As November arrives, the trees in town are gradually beginning to change color, painting the landscape with warm hues.
Just like the vibrant autumn leaves, many anime characters leave a strong impression with their fiery red hues. Whether they’re clad in crimson costumes, sport bright red hair or eyes, or possess a personality as hot as a flame, these characters are depicted in a wide variety of exciting ways.
That’s why Anime! Anime! conducted its annual reader survey titled “Who is Your Favorite Character Whose Image Color is ‘Red’?” We received 430 responses during the survey period from November 4th to November 7th. The gender ratio was approximately 40% male and 60% female, indicating a slightly higher participation from women. The age demographic was primarily younger respondents, with about 50% being 19 or younger and approximately 20% in their 20s.
Table of Contents
Red-Clad Heroes & Rivals Rank High!
First Place
Taking the first place spot is Morisawa Chiaki from Ensemble Stars!. With approximately 5% of the votes, he jumped from unranked last year straight to the top!
TV Anime Ensemble Stars! Second Key Visual (C) Happy Elements K.K／Ensta! Anime Production Committee
Morisawa Chiaki is a member of the five-person unit Ryuseitai, where he performs as Ryusei Red. Readers commented, “The first thing that came to mind was his rallying cry: ‘Red flames are the symbol of justice! The blazing sun of life, burning bright red!’ His strong sense of justice and fiery, passionate personality perfectly match the color red.” Another reader added, “While he seems like a typical hot-blooded red character, he also possesses a calm side, observing his surroundings and showing great consideration, which I find to be an exquisite balance.” Many also praised him as “a true hero, including his past stories,” with episodes depicting his childhood and the formation of Ryuseitai gaining significant support, ultimately leading the unit’s leader to the top.
Second Place
Coming in at second place is Char Aznable from Kidou Senshi Gundam. With approximately 4% of the votes, he significantly climbed the ranks from his joint 7th place last year.
TV Anime Kidou Senshi Gundam THE ORIGIN Zenya Akai Suisei Key Visual (C) Sotsu・Sunrise
Char Aznable is an ace pilot for the Principality of Zeon. Readers commented, “He’s a truly formidable individual, living up to his moniker ‘The Red Comet,’ and his signature phrase ‘three times faster than normal’ is widely known, symbolizing his strength. From his custom mobile suit to his military uniform, everything is primarily red, and it suits him perfectly.” Another reader found it refreshing that “red is usually associated with protagonists, but it’s fresh to see it as the color for an antagonist.” This character, who was also a hot topic in this year’s broadcast of Kidou Senshi Gundam GQuuuuuuX, certainly stands out. Furthermore, his popularity extends beyond anime, with many noting his collaborations with companies, where he has “dyed various product packages red,” highlighting his widespread recognition.
Third Place
In third place is Nakahara Chuuya from Bungou Stray Dogs. The difference between him and second place was minimal; while he dropped from last year’s first-place spot, he successfully maintained his position in the top three.
Port Mafia executive Nakahara Chuuya garnered many comments related to his ability: “He is an ability user who fights with his power to manipulate gravity, ‘For the Tainted Sorrow.’ The way he glows red when activating it is captivating.” Another voter mentioned, “He even answers ‘red’ when asked about his favorite color in his profile, and it was shocking to see his cheeks and arms turn a dark reddish-black when he fully unleashes the ‘Corruption’ form of his ability.” From his love for wine to his cherished red motorcycle, elements related to the color red are scattered throughout this character’s design and personality.
Other Comments!
For Riddle Rosehearts from Disney Twisted-Wonderland, a fan commented, “The color of his dorm is red, and both ‘Rose’ and ‘Heart’ in his name evoke the color red. Beyond his visual appeal, he also harbors fiery, passionate emotions within his heart.”
Regarding Fire Drake from Saikyou Ou Zukan ~The Ultimate Tournament~, a reader shared, “His tagline, ‘The legendary red dragon that breathes scorching flames,’ is incredibly cool. He employs fire breath tactics, such as depriving opponents of oxygen in caves or melting ice in frozen plains to create fog. Watching his intense battles, where he utilizes the environment, truly set my heart ablaze with passion.”
For Asagaki Tougo from Sentai Red Isekai de Boukensha ni Naru, a comment read, “He has a hot-blooded, kind-hearted personality with a strong sense of justice, embodying the classic image of a Sentai series’ Red. As Kizuna Red, his appearance, from his costume to his hair color, is entirely crimson. His companions even call him Red instead of his name, reinforcing his strong association with the color.”
Sentai Red Isekai de Boukensha ni Naru Key Visual (C) Nakayoshi Torakichi／SQUARE ENIX・Isekai Red Production Committee
There was also a vote for Nanase Riku from IDOLiSH7, a title currently showing a compilation movie. A fan described him as, “The center of IDOLiSH7 and an owner of rare singing talent. He’s energetic, pure, innocent, and always positive, just like the sun. His puppy-like eyes, which he occasionally shows, also have incredible appeal!”
For the 2025 edition, a diverse array of characters, including idols, pilots, and ability users, made it into the rankings. It’s also notable that many reliable and trustworthy characters secured spots.
Next page reveals the top 20, don’t miss it!
Top 10 Ranking
“Who is Your Favorite Character Whose Image Color is ‘Red’?” 2025 Edition
- Morisawa Chiaki Ensemble Stars!
- Char Aznable Kidou Senshi Gundam
- Nakahara Chuuya Bungou Stray Dogs
- Akai Shuichi Meitantei Conan
- Kikyou Inuyasha
- Matsuno Osomatsu Osomatsu-san
- Riddle Rosehearts Disney Twisted-Wonderland
- Akabane Karma Ansatsu Kyoushitsu
- Hakurei Reimu Touhou Project
- Yamada Ichirou Hypnosis Mic -Division Rap Battle-
(Response Period: November 4th – November 7th, 2025)
Next Page: Ranking 20th Place to Top Revealed
