction involves a memorable confrontation where she demonstrates her loyalty and combat skills against the protagonist. The design of her character emphasizes her youth but also her serious dedication to her professional duties.

‘Naruto Shippūden’ (2007–2017)

Killer Bee represents the Village Hidden in the Clouds as its powerful jinchuriki who hosts the Eight Tails beast. He wears his blonde hair in cornrows and constantly carries seven swords on his back for his unique fighting style. This character frequently speaks in rhymes and brings a lighthearted energy to serious situations during the war arcs. His distinct look and musical dialogue make him one of the most memorable figures in the franchise.

‘Fire Force’ (2019–2020)

Ogun Montgomery is a member of Special Fire Force Company 4 who possesses great strength and defensive abilities. His hair is styled in short cornrows with a design that looks like flames etched into the sides. He acts as a reliable ally who values friendship and works hard to protect the citizens of Tokyo from spontaneous combustion. The series highlights his heritage and integrates his unique style seamlessly into the uniform setting.

‘Soul Eater’ (2008–2009)

Kilik Rung is a meister at the Death Weapon Meister Academy and wields two weapons known as Fire and Thunder. He sports thick glasses and dreadlocks that give him a modern and relaxed appearance compared to his classmates. His fighting style relies on speed and elemental attacks that require him to be in perfect sync with his weapon partners. The show presents him as one of the top students who remains cool under pressure during battles.

‘Yasuke’ (2021)

This series reimagines the life of the historical Black samurai who served under Oda Nobunaga in feudal Japan. The title character wears his hair in long locs that he sometimes ties up when he prepares for combat. He works as a boatman trying to leave his violent past behind until he is pulled back into conflict to protect a child. His character design merges traditional samurai armor with a natural hairstyle that honors his origins.

‘One Piece’ (1999–)

Usopp serves as the sniper of the Straw Hat crew and is known for his curly black hair and long nose. He often wears bandanas or hats but his natural hair texture is always visible underneath. His character grows from a cowardly storyteller into a brave warrior of the sea who fights for his friends. The creator has mentioned that Usopp represents an African background in real world terms which aligns with his design.

‘Appare-Ranman!’ (2020)

TJ is one of the competitors in the transcontinental race across America and brings a flashy style to the competition. He wears his hair in dreadlocks and dresses in colorful clothing that reflects his outgoing and confident personality. He works alongside another racer named Dylan and provides musical entertainment as well as driving skills. His design captures a vibrant energy that fits the wacky and adventurous tone of the series.

‘Great Pretender’ (2020)

Dorothy is an accomplished confidence woman who once led the main group of scammers before disappearing during a mission. She has curly dark hair that frames her expressive face and complements her bold fashion choices. Her backstory reveals her deep connection to the other characters and her influence on their lives. The animation highlights her dynamic expressions and natural hair texture during flashbacks and present day scenes.

‘Shaman King’ (2001–2002)

Chocolove McDonell is a shaman from North America who fights using the spirit of a jaguar named Mic. He wears an afro hairstyle and often incorporates comedy into his routine as he aspires to be a comedian. His character arc involves learning to balance his humor with the seriousness of the Shaman Fight tournament. The series depicts him as a loyal friend who undergoes significant personal growth and gains powerful abilities.

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

Muhammad Avdol is a fortune teller from Egypt who acts as a voice of reason for the group traveling to defeat Dio. He styles his hair in Bantu knots which creates a distinct silhouette alongside his heavy accessories and coat. He wields the flaming Stand known as Magician’s Red and possesses extensive knowledge about enemy abilities. His character design is iconic within the franchise and showcases a specific cultural hairstyle that is rarely seen in anime.

‘Tenjho Tenge’ (2004)

Bob Makihara is a towering fighter who often relies on his raw strength and capoeira skills during street brawls. He wears his hair in long dreadlocks that hang down past his shoulders and move with his athletic motions. His relationship with his girlfriend Chiaki provides emotional grounding amidst the supernatural martial arts battles. The anime focuses on his loyalty to his friends and his determination to get stronger through intense training.

‘Baki’ (2018–2020)

Biscuit Oliva is known as the strongest man in the United States and possesses an incredibly muscular physique. He has short curly hair that sits tight to his head while he performs feats of strength that defy logic. He lives in a prison where he is technically an inmate but enjoys complete freedom due to his power. His character represents the pinnacle of physical durability and brute force within the underground fighting world.

‘Super Dimension Fortress Macross’ (1982–1983)

Claudia LaSalle serves as a bridge officer on the SDF 1 Macross and handles navigation and communications. She wears her hair in a short afro style that stays professional and practical for her military role. She shares a close friendship with Misa Hayase and offers mature advice on relationships during the intergalactic war. Her presence on the bridge provides stability and competence as the crew faces alien threats.

‘Yu-Gi-Oh! GX’ (2004–2008)

Axel Brodie acts as a mercenary duelist before eventually becoming a student at Duel Academy. He wears his dark hair in dreadlocks and uses a deck based on fire and volcanic monsters. His serious demeanor contrasts with the more carefree attitude of the main protagonist Jaden Yuki. The show develops his character from a ruthless antagonist into a dependable ally who values honor and strategy.

‘Space Brothers’ (2012–2014)

Buddy Waters is a NASA astronaut who becomes a mentor figure and a popular character for his enthusiastic personality. He has an afro and often wears sunglasses while encouraging the main characters to pursue their space travel dreams. His character brings a positive and eccentric energy to the rigorous training process depicted in the series. He is known for his unique catchphrases and his genuine passion for exploring the universe.

‘Cowboy Bebop’ (1998–1999)

Punch is the energetic host of the bounty hunting show Big Shot that the main characters watch for information. He wears a classic afro and a suit while delivering news about wanted criminals with exaggerated enthusiasm. His role serves as a comedic device that helps build the world by updating the audience on current bounties. The contrast between his upbeat persona and the dark reality of the criminal underworld adds flavor to the series.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013–2023)

Onyankopon is a pilot and soldier who travels from outside the walls to help humanity fight against the Titans. He keeps his hair in a short textured cut that is practical for his military operations. His character delivers a famous line about how everyone is created by a god who thought it was interesting to make different kinds of people. He plays a crucial role in navigating airships and supporting the scouts during the final battles.

‘Durarara!!’ (2010)

Simon Brezhnev works as a sushi chef in Ikebukuro and is known for his pacifist nature despite his intimidating size. He has short curly hair and wears a chef uniform while trying to hand out flyers to passersby on the street. He often steps in to stop fights between other strong characters by using his immense physical strength. His background involves a history in the Russian mafia which contrasts with his current peaceful lifestyle.

‘Banana Fish’ (2018)

Cain Blood is the leader of the Black Sabbath gang in New York and becomes a strategic ally to Ash Lynx. He wears sunglasses and has short textured hair that complements his cool and collected leadership style. He values loyalty above all else and refuses to let his territory be overrun by corrupt forces. The series portrays him as a smart and capable figure who commands respect from his subordinates.

‘Pokémon’ (1997–)

Iris travels as a companion to Ash Ketchum during his journey through the Unova region and aims to become a Dragon Master. She has voluminous purple hair that is incredibly thick and allows her Axew to hide inside it. Her character is energetic and agile as she climbs trees and swings from vines with ease. She eventually grows into the role of Champion which proves her skill and dedication to training her team.

Tell us which of these iconic hairstyles is your favorite by leaving a comment below!