Overview
- Hawks losing his Quirk represents a deeply emotional moment that caught fans off guard.
- Mirio’s Quirk is tragically taken by a bullet, illustrating his heartbreaking struggle.
- Nighteye’s last moments, filled with faith in Midoriya, strike a poignant note.
My Hero Academia may present itself as a vibrant and lively series, yet it is not afraid to delve into darker and more emotional terrain. While its sadder scenes predominantly center on the heroes—characters that fans are naturally inclined to support—author Kohei Horikoshi skillfully crafts moments that evoke sympathy even for the series’ villains. This duality adds depth to the overarching narrative and enhances character development.
In the earlier arcs, action and combat take center stage, often overshadowing the emotional climaxes that come as the characters face rising stakes. As we reflect on the series, it’s time to prepare for a heartfelt revisit to some of the most devastating moments in My Hero Academia, sure to stir emotions and provoke tears in fans recalling their initial impact.
Warning! Spoilers Ahead!
8. Hawks Loses His Quirk
The Unfaltering Hero Faces a Dire Challenge
- Season 7, Episode 18
Hawks, a young and dynamic hero first introduced during the Pro Hero arc, captures audiences with his charisma and skill. His Quirk, Fierce Wings, not only allows him to fly but also enables him to control his feathers as formidable weapons. This makes it all the more shocking when his Quirk is abruptly snatched away by Shigaraki during a fierce confrontation. Witnessing Hawks’ anguish as he comes to terms with losing his abilities is a genuinely heartbreaking moment, especially in light of the adversity he has already faced throughout his life.
7. Mirio Gets Shot With a Quirk-Destroying Bullet
Mirio’s Triumphs and Tribulations with His Quirk
- Episode 74
Introduced ahead of the Overhaul arc, Mirio is celebrated for his mastery of the challenging Permeation Quirk. Despite the hurdles he faces, his unwavering determination allows him to shine as one of U.A. High’s finest. Thus, viewers experience a gut-wrenching moment when he is incapacitated after a Quirk-destroying bullet struck him while defending Eri. In an admirable display of resolve, Mirio maintains a brave front, trying to comfort Eri amid the chaos. While he eventually regains his abilities, the emotional weight of this experience leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
6. Nighteye’s Final Moments
Trust is Rekindled in Nighteye’s Last Breath
- Episode 77
Nighteye’s initial skepticism toward Midoriya stems from his deep admiration for All Might, believing Mirio was a more suitable heir to the One For All Quirk. However, as circumstances unfold, Midoriya proves his mettle during their mission against Overhaul. Tragically, Nighteye suffers a mortal wound, leading him to express his newfound belief in Midoriya as he lays on his deathbed. His smile amid fading consciousness is a striking image that resonates deeply, as it symbolizes his transformation and acceptance.
5. Twice’s Death
Trusting Relationships Turn Tragic
- Episode 116
Rather than embodying a traditional menacing villain, Twice reflects the struggle of identity due to his Quirk, which unnervingly blurs the line between him and his duplicates. His trajectory takes a tragic turn during the Meta Liberation War when he elects to face danger to protect his comrades, only to meet betrayal at the hands of a hero he once considered an ally—Hawks. The emotional farewell to Toga, as he fades from existence, serves as a powerful commentary on the need for camaraderie and understanding in the face of mental health struggles.
4. Endeavor Learns the Truth About Dabi
A Shattering Revelation
- Episode 124
The complex dynamics of the Todoroki family epitomize one of the most intricately written plots within the series. Endeavor’s past transgressions as an abusive father cast a long shadow over his attempts to redeem himself. However, when Dabi reveals his true identity as Toya, the neglected son he believed was dead, Endeavor is thrust into an emotional turmoil that highlights themes of regret and unreconciled familial bonds.
3. Eri Being Used By Overhaul
A Heartbreaking Abuse Narrative
- Episode 69
When Eri and Overhaul first appear on the scene, they initially seem like a father and daughter pairing. However, the horrifying truth is quickly revealed: Overhaul exploits Eri’s Rewind Quirk to create Quirk-destroying bullets, treating her not as a person, but rather as a tool for his nefarious plans. This disturbing narrative tackles serious topics such as child exploitation, underscoring how vital it is for heroes to protect the vulnerable.
2. Shigaraki’s Past
Understanding Shigaraki’s Descent into Darkness
- Episode 112
The unveiling of Shigaraki’s past is a masterclass in storytelling, illustrating how a suitable backstory can humanize even the most villainous characters. Originally a boy who aspired to be a hero, his violent transformation is rooted in severe familial abuse and traumatic experiences that left him adrift and filled with rage. The narrative elicits deep empathy as viewers witness how his traumatic upbringing shaped his nihilistic worldview.
1. Bakugo Falls to Shigaraki
A Beloved Hero’s Gruesome Fate
- Episode 149
Bakugo’s fierce determination stands resilient as he takes on Shigaraki, proving himself a formidable adversary. However, the tension culminates in a heart-stopping moment when Bakugo seemingly meets his end at the hands of Shigaraki, leaving fans in a state of disbelief and sorrow. The initial portrayal of Bakugo’s lifeless body is jarring, prompting questions about the permanence of his fate. While Bakugo is eventually revived, the emotional impact of this pivotal moment lingers with audiences, underscoring the stakes involved in their battles.