"Please actually watch"— Naruto fans don't hold back after one of their own slanders Gaara in the worst way possible

Modified Jul 07, 2024 20:30 GMT

"Please actually watch": Naruto fans don't hold back after one of their own slanders Gaara in the worst way possible (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Recently, the fans of the Naruto anime series found themselves in a heated debate. The controversy arose when one fan criticized the character development of Gaara, a beloved and iconic figure from the Shinobi world. Swiftly, the devoted fanbase rallied together to defend their cherished red-haired hero.

The intense backlash that followed demonstrated the unwavering dedication and fierce loyalty that define this passionate community of fans. One of the fans asked the fan who criticized Gaara to go and rewatch the anime or reread the manga. The rest of the fandom then joined in.

The fandom is known for its deep connection to the characters and their intricate stories. Gaara, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of many fans due to his complex journey from a troubled and misunderstood outcast to a respected leader and ally.

Naruto fan's controversial take on Gaara's character development

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A Naruto fan going by the name of @yash_singhaniaa took to X, sparking a heated debate that quickly ignited the fandom's collective passion. Their tweet expressed profound dissatisfaction with the character development of Gaara across the Naruto and Boruto sagas.

According to the fan, Gaara's development had undergone one of the most significant "downgrades in anime history," citing a perceived shift in his personality and motivations from the narrative's earlier chapters.

Gaara as shown during the 4th Great Ninja War (Image via Studio Pierrot)

At the crux of this criticism lay Gaara's transformative journey from a tormented Jinchuriki, consumed by bloodlust and devoid of purpose, to a revered Kazekage, driven by an unwavering resolve to safeguard his village and his fellow Shinobi.

In response, fans defended Gaara, pointing to moments such as Gaara's life-altering encounter with Naruto himself as pivotal turning points that led to his character development from an isolated, tortured soul to a leader guided by an authentic desire to shield his people from harm.

Naruto fans defend Gaara's iconic character development

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Many fans reacted strongly to @yash_singhaniaa's criticism of Gaara's character development. Supporters of the show rallied together on X, passionately defending Gaara's transformation and accusing the dissenting fan of failing to fully comprehend the reason behind his growth.

"Naruto fans when a character actually gets development instead of staying the same for 20+ years," said a fan.

"God forbid guys have a hobby," said another fan.

"My glorious gaara found peace and became whole different person bro not a killer anymore," said a fan while supporting Gaara's development.

Numerous fans pointed to Gaara's transformation as a compelling example of personal growth and character development. They emphasized how his evolution from a ruthless Jinchuriki, bound by the burden of housing a tailed beast, to a respected and revered Kazekage, the leader of Sunagakure, was a pivotal aspect of his character arc.

"Bro said Gaara becoming a better person and finding a hobby is a downgrade," a fan said.

"It is called character development," another fan said.

"Imagine being angry that one of the saddest and most tragic characters in your favorite anime actually finds love and happiness and becomes a well-adjusted adult?," said a fan.

Supporters of Gaara's character passionately defended his transformation, asserting that his progression from a merciless and vengeful soul to a compassionate protector was an essential component of his character development.

Final thoughts

Gaara before the time-skip (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The unwavering loyalty of the Naruto fandom towards Gaara's character development, even in the face of criticism, showcases the deep connection they share with the series and its iconic figures. Fans remain steadfast in their support for Gaara's transformative journey, from his initial persona as a bloodthirsty Jinchuriki to his eventual ascension as the revered Kazekage of Sunagakure.