The world of Demon Slayer is filled with attractive characters, epic battles, and heartbreaking stories of loss and sacrifice.
Among the many tragic narratives woven throughout the series, one of the most profound and deeply moving is that of the Ubuyashiki family.
For centuries, this family has stood as the unwavering pillar behind the Demon Slayer Corps, guiding its members in the relentless fight against demons.
However, the Ubuyashiki family’s legacy is one of profound suffering, driven by an ancient curse that has haunted them for generations.
The Ubuyashiki family is not just another clan in the series they are the cursed bloodline tasked with leading the Demon Slayer Corps in their mission to rid the world of Muzan Kibutsuji, the original demon and the source of much of the world’s suffering.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki (Studio Ufotable)
Despite their wealth, power, and supernatural abilities, the Ubuyashiki family has been plagued by an inescapable curse that ensures the premature death of each generation’s children.
This devastating fate has shaped their history and identity, making their story one of the darkest and most poignant in Demon Slayer.
Origins of the Ubuyashiki Curse
The origins of the Ubuyashiki family’s curse stretch back over a millennium. The family, once a wealthy and powerful lineage, found themselves afflicted by a mysterious and terrible curse.
This curse was not an ordinary one it specifically targeted the children of the Ubuyashiki clan, causing them to die at a young age.
The curse manifested in the form of frail bodies, a gradual loss of eyesight, and eventually, a slow, painful death.
The exact nature of the curse is never fully explained, but its effects are evident: each generation of the Ubuyashiki family is doomed to suffer, and no one can escape its reach.
A priest revealed to the Ubuyashiki family that the curse was a direct result of their bloodline’s connection to Muzan Kibutsuji.
As the first demon, Muzan was responsible for creating countless demons that plagued the world.
Ubuyashiki Explains About Their Family Curse To Muzan (Image By Ufotable)
The priest revealed that the only way for the Ubuyashiki family to lift the curse was to dedicate their lives to the destruction of Muzan and his demon progeny.
Thus, the Ubuyashiki family founded the Demon Slayer Corps, an organization dedicated to eradicating demons and, ultimately, to killing Muzan himself.
In the beginning, the Ubuyashiki family likely believed that their mission would be relatively simple. After all, they had the resources, influence, and supernatural sixth sense that set them apart from ordinary people.
They were confident that they could track down and kill Muzan, thus freeing themselves from the curse and restoring peace to their family.
For the first few generations, this decision may have seemed logical. The Ubuyashiki family had the wealth and connections to organize a powerful force of demon slayers, and the curse had not yet fully revealed its devastating consequences.
However, as the years turned into centuries, it became clear that Muzan was no ordinary adversary. He was not only incredibly powerful but also had the ability to regenerate and evade capture.
Time and time again, the Demon Slayer Corps would come close to finding Muzan, only for him to slip through their fingers.
There were even periods when Muzan disappeared so completely that it seemed as though he had vanished from the world altogether.
Despite these overwhelming challenges, the Ubuyashiki family remained resolute in their mission.
No member of the lineage ever questioned whether it was wise or ethical to continue having children who would inevitably suffer the same tragic fate.
Unyielding Commitment to the Mission
One of the most heartbreaking aspects of the Ubuyashiki family’s story is their unwavering commitment to their mission, even in the face of such overwhelming suffering.
Each child born into the Ubuyashiki family knows from a young age that their life will be short and filled with pain.
The Hashiras (Studio Ufotable)
As they grow older, their bodies begin to deteriorate. They lose their eyesight, their strength fades, and they start coughing up blood. Eventually, they become bedridden, fully aware that their death is approaching.
This cycle repeats with every generation, and yet the family continues to have children, ensuring that the curse is passed on.
From an outside perspective, this decision might seem cruel. Why would the Ubuyashiki family willingly bring more children into the world, knowing that they would be doomed to suffer the same fate?
Wouldn’t it be more compassionate to let the family line end, thus sparing future generations from the curse?
Yet, this thought never seems to cross the minds of the Ubuyashiki family. There is no hesitation, no questioning of their role in perpetuating the cycle of suffering.
Their sense of duty to the Demon Slayer Corps and their mission to destroy Muzan outweighs any consideration for their personal well-being or the well-being of their descendants.
This unyielding commitment to their mission can be partially explained by the Ubuyashiki family’s strong sense of duty and loyalty.
In Japanese culture, the concepts of loyalty, sacrifice, and service to the greater good are deeply valued.
Individuals are often expected to set aside their personal desires and ambitions in favor of serving the larger community or cause.
For the Ubuyashiki family, their mission to destroy Muzan is not just a personal vendetta it is a responsibility they bear on behalf of the entire world.
Their willingness to sacrifice themselves and their children is seen as an act of service, a necessary burden they must carry to protect humanity from the threat of demons.
This sense of duty may explain why the Ubuyashiki family never questions their role in perpetuating the curse.
They place all the blame on Muzan, viewing him as the root cause of their suffering.
Muzan Kibutsuji From Demon Slayer (Image By Ufotable)
While this is true to some extent Muzan’s existence is the reason for the curse the Ubuyashiki family never seems to reflect on the fact that their own actions are also contributing to the cycle of suffering.
By continuing to have children, they are ensuring that the curse will persist. However, from their perspective, this is a necessary sacrifice for the greater good.
Cycle of Suffering: A Lack of Reflection
One of the most curious aspects of the Ubuyashiki family’s story is the lack of reflection on the nature of the curse itself.
While it is clear that the family harbors a deep hatred for Muzan, none of the Ubuyashiki children or parents seem to question their role in continuing the cycle of suffering.
They are fully aware that their children will suffer the same fate as their frail bodies, blindness, and early death yet they continue to bring new life into the world.
It would be easy to imagine that, at some point, one of the Ubuyashiki family members might consider ending the cycle.
After all, if they chose not to have children, the curse would presumably die with them, and future generations would be spared.
However, this thought never seems to cross their minds. Instead, they remain focused on their mission to destroy Muzan, viewing their suffering as a necessary part of the battle.
Muzan Intent Kill Ubuyashiki And His Wife Amane (Images By Crunchyroll)
This lack of reflection may stem from the Ubuyashiki family’s deep sense of loyalty and sacrifice.
As mentioned earlier, Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on the importance of serving the greater good, even at the expense of personal desires.
For the Ubuyashiki family, their mission to destroy Muzan is not just about personal revenge it is about protecting humanity from the threat of demons.
In their eyes, the suffering they endure is a small price to pay for the safety and well-being of the world.
This unwavering focus on their mission also explains why the Ubuyashiki family never questions their role in perpetuating the curse.
They view Muzan as the root cause of their suffering, and they are so consumed by their desire to destroy him that they fail to see the role they play in continuing the cycle.
From their perspective, the only way to lift the curse is to kill Muzan, and any suffering they endure along the way is simply collateral damage.
Burden of Leadership
Despite the curse that plagues them, the Ubuyashiki family continues to serve as the leaders of the Demon Slayer Corps for generations.
This is no small feat, considering the physical and emotional toll the curse takes on each member of the family.
They die young, often before reaching the age of thirty, and their bodies are frail and weak.
Yet, despite these limitations, the Ubuyashiki family remains the backbone of the Demon Slayer Corps, providing leadership, guidance, and strategic direction to the organization.
From an outsider’s perspective, it might seem puzzling that the Ubuyashiki family would continue to play such a central role in the Corps despite their physical limitations.
After all, their frailty and short lifespans would seem to make them ill-suited for leadership.
Hashira’s Discussing About Leaving Guards For Ubuyashiki’s Protection (Image By Ufotable)
However, the Ubuyashiki family possesses qualities that make them uniquely capable of guiding the Corps.
Their sixth sense, which allows them to perceive things beyond the understanding of ordinary people, gives them a unique insight into the world of demons and the battle against Muzan.
Additionally, their wealth and influence provide the Corps with the resources and connections it needs to function effectively.
The Ubuyashiki family’s leadership is not just a matter of duty it is a necessity.
If the Ubuyashiki family were to allow their lineage to die out, the Demon Slayer Corps would lose its leadership, leaving the organization without the strategic direction it needs to combat demons.
Without the Ubuyashiki family at the helm, the Corps might fall into disarray, and demons would be free to wreak havoc on the world without opposition.
This burden of leadership is one that the Ubuyashiki family bears willingly, despite the personal cost.
They understand that their role is not just about leading the Corps it is about protecting the world from the threat of demons.
Their sense of duty drives them to continue having children, even though they know those children will suffer the same fate as them.
For the Ubuyashiki family, the mission to destroy Muzan is more important than their personal happiness or well-being.
Muzan’s Perspective: A Cycle of Suffering
Interestingly, Muzan himself seems to recognize the futility of the Ubuyashiki family’s efforts. From his perspective, the very existence of the Demon Slayer Corps is unnatural.
He views the slayers as nothing more than tools created for his destruction, trapped in a cycle of suffering that will never end.
Muzan’s disdain for the Ubuyashiki family is rooted in his belief that their mission is hopeless.
He knows that the curse that plagues their family is a result of their connection to him, and as long as he remains alive, the Ubuyashiki family will continue to suffer.
Muzan From Demon Slayer (Ufotable)
In some ways, Muzan’s perspective is not entirely wrong. The Ubuyashiki family is indeed trapped in a cycle of suffering that seems to have no end in sight.
Their entire existence revolves around the destruction of Muzan, and they are willing to sacrifice everything including their own lives and the lives of their children to achieve that goal.
From Muzan’s point of view, this makes them no different from the demons he creates. Both the Ubuyashiki family and the demons are trapped in a cycle of suffering and destruction, with no hope of escape.
However, the key difference between the Ubuyashiki family and the demons lies in their motivations.
While the demons are driven by their own selfish desires whether it be for power, immortality, or revenge the Ubuyashiki family is motivated by a sense of duty and a desire to protect the world from evil.
They are willing to endure unimaginable suffering, not for their own benefit, but for the greater good. This is what sets them apart from Muzan and his creations and makes their sacrifice all the more meaningful.
Legacy of the Ubuyashiki Family
In the end, the Ubuyashiki family’s story is one of tragedy, sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty.
Despite the curse that has plagued their family for generations, they continue to fight, driven by a sense of duty to protect the world from the threat of demons.
Their leadership of the Demon Slayer Corps is not just a matter of tradition it is a responsibility they bear for the sake of humanity.
While their story is undeniably tragic, the Ubuyashiki family’s legacy is one of selflessness and heroism.
They are willing to endure unimaginable suffering to ensure that the world remains safe from the evil that Muzan represents.
Their unwavering dedication to their mission serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against evil is never easy, but it is always worth fighting for.
Tanjiro Kamado, Inosuke Hashibira And Zenitsu Agatsuma Falling In Infinity Castle (Images By Crunchyroll)
In the Demon Slayer, the Ubuyashiki family stands as a symbol of hope, even in the face of overwhelming darkness.
Their sacrifice may be great, but their impact on the world is even greater. The Demon Slayer Corps would not exist without them, and the fight against Muzan would have been lost long ago if not for their guidance and leadership.
Though they are cursed, the Ubuyashiki family remains heroes, willing to give everything they have to protect the world from the darkness that threatens to consume it.
Their story is a testament to the power of loyalty, duty, and sacrifice, and their legacy will live on long after their curse is lifted.
My Hero Academia has consistently gripped fans with its intricate storytelling, well-developed characters, and powerful emotional arcs.
As the anime entered its highly anticipated seventh season, fans were eager to see how the story would unfold, especially as the stakes continued to rise in the final war arc.
With the constant barrage of intense action scenes, it might have been easy to overlook some of the smaller, more personal character moments that truly make this show shine.
However, episode 16 of My Hero Academia season 7 managed to deliver one of these moments in a way that left fans emotional and overwhelmed with nostalgia.
This episode marked the return of Gentle Criminal, a character whose journey and evolution have resonated deeply with the fanbase.
Gentle From My Hero Academia (Bones)
Initially introduced as a minor antagonist, Gentle Criminal’s transformation into a more sympathetic, heroic figure has been one of the most surprising and heartfelt arcs in the series.
His appearance in this latest season, particularly during a critical juncture in the war, is not only unexpected but also poignant.
Studio Bones, the animation studio responsible for bringing My Hero Academia to life, skillfully handled Gentle’s return, making it a moment that fans would not soon forget.
The Story Behind Gentle Criminal: From Antagonist to Fan-Favorite
When Gentle Criminal was first introduced, he was hardly seen as a major threat.
In fact, compared to the likes of Shigaraki, Dabi, and All For One, Gentle appeared more like a comedic side character a villain whose aspirations were far smaller and whose crimes were more of a nuisance than a true danger.
With his Quirk, “Elasticity,” which allowed him to make any object, including the air, bouncy and elastic, Gentle didn’t possess the overwhelming power of other villains.
Instead, he seemed more interested in achieving fame and recognition through the internet, posting videos of his minor exploits alongside his devoted partner, La Brava.
At the time, Gentle Criminal’s story was unique in the way it portrayed a man who, despite his criminal activities, wasn’t driven by malice or destruction.
Deku (Crunchyroll)
His character was more complex than the typical villain archetype, as his motivations stemmed from feelings of rejection and failure.
Gentle had once dreamed of becoming a hero, but a series of unfortunate events, combined with society’s judgment, led him down a path of villainy.
His crimes, while technically illegal, were far from evil in nature, and throughout his time as an antagonist, fans could sense the sadness and regret that lingered beneath his seemingly confident exterior.
This depth to Gentle’s character allowed him to stand out in the My Hero Academia universe. Even though he was a minor villain, he quickly became a fan favorite.
His relationship with La Brava, who shared a similarly tragic past of societal rejection, only added to the emotional weight of his character.
Together, they formed a bond that was based on mutual support and understanding, and while their actions weren’t always commendable, their motives were relatable to many viewers.
Gentle’s Redemption: A Battle With Deku and a Sight of Hope
Gentle Criminal’s redemption arc truly began during his confrontation with Deku. This battle, which occurred in a previous season, was a turning point for both characters.
While Gentle initially viewed Deku as just another obstacle in his quest for fame, their fight revealed a shared understanding between the two.
Deku, who had spent most of his life striving to prove himself in a world that often doubted him, recognized a similar struggle in Gentle.
Deku With Class 1A Friends (Image via Crunchyroll)
Rather than treating Gentle as a simple villain to be defeated, Deku saw him as a person with dreams and regrets, someone who had been pushed into villainy not because of a desire for power, but because he felt like he had no other choice.
This empathy from Deku was what ultimately led to Gentle’s redemption. By the end of their battle, Gentle Criminal was no longer just a petty criminal seeking attention he was a man who had been given a second chance to find a new path.
This confrontation also showcased how Gentle’s Quirk, which initially seemed like a minor ability, could be used in creative and powerful ways.
His “Elasticity” allowed him to manipulate the environment to his advantage, making objects bounce unpredictably or even creating air cushions to soften impacts.
While Gentle’s Quirk wasn’t the most destructive, it was versatile and well-suited to his unique style of fighting.
Season 7: The Heroic Return of Gentle Criminal
With this backstory in mind, the significance of Gentle Criminal’s return in season 7 becomes even clearer.
Episode 16 begins with the U.A. High School, which has been transformed into a fortress to protect the heroes and civilians, under threat.
Skeptic, a villain aligned with Shigaraki, manages to hack into the U.A. system, causing the entire structure to begin plummeting toward the ground.
TEARSSSS😭MIGHT U OST FOR GENTLE CRIMINAL SCENE😭🔥🔥MHA IS SOOO PEAK😭 #MyHeroAcademia #heroaca_a pic.twitter.com/A9IZpK14nZ — VishalSid (@VishalSid_1) September 7, 2024
The heroes, already engaged in a fierce battle against Shigaraki and his allies, are unable to prevent the fortress’s fall, and it seems like disaster is imminent.
In this moment of crisis, Gentle Criminal steps in to save the day. Using his Quirk, he manages to keep the U.A. fortress suspended in the air, preventing it from crashing to the ground and saving countless lives in the process.
This act of heroism is not only crucial to the ongoing battle, but it also serves as a powerful moment of redemption for Gentle.
After years of feeling like a failure and resorting to petty crimes, he is finally able to use his abilities for good.
What makes this scene even more emotional is the fact that Gentle isn’t alone. La Brava, his ever-loyal partner, is also present, working as a hacker to counter Skeptic’s efforts and stop the fortress from falling.
Together, these two characters, who were once on the fringes of villainy, are now fighting alongside the heroes, using their unique skills to protect others.
Their return not only highlights their growth as characters but also emphasizes the theme of redemption that runs throughout My Hero Academia.
The Emotional Impact: Fans React to Gentle’s Heroic Moment
As expected, the return of Gentle Criminal and La Brava has sparked a wave of reactions from fans.
The animation during Gentle’s heroic act was particularly praised, with fans noting the fluidity and intensity of the scene.
One fan wrote, “I almost cried when I saw Gentle holding up the U.A. fortress. His entire journey, all of his failures and regrets, led to this one moment where he finally got to be the hero he always wanted to be.”
This sentiment is one that has been echoed by many viewers, who were touched by the emotional weight of Gentle’s actions.
Another fan expressed their excitement by saying, “GENTLE, MY GOAT!!! He finally gets the chance to be the hero he always wanted to be!”
This enthusiasm for Gentle’s return reflects just how much the character has resonated with fans.
i almost cried man, what a scene! — Axell Austria (@AxellAustria) September 7, 2024
Despite being a minor antagonist, Gentle’s journey from a misunderstood villain to a hero in his own right has left a lasting impact on the My Hero Academia community.
The inclusion of flashbacks during this episode also added to the emotional depth of the scene.
These flashbacks showed moments from Gentle’s past, highlighting his struggles and failures, but also his desire to make a difference.
By weaving these flashbacks into the present moment, Studio Bones was able to emphasize just how far Gentle had come and how much this heroic act meant to him.
It was a culmination of all the pain and rejection he had experienced, finally giving him the chance to prove himself as a hero.
Role of La Brava: A Partnership Built on Loyalty and Love
While Gentle Criminal’s actions in season 7 are undoubtedly heroic, it’s important not to overlook the role that La Brava plays in this moment.
La Brava, whose real name is Manami Aiba, has always been fiercely loyal to Gentle, and their relationship has been one of the most unique and touching aspects of their character arcs.
Despite her own troubled past, La Brava found solace and purpose in supporting Gentle, and her Quirk, “Love,” allows her to boost his abilities when her feelings for him reach their peak.
In episode 16, La Brava’s skills as a hacker prove to be just as crucial as Gentle’s physical abilities.
Gentle And La Brava From My Hero Academia (Bones)
While Gentle is using his Quirk to hold up the U.A. fortress, La Brava is working behind the scenes to counter Skeptic’s hacking, ensuring that the fortress remains stable.
This dynamic between the two characters Gentle handling the physical threat while La Brava tackles the digital one showcases the strength of their partnership.
Together, they are able to complement each other’s abilities and play a significant role in the battle to protect U.A.
The bond between Gentle and La Brava has always been a central part of their story, and fans have long appreciated the depth of their relationship.
Unlike many of the other villain pairs in My Hero Academia , whose bonds are often based on power or shared goals of destruction, Gentle and La Brava’s connection is rooted in love and loyalty.
They are two people who found each other in a world that had rejected them, and their partnership has allowed them to find purpose and meaning in their lives.
One fan commented on this dynamic, saying, “Gentle and La Brava’s relationship is one of the most wholesome in the series.
They don’t want to destroy the world or cause chaos they just want to find their place in it. And now, they’re finally getting their chance to be heroes together.”
This sentiment reflects the deep affection that fans have for these characters and the way their relationship adds a layer of emotional complexity to the story.
A Fitting Ending To Gentle Criminal’s Arc
As season 7 of My Hero Academia continues, it’s clear that Gentle Criminal’s redemption arc has become one of the most meaningful and emotionally resonant storylines in the series.
Gentle From My Hero Academia (Bones)
While he was once seen as a minor antagonist, his return in season 7 has improved him to a symbol of hope and redemption.
Studio Bones, the animation studio behind My Hero Academia, has done an exceptional job of portraying this transformation in a way that feels authentic and earned.
Gentle Criminal’s actions in episode 16 are not just about saving the day they’re about proving to himself, and to the world, that he is capable of being the hero he always aspired to be.
For fans of the series, this moment feels like a culmination of everything Gentle has been working toward since his introduction.
His failures, his regrets, and his desire to make a positive impact all converge in this one heroic act.
It’s a powerful reminder that, in the My Hero Academia world, even the most unlikely characters can rise to the occasion and prove themselves worthy of the title “hero.”
Broader Themes of Redemption and Growth
The theme of redemption is one that has been present throughout My Hero Academia, and Gentle Criminal’s arc is perhaps one of the most poignant examples of this.
In a world where many of the villains have chosen paths of destruction and chaos, Gentle’s decision to seek a better life sets him apart.
He’s not motivated by power or revenge his goal is simply to make a difference and to prove that he’s more than the sum of his past mistakes.
Gentle’s journey also highlights a broader theme within the series: the idea that society often plays a role in pushing individuals toward villainy.
Gentle And La Brava From My Hero Academia (Bones)
Characters like Shigaraki, Dabi, and Himiko Toga have all been shaped by the harsh realities of their environments, leading them to choose darker paths.
In contrast, Gentle Criminal represents a different kind of story one where a person who has been rejected by society still strives to find a positive way forward.
For fans, this aspect of Gentle’s character is particularly resonant. In many ways, his story serves as a commentary on the importance of empathy and understanding.
Rather than condemning people for their mistakes, My Hero Academia emphasizes the possibility of growth and change.
Gentle’s transformation from a villain into a hero is a testament to this message, showing that redemption is always possible, no matter how far someone has fallen.
This theme is also reinforced by the relationship between Gentle and La Brava.
Both characters have experienced rejection and hardship, but instead of succumbing to bitterness or hatred, they’ve found solace in each other.
Their bond, built on love and loyalty, has given them the strength to overcome their pasts and seek a better future.
In a series filled with complex and often tragic relationships, Gentle and La Brava’s partnership stands out as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Fans Celebrate Gentle Criminal’s Growth
The response from fans to Gentle Criminal’s return in season 7 has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their admiration for how the character has been handled.
La Brava From My Hero Academia (Bones)
Social media has been buzzing with posts about Gentle’s heroic moment, and it’s clear that his redemption arc has struck a chord with viewers.
One fan wrote, “Gentle’s redemption is one of the best in the series. He went from being a minor villain to one of the most inspiring characters. This is what MY Hero Academia Is All about Showing that anyone can be a hero, no matter their past”.
Another fan commented, “I didn’t expect to get so emotional over Gentle’s return, but here we are. Studio Bones really nailed the animation and the emotional weight of the scene. Gentle is finally getting the recognition he deserves.”
These reactions speak to the impact that Gentle’s story has had on the My Hero Academia fandom.
Despite his initial role as a relatively minor character, Gentle has become a symbol of the series’ core message: that anyone, regardless of their background or mistakes, can rise to the challenge and become a hero.
It’s a message that resonates not just within the context of the show, but also in the real world, where many people can relate to the idea of overcoming adversity and striving to make a positive impact.
Studio Bones’ Masterful Execution
A large part of what makes Gentle Criminal’s return so powerful is the way Studio Bones has brought it to life.
The animation in episode 16 is nothing short of breathtaking, with fluid motion, dynamic camera angles, and a keen attention to detail that enhances the emotional weight of the scene.
From the way Gentle uses his Quirk to hold up the U.A. fortress to the expressions on the characters’ faces, every moment is crafted with care and precision.
The use of flashbacks during this episode is another element that adds depth to the scene.
By showing glance of Gentle’s past, Studio Bones is able to remind viewers of the hardships he has faced and the regrets that have shaped him.
Shigaraki And Midoriya Izuku Final Battle (Twitter)
These flashbacks are woven seamlessly into the present-day action, creating a sense of continuity and emotional resonance that improves the entire episode.
In particular, the moment where Gentle reflects on his past failures and the impact that Deku had on him is a highlight of the episode.
This internal monologue, paired with the flashbacks, gives viewers a deeper understanding of Gentle’s motivations and the significance of his heroic act.
It’s a powerful reminder that, even in the heat of battle, My Hero Academia never loses sight of its characters’ emotional journeys.
What’s Next for Gentle Criminal?
While Gentle Criminal’s return in season 7 is a significant moment, it also raises questions about what the future holds for the character.
Now that he has proven himself as a hero, will Gentle continue to fight alongside the heroes in the ongoing war against Shigaraki and his forces?
Or will he choose to step back, having fulfilled his personal goal of redemption? One possibility is that Gentle could become a key ally in the final stages of the war.
His Quirk, while not as flashy or destructive as some of the other characters’, has proven to be incredibly versatile and useful in critical moments.
Deku – Manga Reference (Image via Shueisha)
His ability to manipulate the environment could be a valuable asset in the battles to come, and his newfound sense of purpose could drive him to continue fighting for the greater good.
At the same time, Gentle’s arc may also come to a natural ending with his heroic act in episode 16.
Having finally achieved the recognition and redemption he has long sought, Gentle may choose to retire from the world of heroes and villains, content with the knowledge that he has made a difference.
This would be a fitting end to his story, allowing him to leave behind the life of crime he once pursued and embrace a more peaceful future.
Whatever the future holds for Gentle Criminal, one thing is certain: his return in season 7 has left a lasting impact on both the characters within the story and the fans who have followed his journey.
His transformation from a minor antagonist to a beloved hero is a testament to the power of redemption, and his story will undoubtedly continue to be celebrated as one of the most emotional and inspiring arcs in My Hero Academia.
A Hero’s Journey
The return of Gentle Criminal in My Hero Academia season 7 is a powerful reminder of the series’ ability to tell deeply emotional and resonant stories, even in the midst of intense action.
Gentle’s journey from a rejected would-be hero to a minor villain, and finally to a true hero, is one that has touched the hearts of many fans.
His story is one of redemption, resilience, and the power of love and loyalty, as exemplified by his relationship with La Brava.
Gentle And La Brava From My Hero Academia (Bones)
Studio Bones has done an incredible job of bringing this story to life, with stunning animation, thoughtful character development, and attention to detail that makes Gentle’s return feel both earned and emotionally impactful.
As the series continues, fans will no doubt be eagerly watching to see what the future holds for Gentle Criminal and La Brava, but for now, this moment stands as a testament to the idea that anyone can be a hero, no matter where they come from or what mistakes they’ve made.
In the grand scheme of My Hero Academia, Gentle Criminal may not have been the most powerful or dangerous villain, but his story is a reminder that true heroism isn’t always about strength or power.
Sometimes, it’s about finding the courage to rise above your past and make a difference in the world, no matter how small or insignificant that difference may seem. And for that, Gentle Criminal will always be remembered as one of the series’ most inspiring characters.
