With mixed reactions from the manga and anime communities, My Hero Academia remains one of the better manga and anime series out there in the new generation. My Hero Academia might have multiple weak elements in its storytelling style, but character development is certainly not one of them. Kōhei Horikoshi pays extra care to ensure the development of numerous characters turns out to be top-notch over the years, which is also quite evident given that My Hero Academia has one of the best character developments of all time.

For instance, Deku's character development is perhaps one of the best when it comes to a shōnen protagonist. However, there are other even better character developments than his, such as that of Endeavor. Endeavor was once known just as the second-ranked hero. Afterward, he was notorious for being one of the worst possible fathers on the face of Earth. Following that, he started to redeem himself by acknowledging his grave past mistakes and trying to be a better father to his children and a better husband to his wife. Let's take a look at how much Endeavor has exactly changed since the first season of My Hero Academia.

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A Power-Obsessed Maniac

From the inaugural season to the latest installments, Endeavor's evolution stands as a testament to the series' depth and complexity. In the first season, Endeavor emerges as a shadowy figure, looming large as the second-ranked hero behind All Might. His character is primarily defined by his obsession with surpassing All Might, leading to a strained relationship with his son, Shoto Todoroki. In these early episodes, Endeavor embodies the archetype of the ambitious yet flawed hero, driven by personal ambition rather than a genuine commitment to justice.

The Will To Change

However, as the series progresses, particularly in the later seasons and manga chapters, Endeavor's character undergoes a profound change. The turning point arrives during the Pro Hero arc, where Endeavor is thrust into the spotlight following All Might's retirement. Suddenly forced to step out of All Might's shadow, Endeavor grapples with the weight of inheriting the Symbol of Peace mantle. Crucially, Endeavor's transformation is not merely superficial; it's rooted in deep introspection and personal growth. He begins to confront the consequences of his past actions, especially regarding his treatment of his family. The abuse inflicted on Shoto Todoroki is brought to the forefront, challenging Endeavor's conscience to reckon with his legacy as both a hero and a father.

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This internal struggle culminates in Endeavor's pivotal moment during the Pro Hero arc, where he acknowledges his failures and vows to become a better person, not just a better hero. His redemption arc is marked by humility and self-awareness, as he seeks to atone for his past sins and earn the respect of both his family and society at large. One of the most striking aspects of Endeavor's transformation is the nuanced exploration of his character. Rather than portraying him as a one-dimensional villain or hero, My Hero Academiadelves into the complexities of his psyche, revealing the insecurities and vulnerabilities that drive his actions. This depth adds layers to Endeavor's character, transforming him from a mere antagonist to a multifaceted figure worthy of empathy and understanding.

Becoming a Better Hero & Father

Moreover, Endeavor's evolution reflects broader themes within My Hero Academia, particularly the idea of redemption and forgiveness. Through his journey, the series grapples with questions of whether individuals can truly change and whether past mistakes can be forgiven. Endeavor's struggle resonates with audiences because it mirrors real-life dilemmas, reminding us that growth and redemption are possible even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Another aspect of Endeavor's transformation is his role within the hero society. As he endeavors to fill All Might's shoes, he faces skepticism. However, his unwavering dedication to heroism gradually wins over hearts and minds, earning him the respect and admiration he once sought out.

Furthermore, Endeavor's evolution is not a solitary journey. His interactions with other characters, particularly Deku and Shoto Todoroki, play a crucial role in shaping his development. Through these interactions, Endeavor learns valuable lessons about humility, empathy, and the true meaning of heroism. Endeavor's transformation since the first season of My Hero Academia is nothing short of remarkable. From a flawed and ambitious hero driven by personal ambition to a complex and introspective figure grappling with redemption, his journey epitomizes the series' exploration of growth, forgiveness, and the true nature of heroism. As My Hero Academia continues to captivate audiences, Endeavor stands as a shining example of the power of change and redemption, reminding us that even the darkest of pasts can be overcome with courage and perseverance.

My Hero Academia is available to stream on Crunchyroll.

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My Hero Academia

In My Hero Academia, Young Deku is born into a world where people commonly have something called quirks, also known as superpowers. He himself is born without any, but circumstances lead to that changing. He enrolls at the UA High School, a prestigious academy where the worlds future heroes learn how to use their powers.