The most popular Naruto characters helped shape anime for a whole generation and still have fans everywhere trading stories and sharing memes. Naruto characters left a mark that goes way beyond the screen, from iconic jutsu to deep friendships and rivalries that kept everyone guessing. As a die-hard Naruto fan, I know how much fun it is looking back at who stood out the most and why. In this list, I’m breaking down character highlights and cool facts from both Naruto and Naruto Shippuden, so whether you’re team old school or Shippuden, there’s something here for you.
Most Popular Naruto Characters
When talking about the most popular Naruto characters, it’s impossible not to mention how these ninjas and heroes have left a huge impact on anime worldwide. From their signature jutsus to unforgettable catchphrases, these Naruto characters inspired everyday fans and even changed how many anime series tell their stories. Their journeys are packed with grit, humor, and heartbreak—no wonder people still rank them among their favorites year after year.
Below, I’ve highlighted the top Naruto characters based on official popularity polls, online rankings, and global fan favorites. I’ve listed characters from the original Naruto anime first, followed by those who gained most attention in Naruto Shippuden.
Naruto (Original Series)
Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto Uzumaki is the face of the whole series. He starts out as the outcast troublemaker but never gives up on his dream to become Hokage. His determination and sometimes goofy optimism have stuck with fans for years. Despite being mocked for the Nine-Tails sealed inside him, he fights to keep moving forward and prove his worth.
Fun Fact: Naruto’s last name comes from a Japanese food topping, and he almost always appears next to a bowl of ramen!
Sasuke Uchiha
Sasuke Uchiha, Naruto’s rival and former teammate, stands out as both the coolest and most conflicted character. Driven by revenge for his destroyed clan, he pushes himself to extremes. Sasuke’s complex journey from friend to enemy (and back) adds layers that set him apart from a typical anime rival.
Fun Fact: Sasuke’s name comes from a famous ninja, Sarutobi Sasuke, who was a legendary figure in Japanese folklore.
Sakura Haruno
Sakura Haruno grows from a lovesick girl to one of the strongest medical ninjas in Konoha. Her journey is inspiring, showing how someone considered average can rise above expectations. Sakura’s fierce loyalty and surprising battle skills appear again and again in both the anime and official popularity polls.
Fun Fact: Sakura’s favorite catchphrase, “Shannaro!”, is unique to her and shows her fiery side.
Kakashi Hatake
Kakashi Hatake—the Copy Ninja—is legendary for a reason. As Team 7’s original sensei, he comes across as mysterious but grows close to his students over time. Kakashi’s laid-back attitude hides a deep pain and sharp intelligence. His Sharingan eye and unrivaled skills in battle made him an instant hit with fans.
Fun Fact: Kakashi was voted the most popular character several times in the series’ official character polls.
Rock Lee
Rock Lee wins hearts by making hard work his superpower. He can’t use ninjutsu or genjutsu but outshines others with sheer grit and intense training. Lee’s never-give-up spirit and incredible fight scenes (like against Gaara) became legendary moments in the anime.
Fun Fact: Rock Lee is based on Bruce Lee, right down to the bowl haircut and his all-taijutsu fighting style.
Shikamaru Nara
Shikamaru Nara is a laid-back genius who sees everything as a “drag,” but still rises as a tactical leader. His Shadow Possession Jutsu and calm under pressure save his friends time after time. Shikamaru’s popularity soared thanks to his brains, humor, and loyalty.
Fun Fact: Shikamaru is the first ninja his age to become a Chunin during the exams.
Gaara
Gaara, the sand user from the Hidden Sand Village, starts as a terrifying villain but transforms into a leader who values peace. His story of loneliness and redemption mirrors Naruto’s, making him relatable and memorable as a fan favorite.
Fun Fact: Gaara’s name literally means “self-loving carnage,” reflecting his troubled early life.
Hinata Hyuga
Hinata Hyuga is known for her gentle nature and iron determination to get stronger. Her loyalty to Naruto and her growth throughout the series inspired many shy fans to root for her endless courage.
Fun Fact: Hinata’s Byakugan gives her a nearly 360-degree field of vision.
Neji Hyuga
Neji Hyuga, the Hyuga prodigy, is all about fate and genius. He starts off as someone cynical and cold but changes thanks to Naruto’s influence. His fighting style, combining gentle fist and chakra-point attacks, wows the audience.
Fun Fact: Neji is one of the few characters to activate the Byakugan with visible veins around his eyes.
Jiraiya
Jiraiya, the Toad Sage, is both comic relief and mentor. His adventures, pervy antics, and serious teachings for Naruto make him unforgettable. He’s a legendary Sannin, and his legacy carries on through the techniques he passes down.
Fun Fact: Jiraiya never married but was hopelessly in love with Tsunade, another member of the Legendary Sannin.
Naruto Shippuden
Itachi Uchiha
Itachi Uchiha is known for his mysterious aura and his sacrifice for his brother and village. He commits one of the anime’s darkest acts but carries a hidden kindness that reshapes how fans see him. Itachi’s calm demeanor, combined with legendary combat ability, puts him near the top of every fan poll, as seen in this ranked list.
Fun Fact: Itachi became an ANBU squad captain at just 13 years old.
Minato Namikaze
Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, is celebrated as the “Yellow Flash” for his speed and technique. As Naruto’s father, he is both a legendary hero and a source of emotional depth in the story.
Fun Fact: Minato designed the Rasengan, which became Naruto’s trademark move.
Madara Uchiha
Madara Uchiha, the mythical founder of the Uchiha clan, stands as one of the most powerful antagonists. His quest to control the world and his genius battle tactics make him an unforgettable villain.
Fun Fact: Madara’s name strikes fear across all shinobi nations, even long after his death.
Pain (Nagato)
Pain, leader of the Akatsuki, brings a new level of terror and complexity. Guided by a twisted sense of peace, he challenges Naruto’s belief system and causes one of the most emotional arcs in the anime.
Fun Fact: Pain controls up to six bodies with his Rinnegan.
Obito Uchiha
Obito Uchiha is first introduced as a clumsy ninja but is later revealed as the mastermind behind many major events, including the Akatsuki’s rise. His tragedy and turn to darkness provide unexpected depth.
Fun Fact: Obito spent years acting under the alias Tobi to hide his true identity.
Tsunade
Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage, inspires as the strong leader of Konoha. She excels in medical ninjutsu and raw power, but her struggles with personal loss give her a human touch.
Fun Fact: Tsunade’s power is so feared she became a legendary Sannin alongside Jiraiya and Orochimaru.
Killer Bee
Killer Bee brings energy, freestyle raps, and unmatched teamwork with the Eight-Tails beast. His friendship with Naruto helps both characters find common ground and face their struggles.
Fun Fact: Killer Bee is the only known jinchuuriki who fully controls his tailed beast’s power.
Konan
Konan, the paper flower of the Akatsuki, stands out with her unique paper ninjutsu. As the only female member of the original Akatsuki, she shows strength and grace in every battle.
Fun Fact: Konan’s “Paper Ocean” technique nearly defeated one of the strongest villains in the series.
Sai
Sai joins Team 7 as Sasuke’s replacement. Even though he struggles with emotion and connection, his journey to fit in and understand real friendship adds a fresh dynamic.
Fun Fact: Sai’s preferred weapon is his ink beast technique, allowing him to create creatures from his art.
Deidara
Deidara is an explosive artist among the Akatsuki. He fights using clay bombs and values art that leaves a bang. His offbeat view of the world and wild personality are impossible to forget.
Fun Fact: Deidara’s signature “Art is an explosion!” catchphrase turned deeply philosophical among Naruto fans.
These Naruto characters aren’t just favorites—they’ve become legends who shaped anime and inspired fans everywhere. For a detailed look at how these characters rank worldwide, check out the results of the NARUTOP99 global poll.
Most Popular Characters from Naruto Shippuden
When I look at the most popular Naruto characters, especially from Naruto Shippuden, it’s clear these legendary ninjas have shaped not only the series but the whole anime world. Their backstories, powers, and personal struggles have left a lasting mark that fans everywhere still talk about. From mysterious antiheroes to unforgettable villains, Shippuden introduced some of the most talked-about Naruto characters ever. I’ve pulled these names based on search trends, character polls, and what keeps fans buzzing.
Itachi Uchiha
Itachi Uchiha stole the spotlight as one of the most popular Naruto characters—not just in Shippuden, but across all anime series. He’s the genius older brother of Sasuke, known for his stoic vibe, Sharingan mastery, and the devastating choice to destroy his own clan for the village’s good. Itachi’s story is a rollercoaster, blending heartache, power, and hidden kindness. Fans respect him for his skill and the big sacrifices he made, even if means living with everyone’s hate.
Fun Fact: Itachi became an ANBU captain at only 13 years old. If you want to check out how he ranks in fan polls, the Naruto Character Popularity Polls show he’s nearly always in the top tiers.
Pain (Nagato)
Pain, or Nagato, is one of Shippuden’s most intense villains. He leads the Akatsuki with a strong idea of justice shaped by pain and loss. Pain’s control over the Six Paths, his deep talks about peace, and his devastating attack on Konoha created one of the show’s most memorable arcs. Fans love and fear him for the sheer power and philosophy he brings to the table.
Fun Fact: Pain’s unique Rinnegan allows him to control six bodies at once—something rarely seen in other anime antagonists.
Madara Uchiha
Madara Uchiha is legendary. As the Uchiha clan’s founder, his presence in Shippuden changed everything. Madara’s ambition for a dream world put every shinobi on edge. His tactical skills and overwhelming power made him a true final boss. People talk about his battles and speeches to this day.
Fun Fact: According to the NARUTOP99 character poll results, Madara always lands near the top for most-searched and voted Naruto characters.
Obito Uchiha
Obito Uchiha’s story is one of loss and transformation. Starting as Kakashi’s teammate, he’s believed dead until revealed as the masked villain Tobi. His journey from hopeful ninja to controlling Akatsuki member shook the series. Fans respect his depth and the shocking twists in his story.
Fun Fact: Obito disguised himself under several aliases, including Tobi and Madara, confusing fans and characters alike throughout his run.
Minato Namikaze
Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage and Naruto’s father, earned the nickname “Yellow Flash” for his incredible speed. Even with limited screen time, his heroic sacrifice and gentle nature made him a constant fan favorite. He invented the Rasengan and set many of the story’s major events in motion.
Fun Fact: The official global poll ranks Minato as one of the top Naruto characters with huge fan support from different countries.
Tsunade
Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage, stands out for her strength, leadership, and healing skills. She’s a legendary Sannin who holds the village together in its darkest moments. Fans admire her for balancing tough love and genuine care, as well as breaking stereotypes about female characters in shonen anime.
Fun Fact: Tsunade is widely recognized for her gaming addiction and record-setting strength, making her one of the most multi-layered Hokage.
Killer Bee
Killer Bee brings a whole new energy to Naruto Shippuden as the jinchuriki of the Eight-Tails. His easy-going rapping, partnership with Gyuki, and role as Naruto’s mentor made him instantly likeable. Fans enjoy his humor, freestyle attitude, and total control over his tailed beast.
Fun Fact: Bee is the only jinchuriki in the series fully in sync with his tailed beast, a rare feat that even Naruto needed years to achieve.
Konan
Konan, the only female founding member of Akatsuki, impresses with her paper-based jutsu and calm, calculating tactics. Her loyalty to Nagato and her solo battle against powerful villains highlight her strength. She became a symbol of determination and subtle power.
Fun Fact: Konan’s deadly “Paper Ocean” technique nearly defeated Obito in one of the series’ most creative fights.
Sai
Sai joins Team 7 after Sasuke’s departure as an emotionless agent from the ANBU’s secret Root division. Though awkward at first, his journey to understand friendship and feelings makes him relatable. Fans grew to enjoy his honesty, artistic skills, and attempts to fit in with Naruto and Sakura.
Fun Fact: Sai’s signature “Ink Beast” technique allows him to draw creatures that come to life and help in battle.
Deidara
Deidara is the Akatsuki’s explosive artist, making powerful clay bombs with a flash and a bang. He believes art should have impact, and his clashes—especially with Sasuke and Gaara—remain highlights of the series. Deidara won fans with his flair, wild personality, and memorable catchphrases.
Fun Fact: Deidara’s mouth-hands are used to mold clay, a detail that made him one of the most recognizable Naruto characters.
If you want to see more details and where your favorite Naruto characters stack up today, the NARUTOP99 official rankings give a clear view of their global popularity. These are the characters that define Shippuden and keep the series trending all these years.
Fan Favorites and Iconic Villains
The most popular Naruto characters wouldn’t be complete without a close look at fan favorites and legendary villains who changed anime’s course forever. Naruto characters like these pull you in with their complex motives and unforgettable scenes. Over time, some villains grew to become unexpected favorites, while heroes captured hearts by standing strong in impossible situations. Here are a few that consistently rank at the top for both their impact and their place in anime history.
Itachi Uchiha
Itachi Uchiha is the ultimate mix of fan favorite and iconic villain. He’s mysterious, quiet, and responsible for one of the story’s most tragic moments—yet fans around the world list him at the top of almost every poll. His genius in battle, paired with his hidden compassion, creates a character that people love to talk about. Whether he’s fighting or offering deep advice to Sasuke, his legacy lasts across both generations and series.
Fun Fact: In the most recent NARUTOP99 global poll, Itachi ranked number one overall, proving just how much fans connect with his story.
Pain (Nagato)
Pain, known as Nagato, leads the Akatsuki with a mission for peace through destruction. His Six Paths ability and chilling attacks on Konoha put him among the greatest villains. Pain doesn’t just fight—he makes Naruto confront hard truths about pain, suffering, and forgiveness. His speeches and fights are burned into every fan’s memory.
Fun Fact: Pain uses six bodies at once in battle, each with a different deadly power, turning every encounter into something fresh and unpredictable.
Madara Uchiha
Madara Uchiha’s arrival flipped everything on its head. As the Uchiha clan’s co-founder, Madara is a force of pure power and strategy. His appearance late in the series sent shockwaves, proving why Naruto fans love a clever, intimidating villain. Madara’s abilities often feel unfair, and his history with Hashirama gives depth to his every move.
Fun Fact: Even before revealing himself, Madara’s name scared every ninja village with stories about his near-invincible strength.
Sasuke Uchiha
Sasuke starts as Naruto’s rival, but his turn from friend to foe—and back again—makes him one of the most talked-about Naruto characters ever. He’s always just outside the spotlight but shapes everything around him. Sasuke’s struggle with revenge, redemption, and family turns every moment with him into a must-watch.
Fun Fact: In the official popularity polls, Sasuke has been ranked in the top three for years and even held the top spot multiple times.
Orochimaru
Orochimaru stands out as one of the wildest villains in Naruto. From his obsession with eternal life to his snake-like abilities, he’s unpredictable. He aims to learn every jutsu and pushes boundaries no one else dares to cross. Fans love to hate Orochimaru, but his role in shaping characters like Sasuke and his knack for survival have cemented him as a true icon.
Fun Fact: Orochimaru can shed his body like a snake, escaping almost any defeat, making him one of the hardest villains to eliminate.
Gaara (Early Arc)
Gaara, before his redemption, terrified other ninja with his sand powers and unreadable calm. His brutal fighting style made every battle feel dangerous. Despite this dark start, fans found something relatable in his loneliness and pain. Watching him become a hero later created one of the best redemption arcs ever.
Fun Fact: Gaara was originally seen as a child prodigy who had never lost a fight before meeting Naruto.
Deidara
Deidara, the explosive artist of Akatsuki, treats every fight as performance art. His clay bombs create chaos, and his dramatic attitude brings a spark to every scene. Fans remember his battles for both the explosions and the wild philosophy he brings with them.
Fun Fact: Deidara’s famous catchphrase, “Art is an explosion!” became a meme sensation among Naruto fans.
Obito Uchiha
Obito starts as Kakashi’s friend, but a life-changing tragedy sets him on a dark path. As the masked figure Tobi, he orchestrates some of the biggest events in the Naruto timeline. His journey from naïve dreamer to powerful villain shows just how deeply Naruto characters can surprise us and keep us guessing.
Fun Fact: Obito deceived almost everyone by working under several aliases, hiding his identity for years before the big reveal.
Konan
Konan, the lone woman among Akatsuki’s original founders, caught attention with her paper-based attacks. Her loyalty and strategic mind made her various encounters some of the most memorable. Whether as a villain or a tragic favorite, Konan’s style and backstory stuck with fans.
Fun Fact: Konan’s ultimate jutsu, “Paper Ocean,” nearly defeated one of the top villains, showing she never held back despite her calm exterior.
Kisame Hoshigaki
Kisame, with his shark-like features and massive sword Samehada, is one half of the notorious duo with Itachi. His overwhelming strength and love of battle add tension to every Akatsuki mission. He’s a reminder that villains can have both style and substance.
Fun Fact: Kisame’s chakra levels were so fearsome, people sometimes called him the “Tailed Beast without a Tail.”
For anyone wanting a deeper dive into where these naruto characters stand globally, you can check out the latest rankings at the official NARUTOP99 site. These icons created unforgettable stories, and their influence shows in every popularity poll and fan list.
Naruto Characters Who Shaped the Series
The most popular Naruto characters have shaped more than just the plot; they’ve defined the look, feel, and impact of modern anime. These Naruto characters brought new energy to storytelling with their unique arcs and struggles, turning casual fans into lifelong anime enthusiasts. Without these key faces, Naruto’s story would feel incomplete and a lot less powerful. Here’s how some standouts left their mark and changed the direction of the entire series.
Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto Uzumaki is the beating heart of the entire franchise. He starts as a mischievous outcast, but it’s his spirit and constant drive that keep the series moving forward. Naruto proves that anyone, even an underdog, can become a hero if they keep trying. His journey from a lonely boy with no family to the respected Hokage inspires fans everywhere.
Fun Fact: Naruto’s favorite food is ramen, and he’s not shy about showing it.
Sasuke Uchiha
Sasuke Uchiha brings intensity and mystery. As Naruto’s rival, he’s equal parts brooding genius and tragic figure. His quest for revenge after losing his clan shapes some of the series’ darkest and most dramatic moments. The push and pull between Sasuke and Naruto is what keeps fans glued to the story, making every reunion and battle feel important.
Fun Fact: Sasuke’s character was named after a legendary Japanese ninja, Sarutobi Sasuke.
Kakashi Hatake
Kakashi Hatake steps in as Team 7’s first leader. His bored attitude and masked face make him unforgettable. Kakashi is more than a mentor—he teaches his students about teamwork, sacrifice, and what it means to grow up. His past is loaded with loss, giving him depth that fans still discuss today.
Fun Fact: Kakashi is known as the “Copy Ninja” for his ability to replicate nearly any jutsu he sees.
Gaara
Gaara’s transformation story is one of the best in all of anime. Starting as a feared villain and self-made weapon, Gaara eventually finds peace and purpose thanks to Naruto’s influence. As the Kazekage, Gaara proves people can change, no matter their past.
Fun Fact: Gaara’s sand powers are connected to his mother’s love—a secret revealed late in the story.
Itachi Uchiha
Itachi Uchiha shakes up every arc he appears in. At first, he looks like nothing more than a villain, but his actions come from love and sacrifice, not hatred. His choices protect the Hidden Leaf in ways no one expects, making him both a feared and beloved character among fans. His story sets the series apart from other shonen anime.
Fun Fact: Itachi became an elite ninja captain at only thirteen years old.
Jiraiya
Jiraiya, the legendary Toad Sage, mixes humor with wisdom. His training shapes Naruto’s future, and the lessons he passes down create the foundation for many main characters. Jiraiya’s willingness to see the good in others, even when he’s lost, helps steer the show in its most difficult chapters.
Fun Fact: Jiraiya’s pen name as an author is “Make-Out Paradise”—Naruto’s least appropriate gift!
Sakura Haruno
Sakura Haruno shows what growth looks like. She starts out insecure, but pushes herself to become one of the top medical ninjas in the ninja world. Her unwavering support for her friends—especially Naruto and Sasuke—proves she’s much more than just a side character. Her arc inspires anyone told they weren’t strong enough.
Fun Fact: Sakura means “cherry blossom,” which symbolizes strength blossoming after hardship.
Shikamaru Nara
Shikamaru Nara is brilliant without trying. He calls everything “a drag,” but when friends or the village are in trouble, he steps up as one of the best tacticians around. His ability to remain cool under pressure makes him the hidden key to many of Team 10’s wins.
Fun Fact: Shikamaru was the first of his class to make Chunin, thanks to his clever battle plans.
Madara Uchiha
Madara Uchiha sits at the top tier of powerful villains in anime. He’s the founder of the Uchiha clan and one of the original architects behind the Hidden Leaf. Madara’s long-term plans, power, and legacy cause major ripple effects for every Naruto character who comes after.
Fun Fact: Even after his supposed death, Madara’s influence is so great that other villages still fear his name.
Minato Namikaze
Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage and Naruto’s father, is famous for his speed and smarts. He developed the Rasengan and leaves a big mark on the series despite his early death. His personality proves that being a leader can mean kindness and gentleness, not just strength.
Fun Fact: Minato won the number one spot in the global NARUTOP99 character poll, showing just how popular he’s become over the years.
Hinata Hyuga
Hinata Hyuga is quiet, but you can’t ignore her. Her journey from shy girl to confident ninja stands out. She finds her own reasons to fight—not just for Naruto but for herself. Fans admire her courage to keep going even when things seem impossible.
Fun Fact: Hinata’s unique Byakugan gives her nearly perfect vision in all directions.
Tsunade
Tsunade takes charge as the Fifth Hokage. Her blend of strength and expertise in healing helps the village get through its hardest challenges. Watching her overcome her own struggles and step into a leadership role gives hope to anyone facing setbacks.
Fun Fact: Tsunade is known for her love of gambling—even though she always loses!
These Naruto characters are cornerstones of the anime and continue to draw new fans every year. The series wouldn’t have its unique shape or depth without them. Each one brings a different shade to the story—whether it’s hope, struggle, redemption, or sheer power. If you want to explore the popularity of these characters, check out the official Naruto Character Popularity Polls and see how your favorites stack up.
Conclusion
The most popular Naruto characters shaped anime by bringing fresh personalities and unforgettable stories that stick with fans long after the final episode. Each character, with their strengths, flaws, and growth, shows why so many people still talk about Naruto. Their journeys influenced countless other shows and even helped anime become a global hit.
I always find new reasons to appreciate these Naruto characters, whether it’s the way they push through tough times or the friendships that come out of impossible odds. If you have your own favorites, drop a comment and share who stands out to you most. Thanks for spending time with me and reliving the highlights of these legendary ninjas. I hope this list sparks good memories and inspires you to revisit the world of Naruto characters again.
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