In the world of anime, creators often draw inspiration from various aspects of real life to craft captivating characters. These characters not only entertain us but also reflect the diverse and complex nature of human experiences. From historical figures to modern personalities, anime has showcased a plethora of characters inspired by real-life individuals. In this article, we will delve into the top 5 anime characters based on real people, each bringing a unique blend of realism and fantasy to the screen.
Top 5 Anime characters based on real people
5. Peter Jürgens (Monster)
Peter Jürgens, a character from the anime “Monster,” draws intriguing parallels to real-life serial killer Edmund Kemper. Although not explicitly confirmed by the creators, several aspects of Jürgens’ character align with Kemper’s chilling persona. Both individuals exhibit a disturbingly calm demeanor and possess an uncanny ability to manipulate those around them.
Jürgens’ towering stature and imposing presence mirror Kemper’s physical attributes, contributing to an aura of intimidation. Furthermore, Jürgens’ heinous acts, including his penchant for targeting women, evoke similarities to Kemper’s own gruesome crimes.
4. Akane Kurokawa (Oshi no Ko)
While not explicitly confirmed, there are compelling parallels between Akane Kurokawa from the anime “Oshi no Ko” and the real-life tragedy of Hana Kimura. Hana Kimura, a young and talented Japanese professional wrestler and reality TV star, tragically passed away due to cyberbullying and online harassment. Similarly, Akane Kurokawa faces the harsh realities of the entertainment industry and deals with the pressures of social media scrutiny.
The emotional turmoil that Akane endures, as depicted in the anime, echoes the challenges and struggles that Hana Kimura faced in her own life. When telecasted, the episode even raised controversies and backlashes for depicting a tragedy without the consent of Hana’s family.
3. Hijikata Toshiro (Gintama)
Hijikata Toshiro from the anime “Gintama” is indeed inspired by the historical figure Hijikata Toshizo, a renowned vice-commander of the Shinsengumi during the late Edo period in Japan. The character Hijikata Toshiro pays homage to the real-life Hijikata Toshizo through various aspects of his personality, appearance, and role within the series.
The anime character seamlessly weaves historical elements into its narrative, reflecting the real-life Hijikata’s role as the “demon of the Shinsengumi.” Like his historical counterpart, Hijikata Toshiro in “Gintama” is portrayed as a strict enforcer of rules within the Shinsengumi, creating a parallel to the Kyokuchu Hatto – the regulations he established to maintain discipline among the members.Â
2. Osamu Dazai (Bungo Stray Dogs)
Osamu Dazai, a central character in the anime “Bungo Stray Dogs,” undoubtedly takes inspiration from the real-life Japanese novelist Osamu Dazai. In a captivating blend of reality and fiction, the character pays homage to the renowned author’s literary works and turbulent life.
The anime’s portrayal captures Dazai’s enigmatic persona, showcasing his intelligence, wit, and at times, a somewhat melancholic disposition. Just as the historical Dazai penned stories that explored the complexities of human emotions and existentialism, the anime’s version possesses an ability called “No Longer Human,” which grants him insight into the human psyche.Â
1. Himura Kenshin (Rurouni Kenshin)
Himura Kenshin, the iconic protagonist of “Rurouni Kenshin,” draws undeniable inspiration from the historical figure Kawakami Gensai. While not a direct adaptation, the character’s persona and background pay tribute to Gensai’s renowned status as a masterless samurai and skilled swordsman during the tumultuous Bakumatsu period in Japan.
Much like Gensai, Kenshin is characterized by his exceptional swordsmanship and his decision to renounce violence after a period of bloodshed. The thematic parallels between the two, while creatively adapted for the anime’s narrative, honor the legacy of Kawakami Gensai and infuse the series with a sense of historical reverence and depth.
Conclusion
The fusion of real-life inspirations with anime offers a unique and captivating viewing experience. Characters like Himura Kenshin, Osamu Dazai, and Peter Jürgens bridge the gap between reality and fantasy. These top 5 anime characters based on real people invite audiences to explore the complexities of the human spirit through the lens of animation.