My Hero Academia has captivated audiences as a leading shonen anime that chronicles the journey of Izuku Midoriya, an aspiring hero. Yet, the narrative expands further back in time, exploring the stories of individuals who operate in the shadows—the focus of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes. This series delves into the lives of unlicensed heroes who take on the fight against injustice when official heroes are unable to respond.
These vigilant figures, often disregarded by society, step in to defend their communities even when their actions are deemed illegal. The complex interplay between heroes, villains, and vigilantes adds significant depth to the narrative, enriching the characters and their roles in the overarching story.
What follows is an exploration of key characters from the My Hero Academia: Vigilantes manga series.
WARNING: Spoilers Ahead!
7 Soga Kugisaki
A Transformation from Street Thug to Vigilante Ally
- Anime Appearance: Season 1, Episode 1
Initially portrayed as a typical street punk, Soga’s character evolves into one that viewers grow to empathize with. He starts his journey by intimidating Koichi and threatening Pop Step, but a pivotal moment occurs when Knuckleduster intervenes. After being exposed to the trigger drug, Soga descends into villainy, yet ultimately proves his worth by shedding his past behaviors and demonstrating his true, inherently good nature, shaped by the societal discrimination he faced.
6 Eraser Head / Shota Aizawa
A Pro Hero’s Quiet Support for Vigilantes
- Anime Appearance: Season 1, Episode 1
Eraser Head, a prominent figure in the main series, takes on a supportive role in Vigilantes. He observes the actions of vigilantes like Koichi and steps in when danger strikes, showcasing his vested interest in true heroism, irrespective of legality. His interventions reveal a character committed to protecting others, embodying the essence of heroism by looking beyond the constraints of official status.
5 All Might / Toshinori Yagi
An Inspiring Symbol of Hope and Heroism
- Anime Appearance: Season 1, Episode 1
Though his appearances in Vigilantes are brief, All Might’s impact is profound. As the epitome of peace and hope, he surfaces during critical moments, reminding the populace why he is revered as the No. 1 Hero. His legacy inspires characters like Koichi, who strive to embody heroism selflessly, showing that true heroism exists beyond accolades.
4 Pop Step / Kazuho Haneyama
The Journey Back to Joy through Friendship
- Anime Appearance: Season 1, Episode 1
Pop Step presents herself as an exuberant performer who masks her vulnerabilities. As a space in the vigilante trio with Koichi and Knuckleduster, her character reflects both loyalty and complexity. Her narrative takes a darker turn when she is momentarily influenced by villainous elements, yet with Koichi’s guidance, she ultimately reclaims her inherent kindness and joy.
3 Knuckleduster / Iwao Oguro
Redefining Heroism Beyond Quirks
- Anime Appearance: Season 1, Episode 1
Once a pro hero, Knuckleduster’s journey exemplifies the notion that heroism is not solely reliant on having a quirk. Despite losing his powers, he persists as a fierce vigilante, relying on his combat prowess and grit. His role as a mentor to Koichi highlights his commitment to justice, as he encourages growth while managing his own emotional scars from the past.
2 Number 6 / Rokuro Nomura
A Tragic Obsession Molded by Society’s Neglect
- Manga Appearance: Chapter 26
Number 6 embodies a volatile antagonist whose fixation on heroism illustrates a profound tragedy rooted in societal dismissal. As a product of manipulation and neglect, his descent into villainy highlights the dangers of pursuing validation at any cost. His character invites empathy, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of unaddressed emotional needs.
1 Koichi Haimawari
Illustrating True Heroism Beyond Recognition and Quirks
- Anime Appearance: Season 1, Episode 1
Koichi, an aspiring hero with the modest quirk “Slide and Glide,”showcases that profound heroism does not rely on fame or overwhelming power. Utilizing his abilities to assist others with day-to-day challenges, he embodies the essence of a true hero through his courage, empathy, and commitment to justice. Operating outside traditional systems, he earns the respect of peers like Eraser Head, reaffirming that genuine heroism stems from altruism rather than acclaim.