30 Sad Anime Boys You Need To See (With Images)

One of the reasons why fans consider anime so compelling is the reliability of its characters. No matter how powerful they are, every once in a while, an emotional crisis emerges, and even the nastiest powerhouses are capable of grieving and being sad. This is why we decided to collect a list of the most notable sad anime boys, with images as well as a short description of their overall personalities. So, join us on this journey as we check out the 30 most notable sad anime boys!

30. Shin’ichi Kudō

Franchise: Detective Conan

Shin’ichi Kudo, a standout detective in the manga and anime series Detective Conan, undergoes a transformation into a child after an encounter with a dangerous poison. Adopting the alias Conan Edogawa to conceal his identity, he joins forces with his adoptive family, including Ran Mouri and her detective father, Kogoro Mouri, as well as inventor Hiroshi Agasa. Despite his diminutive appearance, Conan contributes to solving complex cases and tirelessly investigates the mysterious “Organization of the Men in Black” linked to the assailants who altered his life.

29. Shōto Todoroki

Franchise: My Hero Academia

A top student in the class and one of the recommended four, he possesses the Quirk “Half-Cold Half-Hot,” enabling him to generate fire from his left side and ice from his right. To optimize his abilities, he must alternate between the two sides, balancing the risk of frostbite and burns. Capable of summoning ice mountains and intense flames, he becomes powerful when utilizing both sides simultaneously through training. Despite his strength, he struggles with shaping the ice intricately. The son of Endeavor, the esteemed hero second only to All Might, he showcased his prowess during the Sports Festival, finishing second to Bakugo.

28. Kōichi Kimura

Franchise: Digimon

Kōichi Kimura is Kōji’s twin brother, raised by his mother and grandmother after their parents separated. Unaware of his brother’s existence, he discovers the truth while in the hospital. Tragically, in an attempt to catch up with Kōji, he meets his end by falling down stairs. Koichi shares similarities with Kōji in his reserved and lonely demeanor.

27. Hideyoshi Nagachika

Franchise: Tokyo Ghoul

Known as Hide, or Hideyoshi, he is Ken’s closest friend in the anime. After Ken’s disappearance, Hide joins the CCG as an assistant due to his extensive knowledge and passion for ghouls. In the anime’s second season, he meets his demise at the hands of Noro. However, in the manga, Hide reappears in the sewers, encountering a weakened Kaneki after his intense battle with Amon. Hide mysteriously disappears, leaving Ken to recover alone, and is presumed dead. In a later volume of Tokyo Ghoul:re, it is revealed that Hide is alive but bears facial disfigurement.

26. Meliodas

Franchise: The Seven Deadly Sins

Meliodas, the Dragon of Wrath, serves as the leader of the Seven Deadly Sins and is the main protagonist of the series. Formerly the owner of the Boar Hat Tavern, he wields the Lostvayne Demon Slicer as his Sacred Treasure and possesses the magical ability of Full Counter. Additionally, Meliodas was once the Head of the Ten Commandments, known as Meliodas of Charity, and a former member of the Stigma Alliance. He is the elder brother of Zeldris of Piety and the firstborn son of the King of Demons.

25. Gon Freecs

Franchise: Hunter × Hunter

Gon Freecss, the protagonist of Hunter × Hunter alongside Killua Zoldyck, is the son of the legendary Ging Freecss. Raised by his aunt Mito, who he considers his real mother, Gon initially believes his father to be deceased. However, Mito later reveals that Ging is alive and she has legal custody. Possessing a personality akin to typical shonen manga heroes, Gon’s character is notably complex and deeply developed.

24. Kyojuro Rengoku

Franchise: Demon Slayer

Kyojuro Rengoku, the eldest son of the Rengoku family, becomes the Flame Hashira after his father’s unexpected retirement. In a tragic battle against his rival, Akaza, both fighters unleash powerful attacks, leaving Kyojuro severely injured and Akaza seemingly unscathed due to his regeneration ability. Determined to fulfill his duties, Kyojuro stands resolute, using the ninth style of flame breathing. Despite mortally wounding Akaza, Kyojuro recalls his mother’s words about protecting the weak, giving him the strength to endure. In a desperate attempt to prevent Akaza’s escape before sunrise, Kyojuro sacrifices his arm to hold him back, allowing Tanjiro and Inosuke to intervene.

23. Alphonse Elric

Franchise: Fullmetal Alchemist

Al’s personality undergoes significant development throughout the manga, particularly when he is separated from his brother, Ed. Initially passive and in a supporting role, his importance grows after being kidnapped by Greed and his gang in an attempt to unlock the secret of what he believed to be immortality. Despite a military intervention preventing Greed from learning more, it is the death of Martel that triggers Al’s memory, enabling him to remember the Truth and practice alchemy without a transmutation circle.

Al’s role gains prominence, but the pivotal shift in his mindset occurs during his second separation from Ed. While Ed ventures to the ruins of Xerxes, Al remains in Central City, becoming entangled in a confrontation between the Homunculus and Roy Mustang’s team. Ultimately, he regains his physical body through Ed sacrificing his skills.

22. Shūhei Hisagi

Franchise: Bleach

Shūhei Hisagi serves as the lieutenant of the 9th division and previously led Renji, Hinamori, and Kira during their first mission at the Shinigami Academy. His deep respect for ex-captain Kensei Muguruma is evident in his tattoos paying homage to him. Bearing facial scars from a Hollow encounter, Hisagi’s loyalty to Captain Kaname Tōsen is shattered when Tōsen betrays the Soul Society. This betrayal fuels Hisagi’s unwavering pursuit of justice and truth, a quest he channels into his role as the editor-in-chief of the Shinigami Gazette, often conducting field investigations as a journalist.

21. Escanor

Franchise: The Seven Deadly Sins

Escanor, the Lion of Pride among the Seven Deadly Sins, was once the Second Prince of the Kingdom of Castellio and renowned as the “strongest” Human in Britannia by the Sacred Knights of the Kingdom of Liones. Armed with the Divine Ax Rhitta as his Sacred Treasure and possessing the Magical Ability known as Sunshine, Escanor gained incredible power during the day but grew progressively weaker as night fell. Notably, at noon, he became invincible for a brief minute, surpassing even the strength of Meliodas at his peak.

20. Ash Ketchum

Franchise: Pokémon

Ash Ketchum, also known as Satoshi in Japan, is the central character and protagonist of the Pokémon anime. Residing in Pallet Town with his mother, Ash begins his Pokémon journey by arriving late at Professor Oak’s laboratory, missing out on a starter Pokémon. In a generous gesture, Oak offers him a wild Pikachu, and despite initial reluctance and intentional mischief from Pikachu, they become inseparable friends after Ash risks his life to save Pikachu. Described as brave, sincere, occasionally gullible, and high-spirited, Ash values true friendship and is willing to make sacrifices for the well-being of his friends and Pokémon.

19. Gin Ichimaru

Franchise: Bleach

Ichimaru Gin, the former lieutenant of the 5th Division under Aizen Sosuke, later becoming the captain of the 3rd Division, exhibited exceptional skills. Having completed the academy in a remarkable year, he secretly killed the third seat of the 5th Division upon his arrival at Seireitei and assumed his position. Gin appears during the execution of Rukia, questioning Byakuya Kuchiki’s calm demeanor in the face of his sister’s impending death.

During a potential clash between Byakuya and Kenpachi Zaraki, Gin amusingly intervenes by using his haori to wrap and pull Zaraki like a sled. His sealed Zanpakutō is a wakizashi, capable of extending to a length of one hundred blades in shikai and 13 km in Bankai. Notably, its uniqueness lies in its incredible speed, allowing Ichimaru to rapidly change the length of the blade, briefly disintegrating it during extension and contraction.

18. Edward Elric

Franchise: Fullmetal Alchemist

Edward (Ed) and his younger brother Alphonse Elric (Al) are drawn to alchemy from an early age, learning its basics by exploring their father’s books. Their mother’s death from illness prompts them to attempt forbidden human transmutation at age eleven in a desperate bid to bring her back. The forbidden act goes awry, resulting in Ed losing his left leg and Al losing his entire body. To save Al, Ed seals his brother’s soul in armor using a seal made with his own blood, sacrificing his right arm in the process.

In their quest to recover their lost body parts without adhering to the rule of equivalent exchange, the brothers search for the Philosopher’s Stone. Ed’s mechanical prostheses, replacing his lost limbs, are crafted by their childhood friend Winry Rockbell.

17. Eren Yeager

Franchise: Attack on Titan

Eren, driven by a vow of revenge after Titans devour his mother, enlists in the Army with childhood friends Mikasa Ackerman and Armin to join the Exploration Battalion. This group of soldiers fights Titans beyond the walls. As the narrative unfolds, Eren discovers his ability to transform into the “Attacking Titan,” a crucial asset in humanity’s battle against these monstrous foes.

16. Levi Ackerman

Franchise: Attack on Titan

Corporal Levi, renowned as the Wall Army’s strongest soldier and Tactical Squad Leader of the Exploration Battalion, plays a vital role in the Battle of Revelio. He contributes to the defeat of the Beast Titan, making the task seem relatively easy. Following this battle, Levi oversees the surveillance of Sieg, who ultimately transforms into a titan, taking Levi along.

During the encounter, Levi suffers severe injuries, including a cracked head marked by three distinct slashes and the loss of two fingers—the middle and ring fingers. Despite these challenges, Levi fulfills his desire to eliminate Sieg by beheading him in the end.

15. Gaara

Franchise: Naruto

Gaara, a ninja from the Hidden Sand Village (Suna), first appears just before the chūnin exam with his siblings, Kankurô and Temari. As the son of the Fourth Kazekage and born as a host to a tailed demon, Gaara was intended to be a weapon to restore their village. However, ostracism, his initial inability to control the Tailed Beast, and the belief that his late mother considered him a curse led Gaara to become a ruthless killer with the objective of killing his enemies. It is only through his encounter with Naruto that Gaara undergoes a profound transformation. Eventually, in the second part of the manga, he becomes Suna’s Fifth Kazekage, signifying a significant shift in his perspective and purpose.

14. Monkey D. Luffy

Franchise: One Piece

Monkey D. Luffy serves as a pirate and the main protagonist. Born the son of Monkey D. Dragon, the leader of the Revolutionary Army, and the grandson of the renowned Navy hero, Monkey D. Garp, Luffy is also the adopted son of mountain bandit Curly Dadan and the adopted brother of the late Portgas D. Ace and Sabo.

Luffy’s actions have earned him a current bounty of Symbol 1,500,000,000, making him one of the “Eleven Supernovae” with a previous bounty of 300,000,000 before arriving at the Sabaody Archipelago. Following the events of the Whole Cake Island Arc, Luffy’s new bounty designates him as the “Fifth Emperor” of the seas.

13. Natsu Dragneel

Franchise: Fairy Tail

Natsu Dragneel, known as “The Salamander,” is a member of the Fairy Tail guild and a fire mage plagued by motion sickness. He specializes in forgotten magic, making him a Dragon Slayer. As an orphan in search of his adopted father, the extinct dragon Ignir, Natsu was taught the magic of fire dragon hunting. This unique ability enables him to combat evil alongside friends, including former enemies turned allies like Sting Youclif and Jellal Fernandez. Despite his carefree and fiery personality, Natsu is always ready to engage in a fight.

12. Izuku Midoriya

Franchise: My Hero Academia

Izuku Midoriya is the story’s main character, is childhood friends with Katsuki Bakugo, and is born without a Quirk. Aspiring to become the best superhero, just like his idol All Might, he dreams of attending the prestigious Yuei (UA) High School for heroes. Despite lacking powers, he is determined to catch up with his rival, Katsuki Bakugo. Ultimately, All Might chose him to inherit the power of One For All, allowing him to pursue his dream of becoming a great hero.

11. Son Goku

Franchise: Dragon Ball

Son Goku, also known as Kakarot, is the main hero in the Dragon Ball manga. Living in the mountains far from the city, he inherits a four-star Dragon Ball from his grandfather, Son Gohan, which serves as a memento. Goku befriends Bulma, and together, they embark on a quest to gather the Seven Dragon Balls, which summon the wish-granting dragon Shenron. Throughout his adventures, Goku makes new friends who join him on his journey. As he grows, Goku becomes a savior, protecting Earth and the universe from various villains and threats, ensuring the safety of all.

10. Decim

Franchise: Death Parade

The bartender at Quindecim, he oversees and referees death games, creating models resembling the judged guests to remember them due to his fading memory. Initially lacking an understanding of human emotions, he collaborates with Chiyuki during judgments and comes to realize that experiencing human emotions enhances his ability to perfect his work. His unique power involves summoning unbreakable strings.

9. Jūshirō Ukitake

Franchise: Bleach

Jūshirō Ukitake serves as the captain of the 13th Division but battles a severe lung disease (tuberculosis) that hinders him in certain fights, with many of his functions taken over by subordinates. His hair turns white after the first manifestation of the illness. Despite his health challenges, Ukitake is deeply involved in the execution of Rukia, overseeing his division like a father figure. Despite his illness, he proves to be a powerful shinigami, possessing a Zanpakutō that transforms into twin swords during the shikai.

8. Yuji Itadori

Franchise: Jujutsu Kaisen

Yuji Itadori, a first-year Jujutsu Sorcerer at the Tokyo Metropolitan Area Magic Technical School in the Jujutsu Kaisen series, becomes entwined with the supernatural after consuming one of the twenty fingers of Ryomen Sukuna, a powerful cursed spirit. Teaming up with classmates Megumi Fushiguro and Nobara Kugisaki, Yuji strives to honor his grandfather’s legacy by exorcising curses and saving others. Despite the looming threat of execution after consuming all twenty fingers, Yuji, driven by a belief in the value of life, develops exceptional cursed techniques and faces the emotional consequences of his actions throughout the series.

7. Roy Mustang

Franchise: Fullmetal Alchemist

The Flame Alchemist, superior to Edward Elric in Fullmetal Alchemist, is a mysterious man with the ability to control flames at will. His ultimate goal is to attain the highest office in the State of Amestris. Although he appears proud and successful, he values his subordinates’ trust and is deeply affected by the death of his best friend, Maes Hughes. When threatened by Envy’s actions, he is prevented from seeking revenge by Lieutenant Riza Hawkeye. Later coerced by the Homunculi, he reluctantly opens the door for human transmutation, losing his sight in the process, ultimately leading him to relinquish the presidency. Despite a strained relationship with Edward, he serves as a genuine protector and friend.

6. Naruto Uzumaki

Franchise: Naruto

Naruto Uzumaki, a ninja from Konoha, faced rejection as the jinchūriki of Kyūbi. Determined to become a Hokage, he joined Team 7 and worked hard for recognition. Over time, he evolved into a hero, contributing significantly to the Fourth Great Shinobi War. Ultimately, Naruto achieved his dream of becoming the Seventh Hokage. His journey involved mastering various ninja techniques, including the Transfiguration technique and unique variations like Sexy-Meta. Under Jiraiya’s guidance, he honed his skills, excelling in techniques such as Fūton – Rasen Shuriken and Bijū Chakra Arms during Part 2.

5. Ichigo Kurosaki

Franchise: Bleach

Ichigo Kurosaki, the protagonist of Bleach, is a 17-year-old student with the ability to see ghosts. His life takes a supernatural turn when Soul Reaper Rukia Kuchiki transfers her powers to him to protect his family from a Hollow attack. Ichigo becomes a Soul Reaper himself but inadvertently absorbs all of Rukia’s spiritual power. This forces him to take on her Shinigami duties while awaiting the return of her powers, leading to a blend of the human and spirit worlds in his life.

4. Sasuke Uchiha

Franchise: Naruto

Sasuke Uchiha, a member of the Uchiha clan, is determined to enhance his ninja skills, particularly in fire-style techniques. His ultimate goal is to avenge his clan’s massacre at the hands of his older brother, Itachi. Sasuke’s pursuit of strength leads him to leave the village and seek training under Orochimaru, a powerful ninja with ambitions of mastering all ninjutsu and achieving immortality.

3. Asta

Franchise: Black Clover

Asta is an energetic and determined young man with an unyielding spirit. His remarkable perseverance and courage have earned him recognition from Captain Yami and the members of the Black Bull. Despite facing criticism and teasing, Asta remains composed and shows resilience. He passionately defends his loved ones when they are threatened and strongly believes in justice, advocating for the protection of both allies and even enemies, as demonstrated when he urges his comrades to save an adversary from imminent danger. His ultimate goal is to become the Emperor-Mage.

2. Tanjiro Kamado

Franchise: Demon Slayer

Tanjiro exhibits prodigious fighting abilities, showcasing a natural talent for combat and fencing. He possesses superhuman traits, including heightened senses, a strong will, exceptional intelligence, and an extraordinary sense of smell. Tanjiro’s innate skills enable him to outsmart formidable opponents, such as catching Giyu Tomioka off guard. After mastering Water Breathing and completing the final selection, he effortlessly dispatches low-level demons, including former Twelve Moon Demons. Tanjiro’s exceptional combat prowess is further highlighted by his potential to defeat Upper Moon 11, Rui, a feat typically attributed to high-ranking demon slayers.

1. Ken Kaneki

Franchise: Tokyo Ghoul

At 18, Dr. Akihiro Kano accidentally transplants Rize Kamishiro’s RC cells into Ken, turning him into a one-eyed half-ghoul. This unique hybrid possesses characteristics of both humans and ghouls, the latter being carnivorous creatures that feed on humans. Ken struggles with his dual nature, as he must consume human flesh to survive, leading him to wear an eye patch to conceal his ghoul traits, especially his left eye, which reveals his hunger.

Have anime characters to add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!