Is Yoshida a villain in Chainsaw Man? Explored

Modified Jan 26, 2025 10:30 GMT

Chainsaw Man's Hirofumi Yoshida remains one of the series’ most cryptic characters. A member of Public Safety, Yoshida's motivations are yet shrouded in mystery, opening doors for doubts regarding where his loyalty lie.

Usually appearing calm and composed, his interactions with Denji might speak differently. Yoshida’s puzzling actions have led to debates on whether he is ally or foe to the Chainsaw Devil.

Although Yoshida may act antagonistically towards Denji than ally-like, he is not exactly a villain in Chainsaw Man. He prioritizes Public Safety's objectives due to his ties with them, even in cases where they might put him at odds with Denji. But moments of remorse and concern for Denji tease a deeper humanity beneath his stoic exterior.

Ignoring his relation to Public Safety, Yoshida wouldn't be as antagonistic, but rather a more conflicted character and far from a true villain.

Yoshida's role in Chainsaw Man

Yoshida first appeared in a supporting role during the International Assassins Arc. He was part of the personal guard assigned to protect Denji from the international assassins' onslaught.

Yoshida's mettle was teased when he quickly identified the American Thugs (3 brothers) who had been sent to kill Denji and swiftly executed one of the brothers in an alleyway. He also fought and held off Quanxi during this arc, further displaying his prowess for battle.

Next, Yoshida played a more significant role in the Academy Saga, appearing in each of its arcs. Essentially, he was mostly seen close to Denji, at first protecting him and later discouraging him from turning into Chainsaw Man. In the events that Denji required aid, Yoshida did help out, the most recent being the incident involving the escape from the Aging Devil's world.

Yoshida's relationship with Denji in Chainsaw Man

Hirofumi Yoshida's relationship with Denji in Chainsaw Man has been complex, when compared to other characters. On the surface, he appears to be carrying out the duty assigned to him by Public Safety, which is to protect Denji. But somewhere in doing this, Yoshida is also serving his own interests, which yet remain cryptic and need explaining as the story progresses.

However, it must be acknowledged that while Yoshida might, at times, behave coldly or indifferently with Denji, he does care for the boy. This is visible in a number of instances, like when he offered to skip classes and go to the theater to make Denji feel better or help Denji get a girlfriend. From their interactions, it is clear that Yoshida has likely developed a soft spot for the boy.

But even so, he does keep himself at arm's length, likely trying not to get too close so as to jeopardize his personal mission. Due to his allegiance to Public Safety and his myserious intent, it cannot be stated for sure that Yoshida is completely on Denji's side. Although, his actions so far have fueled the belief that presently, he possibly leans to the ally side.

Is Yoshida a villain?

As mentioned previously, Yoshida is far from being a villain. Again, his impressive drive and ability to fulfill his assigned duties and his loyalty to Public Safety might make him seem like one. Moreover, he does at times behave antagonistically towards Denji, but that probably happens when his goals butt heads with Denji's own.

If Yoshida as a Public Safety member is removed from the equation, just Hirofumi Yoshida is no villain. His enigmatic nature adds a layer to Chainsaw Man, marking him a character who operates in a bit of a morally gray area. While him being tied to Public Safety might place him in direct opposition to Denji, it is essential to view his actions in that context.

Yoshida’s loyalty seemingly now lies with Denji in some sense but also with the mission he’s been assigned. His interactions hint at a subtle care for the boy, visible in his minor yet significant gestures aimed at Denji’s well-being. They are suggestive of his intentions being less malicious and more pragmatic. Yoshida's deeds have never come from a place of cruelty.

He can be viewed as a "protector with an agenda". Yoshida’s character complexity lies in him being able to tread a fine line in Chainsaw Man's chaotic world, balancing Public Safety duty with his humanity.