Iconic Anime Sidekicks: Supporting Characters Who Stole the Show

While anime heroes often grab the spotlight, many beloved sidekicks have become iconic figures in their own right. These supporting characters have provided comic relief, emotional depth, and sometimes, crucial plot moments that elevate the series they’re part of. Many of these sidekicks have become just as memorable as the protagonists themselves. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic anime sidekicks from before the year 2000 who stole the show and earned their place in anime history.

1. Kero-chan from Cardcaptor Sakura (1998)

In Cardcaptor Sakura, Kero-chan (Keroberos) is the cute, yet powerful guardian beast of the Clow Cards. Though his role starts off as comedic, his witty remarks and occasionally serious nature make him an essential companion to Sakura. While not physically involved in the action as much as other characters, his emotional support and wisdom guide Sakura throughout her journey, making him a sidekick that became just as memorable as the heroine herself.

Kero-chan's transformations and moments of clumsy antics add light-hearted humor to the series, but his wisdom and guidance show a depth that has made him a fan favorite.

2. Luna from Sailor Moon (1992)

Luna, the black cat from Sailor Moon, is one of anime’s most iconic sidekicks. She’s not just a companion but also a mentor to Usagi Tsukino (Sailor Moon). Luna is the one who gives Usagi her powers and guides her through her role as Sailor Moon. Her mix of strictness and affectionate guidance makes her an unforgettable character.

While often playing the role of a no-nonsense teacher, Luna’s caring side and occasional comedic moments make her a key part of the Sailor Moon series, and a beloved character among fans.

3. Arale Norimaki from Dr. Slump (1981)

Dr. Slump is a comedy-filled series created by Akira Toriyama, and while the story centers around the eccentric inventor Senbei Norimaki, it is his android creation, Arale, who becomes the real star of the show. Arale’s playful nature, innocent behavior, and boundless energy inject a unique charm into the series. Though she’s technically a robot, Arale's childish personality, superhuman strength, and her almost absurd, slapstick antics make her a classic sidekick who stands out even as she supports the story’s quirky lead character.

Arale's joyful personality and humorous adventures made her an iconic sidekick that fans have continued to adore.

4. Shenron from Dragon Ball (1986)

Though Shenron isn’t physically active in every episode of Dragon Ball, he is the magical dragon that grants wishes when the Dragon Balls are gathered. The dragon is summoned multiple times throughout the Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z series, often playing a pivotal role in advancing the plot. Whether resurrecting characters or undoing catastrophic events, Shenron’s appearances are always significant.

His role as a powerful, mystical sidekick to the Z Fighters has cemented him as one of the most beloved and iconic supporting figures in anime history.

5. Dende from Dragon Ball Z (1989)

Another beloved sidekick from Dragon Ball Z is Dende, who initially appears as a young Namekian child. While Dende might seem like a secondary character at first, his role grows significantly after he becomes the Earth’s new Guardian. His healing powers and his quiet wisdom make him an invaluable ally to Goku and his friends. Dende's transformation from an innocent child to a powerful figure in the Dragon Ball universe showcases the importance of sidekicks in the growth of a series.

While Goku and the other Z Fighters were the main warriors, Dende’s support was crucial during many pivotal moments in the saga.

6. Yajirobe from Dragon Ball Z (1989)

Another character from the Dragon Ball Z universe, Yajirobe, is often seen as a sidekick who steals the show with his cowardly yet brave actions. A skilled swordsman who often provides comic relief, Yajirobe isn’t afraid to act cowardly when faced with powerful enemies, but he’s also always there when it counts, like when he cuts off Vegeta’s tail or helps Goku after he’s severely injured.

His quirky, often lazy demeanor provides a different kind of support compared to the more serious characters, and his moments of unexpected heroism make him an iconic sidekick.

7. Sokka from Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)

Though Avatar: The Last Airbender technically aired in 2005, it is heavily influenced by anime and features an anime-inspired aesthetic. Sokka, the comic relief of the show, is the perfect sidekick to the stoic Aang. While Aang has the power of the Avatar, Sokka’s lack of magical abilities doesn’t stop him from being an invaluable member of Team Avatar. His intelligence, humor, and resourcefulness help him come up with strategic solutions to tough problems.

Sokka's character arc, from a bumbling fool to a strong, capable warrior, shows how sidekicks can grow and shine in their own way.

8. Team Rocket from Pokémon (1997)

While Jessie, James, and Meowth are technically antagonists, they have become some of the most beloved sidekicks in the Pokémon franchise. Their constant, yet comically failed, attempts to capture Pikachu bring an ongoing stream of humor to the series. Though they often serve as comedic villains, their loyalty to each other and their undeniable charm make them memorable sidekicks.

Whether they’re scheming or having moments of sincerity, Team Rocket’s antics are an integral part of the Pokémon series, and they have earned a cult following of fans.

9. Goemon Ishikawa XIII from Lupin III (1971)

Lupin III is one of the longest-running anime franchises, and Goemon Ishikawa XIII, the stoic samurai, is one of the most memorable sidekicks in the series. He may not always be in the spotlight like Lupin, but his swordsmanship and calm demeanor provide much-needed balance to the eccentric team. Goemon’s loyalty and unmatched sword skills make him an irreplaceable ally to Lupin and a fan favorite.

Though he often remains silent, Goemon’s contribution to the success of Lupin’s heists proves that he’s an essential member of the crew.

10. Kintaro Oe from Golden Boy (1995)

Golden Boy is a comedic series featuring Kintaro Oe, an ambitious, slightly eccentric young man who goes from one odd job to another, always trying to learn new life lessons. While Kintaro is technically the protagonist, his sidekick role often comes in the form of the people he helps, who play pivotal roles in his growth. His wild adventures and the people he encounters often steal the show, showcasing his adaptability and unorthodox learning style.

Though not a traditional sidekick, Kintaro's humorous escapades and the guidance he receives from various characters make him a memorable and entertaining figure in anime.

While the protagonists may receive most of the attention, these iconic sidekicks from anime series before 2000 have become integral to the success and lasting impact of their respective shows. Whether comic relief, wise mentors, or powerful allies, these characters have proven that supporting roles can leave a lasting impression. They may not always be in the spotlight, but their contributions have made them unforgettable figures in the hearts of anime fans around the world.