Over the years, many platforms, whether virtually or in reality, have evolved to embrace different identities. Anime is one of the stages where LGBTQ+ characters shine. The characters are represented with such great storylines that we can't help but notice them. There is a plethora of great LGBTQ+ characters in anime, but there are some who left a mark on the viewers. Here are ten such remarkable LGBTQ+ characters in anime.
1. Utena- Revolutionary Girl
The show is considered a queer classic. Many characters identify either as gay or bisexual. Utena Tenjô is a powerful, courageous character but also impulsive. She is in a relationship with Anthy Himemiya. The story follows the journey of Utena becoming a prince, a prince rescues other. Not just the character, but the whole show delves into themes like power, gender, and societal norms.
2. Hange Zoe- Attack On Titan
The Commander of the Survey Corps, Hange Zoe, is seen as a non-binary character by show fans. The character is known for having a curious mind and a good heart. The origin of Hange is not clarified. Attack on Titan is an immensely populated anime series, and they somehow managed to keep Hange Zoe's life a mystery.
3. Dio Brando- JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Dio identifies as bisexual in anime as well as in manga. He was the antagonist in the first two parts of the series: "Phantom Blood" and "Battle Tendency." Dio has a manipulative personality. It is precisely what is expected from a good villain. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is made by taking a lot of pop cultural references. The show has a story of many characters with different identities and personalities, and Dio is just one of them.
4. Viktor And Yuri- Yuri On Ice
Yuri Katsuki and Viktor Nikiforov are two characters admired for their chemistry. In the anime, initially, Yuri admired Viktor for his skating techniques. The story of the series is not centred around their romance. Their chemistry rather compliments the show. Interestingly, there is a real-life skater who has the name Viktor Nikiforov. Although, it is clarified that the anime is not inspired by him.
5. Shuichi Nitori And Yoshino Takatsuki- Wandering Son
Shuichi and Yoshino are two characters in the Wandering Son anime that showcase trans friendship. They are two trans friends trying to discover their gender identities. The series itself is created beautifully, and the character development of these two is like cherry on top. The anime is about gender identities, gender dysphoria, and the struggles faced by transgender people. Wandering Son reminds us of the importance of understanding what a person close to us is going through.
6. Akemi Homura- Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Homura is shown as an intelligent and athletic but cold character. Homura is dedicated to Kaname Maduka and can go to any limits to keep her happy. Puella Magi Madoka Magica follows the story of middle school girls, with a particular focus on Maduka. There are mysterious creatures, magical powers, witches, and magical girls who try to protect the world.
7. Yukito Tsukihiro And Toya Kinomoto- Card Captor Sakura
Card Captor Sakura is maybe one of those few animes who normalized showing gay relationships. From the start, it was clear that Yukito Tsukishiro was a gay character; there was no doubt about it. He had a close relationship with his friend's (Sakura) older brother, Toya Kinomoto. Toya is caring and supportive towards his sister and, of course, Yukito. Whenever Yukito Tsukishiro and Toya Kinomoto are together, it's common to feel butterflies in your stomach.
8. Sailor Neptune And Sailor Uranus- Sailor Moon
You may miss the couple if you didn’t pay that much attention while watching Sailor Moon. Sailor Neptune (or Michiru Kaioh) is one of the Outer Senshi. Michiru is elegant, graceful, and musically talented. Sailor Uranus (or Haruka Tenoh) is another member of the Outer Senshi. Haruka is strong-willed, athletic, and tomboyish. Sailor Neptune and Sailor Uranus share a romantic relationship. They are depicted as a couple deeply in love and devoted to each other. Surprisingly, in the English version, they were shown as cousins rather than a couple. Later, it was clarified that they were, in fact, in love with each other.
9. Tiziano And Squalo- JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is known for its unique characters. Tiziano and Squalo are two examples of a diverse range of characters. Tiziano and Squalo are assassins who are the members of the assassin squad known as La Squadra di Esecuzione in Part 5 of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Golden Wind (or Vento Aureo). They didn't have much screen time, but it was clear that they were a gay couple. Tiziano can control people's speech and make them say things against their will. He is shown as intelligent and analytical. Whereas, Squalo can travel through liquids. He is aggressive and hot-headed. They are incredibly loyal to each other and are emotionally very close.
10. Motoko Kusanagi- Ghost In The Shell
Motoko Kusanagi is the main character in the anime and manga series Ghost in the Shell. She is a cyborg. She works in a special law enforcement unit. Kusanagi's relationship with her body is mostly cybernetic (her body was replaced by machines when she was six years old). Unlike anime, her sexuality is depicted in detail in manga. She is a lesbian. There are even many steamy scenes of her with women in the manga. She has a badass personality, which makes her different from other typical female anime characters.
