7 Anime main characters who appear cold-hearted but aren't

Among the myriad of personalities, some of the most intriguing are the anime main characters who appear cold-hearted. These anime main characters initially seem detached, ruthless, or emotionally distant, but as their stories unfold, the layers of warmth, compassion, and humanity beneath their icy exteriors can be discovered.

From the anime main characters like enigmatic bounty hunter Spike Spiegel in Cowboy Bebop to the stoic Jotaro Kujo in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, and from the imposing overlord Enter Momonga in Overlord to the reserved Aqua in Oshi no Ko, each character's journey offers a unique glimpse into their personality, making then anime main characters who appear cold-hearted but aren't.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion.

Guts, Spike Spiegel, and other anime main characters who appear cold-hearted but aren't

1)Twilight

In Twilight of the Dark Master, Twilight is an enigmatic figure, driven by a strong sense of duty to protect the world from demonic forces. His aloof demeanor masks his true intention of maintaining balance and order in a chaotic world. As the series progresses, Twilight's complex nature unfolds, revealing a blend of darkness and light.

His journey of redemption and sacrifice highlights the unexpected warmth and humanity within him. Despite appearing cold-hearted, his actions reflect a deep commitment to preserving the world's harmony, showcasing a protagonist layered with depth and complexity.

2) Kaneki Ken

While starting as cold-hearted and indifferent in Tokyo Ghoul, Ken Kaneki turns into a half-ghoul. Despite his transformation, he remains compassionate, befriending all types of beings, including humans and ghouls alike.

The subjects depicted, ethical questions, and personal identities help in portraying a multi-layered character’s progression through the shades of the dual nature of human personality.

The struggles of Kaneki bring to the viewers a sense of hope and compassion which are far from stereotypical angry and distrusting post-apocalyptic heroes. It illustrates the complexity of his character which changed from coldness to deep feeling and discovers the intricate layers of the emotional spectrum.

3) Guts

Guts (Image via GEMBA, Millepensee, Liden Films )

The protagonist of the manga and anime series Berserk, Guts, who is considered a brutal mercenary solely motivated by revenge in its purest sense, has a sensitive and vulnerable personality deep down.

In spite of being portrayed as a merciless warrior while fighting the Fulton, Griffith brings out compassion and empathy when dealing with his fellow compatriots in the Band of the Hawk. Another important aspect to consider is the internal conflicts of Guts, who is not devoid of human feelings, as can be observed throughout the series.

The growth of his character within the series shows that there is kindness and endurance within him, during the life where he is filled with darkness.

4) Aquamarine Hoshino

Aquamarine Hoshino (Image via Doga Kobo)

Aqua might seem distracted and indifferent at first, especially if one looks at her strict emotional control and straightforward ways of expressing herself. But there is much more to her than the apparent arrogance. She especially has a great love for her work.

Although Aqua can be quite rude and aloof at times, she does show a softer, sympathetic side to her personality, especially with Hana, the girl she mentors. For the entirety of the series, Aqua’s personality is unmasked to bear a cocktail of strengths and weaknesses.

Her story admirably illustrates how the lack of a significant connection with another person is detrimental and can be only remedied by finding love.

5) Enter Momonga

The protagonist, Ainz Ooal Gown who goes by the username Enter Momonga, starts as an emotionless tyrant in Overlord. Though his behaviors are selfish, they also show that he has responsibilities and concerns for the NPCs of his virtual reality world. As time passes, Momonga opens up and shows the emotions of a human and frailty.

He deals with different ethical questions and even the conflict between the absolute control of people and some humane relations. Thus, the plot of Momonga presents viewers with a vast and complicated character who, in the end, reveals his positive aspiration and warmth.

6) Jotaro Kujo

Jotaro Kujo (image via David Prodcution)

In JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Jotaro Kujo never shows or feels emotions and people usually think that he is ruthless. But there is a good side to this persona which is a strong feeling of justice, and a good bond with friends and relatives.

Compared with the other anime main characters, Jotaro is not so talkative, but he shows care and concern by his deeds, trying to protect his friends and fellow passengers. His character also develops, layer by layer, and shows that he is not a cold man from the outset but a hero with human qualities deep in his heart.

7) Spike Spiegel

Spike Spiegel ( Image via Tomorrow Studios)

Spike Spiegel from Cowboy Bebop is a rather ambiguous character who is first seen as having no care in the world. He also depicts considerable commitment in his work, and kindness especially towards his compatriots Jet and Faye.

Spike also demonstrates a sense of responsibility and a measure of caring that is also seen in his readiness to risk himself for the sake of his dear ones. Andrew’s character development in the series especially across the different movies portrays him as a cold-blooded hunter in the start and a man with emotions and love in the end.

To Conclude

Appearances can be deceiving, as seen with anime main characters like Spike Spiegel, Jotaro Kujo, Enter Momonga, Aqua, Guts, Keneki Ken, and Twilight. Initially perceived as cold-hearted, each reveals deep emotions and motivations throughout their stories.

These anime main characters demonstrate that beneath a stoic or ruthless exterior lies a heart full of loyalty, compassion, and sacrifice. Their journeys highlight the complexities of their natures, showing that warmth and humanity often emerge from unexpected places.