10 Anime Side Characters Who Deserved Their Own Series

10. Yami Sukehiro (Black Clover)

Yami became one of Black Clover's most popular characters thanks to his unconventional leadership style and overwhelming combat ability. Long before he became captain of the Black Bulls, however, he was a foreigner stranded in an unfamiliar kingdom and forced to build a life from scratch. A prequel exploring his early years, rise through the Magic Knights, and eventual formation of the Black Bulls would offer plenty of action while expanding one of the series' most compelling figures.

9. Rider / Iskandar (Fate/Zero)

Despite limited screen time compared to some of the main participants in the Holy Grail War, Iskandar left a lasting impression through his charisma, ambition, and larger-than-life personality. A standalone series centered on Alexander the Great's military campaigns could blend history and fantasy while showcasing the leadership qualities that made him one of the most beloved characters in the Fate franchise.

8. L (Death Note)

Much of Death Note's appeal comes from the battle of wits between Light Yagami and L. While viewers learn snippets about the detective's past, much of his career remains unexplored. A prequel focused on L's earlier investigations could deliver the same psychological tension and intricate problem-solving that made the original series so captivating, while shedding light on how he became the world's greatest detective.

7. Kisuke Urahara (Bleach)

Beneath Urahara's relaxed demeanor lies one of the most influential figures in Bleach. Former captain, inventor, strategist, and exile, his past is filled with pivotal events that shaped the Soul Society. A dedicated series exploring his years as a captain and the circumstances that led to his banishment would provide a deeper look at one of the franchise's most complex characters.

6. Roy Mustang (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

Roy Mustang's ambition extends far beyond becoming a powerful alchemist. His ultimate goal is to reform the nation from within and prevent future tragedies like the Ishval Civil War. A political drama centered on Mustang's rise through the military ranks could explore the alliances, sacrifices, and difficult decisions required to challenge a deeply flawed system while maintaining his ideals.

5. Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)

As the strongest sorcerer in Jujutsu Kaisen, Gojo's influence extends across the entire supernatural world. Although the main series offers glimpses into his youth, there is still plenty of room to explore his development from prodigy to the figure who reshaped modern jujutsu society. A series dedicated to his early missions, friendships, and growing responsibilities would provide valuable insight into one of anime's most popular characters.

4. Portgas D. Ace (One Piece)

Before becoming Whitebeard's second division commander, Ace spent years carving out his own reputation on the seas. His journey from an aspiring pirate carrying the burden of his father's legacy to one of the world's most recognized figures contains more than enough material for a standalone adventure. It would also offer a closer look at the era leading up to some of One Piece's most important events.

3. Minato Namikaze (Naruto Shippuden)

Known as the Fourth Hokage and the Yellow Flash, Minato built a legendary reputation long before the events of Naruto. Stories of his battlefield achievements, leadership during wartime, and rise to Hokage status are frequently referenced but rarely explored in depth. A prequel series could finally showcase the missions and conflicts that turned him into one of the most respected shinobi in history.

2. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

Levi's popularity stems from far more than his combat skills. His journey from the underground city to becoming humanity's strongest soldier is filled with hardship, loss, and sacrifice. While side stories have touched on parts of his past, a full-length series focused on his early life and military career would provide a richer understanding of one of the franchise's most iconic characters.

1. Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)

Itachi remains one of the most layered and tragic characters in anime. Revered by some and misunderstood by others, his story is filled with moral dilemmas, political intrigue, and personal sacrifice. A series focused on his years in the Anbu Black Ops and his role within the Akatsuki could explore the hidden conflicts that shaped his life, offering a deeper look at the choices that defined one of Naruto's most memorable characters.