Ep 35 "Our Favorite Anime Protagonists (Part 2)"

Following Part 1's deep dives into Lelouch, Kafka, Tanjiro, Subaru, Kagero, and Spike, the crew returns to deliver our final, definitive podium picks. From foundational dark-fantasy elves and generational battle-shonen icons to lethal assassins, wandering martial arts legends, and post-quest elven journeys, we break down what elevates a lead character from great to unforgettable. In Part 2, we dissect: Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter): Jacci kicks off the episode with the true emotional co-protagonist of HxH—breaking generational trauma, clawing out Illumi’s needle, and choosing love over assassin conditioning. (3:11) Deedlit (Record of Lodoss War): EJ pulls an absolute classic. The foundational blueprint of the anime high elf, blending shamanic elemental power with the bittersweet tragedy of loving a mortal knight. (16:48) Frieren (Frieren: Beyond Journey's End): Mac brings the weight of elven perception to the table. Why Himmel’s passing turns a millennium of detached magic into an emotionally devastating masterclass in appreciating fleeting human connection. (33:30) Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood): Jacci’s top pick. Shattering the hubris of Equivalent Exchange, wearing his sins on his sleeve, and proving true strength means embracing humanity over godhood. (49:35) Ryu (Street Fighter): EJ’s #1 pick. The wandering ronin who defined cross-media anime combat—rejecting wealth and fame to walk the path of Budo while conquering the darkness of the Satsui no Hado. (1:13:05) Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto / Shippuden): Mac closes out the picks with the legendary Seventh Hokage. Breaking down the misconception of the "chosen one," turning isolation into radical empathy, and refusing to abandon bonds for village politics. (1:39:01) 💬 Join the Discussion Who holds the #1 crown on your personal anime protagonist podium? Did Jacci, EJ, or Mac bring the strongest final picks? Leave a 5-star rating, write a review with your top picks, and subscribe so you never miss an episode! #Anime #AnimePodcast #Naruto #Frieren #HunterxHunter #FMA #FullmetalAlchemist #StreetFighter #RecordOfLodossWar #AnimeDebate #AnimeCommunity