10 Devastating Anime Deaths Literally Nobody Asked For

10 Devastating Anime Deaths Literally Nobody Asked For Solo Leveling Jinwoo Crying

By Casandra Ronning Published 25 minutes ago Casandra Ronning is a staff writer for Screen Rant's anime section. Since mid-2024, she has dedicated herself to expanding her knowledge and experience in the entertainment industry. She is most proud of conducting an exclusive interview with popular voice actor Stephanie Nadolny. Sign in to your ScreenRant account Summary Generate a summary of this story follow Follow followed Followed Like Like Thread Log in Here is a fact-based summary of the story contents: Try something different: Show me the facts Explain it like I’m 5 Give me a lighthearted recap

Tragedy in anime often comes without warning, striking viewers just as a character reaches the height of their growth or the narrative reaches its peak. A single episode can shift from triumph or hope to heartbreak in an instant, often delivered with devastating precision that leaves audiences reeling with a lasting emotional impact.

These tragedies take place across a range of genres, from heart-pounding action to gentle, slice-of-life romances and everything in between. Anime deaths can reshape entire stories and reveal the emotional core of a narrative’s universe. Some moments cut so deeply that they carve themselves into viewers' hearts, proving that anime can touch hearts just as powerfully as anything else.

L (Death Note)

L is the genius, world-renowned detective at the center of Death Note, operating outside conventional investigative boundaries to uncover the true identity behind Kira. He’s an eccentric character who possesses an advanced intellect that rivals that of Light Yagami, the protagonist of the series and secret holder of the Death Note.

As the investigation slowly unravels, L is able to gradually close in on Light, turning into one of the most iconic anime rivalries and cat-and-mouse games in media. Through misdirection, surveillance, and tests of loyalty, L pulls out every trick imaginable to catch Kira. Their dynamic becomes a battle of wits that defines Death Note’s tension and intrigue.

However, before L can find any conclusive proof that Light is Kira, he’s suddenly killed through a shinigami’s intervention after Light’s calculated manipulations. The greatest tragedy of all was that L was aware in his final moments, conveying an unspoken realization that his deductions were correct, yet powerless to act on them.

Maes Hughes (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

Maes Hughes from Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood smiling.

Maes Hughes played a significant role in the early episodes of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. He was part of the Amestrian military and known for his warmth, curiosity, and unwavering devotion to his family. While assisting the Elric brothers, he made discoveries that brought him too close to the larger mystery at the center of the story.

When he connected the dots, he attempted to reach his ally, Roy Mustang, from a telephone booth. However, before he could relay any information, he was ambushed and killed by a homunculus known as Envy, who was disguised as a fellow officer. Hughes was a family man whose death evoked a strong reaction among fans and the characters themselves.

Jiraiya (Naruto Shippuden)

Screenshot of Jiraiya smiling in the sunlight in Naruto Shippuden anime as he says goodbye to Tsunade for the last time.

Jiraiya is one of the legendary Sannin in Naruto. He is a master ninja whose wisdom, humor, and strong moral compass helped shape the series and the titular character, Naruto, himself. As his mentor, Jiraiya offered constant support and lessons that helped Naruto grow as both a fighter and a person. However, his story gets cut short after a deadly confrontation.

Jiraiya’s pursuit of the enemy led to a devastating battle that severely wounded him. Yet, rather than saving himself, he chose to gather intel about the antagonist so the next generation could defeat him. Jiraiya’s sacrifice marked the tragic loss of a beloved mentor who put the needs of others above his own.

Sasha Braus (Attack on Titan)

Sasha Braus Attack On Titan Uses Arrow

Sasha Braus, affectionately known as “Potato Girl,” stood out as a vibrant member of the Survey Corps in Attack on Titan. Her sharp intellect, archery skills, and infectious humor provided much-needed comic relief and strategic advantage. Sasha’s lighthearted attitude was paired with a deep sense of loyalty and courage, drawing everyone’s admiration.

Sasha's death comes suddenly as the series began to build toward its conclusion. A young girl from Marley named Gabi shot her in the chest just as she and her allies were celebrating a victory. The shock of her death was felt through the screen, turning a moment of triumph into one of immense grief.

Portgas D. Ace (One Piece)

Portgas D. Ace in One Piece anime

Portgas D. Ace is a central character in One Piece, famous for his fiery Devil Fruit abilities and strong moral code. As the son of Gol D. Roger and Luffy's adoptive brother, he was known for his strength and compassion, with a deep sense of responsibility toward his crewmates and family.

His story meets its end when he dies shielding Luffy from an attack during the Marineford Battle. The greatest tragedy is that his allies had just saved him from execution, only for him to die despite their efforts. His death deeply affected Luffy and fans, leaving them with heavy hearts.

Kento Nanami (Jujutsu Kaisen)

nanami walking with the sea behind him before his death in Jujutsu Kaisen

Kento Nanami is a seasoned sorcerer in Jujutsu Kaisen, known for his professionalism, pragmatism, and dedication to protecting civilians from cursed spirits. His calm attitude and methodical approach to dealing with curses stood out as a sharp contrast to his younger, more impulsive colleagues. His mentorship and reliability made him an indispensable sorcerer in the series.

During the Shibuya Incident, Nanami faced Mahito, a powerful and sadistic curse. Despite his talents and mastery over cursed energy, the battle escalated beyond his control, and he was killed in a horrifying and gruesome way after Mahito used his power to make his upper body explode just as Yuji Itadori arrived on the scene.

As a mentor to Itadori, his death in front of his pupil is even more distressing and tragic. Despite every injury he had sustained, Nanami proved himself to be resolute until the end, determined to continue fighting. His final send-off was a visual, emotionally resonant masterpiece that was felt deeply by audiences.

Kyojuro Rengoku (Demon Slayer)

Falme Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku holds a bowl in Demon Slayer: Mugen Train.

Kyojuro Rengoku from Demon Slayer: Mugen Train.

Kyojuro Rengoku, the Flame Hashira of Demon Slayer, was known as a spirited and honorable warrior whose dedication to protecting others became a defining presence in the series. His optimism, combat skill, and infectious enthusiasm inspired those around him, turning him into a bright beacon of hope for the Demon Slayers.

Yet, his role was ultimately cut short during the Mugen Train arc, when he was forced to confront Akaza, an Upper Rank demon, in order to protect the passengers on the train as well as his fellow slayers. The battle was intense, showcasing his incredible skill and indomitable willpower, but in the end, he was overwhelmed.

Rengoku succumbs to fatal injuries after holding Akaza off long enough to protect the innocent. Prior to his death, he offered encouraging words to Tanjiro and smiled in his final moments. Rengoku proved himself an honorable and inspiring warrior, both in life and in death, pushing his comrades to continue their battle against the demons.

Ai Hoshino (Oshi no Ko)

Ai Hoshino smiles after seeing her children cheering in the audience during a performance from Oshi no Ko.

Ai Hoshino was known as a charismatic idol in Oshi no Ko, whose charm and talent captivated fans. While her time in the series was short, viewers came to understand that she hid deeper complexities and had to learn how to balance fame with maternal devotion to her children. Ai’s duality made her an unforgettable and intriguing character.

However, before audiences can learn more about her, she’s tragically murdered by an obsessed fan in her own home. It is violent, shocking, and abruptly snatches her away from her family just as she was starting to discover genuine love and happiness. It left a profound impact on her children, who deeply loved and idolized their mother.

Lelouch vi Britannia (Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion)

Lelouch vi Britannia, the exiled prince and brilliant strategist of the Black Knights in Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, was known for his charisma, intellect, and willingness to challenge the oppressive Britannian Empire. Lelouch’s desire to create a peaceful world for his sister drove him to engage in morally complex acts of rebellion.

The line between heroism and tyranny blurs the deeper he goes, yet his final plan effectively brings lasting peace to the broken, scarred world. Through a self-sacrificial act, Lelouch uses his own death to unite the world and encourage change, turning himself into a hated figure for the greater good.

Ushio Okazaki (Clannad: After Story)

Ushio Okazaki is the beloved daughter of Tomoya and Nagisa in Clannad: After Story. Her presence brought light and hope to Tomoya’s world after the loss of his partner, standing as a symbol of healing after hardship. Ushio’s bond with her father saved Tomoya and allowed him to grow and move beyond the demons that haunted his past.

After her mother died in childbirth, Tomoya suffered from a deep depression that isolated and estranged him from his family for years. Then, just as he began to take responsibility as a father and become involved in Ushio’s life, she succumbed to a fever in his arms, leaving Tomoya and viewers to feel a heavy, crushing grief.

While her death isn’t permanent, Clannad delivers a strong, emotional moment that many anime fans regard as one of the most devastating in anime. Her loss stood out as heavily symbolic, moving, and heartbreaking, earning Clannad a permanent place in viewers’ hearts for its ability to evoke such powerful emotion.

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