10 well-written anime antagonists that fans can't hate

Anime antagonists are typically the "bad guys" opposing the main character. But often these bad guys aren't as unlikable though they are terrible. Some anime antagonists are revealed to have a motive far greater than the protagonists, thus sometimes justifying their actions.

Several anime anime antagonists are revealed to be noble human beings committing sins for the greater good, hence liked by fans. However, some downright cruel characters make fans fall in awe solely based on their charm and aura. Here are some of the bad guys loved by many fans.

Disclaimer: This article contains some major spoilers!! These characters are not ranked.

Anime Antagonists like L and Dabi that are so well-written that fans cant hate them

1) Dio Brando (Jojo's bizarre adventures)

Dio is the main antagonist of the first and third seasons of Jojo's Bizarre Adventures. From a cunning human being to a villainous vampire, Dio transformed and also became a Stand user.

The Unique character design of the anime, the voice acting, and the dialogues are the reasons the anime and the characters became so popular. Dio's The World ability is known to all and is part of regular memes in pop culture. The vampire is an undying creature that keeps fans waiting until the deceitful anime antagonist returns.

2) Greed (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

All seven homunculi in FMAB represent one of the seven deadly sins.

Greed in Fullmetal Alchemist undergoes significant character development, particularly after merging with the body of Ling. Both Ling and Greed share a desire for something, but their personalities and goals differ.

Despite their differences, they struggle for control and eventually overcome their greed. The character's development, alongside Ling's humorous and lighthearted demeanor, adds to his likability among fans.

3) Sukuna (Jujutsu Kaisen)

Sukuna is main antagonist of Jujutsu Kaisen anime. (Image via Mappa)

The main antagonist of Jujutsu Kaisen, Sukuna, is not the most likable person if one looks at his deeds and ideas. However, the character has a unique charm to it. Fans are thrilled every time the character appears in Itadori's body. Ryomen Sukuna reigned in the Heian era as the king of the curses and was considered the greatest sorcerer of all time.

Sukuna's appearance also contributes to his popularity thanks to Itadori's brilliant and handsome physique. Sukuna's original form was rather gruesome and scary to some extent. Unlike some of the anime antagonists in this list, Sukuna is a purely evil character, who isn't supported by any sad backstory.

4) Dabi (My Hero Academia)

Dabi is one of the main antagonists of MHA. (Image via Bones)

Dabi from the League of Villains is initially portrayed as a cruel character who enjoys causing harm. Known as Blueflame due to his blue flames, he is initially seen simply as a villain. However, it is later revealed in the anime that Dabi's true identity is Toya Todoroki, the eldest son of Enji Todoroki (Endeavour), a hero.

Toya adopts the persona of Dabi after faking his death. He harbors deep resentment towards his father for his abusive and demanding upbringing, feeling neglected and unfit for his father's expectations. Despite his dark nature, Dabi's cold charm and complex backstory have endeared him to fans, making him one of the most popular villains in My Hero Academia.

6) Askeladd (Vinland Saga)

Askeladd was the main antagonist of Vinland Saga (Image via Wit Studio)

Askeladd is an antagonist in the epic anime Vinland Saga. Vinland Saga has gained immense popularity especially the character of Askeladd. He was Introduced as the bad guy who killed Thors, the father of Thorfinn. Later, he transforms into an antihero as the anime progresses.

Askeladd is not necessarily evil or good, he is just a very well-written character that has impressed most fans. He connected with the fans way better than others as he was in the center for the first season.

7) Makima (Chainsaw man)

Makima is one of the strongest characters in Chainsaw Man (Image via Mappa Studios)

Makima is the main antagonist of the Chainsaw Man anime. She is a public safety devil hunter, who also is the leader of division 4 and division 5. Initially being the nice senior officer Makima guides the squads to killing devils. However, later in the anime, it unfolds that Makima is nobody but the Control Devil.

The anime antagonist has a very cunning personality and can easily manipulate her inferiors or any being. Her ability to control and create contracts with humans and devils makes her one of the strongest in the world. Her attractive appearance and gentle nature in the initial anime made her especially popular with fans.

8) Johann Leibert (Monster)

Johann Liebert is the main antagonist of Monster (Image via Madhouse Studios)

The main antagonist of the anime, Monster, Johann Leibert is one of the most unique and twisted characters. The sense of weird creepiness and horror that the character expresses is scary. Johann's character design and intelligence both attract a large number of fans.

Johann is one of the main reasons fans love the anime Monster. He is one of the best-written characters in anime. All his vicious traits make him a cunning, intellectual, and dreadful villain with a soft face.

9) L (Death Note)

L is one of the smartest anime characters (Image via Madhouse Studios)

L is one of the most popular characters of all time. Although not the villain L was the antagonist to Light's or Kira's story. L was the biggest obstacle in Kira's journey to becoming the God of the new world. Light was a scholar and the most intelligent person in the anime alongside L, who matched him in every aspect. L and Light were the perfect enemies and friends.

L's intelligence and detective skills put him among the best detectives in the world. Fans often have dividing opinions supporting either Light or L. If L is an anime antagonist he sure is one of the most popular.

10) Itachi Uchiha (Naruto: Shippuden)

Itachi Uchiha is one of the strongest Uchiha (Image via Pierrot)

Itachi Uchiha is widely regarded as the most beloved member of Akatsuki. Known for his exceptional use of the Sharingan, he was one of the strongest Uchiha and joined the Anbu black ops at just 13 years old.

Itachi is often seen as the most misunderstood character in the anime. His actions were revealed to be a sacrifice that few could have made, and the revelation of his true motives was both shocking and emotional. Itachi's character is considered one of the best-written in the entire series.

In conclusion

Any anime needs a capable protagonist and an equally well-established anime antagonist. These anime antagonists have a huge role in increasing the anime's popularity, as some even overshadow the main protagonist. A bad guy with a perfectly suiting backstory that makes the fans weep and think deeply makes the part more engaging.

Edited by Divya Singh