10 most iconic anime characters with red eyes

In anime, certain iconic characters have become fan favorites, whether it is because of their epic battles, striking designs, or the depth of their personalities. Among them, characters with red eyes tend to stand out, as they bring out a unique intensity and emotional complexity. In this article, we will take a look at 10 iconic anime characters known for their red eyes.

---

10 most iconic anime characters with red eyes

1) Sebastian Michaelis

Series: Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji)

Role: Demon Butler to Ciel Phantomhive

Debut: Manga (2006), Anime (2008)

Sebastian Michaelis is one of the most iconic anime characters for his intelligence, powers, and classy mannerisms. He is the butler of the Phataomhive household, Primarily, he is supposed to ensure that all tasks assigned by Ciel are completed to perfection. It could be from hosting events to eliminating enemies if needed. However, behind his charming smile that has captured the hearts of fans lies a sinister nature.

He is a demon waiting patiently to claim Ciel’s soul. Sebastian Michaelis is one of the anime characters with red eyes who is detached from human emotions. He is truly a dangerous predator and has an unforgettable presence in anime history.

2) Tomura Shigaraki

Series: My Hero Academia

Role: Leader of the League of Villains

Debut: Manga (2014), Anime (2016)

Tomura Shigaraki is an anime character whose story has made the audience sympathize in My Hero Academia, making him one of the most compelling anime characters with red eyes. Initially, he was an immature villain who was obsessed with causing mindless destruction and chaos. Eventually, Tomura’s personality deepens with each arc. Despite being the product of manipulation and trauma, his inner turmoil makes him tragically human.

Being brought up as a vessel for All for One, he gained power and confidence. Furthermore, his distrust of society and his deep resentment added layers to him as a villain. His evolution from a simple thug to an important villain makes him one of the most iconic anime characters in recent shonen history.

3) Muzan Kibutsuji

Series: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Role: Main Antagonist

Debut: Manga (2016), Anime (2019)

Muzan Kibutsuji is a chilling figure in Demon Slayer, embodying pure evil wrapped in a mask of sophistication. His entire personality and meaning of existence were to find a way to immortality. Muzan was obsessed with cheating death because a part of him feared dying.

Unlike many anime villains who seek chaos for its own sake, Muzan’s motives are terrifyingly personal: He will stop at nothing to ensure his immortality. The way he looked down at weaker characters and was obsessed with perfection made him one of the most iconic anime characters, who left a lasting impression as an antagonist.

4) Satori Tendou

Series: Haikyuu!!

Role: Middle Blocker for Shiratorizawa Academy

Debut: Manga (2012), Anime (2016)

Satori Tendou is a refreshing burst of chaotic energy, he is also known as The Guess Monster because of his ability to perfectly predict his opponents' moves. For him, it could be volleyball or his life; both of them will have a mix of his playfulness and mischief. He embraces his eccentric personality even if others find it hard to accept him.

Furthermore, he uses his over-the-top energy during a volleyball match by turning it into his greatest weapon. Tendou’s unfiltered honesty, goofball energy, and volleyball skills make him a beloved figure iconic anime character with red eyes.

5) Dio Brando

Series: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Role: Primary Antagonist

Debut: Manga (1987), Anime (2012)

Dio Brando is the quintessential villain, introduced during Phantom Blood. His ambitions have no bounds, it was reflected early on when he wanted to seek dominion over everything around him. This was because he had a deep resentment for his humble beginnings and his father.

He is a master manipulator, which was evident when he charmed people to follow him. Dio revels in his power and superiority, treating cruelty as an art form. This makes him one of the most iconic anime characters in comparison to all other villains of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure.

6) Itachi Uchiha

Series: Naruto

Role: Rogue Ninja, Member of Akatsuki

Debut: Manga (1999), Anime (2002)

Itachi Uchiha remains one of the most emotionally resonant iconic anime characters. Initially introduced as a wanted criminal for massacring his clan, Itachi’s true motivations were revealed much later. He was a tragic hero burdened by impossible choices.

During his lifetime, he carried immense pain beneath his calm exterior, choosing isolation and hatred. All of this just to protect his brother Sasuke and maintain world peace. His character arc deeply resonated with fans, elevating him from a character to a legend.

7) Senku Ishigami

Series: Dr. Stone

Role: Protagonist, Scientist

Debut: Manga (2017), Anime (2019)

Senku Ishigami stands out as one of the iconic anime characters for his amazing intellect. He believes in the power of science to uplift and unite, even when faced with overwhelming odds. In the world of Dr.Stone, he is seen as the ray of light who will be responsible for reviving humanity after being petrified for thousands of years.

Throughout the story, Senku has won battles with his visionary ideas and creativity, to make up for the fact that he is not physically capable of fighting. This firmly places him among the most inspiring anime characters with red eyes.

8) Scar

Series: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Role: Anti-Hero

Debut: Manga (2001), Anime (2009)

Scar’s character arc in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is tasteful storytelling about vengeance and redemption. His journey started as a ruthless killer who wanted to seek justice for his people, after they were the victims of war. However, as his journey continued, he broke the chain of violence and worked towards bringing change.

Finally, his actions remind everyone that healing demands the kind of courage that only comes when one gives up on violence. This hope he represents makes him one of the most complex and iconic anime characters.

9) Gajeel Redfox

Series: Fairy Tail

Role: Dragon Slayer, Guild Member

Debut: Manga (2006), Anime (2009)

Gajeel Redfox’s evolution in Fairy Tail is an inspiring and most satisfying character development arc in anime. Introduced as an enemy from the Phantom Lord, but later on after he joined the Fairy Tail Guild, he slowly worked towards becoming a gentle person.

He is both introverted and fiercely protective of those he loves. Viewers watching him grow as a person, as he is accepted and becomes a dependable member of the guild, make him one of the iconic anime characters in the shonen genre.

10) Ryomen Sukuna

Series: Jujutsu Kaisen

Role: King of Curses

Debut: Manga (2018), Anime (2020)

Sukuna is defined by his arrogance, overconfidence, and powers. He views humans as inferior life forms and, therefore, insignificant. For him to witness their suffering brings immense pleasure and happiness. During his time in Jujutsu Kaisen, his unpredictability and sheer presence make him one of the most fearsome and iconic anime characters in modern anime. Also, although an antagonist, Sukuna is a popular character among fans worldwide.

---

In conclusion, these iconic anime characters have engraved their presence into fans' hearts. Whether driven by vengeance, ambition, love, or madness, their complexity transcends simple archetypes, making them truly legendary. These anime characters with red eyes don’t just look intense; they are fierce and are truly fascinating to witness on screen.