Overview
- Aizawa cultivates dynamic relationships with influential figures like All Might, which significantly shape his path as a teacher and hero.
- He takes a keen interest in Eri’s growth and mentors Shinso, revealing a nurturing aspect of his personality.
- Enduring friendships with characters like Midnight, Ms. Joke, and Present Mic showcase Aizawa’s softer side.
My Hero Academia has captivated audiences with its compelling narrative and expansive universe filled with superheroes and villains, focusing primarily on Izuku Midoriya and his mentor, All Might. The series offers an in-depth look at a world thriving on heroics, setting a new standard for shonen anime with its intricate storytelling and rich character development. While fan favorites such as Katsuki Bakugo and Shoto Todoroki often take the spotlight, characters like Shota Aizawa, or as he’s better known, Eraser Head, play a critical role in Midoriya’s journey right from the beginning.
Aizawa is frequently perceived as stern and detached, yet he maintains various friendships among his colleagues and students, positioning himself as an essential pillar within Japan’s heroic framework.
7. All Might
A Peer’s Evolution into Friendship After Initial Tensions
- Debut: Anime (Episode 1), Manga (Chapter 1)
As the beloved hero of My Hero Academia, All Might garners admiration and attention, sometimes to Aizawa’s frustration. Their professional relationship at U.A. High begins rocky, marked by contrasts in their teaching philosophies: All Might’s optimistic demeanor clashes with Aizawa’s disciplined approach.
Despite these differences, mutual respect emerges over time, particularly as Class 1A embarks on numerous adventures. This camaraderie extends to personal moments, including a willingness to share drinks, notably after All Might’s retirement from active hero duties, illustrating Aizawa’s underlying care for his friend.
6. Eri
A Promising Young Girl Under Aizawa’s Guidance
- Debut: Anime (Episode 66), Manga (Chapter 128)
Affected by a traumatic past, Eri represents resilience; she was exploited by the Shie Hassaikai organization until her rescue by Midoriya and his allies. Since her liberation, Aizawa has assumed the role of her guardian, ensuring she is safe at U.A. High while helping her navigate the complexities of her Quirk, Rewind.
Despite Aizawa’s often cold exterior, Eri manages to elicit a nurturing side from him, fostering a charming father-daughter dynamic that helps both find strength in their bond.
5. Hitoshi Shinso
A Student Mentored by Aizawa
- Debut: Anime (Episode 15), Manga (Chapter 23)
Instantly recognizable for his Brainwashing Quirk, Hitoshi Shinso captures Aizawa’s attention at U.A. High due to the similarities with Aizawa’s own Quirk, Erasure. Although initially placed in the Department of General Education, Shinso’s talent allows him to transition into the hero course, where Aizawa takes him under his wing—echoing the bond between Midoriya and All Might.
Their reserved personalities create a strong connection, with Aizawa seeing in Shinso a reflection of his younger self, leading to an eagerness to support him in his hero development.
4. Ms. Joke
A Playful Friend and Colleague
- Debut: Anime (Episode 53), Manga (Chapter 103)
While Aizawa might not exhibit his fondness openly, a noticeable rapport exists between him and Ms. Joke, a Ketsubutsu Academy High School instructor. Their long-standing acquaintance extends back to their early careers, filled with playful banter that often catches Aizawa off guard.
Despite their varying temperaments—hers flamboyant and his more reserved—their shared history fosters a deep friendship, with Ms. Joke continuing to challenge Aizawa to express his feelings, especially during competitive events linked to their students’ hero exams.
3. Midnight
A Trustworthy Ally from Aizawa’s Youth
- Debut: Anime (Episode 9), Manga (Chapter 3)
Midnight, a lively U.A. High faculty member, has known Aizawa since their days as students. Their friendship blossomed despite Midnight’s position in the year above, as they both interned at the same hero agency and enjoyed camaraderie while dealing with the passing of their mutual friend, Oboro Shirakumo.
Upon becoming a teacher, Midnight actively recommended Aizawa for a teaching position, believing in his potential to inspire future heroes. Their professional relationship has remained strong, characterized by respect, even as they navigate personal challenges, particularly evident after Midnight’s tragic loss during the Paranormal Liberation War.
2. Oboro Shirakumo
A Childhood Friend Turned Tragic Antagonist
- Debut: Anime (Episode 107), Manga (Chapter 255)
In their formative years, Oboro Shirakumo was a close friend of Aizawa and Yamada, sharing aspirations of becoming heroes and establishing their agency. Shirakumo was a beacon of positivity, often encouraging Aizawa and providing him with confidence. He also gifted Aizawa his goggles, which have become iconic in Aizawa’s hero persona.
Tragedy struck when Shirakumo was killed by a villain, later reviving as Kurogiri, an agent of chaos in the battle between heroes and villains. Aizawa’s attempts to reach the remnants of his friend within Kurogiri underlines their enduring bond, demonstrating the deep connections that shape their lives.
1. Present Mic
A Gregarious Companion and Lifelong Friend
- Debut: Anime (Episode 3), Manga (Chapter 3)
Among the faculty at U.A. High, Yamada, known as Present Mic, stands out as Aizawa’s closest friend, a bond that dates back to their student days. Together with Shirakumo, they envisioned creating a hero agency—a plan hindered by tragedy. Yamada coined Aizawa’s hero name “Eraser Head,” a moniker that has become synonymous with Aizawa’s identity.
Despite their contrasting personalities—Yamada’s exuberance against Aizawa’s calm demeanor—their friendship is a testament to loyalty and understanding. Their bond has endured trials, notably grappling with the loss of Kurogiri, which has tested their resolve and reaffirmed their commitment to each other as they navigate the complexities of heroism.