8 Best Anime Mentors Who Died Way Too Soon

Custom Image by Casandra Ronning Published Aug 9, 2026, 2:00 PM EDT Casandra Ronning is a staff writer for Screen Rant's anime section. Since mid-2024, she has dedicated herself to expanding her knowledge and experience in the entertainment industry. She is most proud of conducting an exclusive interview with popular voice actor Stephanie Nadolny. Sign in to your ScreenRant account Anime is filled with unforgettable characters who leave an impactful mark on the story and sometimes even on the lives of viewers. Among the most influential are the mentors who guide the heroes along their journeys, often larger-than-life and offering wisdom and specialized teachings. Many mentors are pillars that train, guide, and support the heroes throughout the story. However, there are instances when their time is abruptly cut short, forcing them to depart from the story, but not without leaving behind a legacy that shapes the heroes long after they’re gone. Regardless of the role they filled, whether it was as a leader, role model, or teacher, their absence in the story became a pivotal moment that pushed the heroes toward growth. Even so, their deaths are some of the most heartbreaking losses in anime due to the profound impact they had on the story. Sir Nighteye (My Hero Academia) Sir Nighteye was introduced as All Might’s former sidekick with a Foresight Quirk that allows him to glimpse into someone’s future. He stands out as one of the most intelligent and disciplined characters in My Hero Academia, although, in spite of his appearance, he strongly valued humor. Sir Nighteye initially questioned Deku’s potential before taking him on as a work-study student alongside Mirio Togata. While Sir Nighteye only occupied space in the story for a short time, he made clear from the beginning that he held high expectations for those he mentored and strongly believed in the power of humor. His final battle against Overhaul completed his character arc as he witnessed the impossible become reality, with Deku reshaping the future he foresaw. Despite his character arc being fulfilled, Sir Nighteye stood out as a compelling character that could have offered more as both a hero and a mentor. Mami Tomoe (Puella Magi Madoka Magica) Mami Tomoe is the first fully introduced magical girl in Puella Magi Madoka Magica. After saving Madoka Kaname and Sayaka Miki from a witch’s labyrinth, she takes them under her wing and shows them the idealized side of being a magical girl by protecting and saving lives, while also acknowledging the dangers that come with her role. Both Sayaka and Madoka look up to her from the moment she’s introduced, but Mami’s mentorship is ultimately cut short when she’s killed by a witch. Her death is easily one of the most shocking turning points in anime as it strips away all lighthearted expectations, leaving behind a grim reality that Madoka and Sayaka must come to terms with. Despite appearing composed and mature, Mami Tomoe shouldered immense weight that no child should ever have to face alone. She patiently showed Madoka and Sayaka the sacrifices and responsibilities that come with their role without allowing her own loneliness to guilt them into making a decision. Her death is easily one of the most shocking turning points in anime as it strips away all lighthearted expectations, leaving behind a grim reality that Madoka and Sayaka must come to terms with. Kyojuro Rengoku (Demon Slayer) Kyojuro Rengoku was the Flame Hashira in Demon Slayer who genuinely believed that those who are strong have a moral obligation to protect the weak. During the Mugen Train incident, Rengoku protected every passenger on board before losing his life in battle against Upper Rank Three demon Akaza. While he never had the chance to officially take Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu under his wing, his actions made it clear that he had every intention of doing so. Rengoku’s convictions and passionate personality immediately made him a likable character that the heroes quickly bonded with. He demonstrated what it meant to be a Hashira through his resolve and dedication, upholding his duty until the very end. While his time in the spotlight was brief, the values he embodied and potential left unfulfilled make his death one of the most devastating in Demon Slayer. Asuma Sarutobi (Naruto) Asuma Sarutobi was the leader of Team 10, guiding Shikamaru Nara, Choji Akimichi, and Ino Yamanaka. He was an elite Jonin of the Hidden Leaf village and the son of the Third Hokage, who was most known for his humility, skills, and, naturally, his dedication to the village. While he was never given as much screentime as other major characters, it was clear that he was a respectable leader who had much to offer his team. Asuma recognized Shikamaru’s intellect and potential far before others fully appreciated it, helped nurture Choji’s confidence and kindness, and taught Ino to focus on her own growth, effectively helping his team grow into more capable ninjas. Even in his final moments, Asuma’s greatest concern was the future that his team was inheriting, proving his true character and resolve to defend the next generation was always genuine. Kento Nanami (Jujutsu Kaisen) Kento Nanami always came across as a mature, practical Grade 1 Sorcerer in Jujutsu Kaisen. While he initially left behind his life as a jujutsu sorcerer in favor of a corporate life, he eventually returned after realizing that he could use his power to protect others. As Yuji’s mentor, Nanami proved himself to be dependable and supportive. His role, however, came to an end during the Shibuya Incident, where he was killed by Mahito. Nanami stood out as a mentor because he acknowledged the cruelty of the jujutsu world without letting it destroy his compassion or ideals. He fully understood the weight of sacrifice and taught Yuji that responsibility came with difficult choices while also ensuring that Yuji had a sense of stability. Nanami’s death was one of Jujutsu Kaisen’s most devastating moments as it marked the end of a character who truly embodied what it meant to be a hero and mentor. Kamina (Gurren Lagann) Kamina stood out as the driving force behind the earliest arc of Gurren Lagann as his fearlessness and confidence helped inspire humanity to challenge the world above the underground villages. When he met Simon in Jiha Village, Kamina knew he had potential, driving him to become his closest ally and an older brother figure as he took him under his wing. As the founder of Team Gurren, he helped ignite a rebellion against the Beastmen, but his journey met an end when he died in battle against enemy forces. Though his time in the series was short, he stood out for his boisterous personality and ability to inspire those around him. While his recklessness often overshadowed his intelligence, he understood Simon better than anyone and pushed him to overcome his insecurities. His death forced Simon to ultimately move forward and embrace his own identity, although his death left behind a massive void. Even so, his legacy carried on through the movement he started. Koro-sensei (Assassination Classroom) Koro-sensei was once one of the world’s most feared assassins before becoming the teacher of Kunugigaoka Junior High’s Class 3-E after gaining extraordinary powers from human experimentation. Declaring to destroy Earth in a year’s time, his students are tasked with assassinating him as he acts as their teacher, preparing them for life beyond his classroom. Despite his strange appearance and overwhelming abilities, he proves himself to be an amazing teacher who genuinely cares about his students. While the series ends with the students completing their mission, Koro-sensei has effectively earned a permanent place in each of their hearts as he guides them through some of the most difficult moments in their lives and never loses faith in them. His final lesson was about accepting change and moving forward, giving his students the chance to succeed beyond his classroom and beyond any preconceived expectations about their worth, cementing him as one of anime’s greatest mentors. Jiraiya (Naruto) Jiraiya is one of the most influential characters not only in Naruto, but arguably in all of shōnen anime. He was one of the Hidden Leaf Village’s Legendary Sannin, trained under the Third Hokage and a mentor to some of the village’s greatest shinobi, including the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, and the titular character Naruto Uzumaki. During an infiltration mission to investigate the Akatsuki’s leader, Jiraiya entered into a fatal confrontation with his former student, Nagato. Hidden Leaf Village · Chunin Exam NarutoTrivia Challenge 🔥 Jinchūriki Believe it! 🔴 Sharingan Copy ninja 🌀 Jutsu Rasengan! 🌿 Village Will of Fire ⚡ Bonds Unbreakable BELIEVE IT! → 01 Naruto Uzumaki carries an immense burden — a powerful Tailed Beast sealed inside him since birth by the Fourth Hokage. This fox demon’s chakra gives Naruto extraordinary power but also makes him an outcast. What is the name of this Nine-Tailed Beast? AShukaku BMatatabi CKurama DGyuki ✓ Correct! Kurama is the Nine-Tailed Fox sealed within Naruto by his father, the Fourth Hokage. Initially a source of fear and hatred, Kurama eventually becomes one of Naruto’s closest allies. Their bond is one of the most emotional arcs in the entire series. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is Kurama. Shukaku is the One-Tail sealed in Gaara, Matatabi is the Two-Tails, and Gyuki is the Eight-Tails sealed in Killer Bee. Kurama, the Nine-Tailed Fox, is Naruto’s legendary partner. NEXT → 02 Naruto’s greatest rival is a prodigy from a prestigious clan who possesses a powerful eye technique called the Sharingan. Consumed by a desire for vengeance against his older brother, he defects from the Hidden Leaf Village. Who is this rival? ANeji Hyuga BSasuke Uchiha CGaara DRock Lee ✓ Correct! Sasuke Uchiha is Naruto’s eternal rival and best friend. After the Uchiha massacre, Sasuke’s obsession with killing his brother Itachi drives him to leave the village and seek power at any cost. Their rivalry is the emotional backbone of the entire series. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is Sasuke Uchiha. Neji is a Hyuga clan genius with the Byakugan, Gaara is the Sand Village’s jinchūriki, and Rock Lee is the taijutsu specialist. Only Sasuke wields the Sharingan and defects to join Orochimaru. NEXT → 03 Naruto’s signature jutsu is a spinning sphere of concentrated chakra formed in the palm of his hand. Originally created by the Fourth Hokage and taught to Naruto by Jiraiya, it becomes the foundation for many of his most powerful attacks. What is this technique called? ARasengan BChidori CShadow Clone Jutsu DSage Art: Lava Rasenshuriken ✓ Correct! The Rasengan is a pure chakra manipulation technique that doesn’t require hand signs. Created by Minato Namikaze and passed down through Jiraiya to Naruto, it evolves into many variations including the devastating Rasenshuriken with added Wind Release nature transformation. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is the Rasengan. The Chidori is Sasuke and Kakashi’s lightning technique, Shadow Clone Jutsu is a different Naruto staple, and the Lava Rasenshuriken is a late-series variant. The base Rasengan is Naruto’s iconic spinning chakra sphere. NEXT → 04 Team 7’s leader is a mysterious, mask-wearing jonin known as the “Copy Ninja” for his ability to replicate over a thousand jutsu using his borrowed Sharingan eye. He’s always reading a certain novel. Who is this legendary sensei? AMight Guy BAsuma Sarutobi CJiraiya DKakashi Hatake ✓ Correct! Kakashi Hatake, the Copy Ninja of the Sharingan, leads Team 7 (Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura). His Sharingan was a gift from his dying friend Obito Uchiha. Always cool under pressure and perpetually reading Make-Out Paradise, Kakashi eventually becomes the Sixth Hokage. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is Kakashi Hatake. Might Guy leads Team Guy, Asuma leads Team 10, and Jiraiya is one of the Legendary Sannin who later trains Naruto. Only Kakashi is the masked Copy Ninja with a borrowed Sharingan who leads Team 7. NEXT → 05 Sasuke’s older brother massacred nearly the entire Uchiha clan in a single night, then joined the criminal organization Akatsuki. It was later revealed he did it all on orders from the village to prevent a coup — sacrificing everything to protect his brother. Who is this tragic figure? AMadara Uchiha BItachi Uchiha CObito Uchiha DShisui Uchiha ✓ Correct! Itachi Uchiha is one of Naruto’s most complex characters. A pacifist genius forced into an impossible choice, he bore the hatred of the entire world — including his beloved brother Sasuke — to protect the Hidden Leaf from civil war. His final words to Sasuke remain iconic. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is Itachi Uchiha. Madara is the legendary clan founder, Obito is the masked man behind much of the war, and Shisui was Itachi’s best friend. Itachi alone carried out the massacre to prevent the Uchiha coup and protect Sasuke. NEXT → 06 From the very first episode, Naruto declares his lifelong dream to earn the respect of his village and prove his worth. He vows to achieve the highest rank in the Hidden Leaf — its supreme leader. What is this title that Naruto dreams of? AKazekage BJonin Commander CHokage DAnbu Captain ✓ Correct! Hokage is the title of the Hidden Leaf Village’s leader, and Naruto’s dream of becoming Hokage drives the entire series. After years of struggle, he finally achieves his dream and becomes the Seventh Hokage in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is Hokage. The Kazekage leads the Sand Village, Jonin Commander is a military rank, and Anbu Captain leads black ops. The Hokage is the Hidden Leaf’s supreme leader — and Naruto’s lifelong dream since he was a lonely academy student. NEXT → 07 Naruto’s father was the Fourth Hokage, known as the “Yellow Flash of the Leaf” for his incredible speed using the Flying Thunder God technique. He sacrificed his life to seal the Nine-Tails inside his newborn son. What is his name? AMinato Namikaze BHiruzen Sarutobi CTobirama Senju DHashirama Senju ✓ Correct! Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage and Yellow Flash, sacrificed himself using the Reaper Death Seal to seal Kurama inside baby Naruto. His love for his son and faith in Naruto’s potential made him one of the series’ most selfless characters. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is Minato Namikaze. Hiruzen Sarutobi is the Third Hokage, Tobirama Senju is the Second, and Hashirama Senju is the First. Minato, the Fourth Hokage, is Naruto’s father who sealed the Nine-Tails at the cost of his own life. NEXT → 08 A shy, kind-hearted kunoichi from the Hyuga clan admired Naruto from afar since their academy days. She boldly confessed her love while fighting Pain to protect him, and eventually became his wife. Who is this character? ASakura Haruno BIno Yamanaka CTemari DHinata Hyuga ✓ Correct! Hinata Hyuga went from a timid girl who could barely speak around Naruto to a fierce warrior who stood against Pain to protect him. Her confession during the Pain arc is one of the series’ most emotional moments. They marry in The Last: Naruto the Movie and have two children, Boruto and Himawari. ✗ Substitution jutsu failed! The answer is Hinata Hyuga. Sakura is Naruto’s teammate who loves Sasuke, Ino is Sakura’s rival from the Yamanaka clan, and Temari is a Sand Village kunoichi who marries Shikamaru. Only Hinata loved Naruto from the very beginning. REVEAL MY SCORE → Mission Complete Your Ninja Record / 8 Are you Hokage material — or still at the academy practicing clone jutsu? ↻ RETRY MISSION Jiraiya’s death in Naruto was one of the series’ most heartbreaking moments and a devastating character death in anime history. His teachings not only helped strengthen Naruto’s abilities, but more importantly helped him develop confidence and compassion. Jiraiya’s belief that the next generation would create a better future stuck with Naruto, pushing him to create the world he always envisioned.