This article contains spoilers from the Naruto series.
Overview of Sakura Haruno
- Kishimoto intended Sakura to reflect aspects of human nature.
- Inner Sakura reveals her authentic self.
- Despite his regrets, Kishimoto did not develop Sakura’s family background.
The Creation of Sakura Haruno
Sakura Haruno stands as a pivotal figure within the Naruto saga, yet her character evokes mixed sentiments among fans. Although she secured a considerable following in various global popularity polls, a substantial portion of Naruto enthusiasts express strong disdain towards her. This polarized reception has caught the attention of the series’ creator, Masashi Kishimoto, who has acknowledged the mixed perceptions surrounding Sakura.
Sakura’s Global Reception
Perception in Japan
In a revealing interview with Kobayashi, Kishimoto disclosed that early reactions to Sakura were notably negative among fans, including female readers of Jump, who felt similarly disillusioned. This adverse feedback prompted Kishimoto to reconsider his portrayal of Sakura, indicating a disconnect between his original intentions and audience reception. While many characters exhibit flaws, Sakura’s perception has been disproportionately harsh, often fueled by unfounded biases rather than her shortcomings.
Kishimoto’s Regrets Regarding Sakura Haruno
Neglect of Family Development
Kishimoto’s reflections reveal a significant regret regarding the underdevelopment of Sakura’s character, particularly her familial background. Unlike Naruto and Sasuke, who received substantial narrative focus, Sakura’s family remains largely unexplored, leading to a perception of her character as sidelined. Despite her family making appearances in non-canon films, these contributions fail to enrich her story meaningfully. Kishimoto has expressed that even with potential expansion on her family, Sakura’s unpopularity might have persisted, reflecting a missed opportunity to showcase a more nuanced and layered character.
For those interested in experiencing the complete narrative of Naruto, the series is accessible through MangaPlus and the Shonen Jump app, allowing fans to support the author while engaging with the storyline.