5 Biggest Sacrifices In Anime History, Ranked
Anime is filled with moments that show characters making ultimate sacrifices to protect loved ones, achieve their goals, or uphold their beliefs.
These sacrifices often leave a lasting impact on viewers, reminding us of the courage and resolve needed to make such choices. Here’s a look at five of the biggest sacrifices in anime history, with each one offering a story that resonates long after the series ends.
5. Lelouch’s Final Act – Code Geass
In Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, Lelouch vi Britannia takes on the role of villain for the sake of peace. After using his Geass ability to wage war against oppressive regimes, he enacts the "Zero Requiem" plan, allowing himself to be killed by his friend Suzaku (disguised as Zero).
Lelouch’s sacrifice unifies a divided world, redirecting hatred onto himself and providing peace at the cost of his life. This selfless end serves as both a powerful statement on redemption and a tragic close to Lelouch’s complex character arc.
4. Maes Hughes’ Death – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Maes Hughes from Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood remains one of the most beloved characters, known for his warmth and love for his family. As a trusted officer in the Amestrian military, Hughes uncovers a dangerous conspiracy involving Homunculi and government corruption.
But before he can act, Hughes is tragically murdered by Envy, a shape-shifting Homunculus. His death sends shockwaves through his friends and family and becomes a driving force for the Elric brothers and Roy Mustang, illustrating the heavy price of pursuing the truth.
3. Ace’s Rescue Attempt – One Piece
Portgas D. Ace, Luffy’s adoptive brother, stands out as one of the most heart-wrenching sacrifices in One Piece. Captured by the Marines and sentenced to death, Ace’s execution is interrupted by Luffy and the Whitebeard Pirates.
During the rescue, Ace jumps in to save Luffy from an attack by Admiral Akainu, sacrificing his life to protect his brother. This sacrifice not only devastates Luffy but also marks a major turning point in his journey, with the loss reminding fans of the harsh realities pirates face in the One Piece world.
2. Itachi Uchiha’s Mission – Naruto Shippuden
Itachi Uchiha’s life is a tale of sacrifice from beginning to end. In Naruto Shippuden, Itachi is revealed to have wiped out his entire clan under orders from the Hidden Leaf’s higher-ups, sparing only his younger brother, Sasuke.
Believing that killing his clan would prevent civil war, Itachi becomes a rogue ninja and joins the Akatsuki, all while secretly working to protect Konoha. He dies at Sasuke’s hands, but only after passing on his knowledge to ensure his brother’s survival. His selfless acts leave a lasting impact on the Naruto universe.
1. Vegeta’s Redemption – Dragon Ball Z
One of the most iconic sacrifices in Dragon Ball Z comes from Vegeta during the Majin Buu Saga. As a former villain-turned-hero, Vegeta battles against Majin Buu, knowing he’s outmatched.
In a final act of redemption, he decides to sacrifice himself, saying goodbye to his son, Trunks, before unleashing a self-destructive explosion to protect his family and the planet. Though the sacrifice doesn’t ultimately kill Buu, Vegeta’s willingness to give his life for others marks a significant change in his character, transforming him into one of anime’s most memorable antiheroes.
