The Enduring Legacy of 2017's Anime Heartthrobs

Before we delve into the list, it's crucial to understand what constitutes "hottest" in the context of anime characters. It's not merely about physical appearance, though that certainly plays a role. True appeal often stems from a combination of factors:

• Personality: Is he confident, kind, mysterious, or perhaps a bit of a tsundere? A well-developed personality is key.
• Strength and Skill: Whether it's combat prowess, intellectual brilliance, or emotional resilience, a character's capabilities often draw admiration.
• Design and Aesthetics: Character design is paramount in anime. Unique hairstyles, striking eyes, and a distinctive fashion sense contribute significantly to a character's allure.
• Story Arc and Development: How a character grows and overcomes challenges can make them incredibly compelling. A relatable or inspiring journey resonates deeply with viewers.
• Voice Acting: A powerful or soothing voice can elevate a character's presence and impact.

These elements, when combined, create characters that fans not only admire but also feel a strong connection to. The hottest male anime characters 2017 list is a testament to this multifaceted appeal.

2017 was a year rich with diverse anime genres, and the male characters reflected this variety. Here are some of the most talked-about and beloved figures from that year:

1. Kyo Sohma (Fruits Basket - 2019 Reboot, but his initial popularity predates this)

While Fruits Basket received a stunning reboot in 2019, Kyo Sohma's enduring popularity means he's always a contender in discussions about attractive male characters. His fiery personality, coupled with his tragic backstory and the curse that binds him to the Cat Zodiac, makes him a complex and deeply sympathetic figure. His initial gruffness often hides a vulnerable heart, a trope that consistently draws viewers in. The contrast between his wild, untamed nature and his moments of genuine kindness is what makes him so magnetic. Many fans were drawn to his passion and his struggle for acceptance, making him a perennial favorite.

2. Izuku Midoriya (My Hero Academia)

My Hero Academia continued its meteoric rise in 2017, and Izuku Midoriya, or Deku, remained at its core. His journey from a Quirkless boy to a formidable hero is incredibly inspiring. What makes Deku so appealing is his unwavering determination, his inherent kindness, and his deep empathy for others. Despite facing immense challenges and often doubting himself, he consistently pushes forward, embodying the true spirit of heroism. His growth throughout the series, both in power and in confidence, is a major draw. Fans connect with his relatable struggles and cheer for his every victory. His earnestness and his desire to save everyone with a smile are truly heartwarming.

3. Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)

Another powerhouse from My Hero Academia, Shoto Todoroki, captivated audiences with his cool demeanor and immense power. Initially distant and emotionally scarred by his family's past, Todoroki's character arc is one of self-discovery and healing. His unique Quirk, combining ice and fire, is visually stunning, but it's his internal struggle and his eventual opening up to his classmates that truly make him stand out. His quiet intensity and his fierce loyalty once earned are incredibly attractive qualities. The development of his relationships, particularly his rivalry and eventual friendship with Deku, adds depth to his character.

4. Guts (Berserk - The Golden Age Arc II: The Battle for Doldrey and The Golden Age Arc III: The Advent)

While Berserk has a long history, the films covering the Golden Age Arc were significant in 2017, bringing Guts to a new generation of fans. Guts is the epitome of the tragic anti-hero. His sheer physical strength, his relentless pursuit of vengeance, and his stoic, battle-hardened exterior mask a deeply wounded soul. His struggle against overwhelming odds, both supernatural and human, is a brutal yet compelling spectacle. The raw intensity and the sheer willpower Guts displays, even in the face of unimaginable horror, make him a profoundly impactful character. His journey is a dark exploration of humanity, resilience, and the cost of survival.

5. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan Season 2)

Attack on Titan Season 2 aired in 2017, and Captain Levi Ackerman continued to solidify his status as a fan favorite. Known for his unparalleled combat skills, his cold and calculating demeanor, and his surprisingly deep loyalty to his comrades, Levi is a complex character. His small stature belies his immense power and strategic genius. The contrast between his ruthlessness in battle and his moments of quiet contemplation or concern for his subordinates makes him incredibly intriguing. His backstory, hinted at throughout the series, adds layers of tragedy and explains his hardened exterior. Levi embodies efficiency and a grim determination that resonates with many viewers.

6. Osamu Dazai (Bungo Stray Dogs Season 2)

Bungo Stray Dogs Season 2 also graced screens in 2017, and Osamu Dazai remained a central figure of intrigue. Dazai's eccentric personality, his penchant for dramatic suicide attempts, and his mysterious past make him a captivating enigma. His intelligence and his ability to manipulate situations with a smile are both alluring and unsettling. Beneath the surface of his seemingly carefree attitude lies a profound depth and a complex moral compass. His interactions with other characters, particularly Chuuya Nakahara, are highlights of the series, showcasing a dynamic and often volatile relationship. Dazai's blend of wit, intelligence, and underlying darkness is a potent combination.

7. Saitama (One-Punch Man Season 1 - Continual Popularity)

Though One-Punch Man Season 1 aired earlier, Saitama's immense popularity carried strongly into 2017 and beyond. The ultimate anti-hero, Saitama's overwhelming power renders him bored and disillusioned. His deadpan delivery, his mundane appearance, and his quest for a truly challenging fight are hilariously relatable despite his god-like abilities. What makes Saitama "hot" is his understated confidence, his genuine, albeit often accidental, heroism, and his surprisingly grounded perspective on life. He's a character who subverts expectations, proving that true strength can come in the most unassuming packages. His nonchalant attitude towards saving the world is a unique form of charisma.

The hottest male anime characters 2017 list showcases a diverse range of archetypes, yet common threads bind their appeal:

• The Brooding Loner: Characters like Guts and Levi often possess a dark past or a stoic exterior that hints at hidden depths and vulnerabilities. This mystery draws viewers in, making them want to uncover the layers beneath the surface.
• The Determined Underdog: Deku embodies this archetype perfectly. His relentless pursuit of his dreams against all odds, his inherent goodness, and his visible effort resonate deeply. We root for him because we see ourselves in his struggles.
• The Cool and Capable: Todoroki and Levi fit this description. Their exceptional skills, calm demeanor, and often stoic expressions exude an aura of control and competence that is undeniably attractive.
• The Enigmatic Intellectual: Dazai represents this category. His sharp wit, unpredictable actions, and air of mystery make him fascinating. He keeps you guessing, and that unpredictability is a powerful draw.
• The Unconventional Hero: Saitama is the ultimate example. He defies traditional hero tropes with his nonchalant attitude and overwhelming power, offering a refreshing and humorous take on heroism.

These character types tap into fundamental human desires: the admiration for strength, the empathy for struggle, the fascination with mystery, and the inspiration found in perseverance. The ability of these characters to evoke strong emotional responses is a testament to the skill of the animators and writers.

It's impossible to discuss the appeal of these characters without acknowledging the crucial roles of character design and voice acting. The visual aesthetics of anime are paramount. Distinctive hairstyles, expressive eyes, and well-crafted outfits contribute significantly to a character's immediate impact. For instance, Todoroki's dual-colored hair and scar, or Levi's sharp features and signature ODM gear, are instantly recognizable and iconic.

Equally important is the voice acting. A skilled voice actor can imbue a character with personality, emotion, and nuance that elevates them beyond the animation. The perfect voice can convey a character's confidence, vulnerability, or menace, making them feel more real and relatable. The performances delivered for characters like Levi Ackerman and Osamu Dazai in 2017 were particularly lauded for their ability to capture the essence of these complex individuals.

While physical attractiveness and cool abilities play a part, the characters who truly leave a lasting impression are those with whom viewers can connect on a deeper level. This connection often stems from:

• Relatability: Seeing characters grapple with self-doubt, loss, or the desire for belonging makes them human and relatable, even in fantastical settings. Deku's initial insecurities are a prime example.
• Inspiration: Characters who overcome adversity or strive for a noble cause can inspire viewers. Guts's sheer resilience in the face of unimaginable horrors, though grim, is a testament to the human spirit.
• Emotional Depth: Characters who display a range of emotions, from anger and sadness to joy and love, feel more authentic. Kyo Sohma's internal conflicts and his journey towards acceptance are deeply emotional.
• Moral Complexity: Characters who operate in shades of gray, like Dazai, challenge viewers' perceptions and offer more nuanced storytelling.

The hottest male anime characters 2017 were not just visually appealing; they were characters with compelling narratives and emotional resonance that stayed with audiences long after the credits rolled.

The characters highlighted from 2017 continue to be celebrated and discussed within the anime community. Their impact extends beyond individual series, influencing character archetypes and fan preferences. The blend of strong personalities, compelling backstories, exceptional skills, and memorable designs created a pantheon of male characters that defined a significant year in anime.

Whether you were drawn to the quiet intensity of Levi Ackerman, the fiery spirit of Kyo Sohma, the unwavering determination of Izuku Midoriya, the tragic resilience of Guts, the enigmatic charm of Osamu Dazai, or the hilariously overpowered Saitama, 2017 offered a diverse cast of characters that captured the imagination. These figures represent the pinnacle of anime character development, showcasing how a well-crafted character can become an enduring icon. Their stories continue to inspire, entertain, and captivate fans worldwide, proving that true appeal lies in a combination of style, substance, and soul. The quest for the perfect anime character is an ongoing one, but the icons of 2017 have certainly set a high bar.