In a series like Bleach, with many moments of massive hype, the characters are cool and attractive, amassing massive popularity with the fans. There are differences, for instance, the appeal of Ichigo Kurosaki and Byakuya Kuchiki is completely different.
In most anime series, generally the most popular characters have a certain sort of appeal to them. But in Bleach, we see one anomaly who was meant to be hated but ended up becoming extremely popular and beloved, so much so that even the author thought it did not make sense.
Why was Gin so popular?
This character is Ichimaru Gin. Gin is undoubtedly seen as an antagonist, what with his betrayal of the Soul Society and how he let a lot of lives be lost to the Hogyoku. Even though he meant to do it to seek justice for Rangiku, that does not mean he is redeemed in any way.
Among all the characters, Sosuke Aizen usually takes center stage when it comes to charm and popularity. Not just outside of the series, even within. Remember the time Hinamori is unable to believe (even when she is almost stabbed to death) that her Squad captain betrayed her? Yes, you need some charm for that!
This is a unique sort of charm, but one that he portrays intentionally. When he succeeds with his grand scheme, his confidence and determination to become both stronger and immortal are what make him so popular.
But what about Gin? Ichimaru Gin looks like a snake, slit-eyed, pale, rude, manipulative, and extremely hateful. He was a character that was supposed to have a realization and background arc but never fame or redemption.
Why Kubo’s jealousy makes sense
Tite Kubo wanted to showcase what would happen if someone walked the wrong path of vengeance, an unjust death. Yet Ichimaru Gin, the ‘snake-eyed’, somehow managed to attract a massive number of female fans.
There’s something undeniably intriguing about Gin. Unlike other characters who were either good or bad, Gin operated in a gray area. His personality was playful yet somehow malicious. So, what made him so popular?
His character and actions are deplorable, to say the least, so it must have been his unique way of talking. He was constantly teasing others and playing mental games with them.
Even Bleach creator Tite Kubo didn’t see it coming. In an interview, Kubo admitted:
“Ichimaru Gin, in my opinion, I was trying to draw him all creepy since his first appearance, but for some reason, he is a man who is very popular amongst women. I envy him.”
Not to mention his past, where he swore to protect Rangiku, which is the reason he abandoned everything he worked for to get revenge on Aizen. He wished to restore Rangiku’s soul back to her, but he never got the opportunity.
This kind of silent dedication and love might have made him seem charming and attractive to the fans.
You can stream Bleach on Crunchyroll.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
