10 lazy anime characters, ranked by popularity 

Shikamaru, Umaru and Gintoki as seen in their respective anime (Image via Studio Pierrot, Doga Kobo and Sunrise)
Shikamaru, Umaru and Gintoki as seen in their respective anime (Image via Studio Pierrot, Doga Kobo, and Sunrise)

Similar to real life, lazy anime characters are abundant. And like any form of media, anime also features certain archetypal characters. We have the strong, air-headed protagonist, the cool and brooding deuteragonist, and their ragtag group of friends, each with their own eccentric personalities. One of the most common tropes in anime is the lazy but brilliant sidekick who occasionally provides much-needed comic relief.

With a calm demeanor and an aversion to the hustle of life, these characters have firmly established themselves as fixtures in anime series. People can't get enough of them, sparking discussions about why these laid-back characters are such a hit. Below are ten lazy anime characters who breeze through life with their ho-hum attitude.


Ranking the 10 most lazy anime characters

10. Tanaka-Kun (Tanaka-Kun is always listless)

Tanaka-Kun, as seen in Tanaka-Kun, is always listless (Image via Silver Link)
Tanaka-Kun, as seen in Tanaka-Kun, is always listless (Image via Silver Link)

With a title like Tanaka-Kun is Always Listless, viewers know what to expect from Tanaka-Kun. The titular character charms audiences with his unparalleled lazy attitude, turning the mundane into an art form. The series offers a refreshing departure from typical high-energy narratives in shounen anime.

Despite his lack of energy, Tanaka proves to be a source of subtle humor and wit. His deadpan reactions to the chaos around him and ingenious methods of avoiding effort add a comedic touch to the narrative. The humor is not in boisterous laughter but clever and understated moments highlighting Tanaka's unique and lazy perspective on life.


9. Mitsukuni Haninozuka (Ouran High School Host Club)

Mitsukuni Haninozuka as seen in Ouran High School Host Club (Image via Studio C)
Mitsukuni Haninozuka as seen in Ouran High School Host Club (Image via Studio C)

In the dazzling world of Ouran High School Host Club, where charisma reigns supreme, the Host Club offers a variety of hosts to their patrons. Honey-Senpai is the resident boy lolita of the Ouran High School Host Club. Most of the time, Mitsukuni Haninozuka is seen taking a nap on Takashi Morinozuka's (Mori-Senpai) back.

At first glance, Honey Senpai's cherubic appearance and penchant for all things cute create an immediate sense of endearment. 'Lazy' would be the first adjective to describe Honey-Senpai, but one shouldn't judge a book by its cover, Honey-Senpai takes his beauty sleep very seriously. One soldier found out the hard way when he tried to wake up Honey-Senpai and had to face the music.


8. Ikta Solork (Alderamin On The Sky)

Ikta Solork as seen in Alderamin On The Sky (Image via Madhouse)
Ikta Solork as seen in Alderamin On The Sky (Image via Madhouse)

With a nickname like 'The Invincible Lazy General,' Ikta Solork is the epitome of the lazy but brilliant. Unlike conventional military protagonists, Ikta initially rejects the role of a strategist, preferring a life of leisure and avoiding the complexities of warfare.

Despite his aversion to the military lifestyle, Ikta's intellectual prowess becomes a defining feature. His brilliance lies in his innate intelligence and his unorthodox approach to strategy. According to Ikta, being lazy is the foundation of human ingenuity.


7. Houtarou Oreki (Hyouka)

Houtarou Oreki as seen in Hyouka (Image via Kyoto Animation)
Houtarou Oreki as seen in Hyouka (Image via Kyoto Animation)

Oreki's defining trait is his commitment to conserving energy whenever possible. His mantra is, 'If I don't have to do it, I won't. If I have to do it, I'll make it quick,' encapsulates his philosophy of minimal effort. Although he is not fond of putting in unnecessary effort, Oreki finds himself drawn into solving mysteries at the behest of his friends. His keen observational skills and deductive reasoning make him an unexpected but brilliant detective.

While maintaining his philosophy of minimal effort, he learns to navigate the complexities of human connections and emotions. The mysteries he unravels serve as metaphors for the intricacies of life, pushing him to explore beyond his comfort zone and leading to personal growth.


6. Glen Raders (Roku de Nashi Majutsu Kōshi to Akashikku Rekōdo)

Glen Raders as seen in Roku de Nashi Majutsu Kōshi to Akashikku Rekōdo (Image via Linden Films)
Glen Raders as seen in Roku de Nashi Majutsu Kōshi to Akashikku Rekōdo (Image via Linden Films)

If it were up to him, Glen Raders would have the class self-study all year while he dozed off. You have to be a really special character if even the teacher complains about you. But as it turns out, he was recommended by Celica.

Now, one would ask why did he even became a teacher. The answer is that he didn't want to but was blackmailed by Celica into becoming a teacher. However, Glen had to soon reveal his potential within the second episode, shocking all of his students!"


5. Umaru (Himoutou! Umaru-Chan)

Umaru-Chan as seen in Himoutou! Umaru-Chan (Image via Doga Kobo)
Umaru-Chan as seen in Himoutou! Umaru-Chan (Image via Doga Kobo)

When it comes to slacking off, Umaru Doma from Himouto! Umaru-chan takes the cake. This girl's laziness game is on another level. he's the go-getter at school, acing everything and looking like a model student. But the moment she steps through her front door, it's a different story. Umaru's lazy alter ego kicks in, and she's all about video games, snacks, and zero effort. It's like she's got a PhD in chilling.

It's like watching a superhero switch between their civilian and crime-fighting identities, only Umaru's superpower is the ability to avoid anything that resembles work. As Himouto! Umaru-chan unfolds, she stumbles onto some life lessons about finding balance. So, as Umaru kicks back, munches on snacks, and levels up in her video games, she's not just the queen of laziness; she's a reminder that life's about finding that sweet spot between kicking back and stepping up.


4. Atsushi Murasakibara (Kuroko’s Basketball)

Atsushi Murasakibara as seen in Kuroko’s Basketball (Image via Production I.G)
Atsushi Murasakibara as seen in Kuroko’s Basketball (Image via Production I.G)

Being the biggest on the court, Murasakibara never had to put much effort into being a member of 'The Generation of Miracles.' He chose basketball to take advantage of his big build. While everyone else is sprinting around the court, he's strolling, making the game look like a leisurely walk in the park.

Murasakibara's got a thing for munchies, especially 'Macadamia Chocolate.' Snacking during a game? Absolutely. It's like he's on a dunk-and-snack break, breaking all the rules with a big grin. As the series unfolds, you start to see more layers to Murasakibara's chill exterior. Fans are in for a ride as the lazy giant has a quest for balance and personal development tucked away.


3. Shoto Aizawa (My Hero Academia)

Shoto Aizawa, as seen in My Hero Academia (Image via Bones Studio)
Shoto Aizawa, as seen in My Hero Academia (Image via Bones Studio)

Aizawa can be caught napping in the staff room or wrapped up in a sleeping bag during training. It's practically his trademark move. While other heroes flex gadgets and flashy outfits, Aizawa keeps it real with a sleeping bag. It doesn't help that his Quirk erasure puts a strain on his eyes, forcing him to keep some eye drops handy.

Aizawa's love for sleeping bags has become a fan-favorite meme factory. Fans can't get enough of the hero in his comfy cocoon, and the internet is flooded with memes and fan art capturing Aizawa's hilarious escapades while trying to catch some Z's. Eraser Head is the hero who knows that sometimes a good nap is all you need to face the hero hustle.


2. Shikamaru Nara (Naruto)

Shikamaru Nara as seen in Naruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)
Shikamaru Nara as seen in Naruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)

With his iconic catchphrase, "What a drag," and an apparent distaste for anything troublesome, Shikamaru's introduction into the series paints a picture of a student who couldn't be bothered with ninja training. Yet, this nonchalant exterior masks a mind that operates at a level of intellect few can match. His strategic brilliance shines through when he is forced to act, transforming his seemingly lazy approach into a calculated and effective method during the Chunin Exams.

Despite his brilliance, Shikamaru initially grapples with the burden of leadership. His promotion to the rank of Chunin and subsequent responsibilities weigh heavily on his shoulders. From the lazy genius to the reluctant leader, Shikamaru's growth is marked by strategic brilliance, emotional depth, and a commitment to friendship.


1.Gintoki Sakata (Gintama)

Gintoki Sakata as seen in Gintama (Image via Bandai Namco Pictures)
Gintoki Sakata as seen in Gintama (Image via Bandai Namco Pictures)

Gintoki Sakata, a former warrior known as the White Demon during the Joui War, transitions into a post-war life as a slothful and apathetic odd-job freelancer. His sword may be sharp, but his work ethic is anything but. Gintoki's lazy approach to work becomes a running gag, earning him the title of the 'Slothful Ronin.'

Gintoki's odd job business reflects his approach to working half-heartedly with a perpetual sigh of reluctance. His ability to doze off at a moment's notice becomes a symbol of his indifference, transforming even the most urgent missions into opportunities for a quick nap. Gintoki's laziness can be seen as a form of rebellion against the societal expectations and hardships he faced during the Joui War.


Final thoughts

In the end, the popularity of lazy anime characters lies in the relatability and comedic charm they bring to their respective series. Whether they're teaching life lessons about finding balance like Umaru or showcasing that even heroes need a break like Aizawa, these characters have carved out a special place in the hearts of viewers. They make the universe of lazy anime characters a cherished and enduring aspect of the anime landscape.

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Edited by Ivanna Lalsangzuali
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