This list contains spoilers!
Summary
While being focused on Tanjiro and Nezuko,Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaibais also the story of several other brave characters who have suffered immensely in their lives. While being different in every conceivable way imaginable, these individuals are brought together by a shared sense of purpose.
Their inspiring journey, filled with suffering and triumph, has carved a place in the hearts of countless fans all over the world. Although there are quite a few popular characters from the series, these are arguably the most loved.
8Muichiro Tokito
One of the Youngest Hashira Ever
Tokitois a prodigywho became a Hashira in just two months after picking up a sword. Like most demon slayers, he has endured unimaginable loss, but has only used it as fuel to surpass his physical limits.
Remember that boiling anger. Even if I lose my memories, my body will remember that anger that will not leave me until I die. It’s why I trained so hard that I vomited blood to destroy demons. And more… to eradicate them!
Muichiro remains a mysterious character and barely talks untilthe Swordsmith Village arc. But his fight with Gyokko not only reveals his prodigious talent but also offers a glimpse into his past life. As Tokito’s struggle with his apathetic nature ends and he regains his identity, fans finally get to see what he is truly like. His strict but caring attitude leaves a lasting impression, revealing the person behind his stoic exterior.
7Shinobu Kocho
Insect Hashira
Shinobu Kocho’s facade of calmness and cheerfulness hides painful secrets that she has carried in her heart for years. Despite struggling with grief, her commitment tothe Demon Slayer Corpsand the eradication of demons has only strengthened. It is this strength of character behind her soft-spoken demeanor that makes her a fan favorite.
6Giyu Tomioka
The Underconfident Demon Slayer
Struggling with self-doubt and low self-esteem,Tomiokalooks down on himselfdespite being one of thebest Hashira of his generation. While he initially comes off as a cold and distant individual, he proves himself to be a deeply compassionate person who is even willing to put his life on the line to give Nezuko and Tanjiro a chance. If it weren’t for his out-of-the-box thinking and fearless decision-making, the brother-sister duo would not have survived long.
Don’t cry. Don’t despair. Now’s not the time for that.
Giyu, unsurprisingly, became one of the most loved characters of the series from the start and only grew in popularity, especially afterhe killed Rui on Mount Natagumo.
5Inosuke Hashibira
Inventor of Beast Breathing
Shaped by the tragedies and misfortunes that he has endured throughout his life,Inosukeis a boorish but brave person. While he initially comes off as insensitive, Hashibira is revealed to be a compassionate and valiant human being who just expresses himself differently.
It is the uniqueness of Inosuke’s personality, marked by wild instincts and unwavering loyalty, that makes him an appealing character. With him, one can never be sure what to expect, and perhaps that’s what makes him so entertaining.
4Zenitsu Agatsuma
Jigoro Kuwajima’s Successor
Agatsuma’s timid nature andpanic-stricken antics are comedy gold. In a series that is filled with death and loss, his exaggerated reactions and hilarious outbursts provide the much-needed comic relief.
I hate myself more than anyone. I always think I have to get my act together, but I end up cowering, running away, sniveling. I want to change. I want to be a competent person.
While Zenitsu is not the typical valiant demon slayer willing to put his life on the line for the success of a mission, his personality shifts in accordance with the threat around him. When he allows his instincts to take over, Agatsuma appears almost invincible. His split personality and moments of courage have helped him make a place in the hearts ofDemon Slayerfans. Interestingly, he has been consistently ranked as one of the most popular characters from the franchise in different polls over the years.
3Nezuko Kamado
Tanjiro’s Demon Sister Who Clung to Her Humanity
Nezuko, as one of the main characters, is an indispensable part of the series. Her innocent and adorable antics provide a heartfelt contrast to the otherwise tragic and sombre tone of the story.
While being her usual playful self, Nezuko is already loved by the fans, but she truly shines when she fights to protect the people around her. She often surprises other demons with her strength and can fight briefly onequal ground with members of the Twelve Kizuki.
2Kyojuro Rengoku
The Flame Hashira
Rengokudies quite early in the series, despite being introduced as one of thebest Hashira in the Demon Slayer Corps. While most characters in his place would have been forgotten, Kyojuro leaves a lasting impression on the fans' psyche because of his selfless sacrifice.
Life is a series of decisions. You never have unlimited options or unlimited time to think, but what you choose in that instant defines who you are.
Deciding to fightsomeone of Akaza’s stature alonewas a brave decision, especially since he fought to protect the future generation of promising demon slayers. Rengoku’s sacrifice echoes the ideals of true heroism, inspiring Tanjiro and Inosuke to shoulder the responsibility of eradicating demons. Despite his death, his values live on through the people he touched with his indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve. It should not come as a surprise that he is one of the most loved characters, whose selfless nature resonates with the fans, too.
1Tanjiro Kamado
The Sympathetic Hero
Unlike protagonists in most shounen series,Tanjiro Kamadois barely the strongest character. Yoriichi and a few other demon slayers are far more experienced or well-rounded as fighters in comparison. What makes him truly stand out is his sympathetic attitude towards demons that allows him to see the dark forces that have played a part in shaping their actions and suffering.
While Kamado is far from dispassionate when he is fighting, he also understands the deeper conflict better than any other character and has the courage to rise above hate to see the humanity buried deep in his demon rivals. Tanjiro’s kindness and selfless pursuit of the greater good make him a rare hero who finds strength not just in power but in moral clarity and empathy.
