The anime adaptation of Attack on Titan reached its dramatic conclusion in November 2023, while the manga series concluded in April 2021. Despite the story’s emotional finale, fans continue to grapple with the end of the series, largely due to the profound impact of its characters.
Hajime Isayama, the creator of Attack on Titan, revealed that his favorite character was not the protagonist Eren Yeager, even though he invested much of himself into Eren’s creation.
In a recent interview celebrating the launch of K-Manga, Isayama was asked about his favorite character. Initially, he mentioned Jean Kirstein, but after some contemplation, he settled on Reiner Braun. He explained that Reiner turned out completely different from what he expected and that he enjoyed drawing him immensely.
Hajime Isayama Reveals His Favorite Attack on Titan Character
Isayama highlighted Reiner’s big reveal to Eren as one of his most memorable and emotional scenes. This scene was conceived after hours of brainstorming in Kodansha’s storyboarding room, and Isayama felt a deep attachment to it. Reiner stands out due to his complex and well-developed character arc, portraying a protagonist from a different perspective. Struggling with internal conflicts, Reiner’s duality and his journey between two warring sides make him a compelling character.
The roots of Attack on Titan trace back to a one-shot Isayama wrote at 19, which eventually evolved into the legendary anime. The ending remains controversial, with Isayama having envisioned the conclusion from the outset, originally believing the story would wrap up within two volumes. However, as the manga’s popularity soared, Isayama began to question its direction.
【Hajime Isayama K Manga Interview】
Hajime Isayama's current favorite character is back to Reiner pic.twitter.com/TbQAx7Y1lA
— Attack on Titan Wiki (@AoTWiki) June 23, 2023
Season 4 of Attack on Titan stirred some controversy among fans but is widely regarded as a masterpiece. The series is praised for its exploration of themes like fascism, war, friendship, and love. Despite the mixed reactions to the finale, Attack on Titan leaves a lasting legacy, with its characters and narrative depth continuing to resonate with fans. The complex portrayal of figures like Eren and Reiner, along with the story’s intricate plot, ensures that Attack on Titan remains a significant work in the anime and manga industry.
