Demon Slayer has captivated audiences with its rich array of characters, many of whom have met tragic fates that fans fervently wish could be rewritten. Certain heroes and warriors deserve a second chance not only because their stories feel incomplete but also due to their immense potential to influence future events. However, it’s important to note that not every fallen character should be resurrected. Some concluded their journeys aptly, and reviving them would compromise the integrity of their sacrifices. Likewise, certain antagonists have exhibited toxicity that necessitated their demise to maintain narrative balance. Distinguishing between who deserves revival and who should remain departed is complex, yet several standout characters straddle both sides effectively. Below, we discuss five characters from Demon Slayer that merit resurrection, coupled with five who are better off remaining dead.
Disclaimer: This article reflects personal opinions and contains spoilers from the Demon Slayer manga/anime.
Kyojuro Rengoku and Four Other Characters Who Deserve a Revival
1) Kyojuro Rengoku
Kyojuro Rengoku’s untimely death during his valiant fight against Akaza was a profound loss for the Demon Slayer Corps. As a symbol of courage and determination, his exceptional combat skills and indomitable spirit could have had a massive impact on battles to come. Resurrecting him would not undermine his sacrifice; instead, it would serve as a testament to his enduring legacy, providing young Demon Slayers, especially Tanjiro, with an invaluable role model.
2) Shinobu Kocho
Shinobu Kocho’s sacrifice, willingly allowing Doma to consume her to weaken him, was noble yet unjust. Being one of the sharpest Demon Slayers, her strategic mind and unique abilities could have played pivotal roles in subsequent fights. Her return would not only enrich the narrative but would also empower her to develop new antidotes and poisons, giving her another chance to avenge her fallen sister. Shinobu Kocho’s storyline deserves another chapter.
3) Muichiro Tokito
As a prodigy, Muichiro Tokito lost his life after a battle with Kokushibo. Despite his extraordinary talent, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after. If he were to return, it would significantly bolster the potential of the Demon Slayer Corps. At just 14 years old, Muichiro had immense untapped power that could have been harnessed for greater good, ultimately transforming his painful past into a protective force for those he cared for.
4) Gyomei Himejima
Gyomei Himejima, regarded as the mightiest Hashira, sacrificed himself during the battle against Muzan and Kokushibo. His unparalleled strength and wisdom could contribute significantly to training a new generation of Demon Slayers. His revival would not only reintroduce a dominant force but also provide closure to his unresolved legacy, ensuring that his vital character and contributions are honored.
5) Genya Shinazugawa
Genya Shinazugawa’s life was cut short during his valorous fight against Kokushibo. While he displayed exceptional resilience, his inability to regenerate like demons ultimately led to his downfall. Reviving Genya could allow him to further hone his unique abilities, deepening the narrative, especially concerning his complex relationship with Sanemi, thus enhancing the emotional richness of the series.
Muzan and Four Other Characters Who Are Better Off Dead
1) Muzan Kibutsuji
The ultimate antagonist, Muzan Kibutsuji, faced an appropriate end at the hands of the Demon Slayer Corps. His death marked the conclusion of an era filled with terror and suffering. Reviving him would negate the sacrifices made by countless fighters, reopening the floodgates to a new cycle of chaos and anguish that could derail the series’ resolution. Muzan’s existence signifies pain; therefore, he unequivocally belongs to the realm of the departed.
2) Akaza
Akaza’s demise came at a pivotal moment when he regained his human memories. By willingly ceasing his regeneration, he found a form of redemption from Muzan’s control. Resurrecting him would undermine the profound arc of his character, demonstrating that even demons could find peace. His story concluded on a note of acceptance, making revival an unnecessary and destructive act.
3) Doma
Doma’s end came at the hands of Shinobu and later Kanao and Inosuke, a necessary conclusion for a character devoid of empathy for human life. His return would only usher in more despair, as his character showed a complete absence of desire for redemption or change. The justice brought by his demise was essential, cementing his status as a character who should remain in the past.
4) Kokushibo
Kokushibo met his end through the collaborative efforts of Gyomei, Sanemi, Muichiro, and Genya. Though on the verge of regeneration, he disintegrated, filled with regret and despair. Bringing him back would invalidate the hard-fought battles of the warriors and undermine the thematic exploration of obsession and lost humanity inherent in his character. His demise served as a necessary closing statement to an intensely emotional saga.
5) Gyutaro
Gyutaro’s death at the hands of Tengen Uzui and Tanjiro not only liberated the Entertainment District from his reign of terror, but it also concluded his tragic backstory. Reviving him would lead to a repeat of his previous atrocities, as his character carried an inextricable connection to malice. His emotional resolution alongside Daki signifies a fitting end to their narrative arcs, solidifying his status among the characters best left in the past.
Final Thoughts
The world of Demon Slayer is populated by characters whose exits resonate profoundly. Heroes like Kyojuro Rengoku and Muichiro Tokito possess untold potential, and their revival could undoubtedly empower the Demon Slayer Corps. Additionally, Genya Shinazugawa’s story remains incomplete, necessitating further exploration and closure.
Conversely, characters such as Muzan Kibutsuji and Doma represent irredeemable villains whose resurrections would undermine the series’ resolution and thematic integrity. The arcs of Akaza and Gyutaro reflect appropriate conclusions deserving of their character journeys. Some characters are in dire need of a second chance, while others are best left to rest in peace. Ultimately, the saga of Demon Slayer balances these complex narratives of life, death, and resurrection.