My Hero Academia: Celebrating the Best Female Characters in the Series
My Hero Academia (MHA) has captivated audiences for nearly a decade, originally serialized in Shonen Jump and concluding its manga journey in August 2024. Although the manga has wrapped up, fans can still look forward to the anime’s ongoing adaptations. At its core, My Hero Academia tells the compelling tale of Izuku Midoriya, who rises to become the Number One Hero in a society where Superpowers, known as Quirks, reign supreme—even though he starts out Quirkless. The series is also notable for its engaging female cast, albeit not without criticism regarding their portrayal.
Despite some polarizing views on how these female characters are written, notable figures within MHA are well-developed and have engaged the audience effectively. While the cast may not be as expansive as some would hope, the series features several exceptional characters whose narratives resonate strongly, making them fan favorites.
Updated as of November 9, 2024: With the conclusion of the manga, My Hero Academia continues to thrive in the anime landscape. It remains relevant not only because of its past success but also due to the iconic female characters that contribute layers to the storyline. Though some arcs may leave their journeys wanting, their impact is undeniable.
19 Nemuri Kayama (Midnight)
The R-Rated Hero of MHA
- Quirk: Somnambulist
- Japanese Voice Actor: Akeno Watanabe
- English Voice Actor: Elizabeth Maxwell
Midnight is a character whose vibrant presence always added excitement to MHA. Initially underestimated, she proved to be a character of great complexity, enriching major plotlines. In the climactic Final War Saga, Midnight’s dedication culminated in her self-sacrifice for her students, showcasing her unconditional love as a teacher and hero.
18 Toru Hagakure (Stealth Hero: Invisible Girl)
The Invisible Hero of U.A
- Quirk: Invisibility
- Japanese Voice Actor: Kaori Nazuka
- English Voice Actor: Felecia Angelle
Initially a sidelined character, Toru Hagakure shone brightly during the Final War Saga. Though her uniqueness made her a challenging character to develop, her contribution alongside her classmates demonstrated her invaluable role in the fight against villains, proving that visibility isn’t always necessary to make an impact.
17 Camie Utsushimi (Illus-o-Camie)
A Prodigy from Shiketsu High
- Quirk: Glamour
- Japanese Voice Actor: Minori Chihara
- English Voice Actor: Brittney Karbowski
Exciting and talented, Camie Utsushimi made a memorable impression during the Provisional Hero License Exam. Although not prominently featured later, her brief appearances were enough to earn her a place in the hearts of fans, embodying a promising candidate for the hero vocation.
16 Melissa Shield
The Star of MHA: Two Heroes
- Quirk: None
- Japanese Voice Actor: Mirai Shida
- English Voice Actor: Erica Mendez
One of the underrated gems of the series, Melissa Shield shone brightly in the movie “Two Heroes”. Despite lacking a physical Quirk, her exceptional intellect and engineering skills allowed her to contribute significantly, notably by providing critical support to All Might.
15 Manami Aiba (La Brava)
Gentle Criminal’s Sidekick
- Quirk: Love
- Japanese Voice Actor: Yui Horie
- English Voice Actor: Megan Shipman
La Brava, while a minor character, possesses remarkable attributes that set her apart. Her quirky nature and unique “Love” Quirk inject much-needed exuberance into the story, allowing her to forge deep connections, especially within her team.
14 Different
The Hope for the Next Generation
- Quirk: Rewind
- Japanese Voice Actor: Seiran Kobayashi
- English Voice Actor: Emily Neves
Eri stands out as one of the most significant characters in MHA. Initially portrayed as a victim, her transformation and growth show her resilience and strength. Following her rescue by Deku, Eri has developed into a beacon of hope, with her potential set to play a pivotal role in future events.
13 Kyoka Jiro (Hearing Hero: Earphone Jack)
Earphone Jack from Class 1A
- Quirk: Earphone Jack
- Japanese Voice Actor: Kei Shindo
- English Voice Actor: Trina Nishimura
Jiro is characterized by her introverted yet strong personality, with a knack for battle. Her powers, closely tied to her love of music, allow her to utilize sound waves to inflict damage. Jiro’s determination and combat abilities, demonstrated against formidable foes like All For One, elevate her character significantly.
12 Mina Ashido (Pinky)
The Cheerful Class 1A Student
- Quirk: Acid
- Japanese Voice Actor: Eri Kitamura
- English Voice Actor: Caitlin Glass
Mina Ashido, known for her cheerful demeanor, is a formidable daughter of Class 1A. Utilizing her Acid Quirk strategically in battles, she has demonstrated remarkable abilities, notably achieving significant feats against strong adversaries while endearing herself to the fan base.
11 Yu Takeyama (Mt. Lady)
A Pro Hero with the Gigantification Quirk
- Quirk: Gigantification
- Japanese Voice Actor: Kaori Nazuka
- English Voice Actor: Jamie Marchi
Mt. Lady, introduced early in MHA, possesses the ability to grow to gigantic proportions. Her stature not only renders her a unique character but also establishes her as an invaluable fighter in numerous battles, including the Paranormal Liberation War, where she showcased her prowess.
10 May Hatsume
A Genius Student
- Quirk: Zoom
- Japanese Voice Actor: Shiori Sakurai
- English Voice Actor: Alexis Tipton
Though not a primary protagonist, Mei Hatsume’s genius level intellect plays a significant role in the MHA narrative. Her talents in crafting hero gear benefit numerous characters, enhancing their fighting capabilities and influencing the direction of plots.
9. Nejire Hado (Nejire Chan)
One of U.A’s Big 3
- Quirk: Wave Motion
- Japanese Voice Actor: Kiyono Yasuno
- English Voice Actor: Lindsay Seidel
Nejire Hado, a member of U.A’s Big Three, showcases immense power that rivals Pro Heroes. Her Wave Motion Quirk allows her to project energy waves, proving her worth as a formidable combatant capable of standing against formidable foes.
8 Nana Shimura
A Former User of One For All
- Quirk: Float, One For All
- Japanese Voice Actor: Mie Sonozaki
- English Voice Actor: Stephanie Young
Nana Shimura, as the seventh user of the One For All Quirk, plays an essential mentor role in the story. Five directed her successors, influencing the legacy of future heroes, including the mighty All Might.
7 Kaina Tsutsumi (Lady Nagant)
MHA’s Antihero
- Quirk: Riple, Air Walk
- Japanese Voice Actor: Atsumi Tanezaki
- English Voice Actor: Erica Lindbeck
Lady Nagant is a complex character who challenges traditional hero-villain dynamics. Once part of the Hero Commission, her bitterness led her into conflict with former allies. Yet, her pivotal role emerges when she aids Izuku Midoriya in confronting Shigaraki.
6 Ochaco Uraraka (Uravity)
The Heroine of MHA
- Quirk: Zero Gravity
- Japanese Voice Actor: Ayane Sakura
- English Voice Actor: Luci Christian
As a prominent character in the series, Uravity reflects pure motivations for heroism rooted in family and community support. Her character arc has evolved, allowing her to embody compassion towards fellow heroes, enhancing her role within the team.
5. Momo Yaoyorozu (Everything Hero: Creativity)
The Smartest 1A Student
- Quirk: Creation
- Japanese Voice Actor: Marina Inoue
- English Voice Actor: Colleen Clinkenbeard
Momo stands out for her strategic prowess and intelligence. Her Creation Quirk allows her to manifest objects for various situations, proving her value as both a combatant and a supporter throughout the story.
4 Tsuyu Asui (Froppy)
The Frog Heroine
- Quirk: Frog
- Japanese Voice Actor: Aoi Yuuki
- English Voice Actor: Monica Rial
Froppy brings a unique set of abilities to her group with her Frog Quirk, which grants her unique attributes. Her pragmatic approach and level-headed demeanor provide a balance to the team, making her a vital support character.
3 Cathleen Bate (Star and Stripe)
USA’s Number 1 Hero
- Quirk: New Order
- Japanese Voice Actor: Romi Park
- English Voice Actor: Natalie Van Sistine
As the strongest hero in the USA, Cathleen Bate’s Quirk, New Order, alters the rules of how powers operate. Although her time was short-lived, her incredible abilities and impactful story were unforgettable, especially during her clashes with Shigaraki.
2. Himiko Toga
A Chaotic Villain
- Quirk: Transform
- Japanese Voice Actor: Misato Fukuen
- English Voice Actor: Leah Clark
Toga stands out as a memorable figure in the Paranormal Liberation Front. Her development showcases a multi-dimensional villain whose complexities arise from fierce loyalty to her friends, solidifying her as an essential antagonist.
1. Rumi Usagiyama (Mirko)
The Rabbit Hero
- Quirk: Rabbit
- Japanese Voice Actor: Sayaka Kinoshita
- English Voice Actor: Anairis Quiñones
Rumi Usagiyama, known as Mirko, is a dynamic and formidable hero, revered for her combat skills. Her involvement in key arcs, including the Paranormal Liberation War, illustrates her unmatched fighting abilities and unwavering determination, securing her place as a fan favorite.
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