Introduction

The world of anime is rich with intricate characters and compelling stories. However, despite the impact these characters have, many fans feel they deserved more screen time. This article explores anime characters from various series that fans wished had been given extended roles, ultimately shaping their potential and audience appeal.

Characters Deserving More Screen Time

Senjougahara Hitagi from Monogatari Series: Known for her complex and multilayered persona, Hitagi from the Monogatari series was a fan favorite. Her character had a significant impact, especially in Packet of Dreams, making her many fans wish she had been explored more. Despite her brief appearances, her character left a lasting impression. She was more than just a supporting role.

Hange Zo from Attack on Titan: The eccentric, intelligent, and brimming Squad Leader was a standout figure in Attack on Titan. Fans were enamored by her charisma and depth, often longing for her to have more screen time. However, her storyline was often overshadowed by the main protagonists, leaving fans craving for more.

Hiko Maes Hughes from Fullmetal Alchemist: As one of the most beloved supporting characters, Maes Hughes contributed significantly to the overall narrative with his wisdom and bravery. Fans felt his untimely death was a loss, as he had a lot more to offer to the story. His presence in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood would have been beneficial for the development of the plot and the growth of other characters.

Nico Yazawa from Love Live! School Idol Project: As a member of the μ’s, Nico had a lively, energetic personality that resonated with many fans. Her screen time could have been expanded to deepen her character and explore her unique traits and development more thoroughly. Her character left a significant mark, and fans often wished for more focus on her.

Other Notable Characters

Rock Lee from Naruto: While Rock Lee became less prominent in Naruto Shippuden, his presence throughout the show was beloved. Many wish he had more screen time to fully explore his growth and capabilities. His determination and fighting spirit made him a fan favorite, and the lack of focus on him in later episodes remains a point of contention for many fans.

Sasori of the Red Sand from Naruto: Sasori, a member of Akatsuki, had a notably interesting backstory and unique fighting style. His untimely death left many eager for more of his character. Despite his dramatic exit, the intrigue surrounding Sasori’s past and affiliations remained unfulfilled, leaving fans unsatisfied.

Gaara of the Sand from Naruto: Gaara is a beloved character with significant screen time, yet fans often desire more. His charisma and fighting prowess make him one of the coolest and most popular characters from the series. His continued absence in later parts of the show is a point of frustration for many fans, who argue for more screen time to see him in action.

Hideyoshi Nagachika from Tokyo Ghoul: Hideyoshi was a standout character, known for his positive influence on Ken Kaneki. Fans desired more of his presence alongside Kaneki to explore their friendship in greater detail. However, his absence in Season 2 and reemergence in Season 4 left many unanswered questions about his activities during Kaneki’s absence.

Ayato Kirishima from Tokyo Ghoul: With his charming, arrogant persona, Ayato stole the show whenever he appeared. Fans enjoyed his scenes and wanted more. His backstory, relationship with his father, and his connection with Touka were intriguing but not fully explored, leaving fans longing for more engaging narrative around him.

Additional Observations

Other characters from the Attack on Titan series are also frequently mentioned in discussions about the need for more screen time. Annie Leonhart, for instance, has an enigmatic past that could have been expanded to enhance the series’ narrative. Reiner and Bertholdt’s stories, as well as the contributions of Sasha, Connie, and Jean, also merit more exploration. Even Levi, despite his popularity, could have been fleshed out further in Season 1 and made more of a presence in Season 2.

Interestingly, characters with lesser screen time can still become incredibly loved. Kishou Arima from Tokyo Ghoul and Erwin Smith from Attack on Titan are prime examples of this. These characters, while not central to the main narrative, are remembered for their unique qualities and impact.

Conclusion

The desire for more screen time for characters in anime is a testament to the depth and complexity of these narratives. Many fans feel that characters like Hitagi, Hange Zo, Maes Hughes, and numerous others in popular series, including those from Attack on Titan, could have been more intricately developed and central to the story. This reflects the strong emotional connection fans have with the characters, which can often transcend the limitations of a single episode or season.