Shonen is arguably the biggest mega-genre in all of anime, and nearly everyone has watched and enjoyed at least a few shonen series, from Dragon Ball Z to Naruto and Haikyuu!! and beyond. Shonen manga/anime is geared toward boys, with an emphasis on action and adventure, but ultimately, it can appeal to anyone. The same goes for its stellar shonen protagonists.
In the modern era, some artists are experimenting with the shonen formula, but as a whole, shonen leads are known for their bravery, determination, never-say-die attitude, loyalty, and optimism, and many of them set a good example for readers and viewers (while some certainly don't). Even if viewers can't emulate a Soul Reaper or ninja protagonist, they can still learn vital life lessons from shonen heroes and be empowered by their example.
10 Soma Yukihira Is Creative & Always Optimistic (Food Wars!)
Although Soma Yukihira's personality is a bit iffy at times, such as his habit of constantly teasing people, he sets a fine example for anyone, whether or not they're aspiring to become a chef. Soma is a classic shonen lead, but instead of throwing punches, he gets creative in the kitchen and shows the true potential of food.
Soma is a creative and resourceful kid who can take on any challenge, and even when the odds are stacked against him, Soma is confident without being arrogant, and he knows when to rely on his friends and when to rely on himself. This is a fine example to follow.
9 Alphonse Elric Is Always Kind & Brave (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
Alphonse Elric is the co-lead of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood along with his big brother Edward. Both boys are smart and courageous alchemists and scientists, but Alphonse has a more savory personality overall. Edward is known for his short temper and insecurities, but Al is different.
Despite his past mistakes and suffering, Alphonse sets a great example with his kindness, patience, and cooperative attitude. Even if someone is an enemy, he will recognize them as a victim of a greater power and try to help them. And although Al is gentle and kind, he's not afraid of a fight, either.
8 Jonathan Joestar Always Puts Others First (JoJo's Bizarre Adventure)
At first, Jonathan Joestar wasn't such a great role model, since he was rather bratty and impatient, and he tried too hard to be a hero despite his meager strength. When he grew up, though, Jonathan became an excellent role model and worthy shonen hero, complete with an incredible physique.
Jonathan is a Victorian gentleman by design, and he will take on any foe and sacrifice anything for others, mainly his wife, Erina Pendleton. He bravely fought and defeated Dio Brando, but he refused to ever hate his foster brother and gave his life to make sure Dio went down with him. Like Captain America, Jonathan is ready to make the sacrifice play.
7 Izuku Midoriya Is A Gritty Cinnamon Roll (My Hero Academia)
Izuku Midoriya, AKA Deku, is one of the biggest names in all of anime right now. This kid was born powerless, but he had the heart of a hero and incredible determination, which inspired All Might to train him so he could obtain One For All. This power can't be stolen or copied; it must be earned.
Izuku prevails despite the odds, and although he is now immensely powerful, he is still a cautious and thoughtful hero who puts the needs of the people first. He is also compassionate and empathetic, making him charismatic to friends and civilians alike. He's incorruptible.
6 Yasutora "Chad" Sado Won't Hurt People Ever Again (Bleach)
Chad isn't the main protagonist of the series Bleach, but he is one of several main characters, and he sets an even better example than the main lead, Ichigo Kurosaki. Chad always had a strong body, but as a kid, he misused his strength, bullying others to vent his immense frustration.
That all changed when Chad's beloved grandfather taught him that not using his power requires immense strength, and harming others is never the solution. Chad took this to heart and became a pacifist who stands up for others. Chad is now the silent but strong type, and he's a good student and a loyal friend on top of all that. He knows what real strength is.
5 Senku Ishigami Is Optimistic & Loyal To All (Dr. Stone)
Senku Ishigami is a fine role model overall, and he shows just how incredible the power of science can be (which is certainly relevant to real life). Senku may be a bit prickly and awkward at times, but he means well. In fact, he is determined to save the entire race from certification, down to the last man, woman, and child.
No matter the odds, Senku is ready for any challenge, and he teaches viewers that all problems have solutions in the end. His creativity, resourcefulness, and optimism are all worth emulating, and he might inspire more than a few viewers to pursue an education in STEM.
4 Akitaru Obi Has The Right Gear For Any Job (Fire Force)
Akitaru Obi isn't quite as prominent of a protagonist as Shinra or Arthur, but he does serve as a better role model than either of them in Fire Force. Akitaru Obi is the captain of company 8, and despite lacking any ignition abilities, he is a formidable fighter and a highly competent leader.
Akitaru is a hardworking professional and a brave warrior, and he also has maturity, dignity, and charisma to back it all up. He teaches viewers that even if they weren't born gifted, they can keep pace with their peers through hard work and sheer grit. At this rate, he doesn't need an ignition ability at all.
3 Tanjiro Kamado Works Hard & Has No Time For Hate (Demon Slayer)
Tanjiro Kamado never intended to become a swordsman, but when Muzan Kibutsuji slaughtered his family, it was his only remaining option. Tanjiro was horrified when his family was slaughtered, but he never gave in to despair, hate or malice. He only fights for what's right, nothing more.
Only one demon has earned Tanjiro's hate: Muzan, who is irredeemable as an archvillain. Most other demons are little more than victims who lost their humanity, and Tanjiro recognizes that fact. As a role model, Tanjiro teaches viewers that some seemingly annoying or hurtful people are in fact victims themselves, and may need help.
2 Izumi Miyamura Knows How To Enjoy The Little Things (Horimiya)
Izumi Miyamura is a rather modest role model compared to the likes of Senku Ishigami or Tanjiro Kamado, but that's actually the point. Not all role models have to teach viewers how to be superheroes. Some role models, like Izumi, demonstrate how people can, and should, enjoy all the little things in life.
Izumi takes life as it comes, and he is a kind-hearted boy who greatly values all his friends and the things they do for him. He also sets a fine example for being a committed boyfriend, and he even acts as a beloved big brother for Kyoko Hori's kid brother.
1 Yuji Itadori Is Tough & Brave But Also Cares Deeply For Others (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Yuji Itadori is another big name in the current shonen world, being the star of the dark fantasy series Jujutsu Kaisen. In many ways, he is the modern incarnation of both Ichigo Kurosaki and Yusuke Urameshi, and he borrowed all the best aspects of those older shonen leads while still having an identity of his own.
Yuji is a good-hearted kid who is ready for any challenge, and he may be a bit goofy, but he is brave and is totally committed to his friends. He is also a compassionate and generous person, being absolutely determined to save Junpei Yoshino from the grip of the evil Mahito. He was heartbroken when Junpei was killed, and that kind of compassion is always worth emulating. He is also cooperative and confident in battle.
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