Deuteragonists are the second-most important characters in a story. This character type can be found in all sorts of literature and media, including anime. Many anime out there feature characters like this, serving as either support or opposition for the protagonist. More often than not though, the deuteragonist appears right next to the protagonist.
In this list, we are going to take a look at some of the best deuteragonists out there. This specifically refers to the second-most important figure, rather than characters who serve as dual protagonists. There are a lot of deuteragonists in anime, so if your favorite isn’t on here, don’t worry! These are just some of the best out there.
This list is presented in no particular order.
8
Victor Nikiforov
Yuri!!! On Ice
First up, we have Victor Nikiforov. Yuri!!! on Ice is an absolutely iconic show following the titular Yuri alongside our deuteragonist Victor. With the help of Victor, Yuri trains and competes in figure skating competitions.
Yuri!!! on Ice has a lot of memorable characters, but there is no denying the importance of Victor and Yuri, especially when together. This show dipped its toes into same-sex romance, and while the movie (Ice Adolescence) was canceled, we can only hope for more content about these two.
7
Alphonse Elric
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is one of the highest-rated anime of all time, with people across the internet praising it near daily. Of course, this is for a good reason. Alongside a powerful story and complex magic system, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood has a phenomenal deuteragonist.
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Though he looks like a guy in armor, Alphonse Elric is the armor itself. Due to failed human transmutation, Alphonse is now bound to the armor. Throughout the anime, you can learn about the journeys, sorrows, and accomplishments of both Elric brothers.
6
Killua Zoldyck
Hunter X Hunter
While Gon Freecss is the main character of Hunter X Hunter, there is no denying that Killua really shines in the spotlight. Initially, Gon meets Killua during the Hunter Examination, but throughout the course of the show, the two develop a wonderful friendship.
Killua makes a great counterpart to Gon. Though the two have a great friendship, they are still different enough to balance each other out. Gon is outgoing and kind, while Killua is a bit more shy, so the two go well together.
5
Sasuke Uchiha
Naruto
We can’t talk about deuteragonists without mentioning Sasuke. Sure, the show is literally called Naruto, but at times, Sasuke becomes the most important character. Serving as Naruto’s rival, Sasuke remains important throughout all of the original series, as well as Naruto Shippuden.
Rather than being a friendly rival who always sticks by Naruto’s side, Sasuke definitely feels like a villain at times. Still, he is a complex character that has earned the title of being one of the best deuteragonists out there.
4
Homura Akemi
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Puella Magi Madoka Magica, or just Madoka Magica, is a show about magical girls, but it strays far from typical tropes in this genre. Serving as the deuteragonist to Madoka Kaname, Homura Akemi is an iconic character who initially appears as a rival.
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Throughout Madoka Magica, you’ll learn more about Homura and her own struggles, which seem to go beyond space and time. Overall, Homura is often more compelling than Madoka herself.
3
Kageyama Tobio
Haikyu!!
Another sports anime with exclamation points in the title? It’s more likely that you think (we didn’t forget Free! either). Haikyu!! has a lot of characters. By this, we mean dozens. Each volleyball team is filled with a unique cast, and as the show progresses, more teams are introduced.
Shoyo Hinata serves as the main character that we follow along with, but Kageyama serves as his deuteragonist. Though the two are rivals, they end up on the same high school team and must learn to work together, as well as with the other players on the team.
2
Katsuki Bakugo
My Hero Academia
Since his first appearance, Bakugo has made waves in the anime community. Although Midoriya is the main character of My Hero Academia, Bakugo often places above him on yearly popularity polls. This makes sense though, as his explosive personality and strength are quite appealing.
As with many other shonen deuteragonists on this list, Bakugo is a combination of rival and ally. He is quite abrasive and loud, but he never flips to the villain side (unlike Sasuke).
1
Arataka Reigen
Mob Psycho 100
Mob Psycho 100 follows a middle schooler nicknamed Mob who has powerful psychic abilities. Serving as his deuteragonist is Arataka Reigen, who claims to be the greatest psychic out there.
Reigen himself is a great character, but his character growth is equally as satisfying to watch. He starts off as a con man; just think of a paranormal-infused version of Saul Goodman from Breaking Bad. Sure, he is manipulative, but as you get to know him, you’ll realize that there is more to this con man.
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