5 Most Memorable Anime Parents, Ranked From Worst To Best

Parents shape their children’s lives in ways both beautiful and heartbreaking, and anime brings these relationships to life with stunning emotion.

From villains who betray their own kids to heroes who sacrifice everything for their families, these fictional parents stick with us long after the credits roll.

Whether they make you cry happy tears or want to throw something at the screen, these characters prove that parenthood in anime is never boring.

Ready to meet the most unforgettable moms and dads in animation history?

1. Gendo Ikari – The Cold Manipulator

Some dads are distant, but Gendo takes neglect to a whole new level.

Obsessed with bringing back his deceased wife, he treats his son Shinji like a disposable chess piece in his twisted game.

His emotional abandonment and manipulation cause Shinji endless psychological trauma throughout the series.

Gendo’s inability to show love or compassion makes viewers want to reach through the screen and shake some sense into him.

Though his motivations stem from grief, his methods are inexcusable and cement his place among anime’s worst parents.

2. Ragyo Kiryuin – The Abusive Matriarch

Beauty and cruelty combine in Ragyo, who views her daughters as nothing more than experimental tools.

Her abuse goes beyond physical violence into psychological torment that scars Satsuki and Ryuko forever.

Ragyo’s complete disregard for her children’s humanity makes her one of anime’s most disturbing villains.

She prioritizes her own ambitions over basic maternal instincts, creating a legacy of pain and betrayal.

Her rainbow hair might be stunning, but her actions are pure nightmare fuel for anyone who values family bonds.

3. Maes Hughes – The Proud Papa

If enthusiasm for fatherhood were a superpower, Hughes would be the strongest hero alive.

Constantly showing photos of his daughter Elicia to anyone within earshot, his joy was absolutely infectious and pure.

His devotion to both his family and friends made him the heart of Fullmetal Alchemist’s emotional core.

When tragedy struck, fans worldwide mourned because Hughes represented everything good about parenthood and friendship.

His legacy reminds us that being present, proud, and loving makes someone truly unforgettable in the best possible way.

4. Kotetsu T. Kaburagi – The Reluctant Hero-Dad

Kotetsu T. Kaburagi, better known as Wild Tiger, juggles the challenges of being a superhero and a single parent in “Tiger & Bunny.”

His commitment to his daughter, despite the demands of his job, is both endearing and inspiring.

His struggle to balance heroics with fatherhood reveals a deep sense of duty and love, often marked by moments of self-doubt and triumph.

Kotetsu’s story is a testament to the sacrifices and joys of parenthood, ensuring his legacy as a standout anime parent whose heart is as heroic as his actions.